cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the Interpretation of Mutagenically Induced Mosaicism in Drosophila

This paper draws attention to the formal parallelism that exists between chromosomal-loss mosaicism and mutagenically induced mosaicism in Drosophila and suggests that, although the underlying processes by which these two types of genetic mosaics are generated are very different, the more refined methodology employed in developmental analyses of genetically induced chromosomal-loss mosaics may be profitably extrapolated to mutagenesis studies. Results obtained from various studies of genetically induced mosaics and from a previous EMS mutation induction experiment at the yellow locus are utilized to illustrate this methodology and to estimate the total mutagenicity rates of EMS.-The following are some of the tentative conclusions that have been drawn in this report regarding an EMS concentration that produced 31% F(2) lethals in the standard X-linked recessive lethal test: (1) The frequency of cuticular mosaics is at least 5 times that of F(3) lethals. (2) At least 60% of all cuticular mosaics go undetected in the standard X -linked recessive lethal test since their mutant tissue does not extend into the germ line. (3) The frequency of EMS-induced cryptic mosaics is probably less than 10% the frequency of cuticular mosaics. (4) Some EMS-induced mutations are probably bona fide completes; if confirmed, this inference must be taken into consideration in estimating the total mutagenicity rates of this agent and in molecular interpretations of its mechanism of action. (5) The fact that the proportion of mutant tissue in EMS-induced mosaics is greater than 25% is consistent with the suggestion that the action of EMS is occasionally delayed until after the first cleavage division of the embryo. (6) Such an EMS concentration causes on the average more than 5 independent genetic alterations in the entire haploid genome of an X-bearing sperm.-This report clarifies the experimental evidence that must be generated, and the methodology that can be used to analyze this evidence, if it is of interest to render these and related conclusions regarding the effect of EMS on D. melanogaster more accurate, or if it is of interest to conduct a similar analysis for other mutagens that cause a significant degree of mosaicism.
The Politeness of Requests Made Via Email and Voicemail: Support for the Hyperpersonal Model

This study analyzes requests made via email and voicemail for properties of politeness (Brown & Levinson, 1987). Voicemail users have less control over planning, composing, editing, and executing messages, and must manage more nonverbal cues than email users. Thus, it is predicted that email will enable users to create more polite speech than voicemail. A 2 (communication medium: email or voicemail) x 2 (imposition: low or high) factorial design was implemented to test this hypothesis. One hundred fifty-one participants created request messages that were subsequently analyzed for properties of politeness. Overall, the results indicate email requests were more polite than voicemail requests. These results are consistent with the hyperpersonal model (Walther, 1996).
A model for chromatin structure

A model for chromatin structure is presented. (a) Each of four histone species, H2A (IIbl or f2a2), H2B (IIb2 or f2b), H3 (III or f3) and H4 (IV or f2al) can form a parallel dimer. (b) These dimers can form two tetramers, (H2A)2(H2b)2 and (H3)2(H4)2. (C) These two tetramers bind a segment of DNA and condense it into a "C" segments. (d) The adjacent segments, termed extended or "E" segments, are bound by histone H1 (I or fl) for the major fraction of chromatin; the other "E" regions can be either bound by non-histone proteins or free of protein binding. (e) The binding of histones causes a structural distortion of the DNA which, depending upon the external conditions, may generate the formation of either an open structure with a heterogeneous and non-uniform supercoil or a compact structure with a string of beads. The model is supported by experimental data on histone-histone interaction, histone-DNA interaction and histone subunit-DNA interaction.
Anticonvulsant drug-induced osteomalacia: Alterations in mineral metabolism and response to vitamin D3 administration

Parameters of mineral metabolism were examined in 6 patients with moderately severe anticonvulsant drug-induced osteomalacia. Compared to 15 matched controls, the patients exhibited significantly reduced serum calcium, inorganic phosphate, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration, elevated serum alkaline phosphatase and immunoreactive parathyroid hormone (iPTH) concentration, reduced intestinal47Ca absorption, reduced urinary calcium and increased urinary hydroxyproline excretion, and reduced forearm bone mass. Intestinal absorption of vitamin D3 was normal. Following 4 months of treatment with vitamin D3 (4000 units/day), serum 25-OHD concentration was increased to 3 times mean normal values and all parameters except serum iPTH, urinary calcium excretion, and forearm bone mass were returned to levels not significantly different from normal. Serum iPTH concentration was reduced by 39% (P<0.05); 24-h urinary calcium excretion rose by 98% (P<0.001), and forearm bone mass increased by 5.6% (P<0.05). It is concluded that moderate-dose vitamin D3 supplementation is effective in normalizing parameters of mineral metabolism in this disorder, despite evidence of resistance to the biologic effects of vitamin D.
Orbital performance of the high-resolution imager (HRI) on ROSAT

Kristin KearnsHarvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics60 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138ABSTRACTThe ROSAT (Roentgen Satellite) observatory was launched 1990 June 1 ,witha microchannel-plate-based high resolution imager(HRI) as one ofthe focal plane instruments of its primary soft x-ray telescope. Exhaustion ofthe gas supply for ROSAT's otherfocal-plane detector has left the FIRI as the sole instrument for continuing the program of celestial soft x-ray observations. Thelong-term behaviour of the HRI is presented, with descriptions of imaging performance, quantum efficiency and gain stability, spectralresolution, UV response, and background characteristics.Keywords: X-rays, microchannel plates, x-ray observatory, x-ray astronomy, x-ray instrumentation
Major free fatty acids in milk.

Abstract Milk and fractions therefrom were lyophilized and the powder was mixed with silicic acid, acidified, and extracted with ethyl ether in a Soxhlet extractor. The free fatty acids (FFA) extracted in this manner were isolated on an anionic exchange resin, converted to methyl esters, and analyzed by gas-liquid chromatography. The data were quantitated by use of internal standards. Most of the FFA of milk were distributed in the fat and the fat globule membrane fraction. Milk serum free of lipid material contained less than 10% of the FFA. Hence, milks with higher fat content contain more FFA, and milks standardized with skimmilk contain less than the original. Heating of milk had a pronounced effect upon the quantity of FFA; as heat treatments increased, the FFA decreased. Induced lipolysis caused a marked increase in FFA. In general, the FFA composition of milk, regardless of treatment, was comparable to the fatty acid composition of milk glycerides.
Optic Disk Cupping and Electrocardiographic Abnormalities in an American Pedigree with Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy

We examined the clinical characteristics of affected and unaffected members of an American black family with the 11778 mitochondrial DNA mutation associated with Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy. Thirty-six individuals from four generations were included. All maternally related subjects were shown to be essentially homoplasmic for the 11778 mitochondrial DNA mutation in blood. Paternally related subjects did not carry this mutation. Patients affected with optic neuropathy had optic nerve head cupping. Loss of unmyelinated axons from the prelaminar optic nerve may be responsible for cupping in these patients. Electrocardiographic analysis of subjects carrying the 11778 mitochondrial DNA mutation disclosed statistically significant (P = .02) prolongation of the corrected QT interval as compared to control subjects. While the clinical significance of this magnitude of corrected QT prolongation is unknown, it may represent a systemic manifestation of the 11778 mutation. No electrocardiographic evidence of preexcitation syndromes was seen.
Formin-2, a novel formin homology protein of the cappuccino subfamily, is highly expressed in the developing and adult central nervous system.

Abstract Formin-1 is the founding member of a family of genes of emerging biological and medical importance that share specific domains of homology, allowing them to be classified together as the formin homology proteins. Although deficiency mutations in formin-1 lead to profound developmental defects in limb and kidney formation, similar deficiency mutations in more distantly related members of this family (diaphanous and cappuccino in Drosophila and BNI1 in yeast) have ostensibly unrelated phenotypes. Here we describe murine and human formin-2 (Fmn2), a gene which bears a high degree of similarity to formin-1 and cappuccino. The mouse gene, which encodes a putative 1567-amino-acid open reading frame and maps to mouse Chromosome 1, is expressed almost exclusively in the developing and mature central nervous system. Expression begins at embryonic day 9.5 in the developing spinal cord and brain structures and continues in neonatal and adult brain structures including the olfactory bulb, cortex, thalamus, hypothalamus, hippocampus and cerebellum. Human formin-2 has a similar expression pattern.
Experiential careers: the routinization and de-routinization of religious life

This article develops the concept of experiential careers, drawing theoretical attention to the routinization and de-routinization of specific experiences as they unfold over social career trajectories. Based on interviews and ethnographic fieldwork in two religious communities, we compare the social-temporal patterning of religious experience among newly religious Orthodox Jews and converted Muslims in two cities in the United States. In both cases, we find that as newly religious people work to transform their previous bodily habits and take on newly prescribed religious acts, the beginning of their religious careers becomes marked by what practitioners describe as potent religious experiences in situations of religious practice. However, over time, these once novel practices become routinized and religious experiences in these situations diminish, thus provoking actors and institutions in both fields to work to re-enchant religious life. Through this ethnographic comparison, we demonstrate the utility of focusing on experiential careers as a sociological unit of analysis. Doing so allows sociologists to use a non-reductive phenomenological approach to chart the shifting manifestations of experiences people deeply care about, along with the patterned enchantments, disenchantments, and possible re-enchantments these social careers entail. As such, this approach contributes to the analysis of social careers and experiences of “becoming” across both religious and non-religious domains.
Do Cortisol Concentrations Predict Short-Term Outcomes in Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants?

Extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants are at high risk for death and significant short-term and long-term morbidity. Many factors contribute to the vulnerability of these high-risk infants, including conditions associated with an inflammatory process, such as chorioamnionitis, sepsis, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).1,2 The inability of immature infants to respond appropriately to an inflammatory insult likely plays a critical role in this process.1-8 The contribution of relative adrenal insufficiency in modulating the inflammatory response in this high-risk population has been the focus of attention.7-11 Relative adrenal insufficiency occurs during an acute illness when the patient fails to mount an adequate cortisol response. Symptoms in adults and children include hypotension and electrolyte abnormalities, symptoms commonly seen in ELBW infants.12-14 Some studies have reported that low basal cortisol values and/or lower responses to corticotropin are associated with the subsequent development of BPD.1-8,10 Despite this, a large randomized trial of the prophylactic treatment of ELBW infants in the first 2 weeks of life with physiologic replacement doses of hydrocortisone did not reduce mortality or BPD rates, although treatment did reduce those outcomes for infants exposed to chorioamnionitis.9 In that study, treatment with hydrocortisone, in combination with early indomethacin therapy, was associated with an increased incidence of spontaneous gastrointestinal perforation. The literature is conflicting on the meaning of cortisol concentrations in ELBW infants. Several studies showed that low cortisol values, as a marker of relative adrenal insufficiency, identify infants at highest risk for morbidities such as hypotension15-18 and BPD.1-11 However, when low cortisol values are used as a marker for adequate treatment of pain, lower values are associated with lower mortality and morbidity rates.19,20 Despite conflicting data, the use of hydrocortisone for treatment of symptoms associated with relative adrenal insufficiency, such as hypotension, is now common practice.21 Identifying infants at highest risk for adverse outcomes would allow the focus of therapy to be on infants who might benefit most from treatment. We performed a secondary analysis of data from the randomized trial of hydrocortisone treatment in ELBW infants.9 Our objective was to evaluate the relationship between cortisol concentrations and short-term outcomes. We were specifically interested in establishing clinically useful ranges for cortisol concentrations that could identify infants who were at highest risk for poor outcomes and hence could derive the most benefit from hydrocortisone treatment.
The Effects of a Physical Activity Program on Children's Activity Level, Health-Related Fitness, and Self-Esteem.

Among the findings of the recent Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health are that regular physical activity reduces the risks of coronary heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and breast cancer. Consequently, several national organizations have targeted community‐based and school programs to increase children's physical activity and develop self‐management skills necessary for an active lifestyle (eg., goal setting). The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a physical activity program on children's activity level and self‐esteem. Specifically, the researchers examined the children's performance on the mile‐run (including time, average heart rate, and recovery heart rates), one‐minute sit‐ups, sit‐and‐reach and self‐esteem both prior to and after completing a 10‐week activity program. The analyses indicated that participants were in their target heart rate zone 60% of the time and that mile‐run, timed sit‐ups, and sit and reach performances improved significantly from pre‐ ...
A thermodynamic method for computing thermal expansivity, α, versus T along isobars for silicate perovskite

Abstract The value of α, the volume thermal expansivity, defined as (1/ V 0 )( ∂V / ∂T ) P , enters into many physical properties and thermoelastic identities. The importance of knowing the value of α of candidate materials for the Earth's mantle at P , T conditions of the lower mantle is well recognized. Attempts to find the high- T , high- P values of α for mantle minerals have been made by many researchers. Here we compute α for combinations of P and T and η, T ( η = V / V 0 ) found throughout mantle conditions by a thermodynamic method where the high-pressure experimental data used are all contained in the thermoelastic parameters. The thermodynamic parameters are our beginning point. High-temperature experiments are explicitly used as the boundary conditions of differential equations arising from thermodynamic identities.
Evaluating alternative electrostatic potential models for polyacrylamide-co-acrylate in aqueous solution.

Abstract The capabilities of three simplified analytical equations to accurately model electrostatic interactions during proton binding and release by linear anionic polyelectrolytes in aqueous solution were evaluated. The impermeable sphere (IS), Donnan (DN), and cylindrical (CY) electrostatic models were fit to experimental acid–base titration curves of linear polyacrylamide-co-acrylate having ionizable site densities ranging from ca. 10–35%. The titrations were conducted in 0.003–0.12 M NaCl solutions and the sum of squared errors from modeled and experimental data was used as a comparative index of each model’s capability. In addition, the relative size of each polyelectrolyte was estimated from its measured specific viscosity and then compared against the values obtained from the fitting procedure for the size parameter that each model contained. Although the IS and DN electrostatic models could be used to obtain reasonably good fits to each titration curve, the size parameter values obtained by each model were not reflective of the actual polyelectrolyte sizes, indicating that the models had limited physical meaning and that the size parameter was essentially just an additional fitting parameter in each model. In contrast, the CY model was not only more effective in its ability to fit the titration data but also provided a better physical representation of the polyelectrolyte size. Therefore, for polyelectrolytes that remain essentially linear or are only loosely coiled such that counter ions are free to travel throughout the polymer structure, we conclude that the CY model and its morphological representation of a cylindrical polyelectrolyte are more valid and realistic than the IS and DN models and their representation of polyelectrolytes as spheres.
Electron–phonon coupling in two-photon spectral gratings: role of molecular symmetry

Abstract We study spectral gratings obtained as a result of two-photon excitation of the lowest electronic transition of several tetrapyrrole molecules with phase-locked pairs of femtosecond pulses. A particular dependence of these gratings on temperature indicates that mirror symmetry is present between two-photon absorption (TPA) and one-photon fluorescence spectra for non-centrosymmetrical chlorin, but fails for centrosymmetrical naphthalocyanine. The latter case is best described if the homogeneous TPA spectrum contains phonon sideband, but not the zero-phonon line. These results are discussed in terms of alternative selection rules for one- and two-photon transitions in centrosymmetrical molecules.
Controlling chaos in ferromagnetic resonance

Abstract The chaotic response of yttirum iron garnet (YIG) films in high-power ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) has been successfully controlled in experiments using a time-delayed control method. The ac component of the FMR signal was delayed and used to perturb a system parameter, the static magnetic field. The application of the perturbations initially modified the chaotic oscillations in the FMR absorption signal, converting them to periodic oscillations. Increasing the gain lead to a period halving (a debifurcation) of the controlled periodic oscillation, and with sufficient gain, all oscillations were eliminated and the quiescent state is achieved. Numerical simulations yielded good agreement with the experimental results.
SEARCHING FOR WORTMAN'S RURAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ZONES: A CASE STUDY OF THREE RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

This study uses Wortman's Rural Economic Development Zones (Wortman, 1990a) and more recent work by Lyons (2002) as a point of departure to demonstrate entrepreneurship development suited to rural locations. We describe the current literature and rural electric cooperatives. Using a case method research design (Yin, 1994), we demonstrate the efforts of three modern rural electric cooperatives in the area of entrepreneurial development. The study concludes with a discussion of the implications to public policy makers, electric cooperative executives and researchers in the field of entrepreneurship.
Strategies and learning models

A class of strategies is defined, each member of which possesses a certain plausibility. If a subject follows any strategy in this class in a two-choice learning experiment of the type dealt with by the Estes model, the subject's long-run behavior will be the same as that predicted by the Estes model.
Pencils of Quadratic Forms and Hyperelliptic Function Fields

Abstract Let P ( k ) denote the set of equivalence classes of nonsingular pencils of quadratic forms of even order defined over a field k , char k ≠ 2. Let F ( k ) denote the set of k -isomorphism classes of hyperelliptic function fields defined over k . We define a map Φ: P ( k ) → F ( k ) and determine precisely when Φ is surjective and when Φ is injective. This extends a method used by A. Weil to study pairs of quadratic forms over finite fields.
Dynamic computer-generated displays of data from biplane roentgen angiography for study of the left ventricle.

Computer-generated three-dimensional stereo images of the epicardial and endocardial surfaces of the left ventricle were displayed from data obtained with a biplane orthogonal roentgen video system. The silhouette of the opacified left ventricle was digitized from a video angiograph. The data were used to calculate the dynamic geometry of the ventricle and parameters such as curvature and stress. Continuous tone hidden surface displays of the ventricle were inscribed with isostress contours. The system is capable of obtaining biplane silhouettes of the ventricle at a rate of 60 pictures/sec. Dynamic displays of the beating ventricle can be obtained by recording sequential frames on a video disc recorder via a scan converter. The resulting sequence of frames can be played back in forward or reverse slow-motion or stop-action for detailed study.
Chemical and mechanical dissolution of human senile cataracts in vitro.

The effects of mechanical and chemical dissolution on 100 human senile cataracts were tested in vitro. Senile cataracts obtained immediately after surgical removal were grouped in three classes according to transparency, color and hardness (resistance to perforation). Dissolution of the lenses by various chemicals during push-pull aspirations was tested by weighing and by photography of cataracts before and after treatment. Mechanical forces deaggregated senile cataracts depending on the specific cataract types. Guanidine hydrochloride in 1 Molar concentration accelerated the rate of cataract breakdown in vitro.
Using smoothing splines for detecting ventilatory thresholds.

A recently developed nonparametric regression technique, called a polynomial smoothing spline, is presented for detecting the ventilatory threshold (VT) and respiratory compensation (RC) points from gas exchange response data taken during an incremental exercise test. This type of curve fitting has the advantage of not requiring investigators to specify, a priori, the form of the underlying model, as is required with all linear regression techniques. This procedure yields a mathematically optimal fitted curve through the O2 uptake (VO2) vs CO2 output (VCO2) data and estimates of the process' first and second derivatives. A breakpoint or threshold is indicated by an increase in the value of the derivative and a peak in the second derivative. To evaluate this approach we analyzed gas exchange data collected on nine healthy subjects during a ramp exercise test (15 W.min-1) to the limits of tolerance. Utilizing this procedure we detected VT and RC breakpoints in four subjects and only VT breakpoints in the remaining five subjects. Our results and those obtained using the more conventional linear regression method were similar for those subjects whose RC points were detected using the smoothing spline procedure. However, using regression techniques for subjects with low or otherwise undetectable RC breakpoints, the linear regression method yielded less reliable results in our hands.
Symmetry, development, and tachistoscopic recognition.

Abstract First-, third-, and sixth-grade children and college adults were presented random-shapes for tachistoscopic recognition on four successive days. The sets of stimuli differed in amount of variability (5, 10, or 20 turns) and form (symmetrical and asymmetrical). The results supported the following generalizations. Recognition accuracy at tachistoscopic durations was facilitated by age of S , experience with the task, and reduction in the variability of the stimulus. Reduction of stimulus variability was achieved both by decreasing the number of coordinates used in generating the random shape (e.g., 5 vs. 20) or by the addition of bilateral symmetry to otherwise randomly generated shapes. The addition of symmetry to random shapes facilitates the recognition of 5- and 10-turn shapes, but interferes with the recognition of 20-turn shapes. This finding suggests that the addition of symmetry to shapes at or near the S' s processing limit facilitates their recognition. However, in the case of shapes of high variability (20 turns), the addition of symmetry introduces perceptual noise, which disrupts the sampling strategy required for the recognition of high-variability shapes.
Interpretation of the Diffuse Galactic Light

I RECENTLY presented new photoelectric measurements of the intensity and distribution of the diffuse galactic light for two sections of the Milky Way1, and attempted to interpret these data using a model for the radiative transfer of direct and scattered starlight in our galaxy originally developed by Henyey and Greenstein2. The aim was to derive scattering properties of interstellar particles.
Focusing of COSMO/SkyMed spotlight data with discrete antenna steering

In the spotlight mode the imaging platform steers the antenna to increase the illumination interval of a target to the aim of achieving very high-resolution images at microwave frequencies. The steering is carried out by beam switching on bursts during the data acquisition interval. Due to the change of the beam orientation over bursts, phase shifts can occur from burst to burst. Phase shifts can be also due to the atmosphere in very long integration intervals. In this work we propose a procedure, based on the image contrast maximization technique, able to estimate and compensate such phase shifts. The effectiveness of the proposed solution is demonstrated by its application to real data acquired by the COSMO-SkyMed sensor.
Phosphonate lipid tubules II.

We describe a new chiral tubule-forming lipid in which the C−O−P phosphoryl linkage of the archetypal tubule-forming molecule, 1,2-bis(10,12-tricosadiynoyl)-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine, “DC(8,9)PC”, is replaced by a C−P linkage. Tubule formation with this phosphonate analogue proceeds under the same mild conditions as with DC(8,9)PC and produces similar yields, but synchrotron small-angle X-ray scattering, atomic force microscopy, and optical microscopy show the new tubules to have diameters 1.94 times as great, to be significantly shorter, and to be thinner-walled. A significant portion of the enantiomerically pure chiral phosphonate precipitate is in the form of stable open helices, and these helices are divided almost evenly between left- and right-handed members.
Evaluation of minor head trauma in children younger than two years.

Abstract The recent medical literature emphasizes the limitations of skull films in the evaluation of minor head trauma. However, the emergency medicine literature places little emphasis on the particular risks in children younger than 2 years old with blunt head injury. These children have immature bone and unfused sutures that may increase risk of cranial injury and delayed complications. A case is presented to illustrate this point. Unlike severe head trauma, where evaluation is directed toward computed tomography, the literature continues to be controversial regarding the indications for skull radiographs and computed tomography in minor head trauma. The authors recommend a low threshold for radiographic imagine in blunt heat injuries in children younger than 2 years.
Psychrotolerant anaerobes from Lake Podprudnoye, Antarctica and penguin Spheniscus demersus colony, South Africa

The study of a sample collected from a wind-made ice sculpture near Lake Podprudnoe, Antarctica led to the isolation of the psychrotolerant strain ISLP-3. Cells of the new isolate are vibrio-shaped that measure 0.5 x 1.0-3.0 micron in size. Growth occurs within the temperature range 5-35 C with the optimum at 22 C. Salinity range for growth is 0-2 % NaCl with the optimum at 0.25 %. The new isolate grows within a pH range from 6.0 to 9.5 with the optimum at 7.5. Strain ISLP-3 is saccharolytic, growing on the following substrates: D-glucose, D-ribose, D-fructose, D-arabinose, maltose, sucrose, D-trehalose, D-mannose, D-cellobiose, lactose, starch, chitin, triethylamine, N-acetylglucosamine, and urea. The best growth occurred on D-cellobiose. An environmental sample of pond water near a colony of the endemic species of African penguins, Spheniscus demersus, was collected in February 2008 and delivered directly to the Astrobiology laboratory at NSSTC. The microbiological study of this sample led to the isolation of two psychrotolerant strains ARHSd-7G and ARHSd-9G. Both strains are strictly anaerobic bacteria and are able to grow at high pH and low temperatures. The cells of strain ARHSd-7G are motile, vibrio-shaped, spore-forming cells. Optimal growth of this strain occurs at 30 C, 3 % NaCl, and pH 8.9. The isolate ARHSd-7G combines sugarlytic and proteolytic metabolisms, growing on some proteolysis products including peptone and yeast extract and a number of sugars. The second isolate, ARHSd-9G, exhibits thin, elongated rods that measure 0.4 x 3-5 micron. The cells are motile and spore-forming. Optimal growth of strain ARHSd-9G occurs at 30 C, 1.75 % NaCl, and pH 8.5. The strain ARHSd-9G is sugarlytic, growing well on substrates such as D-glucose, sucrose, D-cellobiose, maltose, fructose, D-mannose, and trehalose (the only exception is positive growth on yeast extract). In this report, the physiological and morphological characteristics of the novel psychrotolerant, alkaliphilic, and neutrophilic isolates from the Antarctica 2008 expedition will be discussed.
Upward advection rates and methane fluxes, oxidation, and sources at two Gulf of Mexico brine seeps

Abstract Pore water chloride, sulfate, and methane profiles were measured at two Gulf of Mexico brine seeps to determine upward fluid advection rates and to quantify the advective methane flux from these sediments. We also measured δ13C–CH4 values to constrain the source of methane and determine whether anaerobic methane oxidation can occur at high chloride concentrations. Chloride concentrations were near seawater values at the sediment–water interface and reached as high as 4500 mM by 25 cm below seafloor (cmbsf). Advection rates were determined by a 1-D advection–diffusion model. Sulfate concentrations were near seawater values of 28 mM at the sediment–water interface and quickly decreased to ~ 1 mM by the bottom of the cores. The brine fluids were also charged with CH4 enriched water, reaching up to 3 mM, compared to background cores and could be an important source of methane to the overlying water column. At one site, dissolved methane had an average δ13C value of − 54 ± 0.2‰ and − 49 ± 6‰. Our main conclusions are: 1) advection rates are heterogeneous and range from 7 to 65 cm/year, 2) assuming brine fluids are devoid of sulfate, the sulfate depletion depth in these sediments is controlled by brine advection, 3) methane contained in the brine fluid has either a mixed biogenic/thermogenic source or a biogenic source that has been oxidized, and 4) the advective flux of methane from these brine seeps ranges from 2 to 58 mol m− 2 y− 1.
Definition and validation of model transformations

With model transformations becoming more widely used, there is an increasing need for approaches focussing on a systematic development of model transformations. Although a number of approaches for specifying model transformations exist, none of them focusses on systematically validating model transformations with respect to termination and confluence. Termination and confluence ensure that a model transformation always produces a unique result. Also called functionality, these properties are important requirements for practical applications of model transformations. In this paper, we introduce our approach to model transformation. Using and extending results from the theory of graph transformation, we investigate termination and confluence properties of model transformations specified in our approach. We establish a set of criteria for termination and confluence to be checked at design time by static analysis of the transformation rules and the underlying metamodels. Moreover, the criteria are formulated in such a way that they require less experience with the theory of graph transformation. Our concepts are illustrated by a running example of a model tranformation from statecharts to the process algebra Communicating Sequential Processes.
Magnetization of ultrathin bcc Fe films on MgO.

The magnetization of body-centered-cubic iron was measured by means of polarized neutron reflection on a set of films of different thickness (4, 6, 8, and 16 \AA{}). The films were epitaxially deposited onto polished (100) MgO substrates and covered by protective layers of gold. The results show that at 40 K all films are ferromagnetic, with an average magnetic moment per iron equal to 2.2\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.2${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\mu}}}_{\mathit{B}}$ regardless of film thickness. However, the thinnest films exhibit a Curie temperature lower than that of the bulk and a magnetization axis tilted out of the film surface. These results are discussed in the light of the detailed morphology of the films, and compared with the theoretical predictions.
An improved method for estimating inbreeding depression in pedigrees

Fitness is expected to decrease with inbreeding in proportion to the amount of deleterious genetic variation present in a population. The effect of inbreeding on survivorship is usually modeled as a negative exponential relationship, and this model has been widely used to estimate the amount of deleterious genetic variation in populations. Linear regression has traditionally been used to estimate the parameters of the model, including the number of lethal equivalents. This article describes an alternative method for estimating parameters and their confidence limits: the maximum likelihood approach. The accuracy of regression and maximum likelihood estimates of the number of lethal equivalents is compared through simulation. The maximum likelihood approach is found to be both median unbiased and capable of estimating confidence limits with nearly the stated degree of accuracy, while the linear regression approach is found to be median biased. The significance of this on previous estimates of inbreeding depression is discussed. Zoo Biol 17:481–497, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Fracture toughness estimation for the TMJ disc

J contour integral fracture toughness of the temporomandibular (TMJ) disc was estimated from a computational model based on fracture load data derived from experimental tests. The computational model involved a stress analysis of TMJ disc specimens with cracks oriented parallel and perpendicular to the primary collagen fiber axis within the intermediate zone of the disc. The results demonstrated differences occurred between crack orientations when an orthotropic model was used. Fracture toughness was much lower for a crack oriented parallel to the collagen fiber direction than that for a crack oriented perpendicularly. Thickness, crack size, and anisotropy ratio were observed as additional variables affecting the fracture toughness of the TMJ disc. Future model enhancements may be achieved by considering the poroviscoelastic nature of the TMJ disc.
Packing platelets to go

Comment on Patel et al, page [4076][1], and Richardson et al, page [4066][2] In this issue of Blood , 2 companion articles by the Italiano lab give insight into the microtubule-mediated transport required for platelet production. We are approaching the 100th anniversary of James Homer Wright's
Trace proteins in cerebrospinal fluid and other biological fluids I. Effect of various fractionation procedures on β-trace and γ-trace proteins and methods for isolation of both proteins

Various fractionation procedures such as salt fractionation, starch-block electrophoresis, and column chromatography have been applied to studies on the behavior and isolation of β - trace and γ- trace proteins from concentrated human cerebrospinal fluid and urine. Results were analyzed by means of immunoelectrophoresis and by double diffusion in agar using rabbit antisera to cerebrospinal fluid and to human serum. Isolation of a protion of the β - tr protein could be accomplished by means of a one-step procedure using DEAE chromatography. Both proteins could be isolated by a combination of procedures using either starch-block electrophoresis or DEAE chromatography as the first step, and hydroxylapatite chromatography as the second.
Injection of Ultrasmall Samples and Single Molecules into Tapered Capillaries

A novel injection scheme is described in which ultrasmall samples in the attoliter (10-18 L) and low femtoliter (10-15 L) range, or even single molecules, are controllably introduced into a tapered capillary so that electrophoretic separation can be carried out. To match the dimensions of the capillary inlet with that of the sample, capillary tips are tapered to an inside diameter ranging from hundreds of nanometers to a few micrometers. To inject an ultrasmall sample, optical trapping is used to immobilize and manipulate the sample in order to place it inside or next to the capillary inlet. A small controlled suction results in the loading of the sample into the capillary.
Caveolin‐3 is not an integral component of the dystrophin glycoprotein complex

The dystrophin-glycoprotein complex is a multi-subunit protein complex that spans the muscle plasma membrane (sarcolemma) and forms a link between the intracellular cytoskeleton and the extracellular matrix. Caveolin-3, the muscle specific form of caveolin, is also a major structural and regulatory integral membrane protein found at the sarcolemma. Oligomers of caveolin-3 form the structural framework for small membrane pockets known as caveolae. We directly examined whether caveolin-3 is an integral component of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex by examining four common biochemical and cellular properties of proteins integrally bound to the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex. We found that caveolin-3 de-enriches with partial purification of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex although a small amount of caveolin-3 is present. Sucrose gradient fractionation and laminin affinity chromatography completely separate this residual caveolin-3 from the core components of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex. We also show that caveolin-3 expression at the sarcolemma is not reduced in patients with primary mutations in either dystrophin or the sarcoglycans. This data demonstrates that localization of caveolin-3 to the sarcolemma occurs independently of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex and that caveolin-3 is not an integral component of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex.
Assay for the two different types of lymphocyte complement receptors.

. This paper describes the assay system for two different types of lymphocyte complement receptors, the immune adherence receptor (C3b receptor) and the C3d receptor.
Complexation between Cu(II) and curcumin in the presence of two different segments of amyloid β.

The natural product curcumin has been shown to play a role in preventing Aβ amyloid fibril formation. This role could include chelation of transition metal ions such as Cu2 +, known to accelerate amyloid aggregation, and/or curcumin-binding directly to the Aβ protein. To investigate these different roles, curcumin complexation to Cu2 + was investigated in the presence and absence of two different segments of the Aβ protein including the copper-binding (Aβ6–14) and curcumin-binding (Aβ14–23) domains. Absorbance and fluorescence spectroscopy in 90% water/10% methanol solutions showed that curcumin can bind Cu2 + to some extent in the presence of both segments despite strong peptide–ion interactions. Estimated Cu2 +–curcumin binding affinities in the absence (1.6 × 105 M− 1) and presence (7.9 × 104 M− 1) of the peptide provide quantitative support for this Cu2 + chelation role. With the Aβ14–23 segment, the curcumin simultaneously binds to Cu2 + and the peptide, demonstrating that it can play multiple roles in the prevention of amyloid formation. The stabilities of ternary peptide–Cu2 +–curcumin complexes were evaluated using ESI mass spectrometry and support the conclusion that curcumin can act as a weak metal ion chelator and also bind directly to the Aβ14–23 peptide segment.
LANGUAGE CONTACT, LANGUAGE CONFLICT. Martin Pütz (Ed.). Amsterdam: Benjamins, 1994. Pp. xv + 254. $59.00 cloth.

Language Contact, Language Conflict treats the increasingly common phenomenon of language contact and the subsequent cultural influences that contact can entail. The collection of papers is the result of a symposium held in Duisburg in March 1992 and is divided into two sections: (a) theoretical linguistic issues and (b) case studies from throughout the world. In the foreword, Hymes admits his skepticism toward the search for universals in linguistics, cognition, and human nature when “so much of anger as of joy is in the details” and, therefore, to preserve humanity, “the complex, emergent configurations of particular languages and ways of life are what need to be understood and shared” (foreword, no page number).
Mono-η6 complexes of chromium(II) and chromium(0). Electron demanding substituents, structural and spectroscopic data comparisons

Abstract Using thermal and photochemical methods a series of new chromium complexes has been prepared: ( ν 6 - p -C 6 H 4 F 2 )Cr(CO) 3 ; ( ν 6 -C 6 H 5 CF 3 )Cr(CO) 3 ; [ m -C 6 H 4 (CF 3 ) 2 ]Cr(CO) 3 ; ( ν 6 -C 6 H 5 F)Cr(CO) 2 H(SiCl 3 ); ( ν 6 -C 6 H 5 F)Cr(CO) 2 (SiCl 3 ) 2 ; ( p -C 6 H 4 F 2 )Cr(CO) 2 -H(SiCl 3 ); (C 6 H 5 CF 3 )Cr(CO) 2 H(SiCl 3 ( p -C 6 H 4 F 2 )Cr(CO) 2 (SiCl 3 ) 2 ; C 6 H 5 CF 3 )Cr(CO) 2 (SiCl 3 ) 2 ; [ m -C 6 H 4 (CF 3 ) 2 ]Cr(CO) 2 -H(SiCl 3 ); [ m -C 6 H 4 (CF 3 ) 2 ]Cr(CO) 2 (SiCl 3 ) 2 . Two compounds were structurally characterized by X-ray diffraction. These data combined with IR and 1 H NMR have allowed assessment of some of the electronic and steric effects. The Cr-arene bond is considerably longer in the Cr(II) derivatives than in the Cr(0) species. Also the Cr center, as might be expected, is less electron rich in the Cr(II) dicarbonyl disilyl derivatives. The ν 6 - p -C 6 H 4 F 2 ligands are slightly folded so that the CF carbons are moved further away from the Cr center. Comparison of structural and electronic effects is made with a series of similar chromium compounds reported in the literature. These new (arene)Cr(II) derivatives possess more labile ν 6 -arene ligands, which promise a rich chemistry at the chromium center.
Analysis of sterol esters by capillary gas chromatography-electron impact and chemical lonization-mass spectrometry

Synthetic mixtures of C40 to C47 sterol esters in groups of 7 esters were effectively separated and analyzed by capillary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Ammonia chemical ionization of all 20 sterol esters analyzed at a source block temperature of 120 C yielded (M+NH4)+ and (M+H-RCO2H)+ ions of high abundance or as base peak, thereby indirectly indicating the molecular weights of the ester and the sterol and acid moieties. Ammonia CI spectra of all esters containing a Δ5-sterol moiety exhibited in addition to the above 2 ions an M+NH4-RCO2 H fragment. At a source block temperature of 150 C, M+H-RCO2 H fragment was the base peak for all esters, and there was little or no indication of an (M+NH4)+ adduct ion. Protonated molecules were not observed for any esters analyzed by methane or isobutane CI. Molecular ions of 3–14% intensity were obtained for only 3 of the esters analyzed by electron impact; they contained a Δ7-bond in the sterol nucleus, and the acid moiety was either saturated normal or branched chain or contained a single double bond. The base peak was a function of both the acid and sterol moieties of the sterol ester. The esters containing both saturated straight chain acid and saturated sterol moieties exhibited a base peak at m/z 215. The Δ5-sterol esters with saturated branched or straight chain acid moieties exhibited base peaks at M-RCO2 H. Other ions also were of diagnostic value.
Role of P Glycoprotein in the Course and Treatment of Encephalitozoon Microsporidiosis

Encephalitozoon microsporidia are obligate intracellular protozoan parasites that proliferate and differentiate within a parasitophorous vacuole inside host cells that are usually epithelial in nature. Isolates of the three species of the Encephalitozoon microsporidia, E. cuniculi, E. hellem, and E. intestinalis, were obtained from AIDS patients and cultured in green monkey (E6) kidney cells. Anti-P-glycoprotein (anti-Pgp) and anti-multidrug resistance-associated protein (anti-MRP) monoclonal antibodies were used to probe for multidrug resistance (MDR) pump epitopes and verapamil- or cyclosporin A- and probenecid-modulated intracellular calcein fluorescence were used to assess the expression of Pgp and MRP respectively in uninfected and infected cells. Pgp, but not MRP, was detected immunocytochemically and by verapamil- and cyclosporin A-potentiated intracellular fluorescence in both host cells and parasite developing stages. When an in vitro infection assay was employed, verapamil and cyclosporin A acted as chemosensitizing agents for the antiparasitic drug albendazole. These observations suggest that inhibiting host cell and perhaps parasite MDR pumps may increase the efficacy of antiparasitic agents in these and other microsporidia species.
Pattern of resistance to erythropoietin-stimulating agents in chronic kidney disease

Routine administration of erythropoietin (EPO)-stimulating agents (ESAs) for the control of anemia has improved the quality of life of subjects with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, a wide variation in individual response to ESA is often observed. The reasons for EPO resistance include demographic variables such as age and gender distribution, morbidity pattern, and modality of dialysis. Despite suggestions by observational data, there is no biological characteristic that puts children at a disadvantage for adequate response to ESA. On the contrary, children possess a superior capacity for red cell production, including extramedullary erythropoiesis. The reasons for larger requirement of ESA in children (than in adults) are greater inflammatory burden, disproportionate blood loss, and greater EPO dosing by pediatric physicians. To minimize the harmful (including fatal) consequences of EPO resistance, surveillance programs must replenish nutrient (for example, iron and folate) stores, minimize oxidative hemolysis, control hyperparathyroidism, avoid catheter infection, and optimize uremic clearance. This clinical approach is justified by the inadequacy of laboratory diagnosis of pertinent etiological factors. Indeed, the best proof for functional nutrient deficiency is often a therapeutic trial. Finally, there are upcoming therapeutic agents that exploit the capacity for an endogenous EPO synthesis in CKD subjects, and may therefore minimize the off-target effect of excess dosages.