cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Listening to mothers: take two

LISTENING TO MOTHERS II: Report of the Second National U.S. Survey of Women's Childbearing Experiences (Declercq, Sakala, Corry, & Applebaum, 2006) is essential reading for the childbirth educator. Birth continues to be "intervention intensive" in the United States, and less than 2% of women have births characterized by the six care practices that promote, protect, and support normal birth. Only a little more than half of the women surveyed attended childbirth education classes, and only 4% reported that childbirth classes were their most important source of information. Seventy-eight percent used the Internet as an information resource. As a result of childbirth classes, women report, they are more confident in their ability to give birth but also less fearful of medical intervention. The results of these and other findings have important implications for childbirth education.
Probing chemical reduction in a cobalt(III) complex as a viable route for the inhibition of the 20S proteasome

Abstract In this paper we evaluate the viability of ligand dissociation in the cobalt complex [Co III (L 1 ) 2 ]ClO 4 ( 1 ) following biological reduction. We performed detailed electrochemical characterization of 1 in several solvents, along with spectroelectrochemical and chemical reduction to monitor the phenolate-to-cobalt(III) LMCT band observed at 440 nm in the UV–Vis region in presence and absence of a sacrificial reductant. DFT calculations were performed to confirm the nature of this band. Species 1 displays no signs of ligand protonation at pH 3 over a period of 24 h while probing its stability in solution. Spectrophotometric monitoring at pH 3 in presence of ascorbic acid shows clearly a decrease of the LMCT band, implying that reduction of the metal center has taken place. The products of chemical reduction were analyzed by high resolution ESI + mass spectrometry and support a mechanism in which biological reduction leads to ligand dissociation.
Beiträge zur chemie der SiN‐Bindung, I Darstellung und Zerfall cyclischer N‐silylierter Silazane

Hexamethylcyclotrisilazan und Octamethylcyclotetrasilazan ergeben mit Butyllithium N-Lithiumcyclosilazane, die mit Trimethylchlorsilan umgesetzt N-silylierte Cyclosilazane liefern. Diese sind z. T. nicht stabil; sie zeigen Zerfallsreaktionen sowie inter- und intramolekulare Silylwanderungen; die stabilen Endprodukte sind zweifach N-silylierte cyclische Di-, Tri- und Tetrasilazane.
Distal vessel pullback angiography and pressure gradient measurement: An innovative diagnostic approach to evaluate the no-reflow phenomenon

The angiographic appearance of "no-reflow" in saphenous vein grafts or native coronary arteries has been described following administration of thrombolytic therapy or performance of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty or atherectomy. Apparent occlusion may represent spasm, dissection, thrombosis, or competitive collateral circulation, all of which must be excluded to make the diagnosis of "no-reflow." We describe an innovative approach to the diagnostic dilemma created by the appearance of "no-reflow" at coronary angiography. Pressure gradient measurement with distal vessel pull-back (retrograde) angiography provides maximal information regarding the severity of disease and the etiology of "no-reflow," while exposing both the patient and angiographer to less risk compared to standard strategies.
Complete nucleotide sequences of the M and S segments of two hantavirus isolates from California: evidence for reassortment in nature among viruses related to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.

Abstract We report the complete nucleotide sequence of the M and the S genome segments and a portion of the L segments of two hantavirus isolates from Peromyscus maniculatus trapped in eastern California. The isolates, Convict Creek 107 and 74 (CC107 and CC74) are genetically similar to viruses known to cause hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in New Mexico. CC107 and CC74 each have an M segment consisting of 3696 nucleotides with a coding potential of 1140 amino acids in the virus complementary-sense RNA (cRNA). The S segments of CC107 and C074 are 2083 and 2047 nucleotides long, respectively, and each has an ORF in the cRNA capable of encoding a protein of 428 amino acids. Unusually long 3′ noncoding regions of 757 and 721 nucleotides follow the S segment ORF of CC107 and CC74, respectively, and include numerous imperfect repetitive sequences. Whereas the M and S segments of any given hantavirus typically appear to diverge at comparable rates from homologous genes of any other hantavirus, CC107 and CC74 have M segments that differ by only 1% from one another but S segments that differ by 13%. After trivial explanations are rendered improbable, i.e., by consideration of the genetics of closely and distantly related hantaviruses, the most likely explanation for our data is that hantavirus genome segment reassortment occurred within rodent populations in California.
Present and future applications of biomaterials in controlled drug delivery systems

Abstract In this paper we review controlled drug release polymeric systems with emphasis on the polymer carriers as biomaterials. Polymer structure affects the diffusion mechanism and release behaviour of various drugs. Zero-order release can be achieved under certain conditions of polymer preparation and for specific geometric shapes. Physical, physicochemical, diffusive and toxicological tests for biomaterials used in controlled release applications are also discussed.
Naloxone suppression of self-stimulation is independent of response difficulty☆

Abstract The action of the opiate antagonist naloxone on relatively easy (nose-poke) and relatively difficult (lever-press) self-stimulation behaviors was compared, in order to determine if opiate antagonists suppress self-stimulation by interfering with the ability of the animal to respond, or by reducing the reinforcement value of the stimulation. Naloxone (0.2, 2.0 and 20 mg/kg) significantly suppressed both nose-poking and lever-pressing self-stimulation rates, and the degree of suppression was virtually identical for both tasks at all doses examined. If naloxone had interfered with the ability of the animal to respond, then lever-pressing-which requires more motor output than nose-poking-should have been more suppressed than nose-poking. The results suggest that opiate antagonists do not interfere with the ability of the animal to respond, and are therefore consistent with the hypothesis that these drugs reduce the reinforcement value of the stimulation.
Action of Proteolytic Enzymes on Collagen

Summary1) The use of hide powder as a substrate in the demonstration of collagenase activity is not valid.2) Collagens from several sources, prepared by methods designed not to alter properties, are resistant to the action of trypsin, chymotrypsin, and papain. The collagens are readily attacked (solubilized) by the proteolytic enzyme(s) of CI. histolyticum and by pepsin. The proteolytic enzyme(s) of CI. perfringens filtrates are 10-20-fold weaker than those of CI. histolyticum filtrates in the degradation of collagen.3) The reported increased solubilization of collagens in water at the shrinkage temperature (68-70°C) after incubation with enzymes can be attributed to residual enzyme.4) Denaturation of collagen by heat and urea produces a general susceptibility to common proteolytic enzymes.
The Evolution of Learning: From Classroom to Cloud

The presentation will review the evolution of learning, from classroom to E-, to mobile, and to the recently emerged cloud learning, with a focus on the latter two. It'll showcase Dr. Wang's achievement in each area, including a well-recognized instructional design model (Cybergogy for Engaged Learning), an innovative mobile learning system, and her recent envision of models and intelligent systems associated with mobile cloud learning.
Heavy fermions and proton-neutron mass difference

Abstract A class of gauge theories containing heavy fermions is discussed. It is shown that heavy baryons can be relevant to the mass splitting within isotopic multiplets. In particular, it is suggested that they may play an important tole in obtaining the correct result for the proton-neutron mass difference. The role of heavy fermions in achieving the β and μ decay universality is stressed.
Ethnic (black-white) contrasts in heart rate variability during cardiovascular reactivity testing in male adolescents with high and low blood pressure: the Bogalusa Heart Study.

Heart rate variability (HRV) is used to study autonomic effects on the heart. The time domain PNN50 (percentage of consecutive RR intervals differing by > 50%) measures high frequency in HRV primarily reflecting parasympathetic activity. The ratio of low to high frequency power (LF/HF) measured by fast Fourier analysis is used to measure sympathetic to parasympathetic balance. In adults, increased sympathetic tone has been found in hypertensive individuals. The present study was performed to look for differences in HRV by race and between subjects with high and low blood pressure (BP). Heart rate variability data was analyzed from Holter monitor recordings in 39 healthy male subjects aged 13 to 17 years (50% white). Half were selected with Korotkoff fourth sound (K4) DBP > 85th percentile for height measured twice, 3 to 5 years apart (average 116/75 mm Hg). Half had DBP < 15th percentile for height (average 101/57 mm Hg). Subjects underwent a physical examination including BP, height, and weight before cardiovascular reactivity testing including measurements taken while supine and standing, and during 20% maximal isometric hand grip, Valsalva maneuver, and immersion of the hand in water at 4°C. The LF/HF ratio was significantly higher and the PNN50 was significantly lower in whites compared with ratios for blacks during all CV reactivity tests (all P < .05). There was a trend for higher LF/HF ratio and lower PNN50 in blacks and whites with higher levels of BP, although this did not reach statistical significance. It was concluded that healthy white adolescents exhibit increased sympathetic tone compared with that of blacks during CV reactivity tests. A trend towards sympathetic predominance during reactivity testing was demonstrated in children with higher levels of DBP.
Synthesis of Polysiloxanes Bearing Cyclic Carbonate Side Chains. Dielectric Properties and Ionic Conductivities of Lithium Triflate Complexes

Polysiloxanes with cyclic carbonate side chains were prepared by hydrosilation of poly(hydromethylsiloxane) (PHMS) with vinyl-containing cyclic carbonates in acetonitrile using the divinyltetramethyldisiloxane platinum complex as the catalyst. This is initially a heterogeneous reaction since the PHMS is insoluble in acetonitrile, but the polymer eventually becomes soluble as the reaction proceeds. Under these conditions, no gelation due to competitive reactions with the carbonate is observed. The polymers are highly viscous liquids (T g 's of ca. -30°C) and have dielectric constants ranging from ca. 22 to 44, to our knowledge the largest for any silicones. These polymers can also dissolve large quantities of lithium triflate and represent new polymer electrolytes
Maternal Tactile Stimulation and the Neurodevelopment of Low Birth Weight Infants.

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of early maternal touch to the neurodevelopmental status of low birth weight (LBW) infants. One hundred and eight LBW infants and their mothers were videotaped during a typical feeding when the infant was 3 months old. This tape was used to analyze both the mother's touch and other facets of caregiving behavior using standardized coding systems. Data on perinatal medical risk were also acquired through chart review, and neurodevelopmental tests were administered to the infants at age 1 year. Results indicate that infants whose mothers used more stimulating touch during caregiving had better visual-motor skills at 1 year of age. In addition, infants of mothers who touched them frequently had more advanced gross motor development. Findings suggest that stimulating and frequent touch may help to compensate for early neurosensory deficits and promote neurodevelopment for LBW infants. Infant birth weight made the strongest contribution to all measures...
The incorporation of formate into pentosenucleic acids in various organs of the rat.

Abstract The relative incorporation of formate into the purine ribonucleotides of various organs of the rat was greatest in the intestine, followed in order by kidney, spleen, liver, pancreas, and testis. The renewal of the PNA-adenine was greater than that of the guanine in all organs except spleen, and again there was no differentiation between the isomeric purine nucleotides. It is emphasized that, in the intestine, formate can be utilized relatively more effectively for PNA-purine synthesis than is adenine, while the reverse is true in the liver.
Mechanical Properties Of Single Crystal Ceramics

Approaches to characterizing the mechanical behavior of single crystal ceramics are reviewed. Consideration is given to techniques applicable to large crystals and to indentation techniques that can be used on crystals of 1 mm or less. The importance of flaws in controlling the mechanical behavior of brittle ceramics is discussed, leading to an emphasis on fracture mechanics methods. These techniques are applicable to the determination of fracture toughness and to the measurement of slow crack growth in aggresive environments. Indentation processes have been analyzed extensively and the good understanding of stress fields and micro-mechanics of indentation has led to techniques to measure hardness, toughness and elastic modulus. Measurements of hardness anistropy can be used to determine slip planes and also provide considerable information on local plastic flow in brittle crystals.
The Role of External Fixation in the Treatment of Unstable Distal Radius Fractures

Fractures of the distal end of the radius represent a common and varied set of injuries. Management of unstable fractures of the distal radius continues to evolve. External fixation with or without secondary augmentation has been used with success in the treatment of these difficult injuries for some time. When considering the best management option for a particular patient and injury, it is important to understand the indications and varied techniques that are available. External fixation continues to be used with frequency and can result in good functional outcomes. It is important for surgeons who are managing these injuries to have a good understanding of external fixation and its proper applications.
Electrochemistry, Stability, and Alkene Complexation Chemistry of Copper(I) Triflate in Aqueous Solution. Potential for Use in Electrochemically Modulated Complexation-Based Separation Processes

Copper(I) trifluoromethanesulfonate (CuOTf), which is insoluble in water, reacted with vinyl sulfonate anion (VS) to form a water soluble complex (concentrations > 0.1 M). Acidic CuOTf solutions pr...
The Rate of Magnetic Reconnection Observed in the Solar Atmosphere

The structure of the solar corona is often observed to evolve in a manner that is generally attributed to the process of magnetic field line reconnection. The spatial and temporal scales for a variety of reconnection events have been examined on the basis of descriptions in the scientific literature. These events tend to fall into two general categories. In the first category, reconnection proceeds as the corona adjusts itself to the emergence of new magnetic flux. In the second category, the field lines have been explosively blown open by a flare or mass ejection, and the field lines eventually return to a more potential field configuration by means of reconnection. Estimates of the density, temperature, and magnetic field strength in the reconnection volume provide a basis on which to calculate the reconnection rate expected for resistive diffusion, tearing mode reconnection, and reconnection at the Alfven speed. The observed temporal and spatial scales of the reconnection events indicate that the rate of reconnection is on the order of 0.001-0.1 of the Alfven rate, the Alfven speed divided by the observed length scale. This indicates that the effective Reynolds number for large-scale structures in the corona is of the order of 10-1000. In none of the cases examined does the reconnection appear to be driven by external flows, but the process is more properly described as the relaxation of nonpotential magnetic field configurations toward a potential configuration.
Studies of bovine liver glutamate dehydrogenase by analytical affinity chromatography on immobilized AMP analogs.

Bovine liver glutamate dehydrogenase has been studied by analytical affinity chromatography on two immobilized AMP analogs, i.e., N6-(6-aminohexyl)-AMP and 8-(6-aminohexyl)-amino-AMP. The existence of various enzyme-coenzyme and enzyme-effector complexes has been verified. Also the cooperative formation of two ternary complexes, i.e., glutamic dehydrogenase (GHD)-NADP-glutamate and GDH-ADP-leucine, has been shown. The results of this study have been rationalized by the “ligand exclusion theory.” which has been proposed for the regulation of the glutamic dehydrogenase. It has been shown that the active site and the ADP-binding effector site are oriented close to each other on the enzyme. Furthermore, the data suggest that the adenylic site is not identical to the nonactive coenzyme binding site. A mechanism based on electrostatic interactions is suggested for the cooperative binding of oxidized coenzyme and substrate. Dissociation constants for complexes between the enzyme and two coenzyme fragments (P-ADPR and 2′,5′-ADP) have been estimated.
Challenge Of Laser Medicine And Surgery To The Laser Industry

To deliver better health through laser medicine and surgery the laser industry, at least in the U.S.A., will have to show more interest and support. Also, this interest and concern on the part of industry will help in the more rapid development and more effective laser safety programs as new systems and new applications come. The global current market in laser medicine and surgery should also interest the laser industry.© (1982) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Managing chronic pain

Abstract Response to pain is a complex, subjective experience governed by a variety of biologic, psychologic, and social influences. Traditionally physicians have taken a somewhat simplistic view of the process; a clearly identified noxious stimulus was dubbed “real” pain, but when no organic cause could be found, it was dismissed as due to “vagaries of the mind.” In fact, an intricate system of excitation and modulation of pain begins in the periphery, interacts through the spinal cord, the midbrain to the limbic area, the thalamus, and the sensory and frontal cortex. Thus pain can be derived not only from peripheral but also from central origins, and be caused by or respond to many factors.
Male dating violence victimization and adjustment: the moderating role of coping

Dating violence is a prevalent problem. Research demonstrates that males and females are victimized at comparable rates in their dating relationships and experience a number of mental health and relationship problems. Less research has examined male dating violence victimization, its association to mental health and relationship satisfaction, and whether coping styles influence mental health symptoms and relationship satisfaction among victims. The current study examined physical and psychological aggression victimization, adjustment (posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and relationship satisfaction), and problem-focused and emotion-focused coping among heterosexual college males in a current dating relationship (n = 184). Results identified that psychological victimization was associated with posttraumatic stress and relationship discord above and beyond physical victimization. Interaction findings identified that psychological victimization was associated with increased posttraumatic stress disorder ...
A spectrometer for EPR, DNP, and multinuclear high-resolution NMR

Abstract We describe a magnetic resonance spectrometer capable of EPR, dynamic nuclear polarization, and multinuclear high-resolution NMR. The operating field is 1.4 T, corresponding to Larmor frequencies of 40 GHz and 60 MHz for electrons and protons, respectively. The microwave side of the probe is based on a Fabry-Perot resonator (FPR ), an open structure that enhances power-to-field conversion for efficient saturation of the EPR for dynamic polarization, and further permits in situ detection for EPR. This allows the external field to be set at, rather than scanned for, the optimal DNP position. Moreover, we have found that adjustments necessary for maximizing DNP may be done via optimization of the EPR signal, a feature of particular significance for samples which exhibit NMR signals on the borderline of detectability, i.e., samples for which DNP is of special importance. 'H and '3C polarization enhancements achieved using the FPR are compared with devices used by others, in particular the horn /reflector system used by Wind and co-workers. Direct '3C enhancements large enough to detect 2.5 x 10'6 spins in (fluoranthenyl)2 PF6 after a single one-second polarization period have been obtained, and the first high-field 'Li DNP results are also presented.
Quantum tunneling and low-voltage resistance in small superconducting tunnel junctions

We discuss simple models which appear to account quantitatively for the anomalous low-voltage resistance {ital R}{sub 0} observed in small, high-resistance Josephson tunnel junctions. We compare our predictions with both new and previously reported measurements. At high temperatures {ital R}{sub 0} is fit well by a model based on thermal activation. At low temperatures, our results are in good agreement with a model based on theoretical predictions for macroscopic quantum tunneling rates in the underdamped limit. The crossover temperature between the two regimes is dependent on magnetic field, as expected.
Opposites May Not Attract,But They Can Complement: Integrating Finance and Organizational Behavior in the MBA Curriculum:

Traditional MBA curricula have been criticized for lacking integration across functional courses. Some schools have responded with expensive wholesale curriculum overhauls. Lower cost approaches may also be effective. The article describes an integrated case assignment between core Finance and Organizational Behavior (OB) classes, involving a merger and acquisition. The OB class assigned student teams to role-play the negotiations of the acquisition deal, whereas the Finance class assigned them to prepare the necessary financial analyses. The assignments were jointly evaluated by professors from both courses. The schedule of the exercise is described, and student reactions and faculty insights are presented.
Human transfer factor activity in the guinea pig: absence of antigen specificity.

Abstract Human transfer factor of known antigen specificity was used to induce skin-test reactivity in strain 13 guinea pigs. This reactivity is reproducible, is dependent upon preexposure of the animal to subsensitizing doses of antigen, persists for at least 14 weeks, and is reflected in some cases by antigen-induced lymphocyte transformation. The skin test response in guinea pigs does not reflect the antigen reactivities of the human TF donor; this suggests that in guinea pigs the TF may augment a low level of sensitization produced during the priming step.
Insufficient treatment of hypercholesterolemia among patients hospitalized with chest pain

Background: Although morbidity and mortality from coronary artery disease can be improved with a variety of pharmacologic interventions, many patients remain undertreated. Hypothesis: This study sought to assess whether hospitalization for possible coronary artery disease would prompt initiation of appropriate lipid-lowering therapy. Methods: This prospective, observational study was conducted on consecutive patients with active chest pain admitted to the Emergency Department of the hospital for suspected myocardial ischemia. Elevated cholesterol, defined as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), was > 100 mg/dl with a prior history or a new diagnosis of coronary artery disease, or an LDL > 130 mg/dl without known coronary artery disease. Data were recorded at the time of admission, discharge, and at 4-month follow-up. Results: Of the patients with hyperlipidemia, 65% men and 55% women were on medication at the time of admission (p = 0.30), while at discharge, 79% men and 60% women were on treatment (p = 0.002), with similar rates of treatment at 4-monthfollow-up (p = 0.030). At discharge, two variables were independently associated with patients receiving lipid-lowering therapy: age ≥ 65 years (odds ratio = 2.3; 95% confidence interval 1.2–4.5) and male gender (2.7; 15–5.0). Conclusions: In patients hospitalized with chest pain, particularly in women, the initiation of treatment of hyperlipidemia frequently does not happen. This oversight represents a lost opportunity for making an impact on the health of this population.
¿MENOS O MÁS? LA CONSTRUCCIÓN DEL KIOSCO DE LEWERENTZ EN EL CEMENTERIO DE MALMO / Less or more? The construction of Lewerentz’s kiosk in the Malmo cemetery

RESUMEN Este analisis se centra en el potencial de los detalles constructivos para transformar el espacio circundante a un edificio. Se analizan las puertas, las ventanas, la cubierta y otros elementos del kiosco de flores del Cementerio Este de Malmo y su repercusion en el espacio interior y exterior. Comparando los primeros bocetos y el resultado final de esta obra, realizada por Sigurd Lewerentz en 1969, se observan variaciones de centimetros en la posicion relativa entre componentes y otras modificaciones. Se consideran las posibles razones que dan lugar a estos cambios, en relacion a detalles constructivos similares empleados por el mismo arquitecto en otros edificios. El estudio de las ventanas se centra en la forma de sustentacion en el muro, la relacion entre su posicion, las vistas que ofrecen y la iluminacion que producen en el interior del pabellon. Se estudia la disposicion de las puertas y como afectan al espacio. Se profundiza en la aparente sencillez de la cubierta, con un unico plano inclinado. El kiosco de flores nos muestra como un elemento constructivo, por pequeno que parezca, puede afectar significativamente a la relacion entre un proyecto y su entorno. SUMMARY This analysis focuses on the potential of construction details for transforming the surrounding space of a building. The doors, the windows, the roof, and other elements are analyzed regarding their impact on the inside and the surrounding space of the flower kiosk of Malmo Eastern Cemetery, designed by Sigurd Lewerentz in 1969. Variations of centimeters in the relative position between construction components and other changes can be noticed, comparing the first sketches of this project with its final result. The possible motivations leading to these variations are examined, and related to similar construction details used by the same architect in other buildings. The way windows are fixed to the walls is discussed, to further investigate the views they offer and the lighting they allow. The doors assembly is explored, and how it affects other components. The apparent simplicity of the single, inclined roof surface is studied in detail. The flower kiosk shows how even minor construction elements may have a significant impact on the relationship between a project and its environment.
Organizing women migrants: The Filipino and Cape Verdean women’s associations in Rome

Migrant women’s associations in Italy did not simply emerge from informal networks. The Filipino and Cape Verdean women’s associations in Rome are examples of the results of multiple factors that contributed to the strategy of self-organization established by migrant women with the intention of empowering themselves. An awareness of their unique position as women from mostly-female migrant groups, a lack of institutional bodies prepared to assist them, and the leadership of individual women were key aspects in the formation of the first migrant women’s associations in Rome. Gender and nationality were the main components of migrant women’s organizing in the first mostly-female migrant groups.
A unified hardware/software runtime environment for FPGA-based reconfigurable computers using BORPH

This paper presents a hw/sw codesign methodology based on BORPH, an operating system designed for FPGA-based reconfigurable computers (RC's). By providing native kernel support for FPGA hardware, BORPH offers a homogeneous UNIX interface for both software and hardware processes. Hardware processes inherit the same level of service from the kernel, such as file system support, as typical UNIX software processes. Hardware and software components of a design therefore run as hardware and software processes within BORPH's run-time environment. The familiar and language independent UNIX kernel interface facilitates easy design reuse and rapid application development. Performance of our current implementation and our experience with developing a real-time wireless digital signal processing system based on BORPH will be presented.
Saposin C promotes survival and prevents apoptosis via PI3K/Akt-dependent pathway in prostate cancer cells

Background In addition to androgens, growth factors are also implicated in the development and neoplastic growth of the prostate gland. Prosaposin is a potent neurotrophic molecule. Homozygous inactivation of prosaposin in mice has led to the development of a number of abnormalities in the male reproductive system, including atrophy of the prostate gland and inactivation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Akt in prostate epithelial cells. We have recently reported that prosaposin is expressed at a higher level by androgen-independent (AI) prostate cancer cells as compared to androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cells or normal prostate epithelial and stromal cells. In addition, we have demonstrated that a synthetic peptide (prosaptide TX14A), derived from the trophic sequence of the saposin C domain of prosaposin, stimulated cell proliferation, migration and invasion and activated the MAPK signaling pathway in prostate cancer cells. The biological significances of saposin C and prosaposin in prostate cancer are not known.
Europeans and the European Community: the dynamics of public support for European integration

Europeans evaluate the European Community (EC) according to its economic performance, political salience, and role in international relations. During the last two decades their measured attitudes toward European integration warmed especially when inflation rates fell, as the EC share of the country's trade expanded, when EC elections and referenda increased attention to the community, and to some extend during periods when East-West relations were relaxed. Europeans did not vary their support according to their countries' shares of the Brussels budget. Thus, notwithstanding Denmark's 1992 rejection of the Maastricht treaty and the end of the cold war, recent EC reforms that increase monetary stability, intra-European trade and political attention are all likely to maintain or increase citizen support for the EC. These findings result from a model that blends comparative political economy with international relations in one of the first applications of pooled cross-sectional and time-series analysis to the comparative study of public opinion.
Impacts of varying penetration of distributed resources with & without volt/var control: Case study of varying load types

This paper provides a follow-up to an earlier one on impacts of distributed energy resources (DR) on distribution feeders. As DR penetration level on the feeder increases, there can be impacts to distribution system/feeder capacity, line losses, and voltage regulation. These can vary as the penetration level reaches the capacity of the distribution feeder/system or loading. The question is how high of a DR level can be accommodated without any major changes to system operation, system design and protection. Our objective for this work was to address the question of how the DR impacts vary in regards to both DR voltage regulation capability and load mix. A dynamic analysis was used to focus on the impacts of DR with and without volt/var control with different load composition on the distribution feeder. The study considered an example 10MVA distribution feeder in which two inverter-based DRs were used to provide voltage regulation. The results due to DR without voltage regulation capability are compared with DR capable of providing local (at its bus) voltage regulation. The analysis was repeated for four different feeder load compositions consisting of (1) constant power, (2) constant impedance, (3) constant current and (4) ZIP (equal combination of the previous three).
Automated consistency and completeness checking of testing models for interactive systems

The growing acceptance of model-based test generation in industry has created a need for a tester-friendly model construction process and associated tools. In this paper, we present an automated approach for checking consistency and completeness of testing models for interactive systems. The testing models are described in terms of operations provided by the system under test (SUT). Each operation is specified as a set of possible results each with a guard condition and a set of actions on its parameters and the system state. The consistency and completeness checks performed include identification of malformed models, irrelevant state variables, incomplete and redundant guard conditions, missing data values, and nondeterminism in and executability of operation results. We review our testing requirements model, and describe various consistency checks performed on this model. We illustrate these checks with an example test model, and also present algorithms used to perform our analysis
Genome Sequence of the Sulfitobacter sp. Strain 2047-Infecting Lytic Phage ΦCB2047-B

We announce the complete genome sequence of a lytic podovirus, ΦCB2047-B, which infects the bacterium Sulfitobacter sp. strain 2047, a member of the Roseobacter clade. Genome analysis revealed ΦCB2047-B to be an N4-like phage, with its genome having high nucleotide similarity to other N4-like roseophage genomes.
Deck of CArGs

See related article, pages 61–69 The instructions for generating and sustaining all life forms are encoded within each life form’s genome. A major challenge in the postgenomic sequencing era has been assigning functions to the hundreds of thousands of noncoding sequence elements within our nuclear genome that are homologous to sequences in other species. These snippets of DNA have been hypothesized to impart information for initiating DNA replication, for inter- and intrachromosomal recombination, for structural integration of the genome into the surrounding nucleoskeleton, and for transcriptional regulation of gene expression. The latter regulatory elements have been of particular interest inasmuch as variations among our own species, and to some extent between species, are thought largely to be a function of differences in the timing, duration, and intensity of gene expression. Moreover, the explosive rise in single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) association studies has generated a mounting number of noncoding SNPs whose functions, while poorly defined at this time, will undoubtedly include the regulation of gene expression.1 Finally, the continued discovery of regulatory elements controlling gene expression will augment our “genomic tool box” of reagents for expressing and inactivating genes in a context-dependent manner. Elucidating the function of all regulatory elements in our genome is therefore a critically important endeavor from both a clinical and basic science perspective. The 3 muscle types display unique patterns of gene expression; however, during development and in some pathological states there is overlap in gene expression profiles suggesting a common mode of regulation (Figure 1). For example, the majority of cyto-contractile genes expressed in each muscle cell type are under direct control of the widely expressed transcription factor, serum response factor (SRF). SRF self-dimerizes and binds to a …
The biological activity of soluble antigen-antibody complexes. II. Physical properties of soluble complexes having skin-irritating activity.

Previous work by Germuth and McKinnon (1), Trapani et al. (2), and ourselves (3) has established the fact that soluble antigen-antibody complexes formed in excess antigen can, (a) induce symptoms similar to anaphylaxis, (b) cause contraction of isolated smooth muscle from normal guinea pigs, and (c) increase the permeability of skin capillaries in a manner similar to that obtained in passive cutaneous anaphylaxis. These findings immediately raise many questions as to the fundamental mechanisms involved. For example, is the free antigen playing some role; is the toxicity dependent upon some change in the molecular structure of either antigen or antibody upon combination; is the complex itself toxic without any change in the molecular structure of the components; is the antigen-antibody ratio important; and, is complement involved? The work reported here involves a study of the possible role of free antigen and the nature of the complex. Some study was also made of untreated and decomplemented antiserums and, although there was no difference, this cannot rule out the possible participation of the test animal's (guinea pig's) own complement.
Systems-level metabolic flux profiling identifies fatty acid synthesis as a target for antiviral therapy

Viruses rely on the metabolic network of their cellular hosts to provide energy and building blocks for viral replication. We developed a flux measurement approach based on liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry to quantify changes in metabolic activity induced by human cytomegalovirus (HCMV). This approach reliably elucidated fluxes in cultured mammalian cells by monitoring metabolome labeling kinetics after feeding cells 13C-labeled forms of glucose and glutamine. Infection with HCMV markedly upregulated flux through much of the central carbon metabolism, including glycolysis. Particularly notable increases occurred in flux through the tricarboxylic acid cycle and its efflux to the fatty acid biosynthesis pathway. Pharmacological inhibition of fatty acid biosynthesis suppressed the replication of both HCMV and influenza A, another enveloped virus. These results show that fatty acid synthesis is essential for the replication of two divergent enveloped viruses and that systems-level metabolic flux profiling can identify metabolic targets for antiviral therapy.
Complete Genome Sequence and Updated Annotation of Desulfovibrio alaskensis G20

Desulfovibrio alaskensis G20 (formerly desulfuricans G20) is a Gram-negative mesophilic sulfate-reducing bacterium (SRB), known to corrode ferrous metals and to reduce toxic radionuclides and metals such as uranium and chromium to sparingly soluble and less toxic forms. We present the 3.7 Mb genome sequence to provide insights into its physiology.
EFFECTS OF SUGAR ADDITION IN LURIA BERTANI (LB) MEDIA ON ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7

ABSTRACT Human pathogenic Escherichia coli O157:H7 produces Shiga-like toxins (SLT) that cause hemolytic uremic syndrome. Typically, SLT are released when a bacterium lyses, but the mechanism of controlling SLT production is not clearly understood. This paper studies the cell growth and metabolism of E. coli in Luria Bertani (LB) broth with and without added sugars. Sugars added to LB broth cause a variety of changes to pathogenic E. coli O157:H7. In plain LB media, the bacteria produce indole and SLT. With the addition of sugar to the broth, the cells produce significantly less of these compounds (10% indole and 46% Shiga toxin in glucose LB broth). The use of LB broth conditioned by E. coli K12 growth, also reduced the growth (19% of plain LB; 25% with lactose and glucose + lactose CM; 98%) in glucose CM, and SLT production was <8% in all CM of a subsequently inoculated pathogenic strain. The chemistry of these inhibitions and possible role of quorum sensing molecules are discussed. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Shiga-like toxin is the causative agent of Escherichia coli infection. Elucidating the control of its production could yield to the discovery of compounds that may block synthesis during an infection. Furthermore, understanding the bacterial growth and toxin production can provide us with tools to control the pathogenicity of the toxin producing E. coli, and may lead to new interventions to keep food safe.
The amino-terminal domain of pyrrolysyl-tRNA synthetase is dispensable in vitro but required for in vivo activity

Pyrrolysine (Pyl) is co-translationally inserted into a subset of proteins in the Methanosarcinaceae and in Desulfitobacterium hafniense programmed by an in-frame UAG stop codon. Suppression of this UAG codon is mediated by the Pyl amber suppressor tRNA, tRNA(Pyl), which is aminoacylated with Pyl by pyrrolysyl-tRNA synthetase (PylRS). We compared the behavior of several archaeal and bacterial PylRS enzymes towards tRNA(Pyl). Equilibrium binding analysis revealed that archaeal PylRS proteins bind tRNA(Pyl) with higher affinity (K(D)=0.1-1.0 microM) than D. hafniense PylRS (K(D)=5.3-6.9 microM). In aminoacylation the archaeal PylRS enzymes did not distinguish between archaeal and bacterial tRNA(Pyl) species, while the bacterial PylRS displays a clear preference for the homologous cognate tRNA. We also show that the amino-terminal extension present in archaeal PylRSs is dispensable for in vitro activity, but required for PylRS function in vivo.
Why are all phase resetting curves bimodal

Neurons are excitable cells, which means that they operate close to a bifurcation points that allows them to switch back and forth between stable steady states and periodic attractors [1]. Repetitive firing neurons belong to either Class 1, i.e., characterized by a continuous frequency versus bias current (f-I) curve and arbitrarily low frequency of oscillation, or Class 2, i.e., discontinuous f-I curve and firing starts with a relatively high frequency at threshold stimulation [2]. The bifurcation mechanism leading to repetitive firing is related to excitability classes, i.e., saddle node on invariant circle (SNIC) bifurcation is associated to Class 1 and Andronov-Hopf (HB) bifurcation to Class 2 excitability [3]. The complexity of model neurons can be significantly reduced near bifurcation points, e.g., by using normal forms. Although such dramatic reductions oversimplify biophysical mechanisms they allow a better understanding of the phenomenology of phase locked modes and synchrony in neural networks. A phase resetting curve (PRC) is not concerned with the biophysical details of neurons, but rather tabulates the transient changes in the firing period due to an external perturbation, usually a brief current or synaptic conductance pulse. Despite its limitations, PRC-based approaches to treating Parkinson's and epilepsy are at the forefront of practical applications [4], or predicting the shape and timing of necessary stimuli that destabilize a synchronous state of a large population of neurons [5]. It was long advocated that the PRCs are either of Type I when the bifurcation mechanism leading to oscillatory behavior is a SNIC, or of Type II when the bifurcation is of HB type [3,6]. Type II PRC has an almost sinusoidal shape and comparable sizes of the positive and negative lobes, and synchronize more readily due to their ability to both slow down and speed up [3,6]. Type I PRC has a disproportionate ratio of the two PRC lobes, can predominantly speed up (or only slow down) their rhythm when coupled with other neurons. We showed that any stable limit cycle oscillator has two remarkable points, which we called neutral points, at which brief perturbations do not induce any phase resetting. Furthermore, for a planar system there are only two such neutral points and we derived an analytical method of localizing them based on the Floquet multipliers. The PRC changes its sign at neutral points. Since there are two neutral points for any planar system it results that the corresponding PRCs must be all bimodal. Additionally, we derived analytical criteria for the degree of bimodality and were able to smoothly control the transition of the PRC from a Type I to a Type II. The ability to smoothly change the PRC type through experimentally available control parameters, such as bias currents or pharmacologically controlled ionic channels, has potential application in shaping the activity of neural cells and networks.
Review of Microbial Physiology and Genetics

The first portion of this section will deal with bacteria and fungi, their structure, chemical composition, and metabolism. This will be followed by a discussion of chemotherapeutic agents that are active against bacteria, fungi and animal parasites. The second section will deal with Basic Virology (viral structure, classification, replication and the effects of antiviral agents of viral replication). The last portion will deal with Microbial Genetics (mutations, gene transfer, and recombinant DNA technologies).
White matter abnormalities and cognition in a community sample.

White matter hyperintensities (WMH) can compromise cognition in older adults, but differences in sampling, WMH measurements, and cognitive assessments contribute to discrepant findings across studies. We examined linear and nonlinear effects of WMH volumes on cognition in 253 reasonably healthy adults. After adjusting for demographic characteristics and total brain volumes, WMH burden was not associated with cognition in those aged 20–59. In participants aged 60 and older, models accounted for ≥58% of the variance in performance on tests of working memory, processing speed, fluency, and fluid intelligence, and WMH volumes accounted for variance beyond that explained by age and other demographic characteristics. Larger increases in WMH burden over 5 years also were associated with steeper cognitive declines over the same interval. Results point to both age-related and age-independent effects of WMH on cognition in later life and suggest that the accumulation of WMH might partially explain normal age-related declines in cognition.
Teacher Placement Into Immigrant English Learner Classrooms Limiting Access in Comprehensive High Schools

This qualitative study examined how secondary teachers were assigned to teach courses intended to expand English learners’ (ELs’) access to academic subjects. Theoretically, this research extends the “contexts of reception” framework from immigration studies into the educational realm by investigating how teachers—as one important contextual variable—entered into settings designed for immigrant-origin ELs. Analysis examined institutional processes, norms, and policies as well as participants’ practices. Findings suggest that novice teachers were most likely to be placed into separate EL content-area classrooms, unless more senior teachers requested these assignments or administrators intervened. Ultimately, this article uses teacher assignment processes to illustrate how contexts for immigrant-origin youth are constructed and contested and how ELs’ opportunities to learn were jeopardized in local settings.