cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Imino Hydrogen Positions in Nucleic Acids from Density Functional Theory Validated by NMR Residual Dipolar Couplings

Hydrogen atom positions of nucleotide bases in RNA structures solved by X-ray crystallography are commonly derived from heavy-atom coordinates by assuming idealized geometries. In particular, N1-H1 vectors in G and N3-H3 vectors in U are commonly positioned to coincide with the bisectors of their respective heavy-atom angles. We demonstrate that quantum-mechanical optimization of the hydrogen positions relative to their heavy-atom frames considerably improves the fit of experimental residual dipolar couplings to structural coordinates. The calculations indicate that deviations of the imino N-H vectors in RNA U and G bases result from H-bonding within the base pair and are dominated by the attractive interaction between the H atom and the electron density surrounding the H-bond-acceptor atom. DFT optimization of H atom positions is impractical in structural biology studies. We therefore have developed an empirical relation that predicts imino N-H vector orientations from the heavy-atom coordinates of the base pair. This relation agrees very closely with the DFT results, permitting its routine application in structural studies.
Reaction–diffusion model of hair-bundle morphogenesis

The hair bundle, an apical specialization of the hair cell composed of several rows of regularly organized stereocilia and a kinocilium, is essential for mechanotransduction in the ear. Its precise organization allows the hair bundle to convert mechanical stimuli to electrical signals; mutations that alter the bundle’s morphology often cause deafness. However, little is known about the proteins involved in the process of morphogenesis and how the structure of the bundle arises through interactions between these molecules. We present a mathematical model based on simple reaction–diffusion mechanisms that can reproduce the shape and organization of the hair bundle. This model suggests that the boundary of the cell and the kinocilium act as signaling centers that establish the bundle’s shape. The interaction of two proteins forms a hexagonal Turing pattern—a periodic modulation of the concentrations of the morphogens, sustained by local activation and long-range inhibition of the reactants—that sets a blueprint for the location of the stereocilia. Finally we use this model to predict how different alterations to the system might impact the shape and organization of the hair bundle.
Calmodulin and alpha tocopherol as additional binding sites for doxorubicin

The hydrophobic probes anthroylcholine ((AC), 8-anilino-1-napthalene sulfonate (ANSE), and 2-P-toluidinyl naphthalene 6-sulfonate (TNS) increased calcium-calmodulin (Ca2+−CaM) fluorescence. This fluorescence was decreased by doxorubicin (DXR) in a dose-dependent fashion. The Ca2+ ion was an absolute requirement for the observed effects of DXR. DXR bound to the Ca2+−CaM complex (Kd=4.2×10-5 M, Bmax=1.8) and to alpha tocopherol. The binding of untransformed (native) DXR to CaM was a reversible process. These data support a previous finding that DXR inhibits stimulation of calmodulin-deficient PDE (a CaM target enzyme) using either the Ca2+ CaM complex or alpha tocophenol by interacting with these agents, and suggest that other target enzymes for CaM may be similarly affected.
NSAID-related gastrointestinal complications.

Despite the common induction of gastrointestinal (GI) complications by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), many aspects of pathogenesis and management remain controversial. The most important complications are bleeding and perforation arising in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum due to NSAID effects on platelets and on a variety of mucosal lesions. Complications arise from preexisting peptic ulcer, NSAID-induced ulcers and erosions, and other lesions (not caused by NSAIDs) caused to bleed by NSAID-induced platelet dysfunction. Much confusion has arisen from the umbrella term "NSAID gastropathy" used to embrace a variety of pathogenetically distinct mucosal lesions. Failure to discriminate among the different forms of NSAID injury has hampered clinical investigation. This article offers general guidelines for prevention of NSAID complications, but there remain many unresolved issues, including the role of Helicobacter pylori infection. The best approach to management is to remove or reduce exposure to NSAIDs whenever possible. The newer NSAIDs (e.g., cyclo-oxygenase [COX]-2-selective inhibitors) have a much lower risk of endoscopic ulcers and minimal platelet effects, which are likely to translate into lower risk of GI complications. However, this benefit on clinical outcome remains to be established.
Investigation of the catalyst in the cellulose–DMEU reaction. Part II. Physicochemical studies of the reaction†

In a continuation of a previously reported investigation into the effect of the catalyst in the cotton cellulose–DMEU reaction, experiments were performed in which the four inorganic salt catalysts originally studied, MgCl2, Mg(NO3)2, ZnCl2, and Zn(NO3)2, were employed at the higher metal ion concentration of 0.1M, and CuCl2 and CdCl2 were employed at 0.03M concentration. Data from infrared absorption spectra of the treated cotton products were in agreement with those obtained at the 0.03M catalyst concentration, again indicating that the catalyst entered into the reaction, forming a coordination complex through the formation of nitrogen-to-metal bonds between the catalyst and the DMEU molecule. Similarly, it was again indicated that reaction with DMEU takes place preferentially at the primary alcohol group of the anhydroglucose unit. Analyses of IR data indicated a higher degree of crosslinking, and thus fewer terminal OH or NH groups at the 0.03M catalyst than at the 0.1M catalyst concentration. Further evidence of complex formation was obtained from infrared spectra of the product of the CdCl2–DMEU reaction carried out in the absence of cellulose. Supplemental physical data obtained on products of reactions catalyzed with CdCl2 and CuCl2 at the 0.03M level, when compared with those obtained on products catalyzed with MgCl2 and ZnCl2, supported the earlier hypothesis that chlorine damage during heating was dependent upon the ability of the metallic complex to act as a free-radical trap. Additional support for the free-radical mechanism was obtained when treated cloth subjected to chlorination and exposed to ultraviolet radiation suffered the same discoloring and degradative effect as cloth chlorinated and subsequently scorched according to the usual AATCC method. Reaction rates of the cellulose–DMEU reaction at 45, 55, and 65°C. with each of the four catalysts at the 0.03M concentration were determined by following changes both in nitrogen and formaldehyde content as well as in crease recovery properties. The reaction was found to be pseudo first order when followed to 2/3 completion, and the catalysts, when ranked according to greatest to least effect upon the reaction rates, followed the order: Zn(NO3)2 > ZnCl2 > MgCl2 = Mg(NO3)2. Enthalpies, entropies, and free energies of activation have confirmed the earlier hypothesis that the metal ion enters into the reaction, forming a transition state complex.
Stringent Criteria for Stable and Unstable Planetary Orbits in Stellar Binary Systems

The existence of planets in stellar binary (and higher order) systems has now been confirmed by many observations. The stability of planetary orbits in these systems has been extensively studied, but no precise stability criteria have so far been introduced. Therefore, there is an urgent need for developing stringent mathematical criteria that allow us to precisely determine whether a planetary orbit in a binary system is stable or unstable. In this Letter, such criteria are defined using the concept of Jacobi's integral and Jacobi's constant. These criteria are used to contest previous results on planetary orbital stability in binary systems.
THE SURGICAL OCCLUSION OF THE LEFT AORTIC ORIFICE IN ALLIGATOR MISSISSIPIENSIS DAUDIN.

Summary The premise that surgical occlusion of the left aortic orifice would result in permanent anatomic separation of the systemic and pulmonary circulations in Alligator mississipiensis Daudin has led to the development of a surgical technique for this purpose. In four animals subjected to this procedure and kept in an environment that does not permit total submergence, no functional incapacity of their cardiovascular system has been observed.
Multifrequency and multipolarization radar scatterometry of sand dunes and comparison with spaceborne and airborne radar images

Understanding the unusual radar scattering characteristics of sand dunes is necessary in the analysis of radar images of aeolian landscapes of the earth and of other planets. In this paper we report on airborne radar scatterometer data of sand dunes, acquired at multiple frequencies and polarizations. Radar backscatter from sand dunes is very sensitive to the imaging geometry. At small incidence angles the radar return is mainly due to quasi-specular reflection from dune slopes favorably oriented toward the radar. A peak return usually occurs at the incidence angle equal to the angle of respose for the dunes. The peak angle is the same at all frequencies as computed from specular reflection theory. At larger angles the return is significantly weaker. The scatterometer measurements verified observations made with airborne and spaceborne radar images acquired over a number of dune fields in the United States, central Africa, and the Arabian peninsula. The imaging geometry constraints indicate that possible dunes on other planets, such as Venus, will probably not be detected in radar images unless the incidence angle is less than the angle of repose of such dunes and the radar look direction is approximately orthogonal to the dune trends.
Molecular population genetic analysis of the streptokinase gene of Streptococcus pyogenes: mosaic alleles generated by recombination

To understand the mechanisms governing molecular evolution of the streptokinase gene (skn), a 384 bp DNA fragment encoding two variable regions of the molecule was characterized in 47 isolates of Streptococcus pyogenes. The results reveal that alleles of the streptokinase gene have a mosaic structure, and provide strong evidence for intragenic recombination. Moreover, organisms that are well differentiated in overall chromosomal character have identical skn alleles, which suggests that horizontal gene transfer and recombination have participated in the evolution of this locus. No simple relationship between skn allele and serum opacity factor production or specific disease was identified. The predicted amino acid sequences of highly divergent skn alleles are strikingly similar in hydrophilicity and hydrophobicity profiles, distribution of amphipathic and flexible regions, surface probability plots, and antigenic indices, indicating that despite extensive nucleotide polymorphism in the two skn variable regions, selective pressure has constrained overall structural divergence. These results add to an important emerging theme that intragenic recombination plays a critical role in diversifying genes coding for streptococcal virulence factors.
Macromolecular Engineering through Click Chemistry and Other Efficient Transformations

Precision synthesis of advanced polymeric materials requires efficient, robust, and facile chemical reactions. Paradoxically, the synthesis of increasingly intricate macromolecular structures generally benefits from exploitation of the simplest reactions available. This idea, combined with requirements of high efficiency, orthogonality, and simplified purification procedures, has led to the rapid adoption of “click chemistry” strategies in the field of macromolecular engineering. This Perspective provides context as to why these newly developed or recently reinvigorated reactions have been so readily embraced for the preparation of polymers with advanced macromolecular topologies, increased functionality, and unique properties. By highlighting important examples that rely on click chemistry techniques, including copper(I)-catalyzed and strain-promoted azide−alkyne cycloadditions, Diels−Alder cycloadditions, and thiol−ene reactions, among others, we hope to provide a succinct overview of the current state ...
Acute calcific tendinitis of the wrist.

Abstract Background Acute calcific tendinitis, a benign and self-limiting inflammatory condition commonly seen in the shoulder, is also described in many other tendons, including those in the hand and wrist. When involving the wrist, acute calcific tendinitis is often misdiagnosed and mistaken for infection. Objective We present this case to increase familiarity with this condition to avoid errors in diagnosis resulting in inappropriate treatment with antibiotics or even surgery. Case Report A 27-year-old man presented to the Emergency Department with a 2-week history of volar wrist pain, with sudden increase in pain associated with chills and new onset swelling and redness of the wrist. Plain radiographs showed characteristic soft-tissue calcification overlying the insertion of the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon into the wrist. Treatment with ibuprofen and splinting resulted in complete symptom resolution. Conclusion Acute calcific tendinitis is an important consideration in the differential diagnosis of acute wrist pain. Radiographs are helpful in confirming the diagnosis when symptoms and examination findings are characteristic.
A study of erythrocyte fatty acids, adenosinetriphosphatase and acetylcholinesterase in cystic fibrosis.

1. The proportions of both saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids were measured in the erythrocytes in Cystic Fibrosis (CF) patients along with two membrane bound enzymes ATPase and acetylcholinesterase. Linoleic acid was found to be significantly decreased and arachidonic acid increased in CF patients. The proportion of saturated fatty acids were not significantly different from the controls. Only adenosinetriphosphatase activity was found to be reduced and nto acetylcholinesterase in ∼F patients.
Probability-based load combinations for the design of concrete containments☆

Abstract This paper describes a procedure for developing probability-based load combinations for the design of concrete containments. The proposed criteria are in a load and resistance factor design (LRFD) format. The load factors and resistance factors are, in general, derived for use in limit states design and are based on a target limit state probability. In this paper, the load factors for accident pressure due to the design basis accident and safe shutdown earthquake are derived for three target limit state probabilities. Other load factors are recommended on the basis of prior experience with probability-based design criteria for ordinary building construction.
Proteins involved in iron metabolism in beef cattle are affected by copper deficiency in combination with high dietary manganese, but not by copper deficiency alone

A 493-d study was conducted to deter- mine the impact of a severe, long-term Cu deficiency on Fe metabolism in beef cattle. Twenty-one Angus calves were born to cows receiving one of the following treat- ments: 1) adequate Cu (+Cu), 2) Cu deficient (−Cu), and 3) Cu deficient plus high Mn (−Cu+Mn). Cop- per deficiency was induced through the addition of 2 mg of Mo/kg of DM. After weaning, calves remained on the same treatment as their dam through growing (basal diet analyzed 7 mg of Cu/kg of DM) and finish- ing (analyzed 4 mg of Cu/kg of DM) phases. Plasma Fe concentrations were positively correlated (P 1.5 fold) in -Cu compared with +Cu calves (P = 0.03), and expression of hepatic ferropor- tin tended (P = 0.09) to be downregulated in −Cu vs. +Cu. In the duodenum, ferritin tended to be upregu- lated in −Cu. vs. +Cu calves (P 0.2) due to Cu-deficiency was detected at the transcriptional level for either isoform of divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1 mRNA with or without an iron responsive element; dmt1IRE and dmt1-nonIRE) in liver or intestine. Duodenal expression of hephaes- tin and ferroportin protein was not affected by dietary treatment (P > 0.20). However, duodenal expression of DMT1 protein was less (P = 0.04) in −Cu+Mn steers vs. −Cu steers. In summary, Cu deficiency alone did affect hepatic gene expression of hepcidin and ferropor- tin, but did not affect duodenal expression of proteins important in Fe metabolism. However, the addition of 500 mg of Mn/kg of DM to a diet low in Cu reduced duodenal expression of the Fe import protein DMT1.
Protein synthesis by a cell-free preparation from the bird malaria, Plasmodium lophurae.

SYNOPSIS. Cytoplasmic polyribosomes were isolated from the avian malaria parasite Plasmodium lophurae by lysis with 0.15% Triton X-100 followed by high speed centrifugation through a discontinuous sucrose gradient. Polyribosomes were protected from nuclease degradation using 100 μg/ml heparin or 50 μg/ml dextran sulfate. Cell-free incorporation of radioisotope-labeled amino acids required a pH 5 fraction (duck reticulocyte), Mg2+, and an energy-generating system. The protein synthesizing system was stimulated by the addition of polyuridylic acid. Optimum conditions for protein synthesis by the plasmodial system are described. The effects of drugs on the cell-free protein synthesizing system using duck reticulocyte and plasmodial ribosomes are reported.
Apolipoprotein E genotype and cardiovascular disease in the Framingham Heart Study

Abstract Background: Apolipoprotein (apo) E is a constituent of lipoproteins with considerable variation due to cysteine–arginine exchanges. The apo E4 (Arg112-Cys) polymorphism has been associated with dementia and hypercholesterolemia. We investigated the relation of APOE genotype to cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the Framingham Offspring Study. Methods and results: DNA was isolated from 3413 study participants and APOE genotypes were determined utilizing the polymerase chain reaction and restriction isotyping. In the entire group of subjects, 20.7% had apo E4/4 or E3/4 (Group E4); 14.1% had apo E2/2 or E2/3 (Group E2) and 63.9% had the apo E3/3 genotype (Group E3). Subjects with E2/4 (1.3%) were excluded. Period prevalence of CVD between examinations 1 and 5 (1971–1994) (366 events) was related to APOE genotype. Age adjusted period prevalence of CVD in men was 18.6% for Group E4, 18.2% for Group E2 and 12.7% for Group E3 ( P =0.004); while in women these rates were 9.9, 4.9, and 6.6%, respectively ( P =0.037). After adjustment for non-lipid risk factors the relative odds for CVD in Group E2 men was 1.79 ( P =0.0098) and in Group E4 it was 1.63 ( P =0.0086) compared with the Group E3; while in Group E4 women it was 1.56 ( P =0.054). After adjustment for all CVD risk factors, the relative odds in Group E2 men was 1.94 ( P =0.004) and in Group E4 men it was 1.51 ( P =0.0262). Conclusions: The presence of the apo E2 or apo E4 alleles in men is associated with significantly greater CVD risk. This genotypic information may help to identify individuals at increased risk for CVD events.
Coexisting intruder bands in 83 Se and evidence for the role of proton subshell closure in inhibiting formation of odd-neutron intruder bands

Low-lying one-particle, two-hole (1p-2h) intruder bands which coexist with hole states are established in $^{83}\mathrm{Se}$ ($N=49$) and are shown to exhibit properties similar to those of known intruder bands in odd-proton In ($Z=49$) nuclei. Systematics of ($N=49$) nuclei show that $^{83}\mathrm{Se}$ ($Z=34$) has the lowest-lying 1p-2h intruder state rather than midshell $^{89}\mathrm{Zr}$ ($Z=40$) as would be expected by comparing with the In isotopes. We discuss the well established occurrence of intruder bands in odd-proton nuclei in contrast to the paucity of such bands in odd-neutron nuclei, and suggest that the $Z=40$ and 64 subshell closures inhibit the core collectivity necessary for the lowering of particle states and formation of intruder bands in odd-neutron nuclei.
SU-E-I-44: Direct Organ Dose Measurements in Cadaveric Subjects to Investigate Dose Reduction Provided by Iterative Image Reconstruction Techniques

Purpose: To quantify average organ dose reduction resulting from use of adaptive iterative image reconstruction algorithm in Computed Tomography (CT). Methods: To determine the average organ dose reduction offered by the Adaptive Iterative Dose Reduction algorithm (AIDR3D) on a Toshiba Aquilion One 320‐slice CT scanner, organ doses were directly measured utilizing a method involving cadaveric subjects and optically‐stimulated luminescent dosimeters (OSLDs). Three female cadaveric subjects of various body habitus were scanned for the case of a clinically standardized Chest Abdomen Pelvis (CAP) protocol. Average organ doses were measured using OSLDs inserted into the breasts, lungs, liver, stomach, small intestine, colon, ovary, and uterus and placed on the skin of the cadavers. Measurements were first obtained for a standard non‐contrast CAP exam and then again, under identical scanning conditions, with the AIDR3D turned on. Measured doses were compared between the two scans for each of the organs. Results: Average organ dose reduction ranged from as low as 4% to as high as 66% for various organs. When averaged across all organs, the overall percent reduction amongst the three cadaveric subjects ranged from 18% to 46%. Significant dose reduction was noted for the lungs, breast and uterus in all three cadaveric subjects. The cadaveric subject with the lowest BMI level experienced the most prominent reduction in organ doses when compared to the subjects of higher BMI. Conclusions: As CT continues to be an indispensable tool in diagnostic radiology, future technological developments will remain focused on dose reduction methods. From this work it is clear that use of the AIDR 3D image reconstruction algorithm offers significant organ dose savings to patients. Based on recent literature and our own clinical experience, the dose savings do not come at the cost of degraded image quality.
Comparison of absorbable uterine staples and traditional hysterotomy during cesarean delivery

Objective: To evaluate the use of the Auto Suture Poly CS-57 disposable surgical stapler to determine if the device offers any advantages over suture closure of the uterus. Methods: A matched case-control study design was used. Operative time, estimated blood loss, change in hematocrit, incidence of postoperative endometritis, length of stay, and total patient costs were compared. Patients were recruited from a university hospital setting and a private practice. Results: There were 288 patients in the study, 144 in the staple group and 144 matched patients in the standard hysterotomy control group. Patients did not differ in age, parity, gestational age, number of primary or repeat operations, anesthesia, infant weights, or outcomes. Comparing the patients in the staple group and the control group, there was no significant difference in operative time (63.7 ± 22.9 versus 62.0 ± 22.3 minutes, staple group versus controls, respectively), estimated blood loss (822 ± 338 versus 879 ± 318 mL), change in hematocrit (−5.9 versus −6.5 volume percent), incidence of postoperative endometritis (15 versus 20%), length of stay (4.1 ± 1.3 versus 4.0 ± 2.2 days), or total cost ($4490 ± 1544 versus $3997 ± 1117). Comparing patients operated upon by residents in the university to those operated upon by the private attending physicians, there were no significant differences noted in the above-mentioned variables between stapled and sutured patients. Conclusion: Compared with the usual suture technique for cesarean delivery, the uterine stapling device used in this study was not associated with a significant decrease in the incidence of postoperative anemia, infection, length of hospital stay, or cost. This device appears to offer no advantage over traditional hysterotomy and repair.
Coagulation of plasma from the chicken (Gallus domesticus): Phospholipids influence clotting rates induced by components from Russell's viper venom

Abstract 1. 1. Added phospholipid failed to accelerate chicken-plasma coagulation, induced by high concentrations of crude Russell's viper venom; however, similarly induced coagulation of canine and human plasma proceeded more rapidly when phospholipid was added. 2. 2. Phospholipid reduced clotting times of canine, human and also chicken plasma when partially purified factor X-activating enzyme from Russell's viper venom was the inducing agent. 3. 3. In the absence of added phospholipid, preincubation of chicken plasma with factor V-activating enzyme from Russell's viper venom accelerated factor X-activating-enzyme-induced coagulation. 4. 4. Preincubation of chicken plasma with the factor V-activating enzyme slowed factor X-activating-enzyme-induced coagulation in the presence of added phospholipid.
Annual bibliography of periodical articles on American labor history, 1965

(1967). Annual bibliography of periodical articles on American labor history, 1965. Labor History: Vol. 8, No. 1, pp. 71-86.
Effects of primary particle diameter and aggregate size distribution on the temperature of soot particles heated by pulsed lasers

Temperature histories of nanosecond-pulsed laser-heated soot particles of different primary particle diameters and different aggregate sizes were calculated using an aggregate-based heat transfer model. Relatively low laser fluences were considered to ensure maximum particle temperatures were below about 3800 K to avoid soot particle sublimation. After the laser pulse, the temperature of soot particles in larger aggregates decreases more slowly than that of particles in smaller aggregates due to the increased shielding effect. For a given aggregate size, the temperature of particles of smaller diameter decays faster as a result of a larger surface area-to-volume ratio. The effective temperature of soot particles in the laser probe volume was calculated based on the ratio of thermal radiation intensities of soot particles at 400 and 780 nm to simulate the experimentally measured soot particle temperature using two-color optical pyrometry. The effect of aggregate size distribution of soot particles on the effective particle temperature was investigated under different initial temperatures.
An Sp1-binding Silencer Element Is a Critical Negative Regulator of the Megakaryocyte-specific αIIb Gene

The Sp1 family of transcription factors are often involved in the regulated expression of TATA-less genes, frequently enhancing gene transcription. In this paper, we demonstrate that an Sp1-binding element inhibits the expression of the megakaryocyte-specific αIIb gene in all cell lines tested and that this inhibition is actively overcome only in megakaryocyte-like cell lines. We had noted previously in primary megakaryocytes that a 50-base pair (bp) deletion from −150 to −101 bp in the rat αIIb promoter region resulted in increased expression. We now show that deletion of this region markedly increased expression in both megakaryocytic and non-megakaryocytic cell lines, eliminating the tissue specificity of the αIIb promoter. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA) defined a single complex, which bound to a −145 to −125 bp subregion. Point mutations within this region, localized the critical point of binding around bases −136/−135, and expression studies showed that introduction of the −136/−135 mutation into the rat αIIb promoter had a comparable result to that seen with the 50-bp deletion. EMSA studies with the homologous human αIIb promoter region gave an identical migrating band. Southwestern blots of HeLa nuclear proteins with both the rat −145 to −125 DNA and its human homologue bound to a single ∼110-kDa protein, the known molecular weight of Sp1. Confirmation that this region of the αIIb gene promoter bound Sp1 was accomplished using EMSA studies with an Sp1 consensus probe, anti-Sp1 and -Sp3 antibodies, and recombinant Sp1 protein. Further support for the role of Sp1 in the silencing of the αIIb promoter was obtained using a Gal4 binding site substitution for the silencer region of αIIb and co-expression of near full-length Sp1/Gal4 fusion protein expression vectors. Ectopic reinsertion of the −150 to −101 bp region, back into the −150 to −101 bp deleted promoter, enhanced rather than decreased expression, suggesting that Sp1's inhibitory role at −136/−135 depends on its local interactions. In summary, we believe that we have identified a cross-species, non-consensus Sp1-binding site that binds Sp1 and that acts as a silencer of αIIb expression in many cell lines. A model is presented as to how this Sp1-binding silencer element contributes to the megakaryocyte-specific expression of αIIb gene.
Health education: Special issues for older adults

The older adult population in the United States has grown substantially since the turn of the century. With extended longevity and the relatively good functional status of most older adults, prevention programs that identify and intervene on risk factors in older adults may be an effective means to dealy ill health. The availability of data to guide both the selection and evaluation of prevention services for older adults, however, is strikingly limited in virtually all areas. Until recently, all persons over the age of 65 were treated as a single category of older adults although the older population is very heterogeneous. Most agree that prevention and education for this age group should focus on the prevention of disease, maintenance of existing abilities, and on prevention of deterioration of impairments that result in dysfunction or handicap. The most effective methods for developing behavioral intervention strategies may result from an integration of the behavioral diagnostic framework and current value expectancy and social learning theories. Health education interventions based on these strategies can be very effective in older age groups in terms of both improving adherence behavior with therapeutic and prevention intervention, and potentially in reducing morbidity and excess mortality.
Screening American Indian/Alaska Natives for Alcohol Abuse and Dependence in Medical Settings

As a result of the lethal effect that alcohol has had on the American Indian and Alaska Native population, it is vital to aggressively screen for hazardous/harmful use, alcohol abuse and dependence among American Indian/Alaska Natives entering medical settings. This is especially true in primary care settings where individuals may come in for a host of medical problems and may not be directly seeking help in reducing their use of alcohol. There are a number of strategies to screen for hazardous/harmful use and abuse of alcohol in primary care settings. These strategies include: screening questions/questionnaires, biochemical markers and collateral information. There is a growing body of literature which validates the use of some of the standard screening questionnaires among adult American Indians and Alaska Natives including the AUDIT and CAGE. Additionally, there are two instruments that have been validated in two vulnerable American Indian and Alaska Native populations: adolescents and pregnant women. These instruments are the CRAFFT for adolescents and the SAQ for pregnant women. There are currently no studies that were identified in this review that looked specifically at biochemical markers for American Indian and Alaska Natives. Finally, it is important to interview a patient's collaterals both to identify early problems with alcohol and as an adjunct to engaging the patient into treatment. Supportive collaterals can assist the patient to decrease or stop the use of alcohol and engage in treatment.
Influence of core fucosylation on the flexibility of a biantennary N-linked oligosaccharide.

Fluorescence energy transfer was used to study the conformation of each antenna of a complex biantennary oligosaccharide. A core fucosylated biantennary oligosaccharide was converted to a glycosylamine which allowed coupling of a naphthyl donor fluorophore directly to the reducing-end GlcNAc 1. After generating an aldehyde at C-6 of residue 6 or 6‘ using galactose oxidase, a dansyl ethylenediamine acceptor fluorophore was coupled to either antenna of the oligosaccharide resulting in two donor−acceptor pairs. The fluorescence properties of the naphthyl group allowed determination of the end-to-end donor−acceptor distance and antenna flexibility of each isomer by steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence energy transfer at temperatures ranging from 0 to 40 °C. Extended (20.6 A) and folded (11.4 A) donor−acceptor distance populations were identified for the isomer containing dansyl attached to Gal 6‘, whereas only a single extended population (19.7 A) was determined when dansyl was attached to Gal 6. The p...
The Standard of Living in New York City in 1907: An Early Twentieth-Century Study of Consumer Expenditure Patterns

How well does an early investigation of household expenditures, conducted without benefit of powerful statistical procedures, stand up when subjected to statistical treatment? Chapin's work in New York City is examined this way and his conclusions borne out when more modern analytical techniques were applied. This suggests even greater confidence for the role which Chapin's work has played as underpinning for succeeding budget studies in the U.S.
The high affinity calcium inhibition of parathyroid adenylate cyclase is not calmodulin dependent.

To investigate the possible role of calmodulin in the calcium sensitivity of parathyroid adenylate cyclase (AC), the effect of the calmodulin inhibitor trifluoperazine hydrochloride (TFP) on the calcium sensitivity of forskolin-stimulated AC activity was investigated in membranes prepared from normal porcine parathyroid glands. TFP inhibited AC in a concentration-dependent manner, the IC50 being approximately 100 μM. The inhibition of the enzyme occurred at roughly the same concentration of TFP in the presence and absence of calcium. Another calmodulin inhibitor, N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalenesulfonamide (W-7), also inhibited AC in a calcium-independent manner with a IC50 of approximately 200 μM. The pattern of calcium inhibition of AC was compared in membranes prewashed with either EGTA or 2 μM ionic calcium plus 100 μM TFP in an attempt to remove endogenous calmodulin. Neither treatment significantly altered the apparent affinities of the two previously reported calcium inhibition sites, nor did they alter the relative contribution of the individual calcium inhibition sites to the overall calcium inhibition. Inclusion of 100 μM TFP in the incubation mixture resulted in no change in the apparent affinities of the calcium inhibition site although it did result in a significant decrease in the relative contribution of the high affinity site (P<0.05). Addition of exogenous calmodulin (5–50 μg/ml) had no significant effect on AC. We conclude from these studies that the inhibition of parathyroid AC by calcium is independent of calmodulin and that this enzyme has intrinsic high sensitivity to calcium.
Bond-Induced Longitudinal Fracture in Reinforced Concrete

Splitting of concrete caused by pullout of deformed rebars is investigated. The influence of specimen cross section size and geometry on the relationship between the components of stress and relative displacement at the interface is evaluated. Phase measurement interferometry is used for accurate mapping of the splitting cracks. The measured crack profiles, material model, and a fracture criterion are used in a hybrid experimental/ numerical approach to evaluate the unknown normal component of traction at the interface.
A comparison of five methods of illusion measurement

The relative efficiency of five techniques of illusion measurement were tested on parametric variations of the Mueller-Lyer and Ebbinghaus figures. The methods of average error, reproduction, and selection from a graded series all showed significant effects of configurational variations. The subjective scaling techniques each failed to measure adequately changes in illusion magnitude for one illusion configuration. The suitability of the tested measures for group administration is also discussed.
Relapsed Wilms tumor: Is there a role for radiation therapy?

From 1968 to 1996, 21 of 97 (22%) patients with Wilms tumor treated at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics relapsed after initial therapy. The most common sites of initial recurrence were the lungs in 12 (57%), abdomen in 3 (14%), bone in 3 (14%), and liver in 2 (10%). Treatment for recurrence included chemotherapy in 16, radiotherapy in 15 and surgery in 8. Radiotherapy was given to bilateral lungs of 8 previously untreated chests; total dose was 1,200 cGy to 1,500 cGy, with 2 patients receiving 1,000-cGy boost. One patient had abdominal radiotherapy after surgery for relapse; six patients had palliative radiotherapy to distant sites. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year postrelapse survivals were 62 +/- 11%, 38 +/- 11%, and 33 +/- 10%, respectively. Using Cox proportional-hazard regression models, abdominal recurrence (p = 0.0002; hazard ratio, 39.5) and initial stage IV disease (p = 0.019; hazard ratio, 6.27) were found to have a negative impact on postrelapse survival. Seven patients with previously nonirradiated chests are alive at a median follow-up of 123 months after relapse (range, 55--272 months); all had whole lung irradiation with or without chemotherapy at relapse for lung metastases. Radiotherapy was also found to be an effective treatment in the palliation of painful metastases.
Postural Mirroring and Intergroup Relations

The present study examined the effects of four types of intergroup orientation on interpersonal postural mirroring both within and between groups. One hundred and four female subjects were assigned to quartets, each made up of two dyads in one of four conditions: (1) Control; (2) coacting; (3) cooperating; and (4) competing. As predicted, results showed greater intergroup relative to intragroup mirroring for cooperating dyads than for competing dyads. Unexpectedly, subjects in the coacting condition showed a significantly higher level of intergroup mirroring than any other condition. Both results are interpreted as evidence that postural mirroring is an obvious yet unobtrusive indicator of openness to interpersonal involvement.
Reproduction of the summer flounder, Paralichthys dentatus (L.)

The reproduction of summer flounder, Paralichthys dentatus (L.), occurring in the Middle Atlantic Bight was studied from 1974–1979. Males dominated the length interval between 21–35 cm t.l. and were essentially absent in samples >55 cm t.l. Females were more abundant in all length intervals >45 cm t.l. Length at maturity ranged from 24–27 cm t.l. for males and from 30–33 cm t.l. for females which coincided with length at age two. Ovarian egg diamerter frequencies indicated summer flounders are serial spawners and the trend in mean and maximum maturity indexes (% ovary weight of total fish weight) indicated spawning began in September and continued through February in 1975 and probably into March in 1976. Annual condition cycle of males peaked in September and was lowest in April while females’ cycle reached a maximum in October which coincided with peak spawning time. Fecundity was related to length, weight and ovary weight for 1974–1977 and the length-fecundity equation F= 0.0007975 L3.402 was found to be the best predictive relationship. The overall reproductive strategy of summer flounder was discussed and apparently tends to maximize reproductive potential through an extended spawning season, early maturation, high fecundity, serial spawning and extensive spawning migrations.
Effects of dehydration processes on flavour compounds and histology of apricots (Prunus armeniaca).

It is shown that freeze-dehydrated products contained the highest quantity of volatile reducing substances and volatile carbonyl compounds. Histological changes were minimal by freeze dehydration as compared with those obtained in other dehydration processes studied.
Transition Radiation from Ultrarelativistic Particles

In the present paper, we give a simple derivation of the spectrum and angular distribution of the transition radiation emitted by ultrarelativistic particles which pass through dielectric foils. The approximations appropriate for high-frequency radiation in the ultrarelativistic limit are made at the beginning. The calculations are consequently much simpler than standard calculations, and our results, some of which are apparently new, are relatively simple and easy to interpret. The primary emphasis in the development is on conditions likely to be encountered in the application of transition radiation detectors in high-energy physics.
Range-wide and local drivers of genetic structure in an endangered California vernal pool endemic crustacean

Phylogeographic and landscape genetic structure were studied for the endangered vernal pool tadpole shrimp (Lepidurus packardi) with the goal of identifying genetic units below the species level and understanding local patterns of gene flow. A portion of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene was sequenced from 208 individuals from throughout the range of the species (26 sites). The COI gene indicated the presence of five distinct clades or lineages within L. packardi. A majority of these clades were found in the southern portion of the species’ range. Sequence divergence between these clades was exceptionally high and historical demographic analysis did not indicate any changes in female effective population sizes. The divergent clades represent a pattern that is observed in other notostracan species. The presence of a single clade with a wide geographic distribution (northern portion of the study) suggests this area has experienced historical/recent gene flow, and is in contrast to the southern portion of the species range where divergent clades lie in close geographic proximity to one another. Amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs) and COI sequence data of 125 individuals samples from 14 pools revealed a pattern of isolation by distance across a 17 km span. The significant isolation by distance pattern suggests equilibrium processes override non-equilibrium processes (strong founder effects) at smaller geographic scales. These results suggest greater conservation attention to the southern portion of the species range (San Joaquin Valley) and the continuance of management practices that may assist in mitigating migration at local scales.
Hairpin folding rates reflect mutations within and remote from the turn region.

Hairpins play a central role in numerous protein folding and misfolding scenarios. Prior studies of hairpin folding, many conducted with analogs of a sequence from the B1 domain of protein G, suggest that faster folding can be achieved only by optimizing the turn propensity of the reversing loop. Based on studies using dynamic NMR, the native GB1 sequence is a slow folding hairpin . GB1 hairpin analogs spanning a wide range of thermodynamic stabilities were examined. Fold-stabilizing changes in the reversing loop can act either by accelerating folding or retarding unfolding; we present examples of both types. The introduction of an attractive side-chain/side-chain Coulombic interaction at the chain termini further stabilizes this hairpin. The 1.9-fold increase in folding rate constant observed for this change at the chain termini implies that this Coulombic interaction contributes before or at the transition state. This observation is difficult to rationalize by “zipper” folding pathways that require native turn formation as the sole nucleating event; it also suggests that Coulombic interactions should be considered in the design of systems intended to probe the protein folding speed limit.
African American Older Adults Coping With Chronic Health Conditions

This study’s purpose is to identify strategies used by community-dwelling African American elders to cope with their chronic health conditions. A focus group study of 28 African American elders with multiple chronic conditions was conducted. Data collection occurred during the last 4 months of 2003. The five focus groups were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Content analysis was performed on the data to ascertain coping strategies employed to manage daily life with chronic conditions. Categories of coping strategies identified are (a) dealing with it, (b) engaging in life, (c) exercising, (d) seeking information, (e) relying on God, (f) changing dietary patterns, (g) medicating, (h) self-monitoring, and (i) self-advocacy. This study expands nurses’ knowledge of the repertoire of coping strategies used by African American elders to ameliorate the effects of their chronic health conditions. Study findings will be valuable for planning intervention studies aimed at promoting successful coping.
CHAPTER 15 – Principles of Detection

Two goals at the end of every experiment involving hybridization are to “localize” the probe for determining where on the filter paper, or elsewhere in the assay, the probe managed to base-pair stably to its target; to “quantify” the amount of the probe that is retained in each band or is otherwise hybridized to target molecules found within a particular region of a tissue section. There are two standard detection strategies: radioisotopic techniques and nonisotopic techniques. Radioisotopic methods involve radiolabeling coupled with detection by autoradiography and/or Cerenkov counting. The nonisotopic methods are becoming increasingly more sophisticated, accommodating detection on filter membranes, in microtiter plate format, directly from gels, by direct video capture and by other methods. There are four standard types of nonisotopic methods of detection: (1) Chemiluminescence—the enzyme-mediated production of visible light, most often recorded on an X-ray film— (2) Fluorescence— the emission of light when certain compounds are excited with the proper wavelength of light, most often recorded using a fluorescence imaging system— (3) Chemifluorescence— the enzymatic conversion of a fluorogenic substrate into a fluorescent product, most often recorded using a fluorescence imaging system— and (4) Chromogenic detection—the enzyme-mediated formation of a color precipitate directly on a filter or tissue section; the precipitate records the distribution of target sequences.
Biomarkers for intensive care medicine patients: the (stony) path into a bright future?

In intensive care units (ICUs), physicians and nursing auxiliary are confronted with a broad range of severe medical conditions, such as cardiac and respiratory disorders, viral and bacterial infections, severe bleedings, trauma and as a result of aforementioned situations (multiple-) organ dysfunction. Goldhill and Sumner (1998) reported that 23.8% of 12,762 patients admitted to 15 British ICUs died. Similar figures (26.6%) were reported from a prospective multicenter trial which included 873 ICU patients (Nfor et al. 2006). Moreover, many patients died after discharge from ICU. Post-ICU (in-hospital) mortality has been reported to be 7.3% as well as 17.9 or 27% (Goldhill & Sumner 1998, Latour et al. 1990, Rowan et al. 1993). Despite the tremendous progress achieved in the care for patients requiring intensive care over the last decades, such as by modern antibiotic therapy and mechanical ventilation, the overall mortality of ICU patients improved surprisingly little (Resche-Rigon et al. 2006). One reason for this phenomena may be a lack of differentiation with an oversimplifying approach applying the current “gold standard therapy” for all patients with a given diagnosis. Indeed, it is most likely that we are not fully recognizing the existing heterogeneity with regard to the current status within one disease and thus ignoring potential individual needs in a given situation. It may be postulated that a more personalized therapeutic approach should lead to better medical care and as a result to better prognosis of the critically ill patient. A prerequisites for such an individualized rational decision making are objective parameters and criteria enabling meaningful differentiation, with biomarkers being the key candidate for such strategies.