cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Toward Efficient Hub-Less Real Time Personalized PageRank

In the era of big data, reduced models capable of reducing big data graph to estimate personalized PageRank are limited. Personalized PageRank is a page rank calculation where random jumps are only allowed to a subset of start nodes. The resources of current process of calculation of personalized PageRank are highly prohibitive, thus in this paper we propose a novel fast accurate and less resource intensive algorithm to the personalized PageRank problem. FAST Personalized PageRank is utilized to find the target node set. Using the mentioned target set, the algorithm gives an estimation of the closeness of any pair of nodes in the graph. As the time taken by the estimation of personalized PageRank is directly proportional to the network size, in this paper a node reduction method is used to prune the graph. In this pruning model, most popular nodes also known as hubs are found using personalized page vector. To decrease the entropy and reduce the number of alternate paths to the target nodes, popular nodes are identified and flagged. The flagged nodes are, then, given a lower priority in the computation. This way the redundant path will being ignored in the computation process. After pruning the graph, estimation results achieve an improved time complexity. In our experiment, we compare our result with the benchmark FAST personalized PageRank approach. Our algorithm significantly reduces the computation time and outperforms the benchmark FAST personalized PageRank algorithm in highly dense graphs.
Recognition of individuals within the social group: signature vocalizations

Abstract Signature vocalizations contain sufficiently unique spectral and/or temporal identity to allow conspecifics to differentiate between individuals. Experimental assessment of signature content relies on: (1) accurate discrimination of vocalizations according to individual callers using human observers and statistical methods; (2) playback experiments with conspecifics in captivity or in the wild. Signature vocalizations are often acquired through social and vocal learning. Functions for such signals include individual recognition (e.g., between parents and offspring, mating pairs, territorial rivals) and the mediation of social interactions. Signature cues are likely to be subtle, and their analysis is likely to benefit from the use of new data collection technologies and human speech recognition techniques.
The dynamical evolution in quantum physics and its semi-group

Experiments on quantum systems are usually divided into preparation of states and the registration of observables. Using the traditional mathematical methods (the Hilbert space or the Schwartz space of distribution theory), it is not possible to distinguish mathematically between observables and states. The Hilbert space boundary conditions for the dynamical equation lead by mathematical theorems (Stone-von-Neumann) to unitary group evolution with –∞ ˂ t ˂ +. In contrast, the set-up of a scattering experiments calls for time-asymmetric boundary conditions. Therefore, a new axiom of quantum theory is needed. This is the Hardy space axiom, which uses a pair of Hardy spaces, one of them for states (defined by the experimental preparation procedure), and the other for observables (defined by detectors). The Paley-Wiener theorem for Hardy spaces then leads to semi-groups and time asymmetry. It introduces a finite beginning of time t0 for a time asymmetric quantum theory, which can be observed by an ensemble of onset times t0(i) of dark periods in Dehmelt’s quantum jump experiments with single ions [1].
Surface Heating and Boundary-Layer Transition on a Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator

The aerothermodynamic environment of a hypersonic inflatable aerodynamic decelerator with a flexible thermal protection system has been investigated through wind-tunnel testing. Boundary-layer tran...
Life Course Stage and Social Support Mobilization for End-of-Life Caregivers:

Caregivers of terminally ill patients are at risk for anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Social support from friends, family members, neighbors, and health care professionals can potentially prevent or mitigate caregiver strain. While previous research documents the importance of social support in helping end-of-life caregivers cope with caregiving demands, little is known about differences in social support experiences among caregivers at different life course stages. Using life course theory, this study analyzes data from in-depth interviews with 50 caregivers of patients enrolled in hospice services to compare barriers to mobilizing social support among caregivers at two life course stages: midlife caregivers caring for parents and older adult caregivers caring for spouses/partners. Older adult caregivers reported different barriers to mobilizing social support compared with midlife caregivers. Findings enhance the understanding of how caregivers' life course stage affects their barriers to mobilization of social support resources.
Introduction to the Different Classes of Natural Products

Plants produce an enormous variety of natural products with highly diverse structures. These products are commonly termed “secondary metabolites” in contrast to the “primary metabolites” which are essential for plant growth and development. Secondary metabolites were formerly regarded as “waste products” without physiological function for the plant. With the emergence of the field of chemical ecology about 30 years ago, it became evident, however, that these natural products fulfill important functions in the interaction between plants and their biotic and abiotic environment. They can serve, for example, as defense compounds against herbivores and pathogens, as flower pigments that attract pollinators, or as hormones or signal molecules. In addition to their physiological function in plants, natural products also have a strong impact on human culture and have been used throughout human history as condiments, pigments, and pharma­ceuticals.
Importance of Biodiversity

Humanity depends upon components of biodiversity for all of its food and much of its medicine and industrial products. Residents in the Eastern Arc Mountains use many native plant and animal species for medicines, food, building materials, and household items. These forests also contain many other species, particularly microorganisms, which could yield important new products and medicines. However, few species here have yet been carefully screened for medicinal or other commercial properties. It is quite likely that many of the lesser-studied organisms in the Eastern Arc Mountains may prove ultimately to be among the more important economically.
A Comparison of Various Cervical Muscle Strength Testing Methods Using a Handheld Dynamometer.

Background:Cervical muscle strength, proposed as a modifiable risk factor in concussions, can be assessed using various methods. The purpose of this study was to compare the reliability and force o...
PV Module Durability -connecting field results, accelerated testing, and materials

This presentation will discuss the framework employed at DuPont for using the analysis of modules from the field to guide development of accelerated tests and understand aging and degradation of PV modules, components and materials. Our framework starts with analysis of the stresses that are applied to modules in the field and in accelerated tests, including UV irradiation, humidity, temperature, and temperature cycling, either applied singly or in sequences. It then examines the measurements or responses that can then be evaluated or measured to determine the effects of these stresses. Measurements and indicators of aging and degradation include visual and physical degradation and changes of polymeric and other components, corrosion of metallization and bus bars, loss of power, and changes in IV characteristics and electroluminescent imaging. To correctly analyze and compare the data to the field it is important to understand the evolution and changes in materials in modules over time. Comparisons of these characteristics from the field and from accelerated tests can then be used to develop accelerated tests and determine the stress levels that match the levels of aging and degradation mechanisms found in typical field exposures. We will illustrate this work with examples from our analysis of fielded modules from around the globe and show how we have used it to understand degradation mechanisms and develop accelerated test protocols that more closely match what is seen in the field.
AN OPTICAL DIGITAL APPROACH TO THE PATTERN RECOGNITION OF COAL-WORKERS' PNEUMOCONIOSIS*

An optical-digital system for the pattern recognition of coal-workers' pneumoconiosis is described. The system consists of a coherent-optical configuration to generate the Fourier irradiance of the radiographic image and a digital computer to process the data. The interface is a TV camera. The technique was tested in a pilot study using sixty-four chest films of normal and abnormal lungs. Five different feature selection algorithms were tested. We found that the Hotelling trace criterion and the Sammon-Foley algorithm, together with a k-nearest neighbor classifier, furnished excellent normal/abnormal results. The advantage of using a coherent optical system to generate the Fourier irradiance is that high-resolution two-dimensional Fourier transforms are obtained instantaneously, without digital computation. The combined optical-digital technique furnished 91% correct classification with a missed detection rate of less than three percent. The results attest to the feasibility of this approach to the medically significant problem of CWP classification.
The information society of the 1990s; blue sky and green pastures?

Etude prospective du marche de l'information pour les dix prochaines annees et evolution de la societe avec l'informatisation accrue des services
Full transport model of GW170817-like disk produces a blue kilonova

The 2017 detection of the inspiral and merger of two neutron stars in gravitational waves and gamma rays was accompanied by a quickly-reddening transient. Such a transient was predicted to occur following a rapid neutron capture (r-process) nucleosynthesis event, which synthesizes neutron-rich, radioactive nuclei and can take place in both dynamical ejecta and in the wind driven off the accretion torus formed after a neutron star merger. We present the first three-dimensional general relativistic, full transport neutrino radiation magnetohydrodynamics (GRRMHD) simulations of the black hole-accretion disk-wind system produced by the GW170817 merger. We show that the small but non-negligible optical depths lead to neutrino transport globally coupling the disk electron fraction, which we capture by solving the transport equation with a Monte Carlo method. The resulting absorption drives up the electron fraction in a structured, continuous outflow, with electron fraction as high as $Y_e\sim 0.4$ in the extreme polar region. We show via nuclear reaction network and radiative transfer calculations that nucleosynthesis in the disk wind will produce a blue kilonova.
Fabrication of yttrium hydride for high-temperature moderator application

Abstract Given the superior thermal stability and highly attainable hydrogen density, yttrium hydride is an excellent high-temperature moderator material in advanced thermal neutron spectrum reactors that require small core volumes. Large-scale, crack-free, bulk yttrium hydride is in high demand; however, fabrication of yttrium hydride is challenging and has not been demonstrated for nearly half century. The associated challenges are discussed herein. In response to these challenges, a hydriding system was designed and constructed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and was used to successfully fabricate crack-free yttrium hydride in complex geometries at large scales. This was accomplished by precisely controlling the hydrogen’s partial pressure and the retort temperature, which was informed by the well-established thermodynamic properties of the binary H–Y system. Hydrogen content in as-fabricated hydride was determined by weight change, an approach which was considered reliable based on the use of ultra–high-purity yttrium, the absence of oxide phases up to levels detectable using x-ray diffraction (XRD), and the significant weight gain. Hydrogen distribution along one yttrium hydride rod was evaluated with XRD analysis on materials extracted from different locations on the rod. The results indicated a relatively homogeneous hydrogen distribution along the hydride rod, with δ -phase hydride. In addition, significant efforts are being dedicated to establish a complete database summarizing the thermomechanical and physical properties of as-fabricated yttrium hydride and the irradiation response to facilitate its deployment as a high-temperature moderator in advanced nuclear reactors.
Mastopexy with Auto-augmentation

The treatment of the ptotic breast can be complex and often a variety of techniques would be considered appropriate and the final operative approach is determined in part often by patient expectations for the final outcome. When a mastopexy is deemed necessary, this can be performed alone or in conjunction with placement of a breast implant. Mastopexies alone have historically been inadequate to achieve long-term persistence of volume in the upper pole. However, there are patients in whom an augmentation with the mastopexy may not be appropriate or necessary. Patients desiring a more natural upper pole or desire significant volume reduction would not be appropriate for an augmentation. Likewise, there are patients that want to avoid or simply refuse to have an implant placed.
Assessing Student Learning in Field Courses Using Oral Exams.

Field study—in the form of field trips, fieldwork, or field courses—is identified as a core element of geographic education and training (Speights-Binet and Gamble 2009). By involving place-based, ...
64. Gaps in Reproductive Health Education for Myelomeningocele Patients

Background Despite patients reporting a desire for reproductive health education, research has shown that myelomeningocele patients rarely receive information about sexual and reproductive health. Patients not only want general reproductive health education, they also want education about limitations that are specific to their level of disability. Prior research lacks a clear understanding of the specific reproductive and sexual health topics currently covered by providers. With this gap in knowledge, patients are left with inadequate reproductive health education. The objective of this study was to evaluate the existing reproductive health education and reproductive health needs among patients with myelomeningocele. Methods All English-speaking patients age 12 or older with a myelomeningocele clinic visit at a tertiary children's hospital between October 2019 and September 2020 were surveyed. Parents assisted with survey completion when necessary. The survey response rate was 54%. The survey asked patients which reproductive health topics had been covered by a medical provider during any of their clinic visits and patients were offered a referral to a reproductive healthcare provider (RHP). Results In total, 67 surveys were completed by patients of the myelomeningocele clinic. A majority of patients were female (58%) and white (83%), and the median age was 18.5 (Range: 12, 50). Menses were discussed at a rate of 85% in females. Few patients had discussions with a provider about their fertility (42%), sexuality (37%), risk of sexually transmitted infections (45%), or had an existing relationship with a RHP (54%). Differences by sex were observed in contraception conversations (54% for females and 25% of males, p for difference Conclusions Overall, patients in the myelomeningocele clinic have a reported low rate of education on basic sexual and reproductive healthcare topics. The lack of consistent sexual and reproductive healthcare education across the patients supports the need for providers to re-evaluate how and when these topics are being discussed with patients and families. Establishing care with an RHP should be standardized in this population and reproductive healthcare should be considered a part of comprehensive care in all patients, regardless of disabilities.
Endothelial Transient Receptor Potential V4 Channels Mediate Lung Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

Abstract Background Lung ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), involving severe inflammation and edema, is a major cause of primary graft dysfunction following transplant. Activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) channels modulates vascular permeability. Thus, this study tests the hypothesis that endothelial TRPV4 channels mediate lung IRI. Methods C57BL/6 wild-type (WT), TRPV4-/-, tamoxifen-inducible endothelial TRPV4 knockout (TRPV4EC-/-), and tamoxifen-treated control (TRPV4fl/fl) mice underwent lung IR using a left lung hilar-ligation model (n ≥ 6 mice/group). WT mice were also treated with a TRPV4-specific inhibitor (GSK2193874; 1mg/kg) (WT+GSK219). Partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), edema (wet-to-dry weight ratio), compliance, neutrophil infiltration, and cytokine concentrations in bronchioalveolar lavage fluid were assessed. Pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs) were characterized in vitro following exposure to hypoxia-reoxygenation. Results Compared to WT, PaO2 following IR was significantly improved in TRPV4-/- mice (133.1±43.9 vs 427.8±83.1 mmHg, p Conclusions Endothelial TRPV4 plays a key role in vascular permeability and lung inflammation following IR. TRPV4 channels may be a promising therapeutic target to mitigate lung IRI and decrease the incidence of primary graft dysfunction following transplant. (Word Count: 249/250)
Closed-Loop Performance versus Target-Model Matching in Retrospective Cost Adaptive Control

For retrospective cost adaptive control (RCAC), this paper shows that the retrospective performance variable can be decomposed into the sum of a performance term and a model-matching term. The key insight arises from the observation that, at each step, recursive-least-squares (RLS) minimizes the magnitude of the retrospective performance variable by forcing the performance term and the model-matching term to have opposite signs. As the controller converges, the virtual external control perturbation, and thus the model-matching term, converges to zero, which, in turn, drives the performance term to zero. This mechanism thus prevents RLS from converging to a controller that is destabilizing or has poor performance. The contribution of this paper is thus to derive the decomposition of the retrospective performance variable and use this decomposition to elucidate the mechanism described.
Loss of long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase isoform 1 impairs cardiac autophagy and mitochondrial structure through mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 activation

Because hearts with a temporally induced knockout of acyl-CoA synthetase 1 (Acsl1(T-/-)) are virtually unable to oxidize fatty acids, glucose use increases 8-fold to compensate. This metabolic switch activates mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), which initiates growth by increasing protein and RNA synthesis and fatty acid metabolism, while decreasing autophagy. Compared with controls, Acsl1(T-/-) hearts contained 3 times more mitochondria with abnormal structure and displayed a 35-43% lower respiratory function. To study the effects of mTORC1 activation on mitochondrial structure and function, mTORC1 was inhibited by treating Acsl1(T-/-) and littermate control mice with rapamycin or vehicle alone for 2 wk. Rapamycin treatment normalized mitochondrial structure, number, and the maximal respiration rate in Acsl1(T-/-) hearts, but did not improve ADP-stimulated oxygen consumption, which was likely caused by the 33-51% lower ATP synthase activity present in both vehicle- and rapamycin-treated Acsl1(T-/-) hearts. The turnover of microtubule associated protein light chain 3b in Acsl1(T-/-) hearts was 88% lower than controls, indicating a diminished rate of autophagy. Rapamycin treatment increased autophagy to a rate that was 3.1-fold higher than in controls, allowing the formation of autophagolysosomes and the clearance of damaged mitochondria. Thus, long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase isoform 1 (ACSL1) deficiency in the heart activated mTORC1, thereby inhibiting autophagy and increasing the number of damaged mitochondria.
SU-E-J-32: Dosimetric Evaluation Based On Pre-Treatment Cone Beam CT for Spine Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy: Does Region of Interest Focus Matter?

Purpose: Spine stereotactic body radiotherapy requires very conformal dose distributions and precise delivery. Prior to treatment, a KV cone-beam CT (KV-CBCT) is registered to the planning CT to provide image-guided positional corrections, which depend on selection of the region of interest (ROI) because of imperfect patient positioning and anatomical deformation. Our objective is to determine the dosimetric impact of ROI selections. Methods: Twelve patients were selected for this study with the treatment regions varied from C-spine to T-spine. For each patient, the KV-CBCT was registered to the planning CT three times using distinct ROIs: one encompassing the entire patient, a large ROI containing large bony anatomy, and a small target-focused ROI. Each registered CBCT volume, saved as an aligned dataset, was then sent to the planning system. The treated plan was applied to each dataset and dose was recalculated. The tumor dose coverage (percentage of target volume receiving prescription dose), maximum point dose to 0.03 cc of the spinal cord, and dose to 10% of the spinal cord volume (V10) for each alignment were compared to the original plan. Results: The average magnitude of tumor coverage deviation was 3.9%±5.8% with external contour, 1.5%±1.1% with large ROI, 1.3%±1.1% with small ROI.more » Spinal cord V10 deviation from plan was 6.6%±6.6% with external contour, 3.5%±3.1% with large ROI, and 1.2%±1.0% with small ROI. Spinal cord max point dose deviation from plan was: 12.2%±13.3% with external contour, 8.5%±8.4% with large ROI, and 3.7%±2.8% with small ROI. Conclusion: A small ROI focused on the target results in the smallest deviation from planned dose to target and cord although rotations at large distances from the targets were observed. It is recommended that image fusion during CBCT focus narrowly on the target volume to minimize dosimetric error. Improvement in patient setups may further reduce residual errors.« less
Does the Rebound Effect Exist

Abstract Self-help books often advise readers to avoid rushing into new relationships after a break-up. To date, there is little evidence supporting this recommendation. This paper tests the effects of rebound time, measured as time elapsed between marital dissolution and the formation of a new union, on remarriage duration. Data from the first wave of the National Survey of Families and Households and generalized additive models reveal no evidence of a rebound effect. This finding holds after adjusting for various demographic differences between respondents.
Relative efficiency of utilization of promoter and termination sites by bacteriophage T3 RNA polymerase.

Bacteriophage T3 RNA polymerase promoters have been classified as class II and class III on the basis of their relative location in T3 DNA as well as on the function of the protein products encoded by the messages transcribed from them. In the present work, the efficiency of utilization of several class II and class III promoters by bacteriophage T3 RNA polymerase was compared with regard to (a) rate of initiation of transcription as determined by [32P]PPi exchange with GTP; (b) complex formation between polymerase and promoters in the presence of GTP; and (c) competition between different promoters for T3 RNA polymerase in a standard transcription assay. The results of these experiments indicated that the class II promoters at 1.05 and 22.8 T3 map units, whose promoter sequences are remarkably similar to the consensus class III promoter sequences, are nearly as strong as typical class III promoters. In contrast, the class II promoter at 14.3 T3 map units, whose promoter sequence differs from the consensus class III promoter sequence by having a C:G base pair instead of a usual A:T base pair at the −1 position, was considerably weaker than the class III promoter. When the C:G base pair at this position was changed to A:T using site-directed mutagenesis, the rate of initiation of RNA synthesis from the mutant promoter was similar to that of a typical class III promoter. In agreement with this observation, it was observed that changing the A:T base pair at the −1 position of a strong class II promoter, at 1.05 T3 map units, to C:G decreased the rate of RNA synthesis from this promoter by about 65%. These observations indicate that the nucleotide residues at the −1 position play a critical role in determining the efficiency of promoter utilization by T3 RNA polymerase. The two termination sites recognized in vitro by bacteriophage T3 RNA polymerase on the T3 genome have been cloned, sequenced, and mapped. Analysis of the DNA nucleotide sequence surrounding the termination site at 59.7 map units indicated that the putative RNA transcript arising from this region can be arranged into a GC-rich stem-loop structure followed by a U-rich 3′ tail. However, a major fraction of T3 RNA polymerase molecules read through this terminator in vitro to transcribe regions of T3 DNA beyond this terminator. In contrast to termination at 59.7 map units, termination of transcription at 100 T3 map units does not occur in response to any putative terminator structure or sequence. Rather, T3 RNA polymerase transcribes through the terminal repeat region to the end of T3 DNA molecules to yield run-off transcripts.
Angiotensin II induces gene transcription through cell-type-dependent effects on the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) transcription factor.

The vasopressor octapeptide, angiotensin II (Ang II), exerts homeostatic responses in cardiovascular tissues, including the heart, blood vessel wall, adrenal cortex and liver (a major source of circulating plasma proteins). One of the effects of Ang II is to induce expression of regulatory, structural and cytokine genes that play important roles in long-term control of blood pressure, vascular remodeling, cardiac hypertrophy and inflammation. The identification of nuclear signaling pathways and target transcription factors has provide important insight into cellular responses and the spectrum of genes controlled by Ang II. Here we will review how Ang II activates the transcription factors, Activator Protein 1 (AP-1), Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STATs), and Nuclear Factor-кB (NF-кB). NF-кB is of particular interest because it is an important mediator of resynthesis of the Ang II precursor, angiotensinogen AGT. Through this positive feedback loop, long-term changes in the activity of the renin angiotensin system occur. Although NF-кB is ubiquitously expressed, surprisingly the mechanism for Ang II-inducible NF-кB regulation differs between aortic smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and hepatocytes. In VSMC, Ang II induces nuclear translocation of cytoplasmic transactivatory NF-кB proteins through proteolysis of its inhibitor, IкB. By contrast, in hepatocytes, Ang II induces large nuclear isoforms of NF-кB1 to bind DNA through a mechanism independent of changes in IкB turnover. NF-кB activation depends upon the activity of DAG-sensitive PKC isoforms and ROS signaling pathway. These observations indicate that significant differences exist in Ang II signaling depending upon cell-type involved and suggest the possibility that tissue-selective modulation of Ang II effects is possible in the cardiovascular system. (Mol Cell Bio - chem 212: 155–169, 2000)
The impact of nutrition and health education intervention on kindergarten students' nutrition and exercise knowledge

Quasi-experimental research was conducted with kindergarten students at two Southern state elementary schools to compare the changes in nutrition knowledge, food intake, physical activity behavior, and body mass index among elementary-age students and parents who participated in a nutrition education program with those who did not participate in the program. Permission and assent was obtained from 156 parents and kindergarten students (treatment n = 79, control n = 77) out of 205 total kindergarten students (76% response rate). A mixed between-within ANOVA was used to compare the children’s knowledge change over time (repeated measures), the parent’s Family Nutrition and Physical Activity (FNPA) score change over time, and the BMI results change over time. The nutrition and health curriculum taught by dietetics undergraduate students showed a significant increase in the children’s knowledge and in the parent’s FNPA scores (p=.000) compared to the control curriculum. However, the findings did not show a positive impact on the children’s BMI results compared to the control curriculum. Qualitative research was conducted with the undergraduate nutrition majors at a local Southern state university to explore the personal impact of service learning on their personal and professional development. After participating in the program, the dietetic students were required to write a reflection paper including a personal impact section. When the personal impact sections were coded for emerging themes, the feeling of purpose and impact, general and pediatric experience gained, and the place for service learning in higher education were identified. These results demonstrated beneficial outcomes for the research participants (children and parents) as well as for the dietetic students implementing the program.
Is there a case for non-discrimination in the international protection of intellectual property?☆

Abstract We evaluate the case for non-discrimination in international patent protection. When trade is not subject to any frictions/barriers, requiring national treatment (NT) does not affect the rate of innovation (and welfare) since unfavorable discrimination suffered abroad by innovators in the absence of NT is fully offset by favorable discrimination enjoyed by them at home. When trade barriers exist, however, such international offsetting in patent protection is incomplete and innovation incentives are actually lower under NT. By lumping domestic and foreign patent protection together, NT blunts the overall effectiveness of patent protection in incentivizing innovation in the presence of trade barriers.
Microbial Biocatalysis Databases

Introduction to Microbial Biocatalysis The Information Explosion and the World Wide Web Biocatalysis Information on the World Wide Web The University of Minnesota Biocatalysis/Biodegradation Database Introduction Format Use and Users Connections Growth and Future Developments Conclusions Keywords: biocatalysis; biodegradation; bioremediation; world wide web; microbial catabolism
SOME CHARACTERISTICS OF STREPTOCOCCAL NICOTINAMIDE ADENINE DINUCLEOTIDASE AND STREPTOLYSIN O.

Pentz, E. Irene (Northwestern University School of Medicine, Chicago, Ill.), Eva Kot, and J. J. Ferretti. Some characteristics of streptococcal nicotinamide adenine dinucleotidase and streptolysin O. J. Bacteriol. 88: 497–508. 1964.—Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotidase produced by Streptococcus pyogenes strain C203U, grown in Todd-Hewitt broth (Difco), was recovered from diethylaminoethyl-cellulose columns free from streptolysin O. It contained a trace of deoxyribonuclease. The elution peak of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotidase was fairly symmetrical; when it was treated with dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) and chromatogrammed on paper in three different solvent systems, only one yellow spot was obtained. Examination of the enzyme in an ultracentrifuge presented no moving boundary. The pore size of two different widths of Visking casing was estimated by dialyzing proteins or peptides of known molecular weight and testing the dialysate for their appearance. The casing which allowed a molecule of 2,500 molecular weight to pass, but not one of 3,000 molecular weight, retained the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotidase. A fragment having no nicotinamide adenine dinucleotidase activity did pass through this casing, however, but was retained by the second casing which retained molecules weighing 2,500. Amino acid analyses of three different nicotinamide adenine dinucleotidase preparations were remarkably similar, and were characterized by a high content of proline and glycine and a very low content of sulfur-containing amino acids. Examination by treatment with DNFB followed by hydrolysis for the presence of N -terminal amino acids ruled out all amino acids, with the possible exception of arginine. The combined evidence suggests that its molecular weight is between 2,500 and 20,000. Some data are presented to illustrate the irreversible instability of streptolysin O; amino acid analyses for three separate preparations of high activity indicate a very low content of sulfur-containing amino acids. Images
ATP sulfurylase from trophosome tissue of Riftia pachyptila (hydrothermal vent tube worm).

Abstract ATP sulfurylase (ATP: sulfate adenylyltransferase, EC 2.7.7.4) was extensively purified from trophosome tissue of Riftia pachyptila, a tube worm that thrives in deep ocean hydrothermal vent communities. The enzyme is probably derived from the sulfide-oxidizing bacteria that densely colonize the tissue. Glycerol (20% v v ) protected the enzyme against inactivation during purification and storage. The native enzyme appears to be a dimer (MW 90 kDa ± 10%) composed of identical size subunits (MW 48 kDa ± 5%). At pH 8.0, 30 †C, the specific activities (units × mg protein−1) of the most highly purified sample are as follows: ATP synthesis, 370; APS synthesis, 23; molybdolysis, 65; APSe synthesis or selenolysis, 1.9. The Km values for APS and PPi at 5 m m Mg2+ are 6.3 and 14 μ m , respectively. In the APS synthesis direction, the Km values for MgATP and SO42− are 1.7 and 27 m m , respectively. The Km values for MgATP and MoO42− in the molybdolysis reaction are 80 and 150 μ m , respectively. The Kia for MgATP is 0.65 m m . APS is a potent inhibitor of molybdolysis, competitive with both MgATP and MoO42− (Kiq = 2.2 μM). However, PPi (+ Mg2+) is virtually inactive as a molybdolysis inhibitor. Oxyanion dead end inhibitors competitive with SO42− include (in order of decreasing potency) ClO4− > FSO3− (Ki = 22 μM) > ClO3− > NO3− > S2O32− (Ki's = 5 and 43 M). FSO3− is uncompetitive with MgATP, but S2O32− is noncompetitive. Each subunit contains two free SH groups, at least one of which is functionally essential. ATP, MgATP, SO42−, MoO42−, and APS each protect against inactivation by excess 5,5′-dithiobis-(2-nitrobenzoate). FSO3− is ineffective as a protector unless MgATP is present. PPi (+Mg2+) does not protect against inactivation. Riftia trophosome contains little or no “ADP sulfurylase.” The high trophosome level of ATP sulfurylase (67–176 ATP synthesis units × g fresh wt tissue −1 from four different specimens, corresponding to 4–10 μ m enzyme sites), the high Kcat of the enzyme for ATP synthesis (296 s−1), and the high Km's for MgATP and SO42− are consistent with a role in ATP formation during sulfide oxidation, i.e., the physiological reaction is APS + MgPPi ⇄ SO42− + MgATP.
Lens and mesenchyme ultrastructure in gestational day 11 trisomy 1 mice.

The lenses and head mesenchyme of two 11-gestational day trisomy 1 mouse embryos and a normal littermate were examined using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). One trisomic embryo had a small lens with a lens stalk; the other was aphakic. The resolution available with TEM allowed detailed evaluation of cell organelles, spatial relationships and the intra- and extracellular structural environment of the lens and head mesenchyme in normal and aneuploid embryos
Differential inhibition of stress-induced adrenocortical responses by 5-HT1A agonists and by 5-HT2 and 5-HT3 antagonists.

The present studies were designed to determine the effects of 5-HT1A receptor agonists and 5-HT2A/2C and 5-HT3 antagonists on adrenocortical responses to a variety of stress paradigms in conscious male rats. The following stressors were examined: acoustic stress (105 dB for 2 min); foot shock (0.2 mA, five shocks over 5 min); conditioned fear (animals placed in the foot shock chamber for 5 min, 24 h after foot shock); restraint (Plexiglas restrainer for 5 min); injection of recombinant human interleukin-1α (IL-1, 20 μg/kg, IP); injection of cocaine hydrochloride (20 mg/kg, IP). Drug treatments consisted of intracerebroventricular (ICV) or intraperitoneal (IP) injections of the 5-HT1A agonists, 8-OH-DPAT and ipsapirone (0.1 pmol, ICV), the 5-HT2A/2C antagonist, ketanserin (2 μmol/kg, IP), and the 5-HT3 antagonist, MDL-72222 (20 nmol, ICV). The plasma corticosterone (CS) responses to foot shock and restraint stress were not affected by any of the serotonergic drugs tested. The 5-HT1A agonist, 8-OH-DPAT, was able to attenuate the adrenocortical responses to acoustic stimulation, conditioned fear, IL-1α, and cocaine administration, with ipsapirone also being effective in reducing the responses to acoustic stimulation and cocaine injection. The 5-HT2 antagonist, ketanserin was able to reduce the adrenocortical response in the conditioned fear paradigm and the response to IL-1α injection. The 5-HT3 antagonist, MDL-72222 was only effective in reducing the response to acoustic stimulation. Thus, adrenocortical responses to each of the applied stressors were differentially affected by the 5-HT receptor ligands tested. The results of this study indicate that 5-HT1A agonists may be efficient stress response-reducing agents. However, their efficacy depends on the lack of a somatosensory component to the applied stressor and their agonist properties suggest that their action may not involve direct effects on serotonergic pathways mediating the observed responses. In contrast, the specificity of the 5-HT2 and 5-HT3 antagonists in blocking adrenocortical responses to certain stressors suggests that these drugs exert their effects by blocking serotonergic neurotransmission in pathways mediating the adrenocortical responses to specific stimuli.
Responses of an amphipod to pressure changes

Abstract 1. 1. The behavioral response of an intertidal amphipod, Synchelidium sp., to small changes in hydrostatic pressure, (a) increases in duration with the logarithm of amount of rapid pressure change; (b) increases in intensity as a direct function of the amount of rapid pressure change; and (c) shows an apparently exponential decrease in intensity with time. 2. 2. This exponential rate of response decrement seems to be the same rate as that of the sub-threshold accomodation which determines if and when a slowly applied pressure increase is perceived. 3. 3. Single, square pressure was must include at least a full second of increased pressure to produce appreciable response—an observation which, with other lines of evidence, indicates that the sensory system is relatively unresponsive to sound stimuli. 4. 4. Experimental and morphological observations argue strongly against the hypothesis that a gaseous mechanisms underlies this pressure perception. 5. 5. Five other sand-beach crustaceans (Excirolana, Archaeomysis, Emerita, Cyclaspis, and Megaluropus) were examine for pressure-change responses; three showed responses to pressure increases of 10 mb or less; two (Excirolana and Archaeomysis) showed no appreaciable reaction to pressure increases of up to 100 mb.
The regulation of hapten-specific granuloma formation.

Abstract We have investigated the induction and suppression of granuloma formation elicited by the azobenzenearsonate (ABA) determinant in A/J mice. ABA-derivatized syngeneic spleen cells (ABA-SC) administered subcutaneously induce hapten-specific delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH), detected by footpad swelling, upon challenge with ABA-bovine serum albumin (BSA) coupled to polyacrylamide beads (PAB). The reactions elicited by ABA-BSA-PAB reached maximal intensity at 24 hr, but were relatively persistent, and were still marked at 96 hr. Histopathologic examination of footpad responses at 24 and 48 hr postchallenge revealed characteristics of DTH reactions. Discrete epithelioid granulomas become apparent by 72 and 96 hr. Unprimed mice or mice primed with ABA-SC and challenged with uncoupled beads or TNP-BSA-PAB, did not develop either substantial leukocytic infiltrates or granulomas. Immune T cells were shown to be capable of transferring DTH and granulomatous responsiveness to ABA. ABA-specific suppressor T cells, or soluble factors from these cells prevented the development of DTH or granulomatous responsiveness following subcutaneous immunization with ABA-SC. Having successfully developed granulomas in the footpad, we proceeded to induce and suppress granulomatous lesions in the gastrointestinal tract in a similar fashion. These experiments establish a model in inbred mice for the study of granulomatous diseases, including those in the gastrointestinal tract.
Generalized Bose-gas condensation model for Tc in multi-dimensional superconductivity

Abstract Strong quantum interaction in a Bose-Einstein gas is sufficient to derive reasonable estimates of Tc, the energy gap, and the coherence length for all classes of superconductors such as the ceramic oxides, the metallics, heavy-Fermion metals, metallic hydrogen, and neutron stars for 3-dimensional, quasi-2 and quasi- 1 dimensional states. For the ceramic oxides this yields 10K, 40K, and 300K in 3, Q2, and Q1 dimensions. Interpreting the ceramic oxide case as one in which the interchain interactions are equal to the intrachain interactions, leads to T c = ( T c 1 T c 2 ) 1 2 = (300 K × 40 K ) 1 2 = 110 K as the approximate transition temperature for these materials when there is clearly a combined linear and planar structure. It is noteworthy that without specifying a coupling mechanism or coupling strength, this general model does well in calculating coherence lengths, transition temperatures, and coupling strengths over nine orders of magnitude (1K to 109K and meV to MeV) from the heavy Fermion metals to neutron stars.
Spectral/critical speed characteristics of structure subject to moving loads

Abstract Through the use of a family of generalized Rayleigh quotients, this paper considers the influence of nonstationary time dependent loads/disturbances on the spectral characteristics of structure modeled by 3-D nonpolar elasticity theory wherein the fields are treated as small excursions superposed on large. To generalize the results, the influence of nonconservatism and generalized inertia fields are admitted. The main emphasis of the work is given to determining the various properties of the eigevalue problem arising out of such nonstationary loading situations. This includes ascertaining the occurrence of various types of spectral/critical speed shifts /bifurcations induced by moving disturbances. As a further extension of the work, the results are specialized to the eignevalue problem arising from nonconservative gyroscopic FE simulations of moving load problems.
Phonon dynamics and Urbach energy studies of MgZnO alloys

The MgxZn1−xO alloy system is emerging as an environmentally friendly choice in ultraviolet lighting and sensor technologies. Knowledge of defects which impact their optical and material properties is a key issue for utilization of these alloys in various technologies. The impact of phase segregation, structural imperfections, and alloy inhomogeneities on the phonon dynamics and electronic states of MgxZn1−xO thin films were studied via selective resonant Raman scattering (SRRS) and Urbach analyses, respectively. A series of samples with Mg composition from 0–68% were grown using a sputtering technique, and the optical gaps were found to span a wide UV range of 3.2–5.8 eV. The extent of the inherent phase segregation was determined via SRRS using two UV-laser lines to achieve resonance with the differing optical gaps of the embedded cubic and wurtzite structural domains. The occurrence of Raman scattering from cubic structures is discussed in terms of relaxation of the selection rules due to symmetry brea...
Active detection experiments on the 16 MV Hermes-III facility using pulsed bremsstrahlung excitation

We are developing Hermes-III at Sandia National Laboratories as a pulsed bremsstrahlung test-bed for active interrogation for fissionable materials detection.1 Photons generated by an electron beam striking a Ta converter propagate to a target location 19 m from the electron beam diode, at which various materials are placed. X-rays produce (γ, f) and (γ, n) reactions in fissionable material, while nonfissionable materials such as Pb will result in competing (γ, n) reactions. The intense 30 ns x-ray burst from the diode produces γ-rays and neutrons from materials in the environment, all of which must be discriminated by a successful detector.
Effects of a Fillet on the Flow Past a Wing-Body Junction

Measurements are presented to demonstrate the effects of a single fillet on the flow of a turbulent boundary layer past an idealized wing-body junction. The time-averaged flow structure in the vicinity of the wing and in the wake of the wing-body junction is considered, as well as the unsteadiness of the horseshoe vortex. The effects of angle of attack and approach boundary-layer thickness are also examined.
Hand-hold location and trunk kinematics during box handling

Trunk kinematics variables have been shown to be related to low back injury risk during lifting tasks and it was hypothesised that changes in hand-hold positions could influence trunk kinematics and thereby risk. Fourteen subjects lifted a 5 or 10 kg box using four different hand placement locations (two symmetric and two asymmetric) while their trunk kinematics (position, velocity and acceleration in the sagittal, coronal and transverse planes) were captured using the lumbar motion monitor (LMM). These kinematics data were then used to calculate the probability of high risk group membership (PHRGM) as defined in the LMM risk assessment model. The results showed significant effects of hand placement on trunk kinematics, resulting in significant changes in the PHRGM variable ranging from a low of 20% in a the symmetric low load condition to a high of 38% under the asymmetric, 10 kg condition. STATEMENT OF RELEVANCE: Manual materials handlers use a variety of hand-hold positions on boxes during lifting. Where a lifter grabs the box can influence the trunk kinematics during the lifting task and these kinematics have been shown to provide some insight into risk of low back injury. This study documents the trunk postures and kinematics as a function of hand-hold position.
ON THE TREATMENT OF CHRONIC POSTOPERATIVE OTORRHEA.

A description of a surgical technique for the treatment of chronic postoperative otorrhea is given. The operation consists of meticulous removal of all pathological contents from the operative cavity, followed by closure of the auditory canal by suturing its membranous walls together. Eleven ears were operated upon. All ears became dry.
Corresponding states principle for newtonian viscosities-temperature effects

Abstract In the first part of the paper a superposition method for the polymer solution zero shear rate viscosity ηo as a function of concentration c is reviewed. The method was successful in numerous systems, but it partially failed in four, the worst case being polyisobutene in isooctane, where data were available over the full concentration range and molecular weights (MW) ranged from 900 to 2.5 × 106. It was postulated that the possible cause for this is either MW dependence of Tg which would result in a faster than expected increase in ηo for higher MW samples, or a difference in flow mechanism between the solutions at low and high concentration. In the second part, a new theory for the temperature effect on ηo is proposed. The theory permits linearization of ηo (T) results both for small molecules and for polymeric liquids. In systems where a transition occurs, the linearized plot shows a sharp break. The theory was extended to the concentration dependence of the polymer solution viscosity. It permi...