cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysing force-pCa curves

We investigated three forms of the Hill equation used to fit force–calcium data from skinned muscle experiments; Two hyperbolic forms that relate force to calcium concentration directly, and a sigmoid form that relates force to the −log10 of the calcium concentration (pCa). The equations were fit to force–calcium data from 39 cardiac myocytes (up to five myocytes from each of nine mice) and the Hill coefficient and the calcium required for half maximal activation, expressed as a concentration (EC50) and as a pCa value (pCa50) were obtained. The pCa50 values were normally distributed and the EC50 values were found to approximate a log-normal distribution. Monte Carlo simulations confirmed that these distributions were intrinsic to the Hill equation. Statistical tests such as the t-test are robust to moderate levels of departure from normality as seen here, and either EC50 or pCa50 may be used to test for significant differences so long as it is kept in mind that $$\Updelta\hbox{EC}_{50}$$ is an additive measure of change and that $$\Updelta\hbox{pCa}_{50}$$ is a ratiometric measure of change. The Hill coefficient was found to be sufficiently log-normally distributed that log-transformed values should be used to test for statistically significant differences.
Trends in threat status and priorities in conservation of the woodpeckers of the world

Abstract. Taking the first IUCN Red List from 1988 as a starting point, I review trends in the threat status of the woodpecker species of the world, the geographical distribution of (near-) threatened woodpecker species, threat factors affecting these species, and the research output about them. Between 1988 and 2013 the number of genuinely Red Listed woodpeckers (categories Near Threatened and up) increased from 20 to 28 species and the number of species in the categories Vulnerable and up from 8 to 12. As percentage of recognised woodpecker species in the different years, the increase in Red Listed woodpecker species was even sharper. The geographical distribution of Red Listed woodpeckers stayed constant between 1988 and 2013, with over half of the species in Latin America, about one quarter in Asia, and none in Europe. A taxonomic reappraisal adopted by IUCN in 2014 raised the total number of recognised woodpecker species to 254 and of Red Listed woodpecker species to 42, of which 40% occur in Asia. N...
Predicting Cardiac Arrest on the Wards : A Nested Case-Control Study

Background Current rapid response team activation criteria were not statistically derived using ward vital signs, and the best vital sign predictors of cardiac arrest (CA) have not been determined. In addition, it is unknown when vital signs begin to accurately detect this event prior to CA. Methods We conducted a nested case-control study of 88 patients experiencing CA on the wards of a university hospital between November 2008 and January 2011, matched 1:4 to 352 control subjects residing on the same ward at the same time as the case CA. Vital signs and Modified Early Warning Scores (MEWS) were compared on admission and during the 48 h preceding CA. Results Case patients were older (64 ± 16 years vs 58 ± 18 years; P = .002) and more likely to have had a prior ICU admission than control subjects (41% vs 24%; P = .001), but had similar admission MEWS (2.2 ± 1.3 vs 2.0 ± 1.3; P = .28). In the 48 h preceding CA, maximum MEWS was the best predictor (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] 0.77; 95% CI, 0.71-0.82), followed by maximum respiratory rate (AUC 0.72; 95% CI, 0.65-0.78), maximum heart rate (AUC 0.68; 95% CI, 0.61-0.74), maximum pulse pressure index (AUC 0.61; 95% CI, 0.54-0.68), and minimum diastolic BP (AUC 0.60; 95% CI, 0.53-0.67). By 48 h prior to CA, the MEWS was higher in cases (P = .005), with increasing disparity leading up to the event. Conclusions The MEWS was significantly different between patients experiencing CA and control patients by 48 h prior to the event, but includes poor predictors of CA such as temperature and omits significant predictors such as diastolic BP and pulse pressure index.
Centroid moment tensor solutions for deep earthquakes predating the digital era: the World-Wide Standardized Seismograph Network dataset (1962-1976)

Abstract Centroid moment tensor solutions are presented for 104 deep earthquakes covering the years 1962–1976. These solutions are obtained by applying the algorithm used for modern events to restricted datasets of analog (WWSSN, World-Wide Standardized Seismograph Network) seismograms.
Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with optical scanning, using multiphasic buffer systems: the stack.

Abstract The zone of stacked protein in polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) generated by a multiphasic (discontinuous) buffer system was analyzed by continuous optical scanning during electrophoresis. In agreement with theoretical prediction, zone width was found to be constant with time; band area was linearly related to protein load; band dispersion, measured as the standard deviation (σ) of the concentration profile, was independent of current density between 1 and 8 mA/cm 2 ; and σ decreased with increasing ionic strength of the gel buffer. The protein concentration within the stack ranged from 13 to 34 mg/ml for β-lactoglobulin B of 36,000 mw. In lieu of the predicted uniform distribution (“square-wave” function) for peak shape, the observed values of kurtosis and skewness indicated a slightly flattened Gaussian profile of the protein concentration in the stack.
A study of nonlinear vibration of skew plates with attention to shear and rotatory inertia

The problem of nonlinear dynamic behaviour of skew plates is treated in this paper wherein consideration is given to the effects of transverse shear deformation and rotatory inertia. The formulation incorporates the well-known Berger approximation, earlier shown by the author to hold good for the analysis of skew plates. Approximate solutions to the nonlinear governing equations are obtained on the basis of an assumed single mode for w. Galerkin and numerical Runge-Kutta methods are used in the solution procedure. The single mode assumption, even though restrictive in nature, gives acceptable results for the fundamental mode of vibration. The governing equations and numerical results reported here are in agreement with those in the literature for the special cases of rectangular plates. Effects of geometric nonlinearity, transverse shear deformation and rotatory inertia are studied for isotropic and orthotropic skew plates of various aspect ratios, skew angles and thickness-to-length ratios.
Photomechanics in Dynamic Fracture and Friction Studies

: Studies of fracture and friction under dynamic loading conditions have benefited enormously from the use of optical methods of diagnosfis. Specifically, photoelasticity and high-speed photography have provided methods of detailed characterisation of these phenomena. In this paper, we present the results from experiments aimed at investigating fracture and frictional sliding under shear loading conditions.
Scaling in biased random walks.

We discuss the scaling of the statistics of a biased random walk. In the well-known model, a walk has probability p per step of stepping away from the direction of its last step. For a walk of N steps, such chains have persistence lengths ${p}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$. We are interested in the crossover from straight-chain to random-walk behavior in the neighborhood of the point p=0, ${N}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$=0. A scaling function has been computed for the problem of a random walk which avoids immediate returns by Schroll et al. Here we consider the self-avoiding case. A simple argument suggests a scaling function with crossover exponent 1. We present a proof that the crossover exponent is indeed one and numerical results for the scaling function on the square lattice which are consistent with this value. We also present a spin model which is asymptotically equivalent to the biased self-avoiding walk on the square lattice.
Indian Ocean Cosmopolitanism?: M.G. Vassanji's Hybrid Parables of Kenyan Nationalism

This article examines the relationship between cosmopolitanism, nationalism, and hybridity in contemporary theory and the fiction of M.G. Vassanji about the Indian diaspora in east Africa. The interregional space of the Indian Ocean has been posited as a historical site of multicultural hybridity, a precursor to globalization, and a productively theoretical example of contemporary postcolonial cosmopolitanism. Investigating these ideas more closely, I look specifically at the case of modern-day Kenyans of Indian descent and how they fare in the postcolonial nation, particularly in their positioning as “hybrid” middlemen. Engaging with some of the dominant theories regarding the relationship between cosmopolitanism and nationalism—with a particular emphasis on the place of hybridity within these theories, which pivotally divides nationalism from cosmopolitanism—I use Vassanji’s work to interrogate commonly held theoretical assumptions.
Transient right bundle branch block produced by heart catheterization in man.

Abstract In a patient with pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular strain pattern, heart catheterization produced transient complete right bundle branch block (QRS interval, 0.13 second) which persisted for 1 hour and was followed by gradual recovery during the next 20 minutes. During the recovery period, alternating phases of wide and narrow QRS complexes were observed. In spite of the recovery of the ventricular conduction time, several changes (T-wave inversion in Leads II, III, and aV F ; S wave in V 6 ) did not disappear before several days. Theoretical and practical consequences are discussed.
Properties of pseudo-harmonic systems

The concept of pseudo-harmonic systems is introduced under the model of general systems given by Lin (1987). The concept can be thought as an abstract of some problems in optimization theory and is a generalization of harmonic systems introduced by Ma and Lin (1987 a). Some elementary properties of pseudo-harmonic systems and three basic principles are given, a few questions are posed, and a few tests of applications of the results are discussed.
A Modified Hemmingsen-Krarup Mammalian Activity Recorder.∗

SummaryA modification of the Hemmingsen-Krarup activity recorder is described and figured. In a test of the apparatus, the chipmunk was found to have at least an habitual diurnality in constant darkness, temperature and relative humidity.
Natural killer cells in human autoimmune disorders

Natural killer (NK) cells are innate lymphocytes that play a critical role in early host defense against viruses. Through their cytolytic capacity and generation of cytokines and chemokines, NK cells modulate the activity of other components of the innate and adaptive immune systems and have been implicated in the initiation or maintenance of autoimmune responses. This review focuses on recent research elucidating a potential immunoregulatory role for NK cells in T-cell and B-cell-mediated autoimmune disorders in humans, with a particular focus on multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematous. A better understanding of the contributions of NK cells to the development of autoimmunity may lead to novel therapeutic targets in these diseases.
Alterations in the dynamics of semantic activation in Alzheimer's disease: Evidence for the Gain/Decay hypothesis of a disorder of semantic memory

While it has been commonly assumed that a deficit in semantic memory underlies many of the clinical and cognitive features of early Alzheimer's disease (AD), there has been little agreement on what constitutes a proper theoretical description of this impaired system. Currently, most theories of this disorder fall into two categories: those that posit degraded semantic representations, and those that posit impaired retrieval operations with relatively intact semantic representations. It is argued that each position has both empirical and logical disadvantages that have prevented the development of a consensus on how to describe the pathology of semantic memory in AD. In this paper we present the details and supportive evidence for an alternative account of the semantic memory deficit of AD: the Gain/Decay hypothesis. The core claim of the Gain/Decay hypothesis is that a reduction in the time constant of spreading activation in AD produces dynamic changes in the availability of semantic representations that depend on the time frame in which this information must be accessed. The implications of this hypothesis for a range of experimental and clinical phenomena are discussed, as are possible biological correlates of the hypothesized alterations in the modulation of activation. (JINS, 1999, 5, 641–658.)
Metabolism and distribution of [14C]glucose in rats treated with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD)

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given a single, usually lethal, dose of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD, 125 micrograms/kg ip in corn oil), or vehicle alone. Twenty-four hours after ip administration of TCDD the animals received an ip injection of 14C-labeled glucose, and the time course and amount of exhalation of 14CO2 were monitored for 8 h continuously and once daily for 20 min for the subsequent 5 d. TCDD treatment reduced the amount of 14CO2 exhaled within 8 h after the injection of [14C]glucose by 33%, as compared to pair-fed controls. Blood levels of radioactivity were affected by TCDD accordingly. No particular organ appeared to act as a sink for the radioactivity not exhaled during these 8 h by the treated animals. TCDD (125 micrograms/kg) induced significant changes in the disposition of radioactivity in heart and brown adipose tissue between 25 and 125 min after the iv injection of [14C]glucose. The areas under the curve of [14C]glucose-derived radioactivity were the same after either iv or ip injection in the blood of TCDD-treated rats, allowing a direct comparison of experiments with iv or ip injection of [14C]glucose. The half-lives of radioactivity in the exhaled air and in feces of treated animals were greatly elevated during the 5 d following administration of [14C]glucose. These results indicate that TCDD induces in rats, within 24 h after dosing, alterations in the metabolism of glucose that preceded changes in insulin homeostasis, because hypoglycemia and hypoinsulinemia in rats do not occur until about a week after TCDD treatment. Since overt signs of acute toxicity (reduced feed intake and body weight loss) are also not noticeable until several days after a lethal dose of TCDD, it is probable that this earlier disturbance of glucose metabolism is part of the biological changes that result in wasting away and eventually in death.
MWIR plume radiance phenomenology technical note

Gaseous plume detection in the LWIR (thermal infrared) region of the spectrum (7-14 μm) with the use of hyper-spectral imaging sensors is a rapidly advancing technology. 1-2 There are many industrial pollutants that have unique or strong absorption/emission signatures in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) region of the spectrum. The C-H vibrational frequency modes of hydrocarbons are clustered in the 3-4 micron region. Until recently the use of the MWIR region has been hampered, in part, by a lack of detailed and quantitative characterization of the phenomenology influencing the at-sensor radiance. 3 The goal of this paper is to increase understanding of this phenomenology and thus the utility of the MWIR spectral region for industrial pollution monitoring applications.
Beyond Consensus: Improving Collaborative Planning and Management

Beyond Consensus: Improving Collaborative Planning and Management Richard Margerum MIT Press, Cambridge, MA, 2011. 368 pp., £37.95 (hardback), £18.95 (paperback), ISBN 10-262-01581-1 Beyond Consens...
A New Generation Control System at SLAC

The proposed SLAC Linear Collider (SLC) project will require an Instrumentation and Control system that provides integrated automatic monitoring and control functions. The present SLAC LINAC Instrumentation and Control system will be totally revamped and it will be expanded to include the support of all of the additional accelerator components that will be required for the whole SLC project. This paper will describe the functional operation of the new system.
A germline transformation analysis reveals flexibility in the organization of beat shock consensus elements

Maximal expression of the Drosophila heat shock gene hsp70 can be activated by a pair of heat shock consensus elements (HSE's) positioned close to the transcription start site. In contrast, required HSE's of other heat shock genes (i.e., hsp26, 27, 23) are located several hundred base pairs (bp) farther upstream of their start sites. Using germline transformation, we analyzed the requirements for HSE organization in the hsp70 and hsp26 regulatory regions. A 51 bp fragment containing the two proximal hsp70 HSE's was sufficient to rescue the heat shock response of an hsp26-lacZ gene devoid of its HSE's. Heat inducibility was restored with either orientation of the fragment relative to the hsp26 transcription start. In hsp70 gene constructions, relocation of hsp70 HSE's to more remote positions by inserting 127 or 331 bp into the regulatory region failed to substantially reduce expression. Thus, in contrast to their native configurations, the hsp26 promoter can be activated by HSE's solely in a proximal position and the hsp70 promoter can be activated by remote HSE's. In addition, a simple and sensitive assay for quantitative measurement of beta-galactosidase activity in crude fly extracts is described.
Applying a Mixed-Integer Program to Model Re-Screening Women who Test Positive for C. trachomatis Infection

We proposed a mixed-integer program to model the management of C. trachomatis infections in women visiting publicly funded family planning clinics. We intended to maximize the number of infected women cured of C. trachomatis infections. The model incorporated screening, re-screening, and treatment options for three age groups with respective age-specific C. trachomatis infection and re-infection rates, two possible test assays, and two possible treatments. Our results showed the total budget had a great impact on the optimal strategy incorporating screening coverage, test selection, and treatment. At any budget level, the strategy that used a relatively small per-patient budget increase to re-screen all women who tested positive 6 months earlier always resulted in curing more infected women and more cost-saving than the strategy that was optimal under the condition of not including a re-screening option.
Polyatomic surface fitting, vibrational-rotational analysis, expectation value and intensity program

Abstract A computer program, SURVIBTM, has been developed for fitting multi-dimensional potential energy and property surfaces and calculating vibrational-rotational spectra of symmetric and asymmetric top polyatomic molecules. Given surfaces in the form of internal coordinates and energy or property points, the program performs seven main types of calculations. These include determining equilibrium and saddle point geometries, internal coordinate force fields, normal mode eigensolutions, normal coordinate force fields, spectroscopic constants, expectation values of properties, and transition dipole moments and intensities. Numerous options are available for each type of calculation. High-degree expansions for several forms of analytical expressions are implemented for the representations of force fields. The vibrational analysis and transition dipole results are presented in the form of spectroscopic constants, which include anharmonicity through quartic terms according to second-order perturbation theory. Point-group symmetry is utilized for reducing the length of internal coordinate expansions and for the analysis of selection rules in calculations of vibrational absorption intensities.
Activation of myosin ATPase by arsenite in the presence of 2,3-dimercaptopropanol.

Abstract Arsenite (0.1–0.2 m M ) in the presence of equivalent 2,3-dimercaptopropanol (BAL) stimulated the calcium ion-activated adenosinetriphosphatase (ATPase) activity of myosin two- to threefold. Excess of the combined reagent decreased the stimulation. These compounds singly had no effect on the ATPase activity. BAL could not be replaced by 2-mercaptoethanol or glutathione for the stimulation. The stimulation was abolished if BAL or other sulfhydryl compounds were present in large excess over the arsenite. These results are analogous to the previously documented effects of arsenite-BAL on the uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation and stimulation of the latent ATPase in mitochondria.
The He(I) photoelectron spectra of some γ-substituted Co(III) acetylacetonate complexes

Abstract The He(I) photoelectron spectra of the complexes of Co(III) with acetylacetone and several derivatives are reported. The ionization potentials of metal-localized d -electrons and ligand π-orbitals are used to probe the extent of metal-to-ligand π-bonding and possible aromatic character in the chelate ring.
Biology of the pinyon stunt needle midge

Janetiella sp. near coloradensis Felt causes severe needle stunting of pinyon, Pinus edulis Eng. Infested needles are about ⅓ normal length with slightly swollen bases. Needle drop occurs after insect emergence and can result in serious defoliation. Generally 2 larvae overwinter in small cells at the base of each 2-needle cluster. The pupal stage occurs in early May in the cells and lasts about 2 weeks. The mature pupae then work their way up between the 2 needles where they emerge, leaving the pupal exoskeleton on the needles. After mating, the females lay orange spindle-shaped eggs on the new shoots. Eggs hatch in 7–10 days, and larvae immediately enter the base of a developing needle, where they establish nutritional relationships. There is 1 generation per year. Approximately 40% of the midges observed were parasitized by Platygaster pini Fouts. This wasp oviposits in the midge egg, but evidence of parasitism is not apparent until the late midge instars appear the following spring. Thereafter, the parasite develops rapidly with emergence closely following that of the midge.
KCNJ2 Mutation Results in Andersen Syndrome with Sex-Specific Cardiac and Skeletal Muscle Phenotypes

Evaluation of candidate loci culminated in the identification of a heterozygous missense mutation (R67W) in KCNJ2, the gene encoding the inward-rectifying potassium current, Kir2.1, in 41 members of a kindred in which ventricular arrhythmias (13 of 16 female members [81%]) and periodic paralysis (10 of 25 male members [40%]) segregated as autosomal dominant traits with sex-specific variable expressivity. Some mutation carriers exhibited dysmorphic features, including hypertelorism, small mandible, syndactyly, clinodactyly, cleft palate, and scoliosis, which, together with cardiodysrhythmic periodic paralysis, have been termed “Andersen syndrome.” However, no individual exhibited all manifestations of Andersen syndrome, and this diagnosis was not considered in the proband until other family members were examined. Other features seen in this kindred included unilateral dysplastic kidney and cardiovascular malformation (i.e., bicuspid aortic valve, bicuspid aortic valve with coarctation of the aorta, or valvular pulmonary stenosis), which have not been previously associated. Nonspecific electrocardiographic abnormalities were identified in some individuals, but none had a prolonged QT interval. Biophysical characterization of R67W demonstrated loss of function and a dominant-negative effect on Kir2.1 current. These findings support the suggestion that, in addition to its recognized role in function of cardiac and skeletal muscle, KCNJ2 plays an important role in developmental signaling.
Mining temporal data sets: hypoplastic left heart syndrome case study

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) affects infants and is uniformly fatal without surgery. Post-surgery mortality rates are highly variable and dependent on postoperative management. The high mortality after the first stage surgery usually occurs within the first few days after procedure. Typically, the deaths are attributed to the unstable balance between the pulmonary and systemic circulations. An experienced team of physicians, nurses, and therapists is required to successfully manage the infant. However, even the most experienced teams report significant mortality due to the extremely complex relationships among physiologic parameters in a given patient. A data acquisition system was developed for the simultaneous collection of 73 physiologic, laboratory, and nurse-assessed variables. Data records were created at intervals of 30 seconds. An expert-validated wellness score was computed for each data record. A training data set consisting of over 5000 data records from multiple patients was collected. Preliminary results demonstratd that the knowledge discovery approach was over 94.57% accurate in predicting the "wellness score" of an infant. The discovered knowledge can improve care of complex patients by development of an intelligent simulator that can be used to support decisions.© (2003) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Rat liver receptor: Chemical affectors of stability and TCDD binding

Abstract Studies are underway in our laboratory to characterize the effects of various chemical agents and assay conditions on rat liver Ah receptor recovery, thermostability and ability to bind TCDD. The temperature-dependent decay of TCDD specific binding (SB) appears to be a first order process at 5°-40°C, with an estimated activation energy (Ea) for thermal inactivation of 36 kcals/mole. TCDD binding significantly stabilizes the receptor to both elevated temperature and salt concentration. Protease inhibitors and several compounds reported to stabilize steroid receptors have either no or deleterious effects on Ah receptor recovery and/or stability at 20°C. ATP present during cytosol preparation appears to enhance recovery at 20°C, and CaCl2 slightly increases stability between 15°–25°C (Ea = 49 kcals/mole). The serine protease inhibitors TPCK and TLCK interfere with TCDD binding at relatively high concentrations by decreasing its solubility, but the serine protease substrates TAME and TME block binding at concentrations similar to those effective in steroid systems without altering solubility. Both TAME and the mercurial compound mersalyl seem to increase TCDD SB at low concentrations, while binding is progressively inhibited at levels greater than 1 mM.
Spastin-interacting protein NA14/SSNA1 functions in cytokinesis and axon development.

Hereditary spastic paraplegias (HSPs) are a genetically diverse group of inherited neurological disorders (SPG1-72) with the cardinal feature of prominent lower-extremity spasticity due to a length-dependent axonopathy of corticospinal motor neurons. The most frequent form of autosomal dominant HSP results from mutations of the SPG4 gene product spastin. This is an ATPase associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA) protein that binds to and severs microtubules. While spastin participates in crucial cellular processes such as cytokinesis, endosomal tubulation, and axon development, its role in HSP pathogenesis remains unclear. Spastin interacts in cells with the NA14 protein, a major target for auto-antibodies in Sjogren's syndrome (nuclear autoantigen 1; SSNA1). Our analysis of endogenous spastin and NA14 proteins in HeLa cells and rat cortical neurons in primary culture revealed a clear distribution of both proteins to centrosomes, with NA14 localizing specifically to centrioles. Stable NA14 knockdown in cell lines dramatically affected cell division, in particular cytokinesis. Furthermore, overexpression of NA14 in neurons significantly increased axon outgrowth and branching, while also enhancing neuronal differentiation. We postulate that NA14 may act as an adaptor protein regulating spastin localization to centrosomes, temporally and spatially regulating the microtubule-severing activity of spastin that is particularly critical during the cell cycle and neuronal development.
Late thrombolytic therapy: mechanism of benefit and potential risk among patients treated beyond 6 hours.

BACKGROUND Thrombolytic therapy is the treatment of choice for many patients with myocardial infarction, particularly those presenting to the hospital within 6 hours from symptom onset. Although prompt treatment promises to provide the greatest overall benefit, delayed thrombolysis (possibly beyond a time when myocardial salvage is achieved) may also have a role in current clinical practice. METHODS A review of the English-language literature was conducted by MEDLINE search. Pertinent references were found as far back as 1912. RESULTS Results of several nonrandomized clinical studies and one recently completed randomized study (the Late Assessment of Thrombolytic therapy Efficacy [LATE]) suggest that thrombolytic therapy may be beneficial up to 12 hours from the onset of symptoms. The mechanisms of benefit are poorly defined, but they may include myocardial salvage, reduced early infarct zone expansion, improved healing, and decreased ventricular irritability. These mechanisms are not necessarily exclusive of one another. An increased risk of myocardial rupture and thromboembolism may be incurred, limiting the usefulness of treatment with further delay. CONCLUSIONS Delayed thrombolysis (up to and possibly beyond 12 hours from symptom onset in certain patient subgroups) reduces patient mortality. Despite increasing support, however, many patients, even those seeking medical treatment within 6 hours, are not being given thrombolytic therapy. Further investigation into this area must be undertaken. The Benefits of Late Thrombolysis (BOLT) study should provide much needed information.
Redeterminations of the solid-state structures of trimethylarsenic dibromide, Me3AsBr2, and trimethylantimony dibromide, Me3SbBr2, by X-ray crystallography and solid state 13C MAS NMR evidence for a highly symmetrical D3h, non-ionic structure for Me3SbBr2☆

Abstract The crystal structure of trimethylantimony dibromide, Me 3 AsBr 3 , has been redetermined 24 years after its first characterization and that of trimethylarsenic dibromide, Me 3 SbBr 2 , 57 years later. Unlike the earlier As structure, the new determination provides bond distances and angles similar to those found in related compounds, but it does confirm the ionic nature of the structure, i.e. [MeAsBr] + Br. The new Sb determination reveals a rigorously trigonal bipyramidal, D 3h structure. This is in contrast to the earlier determination which described the structure in terms of ionic (axial) distortions. It has been determined that refinement of the current data for Me 3 SbBr 2 in the space groups previously reported for the “ionic” structures produces ionic distortions, whereas none is found in the correct centrosymmetric space group P 6 3 / mmc . From a variety of perspectives, the results are crystallographically inferior in the space groups that produce the “ionic” distortions. In support of the crystallographic results, the solid-state MAS 13 C NMR spectrum has also been obtained. The narrow single line observed is consistent only with a high symmetry electrical environment in the vicinity of the Sb and Br quadrupolar nuclei.
Preliminary validity and reliability of the sickle Cell disease health-related stigma scale

There have been no published studies that measure health-related stigma in individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). This study provides preliminary validity and reliability of the Sickle Cell Disease Health-Related Stigma Scale (SCD-HRSS). Using a sample of 77 young adults with SCD, ages 18-35 years, the results support the reliability of the SCD-HRSS with an overall Cronbach's alpha reliability of 0.84 and construct validity with a positive correlation between SCD-HRSS and a measure of depressive symptoms. Participants reported the highest levels of perceived stigma from the general public, then doctors, and lastly family. Limitations and directions for future research are discussed.
THE ACETYLCHOLINESTERASE AND PSEUDO‐ CHOLINESTERASE CONTENTS OF HUMAN PLACENTA AT TERM

The acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) activities of human term placentas have been studied. Perfusion of placentas indicated that most of the AChE and all the BuChE content of the human placenta are due to its blood content. By comparison, rabbit livers, studied similarly, retained most of their contents of both enzymes following perfusion. Histochemical examination or well-perfused placentas suggests that trapped intact erythrocytes and the stroma of hemolyzed red cells are the probable source of ‘placental’ AChE reported previously.
Formation Principles for Vanadium Selenites: The Role of pH on Product Composition

A series of organically templated vanadium selenites has been prepared under mild hydrothermal conditions. Single crystals of [C5H14N2][(VO)3(SeO3)2(HSeO3)4], [C5H14N2][VO(SeO3)2], [(R)-C5H14N2][(VO)3(SeO3)2(HSeO3)4], and [(S)-C5H14N2][(VO)3(SeO3)2(HSeO3)4] were grown from VOSO4, SeO2, and 2-methylpiperazine. Controlling the initial pH of the reaction mixture allows for one to select between the compounds found in the VOSO4/SeO2/2-methylpiperazine system, as the solution pH directly affects the relative ratio of the HSeO3– and SeO32– concentrations. Moreover, partial resolution of racemic 2-methylpiperazine is observed in [C5H14N2][(VO)3(SeO3)2(HSeO3)4], which is understood through the use of a one-dimensional Ising model. The use of enantiomerically pure 2-methylpiperazine results in fully ordered and fully resolved structures.
Modified optic nerve sheath decompression provides long-term visual improvement for pseudotumor cerebri.

• Twenty-three patients with chronic papilledema associated with pseudotumor cerebri underwent "modified" optic nerve sheath decompression for treatment of visual acuity and visual field loss. Instead of removing a single, rectangular section of optic nerve meninges, the operation was modified by making at least three longitudinal incisions in the sheath and then lysing arachnoid adhesions with a tenotomy hook. Twenty-one of the 23 patients demonstrated improved visual function after the initial surgery for a mean (±SD) follow-up of 21.5 ± 12.3 months (median, 25 months; range, three to 45 months) without reoperation or reinstitution or oral corticosteroid and diuretic therapies. The two patients failing to improve after the first surgical procedure initially had a single meningeal window created and subsequently improved following reoperation with the modified procedure. Twelve of 21 patients with bilateral visual loss had improved visual function bilaterally after unilateral surgery. Six of the 21 patients needed bilateral surgery, and the other three had minor visual field defects in the second eye not severe enough to warrant surgery. Preoperative optic disc pallor did not predict a poor postoperative result. Optic nerve surgery improved the visual function in six patients who had failed to recover vision after one or more lumbar-peritoneal shunts.
Purification, physicochemical properties, and localization of cytochrome c in energy-transducing membranes from Mycobacteriumphlei

Abstract Cytochrome c from Mycobacterium phlei has been isolated and purified to homogeneity using an isoelectric focusing technique. The purified cytochrome c has a molecular weight of 12,600 ± 400 and exhibits an isoelectric point (p I ) of 4.7 ± 0.05. The amino acid composition of cytochrome c shows a higher proportion of valine and arginine residues and a greatly reduced content of lysine residues when compared to Bacillus subtilis cytochrome c . This imparts less acidic character to the cytochrome c from M. phlei . The cytochrome c from M. phlei acts as the most effective electron acceptor for M. phlei NADH-cytochrome c reductase, while yeast and horse heart cytochrome c are not as efficient electron acceptors. The absence of correlation between the oxidation-reduction potential with the observed activity of NADH-cytochrome c reductase activity indicates that the electrochemical potential is not a sufficient determinant for bacterial cytochrome c function. In order to obtain information concerning the topology of respiratory components, two membrane systems from M. phlei were used; ghost preparations in which the membrane is oriented rightside out as in whole cells and membrane vesicles in which membranes are oriented inside out. Labeling of protoplast ghosts and membrane vesicles with lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination reveals that cytochrome c is localized on the outer membrane of protoplast ghosts, which is similar to that observed in mammalian mitochondria. The results also show that cytochrome c from M. phlei binds preferentially to basic phospholipids and not to neutral or acidic phospholipids. Scatchard analysis of the binding of cytochrome c to phosphatidyl ethanolamine shows high affinity ( K a of 3.79 × 10 5 M −1 ) and low affinity ( K a of 3.75 × 10 4 M −1 ) binding.
A new version of the RDP (Ribosomal Database Project)

The Ribosomal Database Project (RDP-II), previously described by Maidak et al. [ Nucleic Acids Res. (1997), 25, 109-111], is now hosted by the Center for Microbial Ecology at Michigan State University. RDP-II is a curated database that offers ribosomal RNA (rRNA) nucleotide sequence data in aligned and unaligned forms, analysis services, and associated computer programs. During the past two years, data alignments have been updated and now include >9700 small subunit rRNA sequences. The recent development of an ObjectStore database will provide more rapid updating of data, better data accuracy and increased user access. RDP-II includes phylogenetically ordered alignments of rRNA sequences, derived phylogenetic trees, rRNA secondary structure diagrams, and various software programs for handling, analyzing and displaying alignments and trees. The data are available via anonymous ftp (ftp.cme.msu. edu) and WWW (http://www.cme.msu.edu/RDP). The WWW server provides ribosomal probe checking, approximate phylogenetic placement of user-submitted sequences, screening for possible chimeric rRNA sequences, automated alignment, and a suggested placement of an unknown sequence on an existing phylogenetic tree. Additional utilities also exist at RDP-II, including distance matrix, T-RFLP, and a Java-based viewer of the phylogenetic trees that can be used to create subtrees.
Approximation in the finite element method

The rate of convergence of the finite element method depends on the order to which the solutionu can be approximated by the trial space of piecewise polynomials. We attempt to unify the many published estimates, by proving that if the trial space is complete through polynomials of degreek?1, then it contains a functionv h such that |u?v h | s ?ch k?s|u| k . The derivatives of orders andk are measured either in the maximum norm or in the mean-square norm, and the estimate can be made local: the error in a given element depends on the diameterh i of that element. The proof applies to domains Ω in any number of dimensions, and employs a uniformity assumption which avoids degenerate element shapes.
Organ culture of amniochorionic membrane in vitro.

PROBLEM: The purpose of the study was to develop a novel method of amniochorionic membrane culture aimed at maintaining tissue integrity. METHOD: Amniochorionic membranes were collected from women prior to labor, undergoing elective cesarean section, with no history of infection or pregnancy related complication. Fetal membranes were maintained in culture for up to ten days. Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), a “house keeping” gene and inflammatory cytokine mRNA was detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) at various periods of culture. mRNA localization was performed by in situ hybridization. RESULTS: GAPDH gene expression was seen throughout the culture period. Inflammatory cytokine mRNA (IL-1α, IL-1β and IL-6) were also detected during culture. Cellular and tissue morphology appeared normal. CONCLUSIONS: The culture technique we propose is a simple organ explant system which maintains the morphology and autocrine/paracrine relationships within this tissue.
A perceptual isolation effect in short-term memory

Perceptually isolating a CCC by enclosing it in a rectangle improved STM for that item. No residual effects of this isolation were found on following nonisolated items. The possibility of accounting for improved STM of items involving conceptual class change in terms of enhancement through isolation, instead of reduction of semantic interference effects of previous items, was discussed.
The thermal decomposition of the dimethyl sulfoxide and pyridine adducts of rhodium(II) acetate, propionate and butyrate

Abstract The thermal decomposition reaction of the pyridine and dimethyl sulfoxide di-adducts of rhodium(II) acetate, propionate and butyrate were studied in both dynamic nitrogen and air furnace atmospheres using TG and DSC. The evolution of the axially bonded ligands was found to occur stepwise with little variation in ΔH and ΔTmin with composition of the atmosphere. Cage decomposition, however, generally occurred at higher temperatures in air than in nitrogen, with substantial oxidation of products in the former. In the case of butyrate complex, a phase transition was observed at a ΔTmin of 169°C. It was not possible to prepare the adducts with water, methanol, diethyl ether and acetone of the propionate and butyrate complexes.
Photostrictive actuators for photonic control of shallow spherical shells

Photostrictive materials, exhibiting light-induced strain, are of interest for the future generation of wireless remote control photo-actuators. Photostrictive actuators are expected to be used as the driving component in optically controlled flexible structures. In this paper, the photonic control of flexible spherical shells using discrete photostrictive actuators is investigated. This paper presents a coupled opto-piezothermoelastic shell theory that incorporates photovoltaic, pyroelectric and piezoelectric effects, and has the capability to predict the response of a spherical shell driven by the photostrictive actuators. In this study, the effects of actuator location as well as membrane and bending components on the control action have been analyzed. The results obtained indicate that the control forces are mode and location dependent. Analysis also shows that the membrane control action is much more significant than the bending control action.
Use of the Social Knowledge Scale (SKS) among patients treated for schizophrenia and psychology students

AbstractWe compared the scores on the social knowledge scale (SKS) among 30 schizophrenic patients and 71 psychology students. The students scored higher but the gap was not as wide as expected. The patients scored better in two out of nine questions, and the person with the lowest score was a student. The differences between the students and the patients may be related to differences in concerns (financial matters, for example), education, experience, or personal likes and dislikes. So far, we do not have solid evidence that differences in score are related to a core problem shared by patients with schizophrenia.
Functional modulation of smooth muscle cells by the inflammatory mediator CAP37.

Abstract CAP37, a neutrophil-derived protein, originally identified for its antimicrobial activity is now known to have strong immunoregulatory effects on host cells. Recently, we described its expression and localization within the vascular endothelium associated with atherosclerotic plaques. Since CAP37 is a potent activator of endothelial cells and monocytes, two of the key cellular components of the atherosclerotic plaque, this study was undertaken to determine whether CAP37 had functional effects on smooth muscle cells another important cellular participant in atherosclerosis. Sections from atherosclerotic lesions were stained for the presence of CAP37 and smooth muscle cell α actin. The effect of CAP37 on aorta smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation was investigated and the upregulation of adhesion molecules was determined. Immunocytochemistry indicated that CAP37 was present in a subset of smooth muscle cells within atherosclerotic lesions, but was absent in normal vessels. Flow cytometry using double labeling for the proliferation marker Ki-67 and CAP37 demonstrates that CAP37 is mainly expressed in proliferating smooth muscle cells. We show that CAP37 supports migration and proliferation of smooth muscle cells in vitro. Furthermore, CAP37-treated smooth muscle cells expressed higher levels of the cell adhesion molecule ICAM-1 when compared with untreated cells. We suggest that due to its localization to atherosclerotic plaques and its ability to modulate smooth muscle cells, CAP37 may play a role in the progression of this disease.
Notes on Selling'S Green-Light Method for Critical Microscopy (Continued)

Kill root tips in 1 part glacial acetic acid to 3 parts absolute alcohol for 12 or more hours. Remove from killing fluid and place for 5 to 10 minutes in a solution consisting of 1 part 95% alcohol to 1 part concentrated HCl. Transfer to Carnoy's fluid for 5 minutes or longer. Cut a small piece (0.5 mm. or less) off the tip of the root and place on a clean slide in a small drop of iron-aceto-carmin stein. Press directly on the piece of root with a small flat scalpel; the cells will now separate and float free in the stain. Place cover slip over the drop of stain and apply gentle pressure. Heat carefully by passing the slide 3 or 4 times thru the flame of an alcohol lamp. Seal with heated mixture of 1 part Parowax to 1 part gum mastic. Make permanent by the McClintock permanent method.
PACS design and configuration simulator

A simulator for a centralized PACS realization was developed and used with realistic input parameters, which provides reasonable functional outcome. The PACS designers may use it to build a partial or full-scale system and develop operational projections by simulating differing scenarios for PACS design and carefully evaluating whether there are any serious bottlenecks in the system and all the key requirements are met. To analyze a specific PACS configuration, the configuration simulator requires numerous parameters. These parameters are supplied by the designer and by simulation library objects that may be customized. To facilitate a comprehensive analysis of PACS, the simulation parameter sets are stored separately as a scenario, i.e., the designer initiates a session by specifying the simulation scenario number. The user-supplied assumptions, intermediate computed relationships, and program-selected library objects are all associated with this unique scenario number. The results of each simulation may then be compared with alternative scenarios in order to find the best configuration.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.