cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Polarized Light Technic A Comparison with the Marchi Method

The authors compare polarized light technic for the study of degeneration of myelinated nerves with the Marchi method. While polarized light shows much the same thing, it has the advantages of being much more rapid, more sensitive, and constant. It does not depend on fixation and staining but on the chemical structure of the myelin substance. These changes in structure begin before the third hour after cutting the nerve of a rat. No further technic is involved beside the making of frozen sections. Photographs are presented to illustrate the method.
The Revised Learning and Study Strategies Inventory: An Evaluation of Competing Models

Two competing structural models for the revised Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) were examined. The test developers promote a model related to three uncorrelated components of strategic learning: skill, will, and self-regulation. Other investigators have shown empirical support for a three-factor correlated model characterized by effort-related activities, goal orientation, and cognitive activities (ER-GO-CA). Neither model has been verified on scores from the second edition of the LASSI. In the present sample of 297 college students, confirmatory factor analysis of the subscale scores provided support for the ER-GO-CA model.
The Widget Problem Revisited

The Jaynes "widget problem" is reviewed as an example of an application of the principle of maximum entropy in the making of decisions. The exact solution yields an unusual probability distribution. The problem illustrates why some kinds of decisions can be made intuitively and accurately, but would be difficult to rationalize without the principle of maximum entropy.
Weighted least squares regression for advanced overlay control

Controlling overlay performance has become one of the key lithographic challenges for advanced integrated circuit manufacturing. Overlay error budgets of 4 nm in the 2x node require careful consideration of all potential error sources. Overlay data modeling is a key component for reducing systematic wafer and field variation, and is typically based on ordinary least squares (OLS) regression. OLS assumes that each data point provides equally reliable information about the process variation. Weighted least squares (WLS) regression can be used to improve overlay modeling by giving each data point an amount of influence on the model which depends on its quality. Here we use target quality merit metrics from the overlay metrology tool to provide the regression weighting factors for improved overlay control in semiconductor manufacturing.
Rocket Observations of the Ionosphere

Daytime electron density profiles measured at Fort Churchill have been found to be similar to those observed at White Sands. One winter nighttime flight showed very little ionization, less than 20,000 electrons per cc up to 165 km. Polar blackout produced strong enhancement of the D-region electron density down to 55 km. NO+ is the predominant ion below 200 km during the night, but O+ becomes the most abundant ion above 150 km during the day. Solar flares are accompanied by X-ray bursts capable of penetrating to the 60-km level and sufficiently intense to account for sudden ionospheric disturbances. At night a diffuse glow of Lyman-? is visible over the entire sky. From the observed intensity it is possible to estimate the electron density of interplanetary space.
Space and time variability of the surface color field in the northern Adriatic Sea

A time series of coastal zone color scanner images for the years 1979 and 1980 was used to observe the spatial and temporal variability of bio-optical processes and circulation patterns of the northern Adriatic Sea on monthly, seasonal, and interannual scales. The chlorophyll-like pigment concentrations derived from satellite data exhibited a high correlation with sea truth measurements performed during seven surveys in the summer of both years. Comparison of the mean pigment fields indicates a general increase in concentration values and larger scales of coastal features from 1979 to 1980. This variability may be linked to the different patterns of nutrient influx due to coastal runoff in the 2 years. The distribution of surface features is consistent with the general cyclonic circulation pattern. The pigment heterogeneity appears to be governed by fluctuations of freshwater discharge, while the dominant wind fields do not appear to have important direct effects. The Po River presents a plume spreading predominantly in a southeastern direction, with scales positively correlated with its outflow. The spatial scales of the western coastal layer, in contrast, are negatively correlated with this outflow and the plume scales. Both results are consistent with, and may be rationalized by, recent theoretical and experimental results involving a dynamical balance between nonlinear advection and bottom friction, with alternate predominance of one of the two effects.
Rethinking patient counseling techniques for changing contraceptive use behavior.

Some women who use contraception become pregnant. Determinants of pregnancy in these women are fecundity, frequency of intercourse, contraceptive method, and contraceptive use behaviors. Current counseling content emphasizes the choice of method, with "education" about a limited set of use behaviors. A listing of use behaviors for oral contraceptives (OCs) shows that "use" should be conceptualized as multidimensional with numerous levels and not a simple dichotomous concept of use versus nonuse. The multidimensional understanding of "use" suggests the need for multidimensional counseling to affect distal determinants of use behaviors: knowledge, motivation, abllityý and intentions. A review of behavioral theories suggests that various techniques can be used, in addition to the current emphasis on history taking and patient education, to help women have effective use behaviors. These include assessment for need and individualized counseling. With use of techniques that are widely recognized in other intervention programs, the emphasis of contraceptive counseling would be on the future, on intentions and behaviors, and on mobilizing self-planning and action by the OC user. (Am J OBsTETG YNECO1L9 94: 170: 1585-90. )
TOSS: Thermal Occupancy Sensing System

We propose a system that can accurately determine the occupancy of zones within a building. As an easily deployable sensor system, TOSS provides detailed information about a zone's occupancy to a building's energy management system in order to control the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, (HVAC) and lighting behavior for specific zones within the building. This incurs a significant benefit, as building zones that are not fully occupied do not require 100% use of the HVAC or lighting systems.
Effects of erythromycin on membrane-bound chloroplast ribosomes from wild-type Chlamydomonas reinhardi and erythromycin-resistant mutants.

Abstract 1. 1. Treatment of wild-type cells of Chlamydomonas reinhardi with high concentrations of erythromycin results in increased recovery of membrane-bound chloroplast ribosomes, presumably by preventing polysomal runoff during harvesting of cells. No such membrane-retention effect is detected if erythromycin is added after harvesting of cultures, before cell breakage. 2. 2. Growth of wild-type cells is inhibited by 10 μg/ml erythromycin, but a concentration twice as high is required to increase recovery of membrane-bound wild-type ribosomes. On the other hand, the concentrations of erythromycin which inhibit growth of mutant ery-M1b produce a membrane-retention effect. Mutant ery-U1a is resistant to high concentrations of erythromycin and no membrane-retention effect is detectable at concentrations which produce one in wild type and ery-M1b. 3. 3. These results can be reconciled by a two-point model of the mechanism of erythromycin action on chloroplast ribosomes in Chlamydomonas.
Requirements analysis for a product family of DNA nanodevices

DNA nanotechnology uses the information processing capabilities of nucleic acids to design self-assembling, programmable structures and devices at the nanoscale. Devices developed to date have been programmed to implement logic circuits and neural networks, capture or release specific molecules, and traverse molecular tracks and mazes. Here we investigate the use of requirements engineering methods to make DNA nanotechnology more productive, predictable, and safe. We use goal-oriented requirements modeling to identify, specify, and analyze a product family of DNA nanodevices, and we use PRISM model checking to verify both common properties across the family and properties that are specific to individual products. Challenges to doing requirements engineering in this domain include the error-prone nature of nanodevices carrying out their tasks in the probabilistic world of chemical kinetics, the fact that roughly a nanomole (a 1 followed by 14 0s) of devices are typically deployed at once, and the difficulty of specifying and achieving modularity in a realm where devices have many opportunities to interfere with each other. Nevertheless, our results show that requirements engineering is useful in DNA nanotechnology and that leveraging the similarities among nanodevices in the product family improves the modeling and analysis by supporting reuse.
Tracking turbulence-induced tilt errors with shared and adjacent apertures*†

Tracking apertures which are on axis, off axis, and annular with respect to the pointer optics are considered in terms of their effectiveness in canceling atmospheric turbulence-induced wave-front tilt errors. The off-axis tracker is found to be the least effective, whereras the annular configuration is least sensitive to the wind profile and slewing conditions. The key to minimizing the centroid wander in the focal plane is the proper setting of the low-pass cutoff frequency of the tracking servo. That setting is based on wind velocity, slew rate, and aperture diameters. A too-high setting of the cutoff frequency can actually degrade tracker performance when the tracking aperture is small.
Point defects and cation tracer diffusion in (Ti x Fe 1-x ) 3-δ O 4 . II. Cation tracer diffusion

Cation tracer diffusion coefficients, DMe*, for Me=Fe, Mn, Co and Ti, were measured using radioactive isotopes in the spinel solid solution (Ti x Fe 1−x )3−δO4 as a function of the oxygen activity. Experiments were performed at different cationic compositions (x=0, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3) at 1100, 1200, 1300 and 1400 °C. The oxygen activity dependence of all data for DMe* at constant temperature and cationic composition can be described by equations of the type DMe*=D∘Me[V]. CV·aO22/3+DMe[I]∘·aO2−2/3·DMe[V]∘ and DMe[I]∘ are constants and CV is a factor of the order of unity which decreases with increasing δ. All log DMe* vs. logaO2 curves obtained for different values of x and for different temperatures go through a minimum due to a change in the type of point defects dominating the cation diffusion with oxygen activity. Cation vacancies prevail for the cation diffusion at high oxygen activities while cation interstitials become dominant at low oxygen activities. At constant values of x, DMe[V]∘ decreases with increasing temperature while DMe[I]∘ increases.
The Consequences of Ignoring Variability in Measurement Occasions Within Data Collection Waves in Latent Growth Models

In longitudinal data collection, it is common that each wave of collection spans several months. However, researchers using latent growth models commonly ignore variability in data collection occasions within a wave. In this study, we investigated the consequences of ignoring within-wave variability in measurement occasions using a Monte Carlo simulation and an empirical study. The results of the simulation study showed that ignoring heterogeneity resulted in biased estimates for some parameters, especially when heterogeneity was large and assessment dates had a skewed distribution. Models constructed on person-specific time points yielded precise estimates and more adequate model fit. In the empirical study, we demonstrated different time coding strategies with a subsample taken from Early Childhood Longitudinal Study Kindergarten Cohort.
Humor usage in comforting episodes: Factors predicting outcomes.

This investigation explores the factors affecting the outcomes experienced by distressed persons when their comfort providers use humor during comforting interactions. The results indicate that the skillfulness of the comforting behavior (Reframing from Negativity, Other Orientation, Problem Solving and Different Perspective), as well as specific qualities of the humor used (Quality and Consciousness) and the relationship between the interactants (Relationship Satisfaction and Perceived Understanding) predicted the Empowerment, Positive Mood, and Stopped Rumination participants reported following their comforting interactions. Implications and future research directions are discussed in terms of comforting research and the consideration of humor in interpersonal communication research.
Invalidation of Plasma Ascorbic Acid Values by Use of Potassium Cyanide

ConclusionFor dependable ascorbic acid values, blood should be centrifuged, the plasma deproteinized, and the plasma-HPO3 filtrate titrated in immediate sequence after the blood is drawn. Whole blood which stands in a closed small phial, with a minimum air space, may be depended upon to give results of clinical value for 1/2 hour. The higher values obtained with bloods to which KCN has been added represent an enhancement due to the action of KCN upon the 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol, and in no wise a more accurate determination of their ascorbic acid content. This is particularly true with blood of low ascorbic acid value. KCN does not prevent the loss of ascorbic acid from blood.It is a pleasure to acknowledge our indebtedness to Mrs. Jessie Maaske for technical assistance, and to Mr. Herman Chinn for checking several titrations.
Asymptotic differentiable structure on Cantor set

We study hyperbolic maps depending on a parameter e. Each of them has an invariant Cantor set. As e tends to zero, the map approaches the boundary of hyperbolicity. We analyze the asymptotics of scaling function of the invariant Cantor set as e goes to zero. We show that there is a limiting scaling function of the limiting map and this scaling function has dense jump discontinuities because the limiting map is not expanding. Removing these discontinuities by continuous extension, we show that we obtain the scaling function of the limiting map with respect to a Ulam-von Neumann type metric.
Protein and Mineral Composition of Osteogenic Extracellular Matrix Constructs Generated with a Flow Perfusion Bioreactor

This study investigated the temporal composition of an osteogenic extracellular matrix construct generated by culturing mesenchymal stem cells in an electrospun biodegradable poly(e-caprolactone) fiber mesh scaffold within a flow perfusion bioreactor. Constructs of different extracellular matrix maturities were analyzed for their protein and mineral composition at several culture durations by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction, X-ray diffraction, and calcium and phosphate assays. The analysis revealed that at short culture durations the cells deposited cellular adhesion proteins as a prerequisite protein network for further bone formation. At the later culture durations, the extracellular matrix was composed of collagen 1, hydroxyapatite, matrix remodeling proteins, and regulatory proteins. These results suggest that the later culture duration constructs would allow for improved bone regeneration due to the ability to mineraliz...
Management of Intractable Pleural Effusion in a Dog with a Pleuroperitoneal Shunt

Persistent nonchylous pleural effusion followed thoracic duct ligation for chylothorax in a dog. Attempts at tetracycline pleurodesis twice failed to reduce the quantity of pleural effusion. Repeated thoracentesis caused malnutrition and hypoproteinemia. A modified Denver peritoneal-venous shunt was implanted to internally drain the pleural fluid into the peritoneal cavity. Normal body weight and plasma protein concentration were regained in 40 days. Digital compression of the pump chamber alleviated the signs of respiratory compromise, without complication. At 50 weeks post-installation, a proteinaceous clot obstructed the original efferent pump valve, necessitating shunt replacement. Eight weeks after replacement, the dog was asymptomatic.
Three-dimensional conformal external beam radiotherapy compared with permanent prostate implantation in low-risk prostate cancer based on endorectal magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging and prostate-specific antigen level

Purpose: To evaluate the metabolic response by comparing the time to resolution of spectroscopic abnormalities (TRSA) and the time to prostate-specific antigen level in low-risk prostate cancer patients after treatment with three-dimensional conformal external beam radiotherapy (3D-CRT) compared with permanent prostate implantation (PPI). Recent studies have suggested that the treatment of low-risk prostate cancer yields similar results for patients treated with 3D-CRT or PPI. Methods and Materials: A total of 50 patients, 25 in each group, who had been treated with 3D-CRT or PPI, had undergone endorectal magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging before and/or at varying times after therapy. The 3D-CRT patients had received radiation doses of ≥72 Gy compared with 144 Gy for the PPI patients. The spectra from all usable voxels were examined for detectable levels of metabolic signal, and the percentages of atrophic and cancerous voxels were tabulated. Results: The median time to resolution of the spectroscopic abnormalities was 32.2 and 24.8 months and the time to the nadir prostate-specific antigen level was 52.4 and 38.0 months for the 3D-CRT and PPI patients, respectively. Of the 3D-CRT patients, 92% achieved negative endorectal magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging findings, with 40% having complete metabolic atrophy. All 25 PPI patients had negative endorectal magnetic resonance spectroscopy imaging findings, with 60% achieving complete metabolic atrophy. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that metabolic and biochemical responses of the prostate are more pronounced after PPI. Our results have not proved PPI is more effective at curing prostate cancer, but they have demonstrated that it may be more effective at destroying prostate metabolism.
TEAS: electronic filing of trademark applications at the USPTO

Abstract The United States Patent and Trademark Office's (USPTO) response to the challenge of the rapidly increasing numbers of trademark applications and the pressing need to improve efficiency, by the provision of a trademark electronic application system (TEAS) available on the Internet, is described. The system makes filing more straightforward and flexible for the applicants. It also ensures a more accurate resulting record on the USPTO's databases, and more rapid processing in the Office. The article then examines the current limitations of the system. For example, the majority of other Trademark Operation activities are still paper-based, so necessitating the creation of a paper working file from the electronic application. The reservations of the trademark attorney profession are a further factor limiting uptake of the electronic option to about 15% of all applications after the first two years of availability. Plans to overcome both limitations are outlined, e.g., by providing a streamlined fully electronic filing, examination and grant procedure, and by an intense programme of public awareness and training.
Characteristics of horizontal force generation for individuals post-stroke walking against progressive resistive forces

BACKGROUND: Walking, while experiencing horizontal resistive forces, can allow researchers to assess characteristics of force generation in a task specific manner for individuals post-stroke. METHODS: Ten neurologically nonimpaired individuals (mean age 52years) and fourteen chronic stroke survivors (mean age 54years) with hemiparesis walked in the treadmill-based KineAssist Walking and Balance System, while experiencing twelve progressive horizontal resistive forces at their comfortable walking speed. Slope coefficients of the observed force-velocity relationship were quantified and submitted to an iterative k-means cluster analysis to test for subgroups within the post-stroke sample. Extrapolated force values for individuals were quantified by extrapolating the line of best fit of the force-velocity relationship to the x-intercept. FINDINGS: Within the post-stroke group, six individuals were clustered into a high sensitivity group, i.e., large reduction in speed with resistance, and eight were clustered into a low sensitive group, i.e., small reduction in speed with resistance. The low sensitivity group was similar to non-impaired individual. The extrapolated force was significantly higher for non-impaired individuals compared to individuals post-stroke in either the high or low sensitivity group. The differences between low and high sensitivity group suggest that high sensitivity of walking speed to applied resistive force is indicative of overall weakness. INTERPRETATION: Individuals with high sensitivity to horizontal resistive force may be walking at or near their maximum force generating capacity when at comfortable walking speed, while low sensitivity individuals may have greater reserve force generating capacity when walking at a particular comfortable walking speed. Language: en
Soluble Phosphatidylserine Triggers Assembly in Solution of a Prothrombin-activating Complex in the Absence of a Membrane Surface

Factor X(a) (FX(a)) binding to factor V(a) (FV(a)) on platelet-derived membranes containing surface-exposed phosphatidylserine (PS) forms the "prothrombinase complex" that is essential for efficient thrombin generation during blood coagulation. There are two naturally occurring isoforms of FV(a), FV(a1) and FV(a2). These two isoforms differ by a 3-kDa polysaccharide chain (at Asn(2181) in human FV(a1) (Kim, S. W., Ortel, T. L., Quinn-Allen, M. A., Yoo, L., Worfolk, L., Zhai, X., Lentz, B. R., and Kane, W. H. (1999) Biochemistry 38, 11448-11454)) and have different coagulant activities. We examined the interaction of the two bovine isoforms with active site-labeled FX(a), finding no significant difference. A soluble form of PS (C6PS) bound to FV(a1) and FV(a2) with comparable affinities (K(d) = 11-12 microm) and changes in FV(a) intrinsic fluorescence. At concentrations well below its critical micelle concentration, C6PS binding to bovine FV(a2) enhanced its affinity for FX(a) in solution by nearly 3 orders of magnitude (K(d)(eff) = 40-2 nm over a C6PS range of 30-400 microm) but had no effect on the affinity of FV(a1) for FX(a) (K(d) = 1 microm). This results in a soluble complex between FX(a) and FV(a2), whose expected molecular weight was confirmed by calibrated native gel electrophoresis. This complex behaved as a normal Michaelis-Menten enzyme in its ability to produce thrombin from meizothrombin (apparent k(cat)/K(m) congruent with 10(9) m(-1) s(-1)). The ability of soluble PS to trigger formation of a soluble prothrombinase complex suggests that exposure of PS molecules during platelet activation is likely the key event responsible for the assembly of an active membrane-bound complex.
Assessing the likelihood of new-onset inflammatory bowel disease following tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitor therapy for rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

The association between inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) and the onset of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is unclear. We sought to evaluate this association by analyzing adverse events (AEs) reported to the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) with a standardized scoring tool for drug-induced AEs. A search of the FAERS for RA or JRA (January 2003–December 2011) reported with adalimumab, certolizumab pegol, etanercept, golimumab, or infliximab was performed. This dataset was then queried for cases indicating IBD. Full-length reports were accessed using the Freedom of Information Act and organized by age, sex, concomitant medications, co-morbidities, type of TNF-α inhibitor used, and diagnosis/treatment details. The Naranjo score was used to determine whether the drug-induced AEs were definite, probable, possible, or doubtful. There were 158 cases of IBD after TNF-α inhibitor exposure in RA or JRA patients. Use of the Naranjo score revealed that, in a majority of the cases (71.5 %), TNF-α inhibitor exposure was considered a ‘possible’ cause. A majority of the ‘probable cases’ in JRA were reported with etanercept (40 patients, 90.91 %). There were no ‘definite’ cases of anti-TNF-induced IBD. After applying the Naranjo scale, a weak association between new-onset IBD and TNF-α inhibitor therapy in RA patients and a moderately strong association especially with etanercept exposure in JRA patients was observed. However, causality cannot be determined due to limitations of the FAERS and the Naranjo score.
Important factors influencing the choice between a synchro and a potentiometer as an angular position pickoff

DESPITE the present high state of perfection of both synchros and potentiometers, the aircraft industry is already designing devices the accuracy of which is better than that of the available means for transmitting output data to the point of use. The ?stable platform? attitude reference and certain automatic astronomical instruments are examples of equipment presenting these new demands.
Realizing the Potential of Satellite Gravimetry for Hydrology: Second GRACE Hydrology Workshop; Austin, Texas, 4 November 2009

Hydrologists and geodesists met in November to share new results and discuss ways to facilitate the use of Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) products for hydrological research and applications. More than 70 scientists from eight countries participated. Recommendations from the workshop were presented subsequently at the GRACE science team meeting. The NASA/German Aerospace Center's GRACE mission, launched in 2002, provides a unique perspective on the water cycle. GRACE measures tiny variations in Earth's gravity field, from which are inferred changes in total column water: the sum of groundwater, soil moisture, surface water, snow, ice, and biomass. Workshop presentations included river basin—scale budget studies; groundwater, snow, river runoff, and ice sheet melt assessments; GRACE data assimilation; drought monitoring; and several papers devoted to data processing issues.
Xenon as neuroprotectant in acute stroke

Stroke is one of the most common diseases worldwide. A current focus of research is to find neuroprotectants that can be given during acute stroke. One specific target is to find antagonists of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor in an attempt to limit glutamate associated neurotoxicity. Xenon has recently been found to be an NMDA receptor antagonist. I suggest that xenon be considered as a neuroprotectant in acute stroke, and discuss methods of testing this proposal.
Do-It-Yourself Experiments for the Instructional Laboratory.

A new design for experiments in the general chemistry laboratory incorporates a "do-it-yourself" component for students. In this design, students perform proven experiments to gain experience with techniques for about two-thirds of a laboratory session and then spend the last part in the do-it-yourself component, applying the techniques to an experiment of their own design. An emphasis on classifying inorganic reactions as acid-base, redox, complexation, and precipitation supports this program. An example is an enthalpy of reaction experiment in which students study an acid-base reaction, a complexation reaction, a precipitation reaction, and a redox reaction. Students perform three of the proven reactions and then do the fourth type with a reaction of their choosing. Other examples of experiments are described. The do-it-yourself component engages students in design and interpretation within a reasonable framework. With this approach, students take chances with new ideas as do working scientists.
The self, the other, and linguistic identity in francophone Africa

(1996). The self, the other, and linguistic identity in francophone Africa. The European Legacy: Vol. 1, Fourth International Conference of the International Society for the study of European Ideas, pp. 439-444.
Understanding Qualitative Metasynthesis: Issues and Opportunities in Early Childhood Intervention Research

Qualitative metasynthesis is an intentional and coherent approach to analyzing data across qualitative studies. It is a process that enables researchers to identify a specific research question and then search for, select, appraise, summarize, and combine qualitative evidence to address the research question. This process uses rigorous qualitative methods to synthesize existing qualitative studies to construct greater meaning through an interpretative process. The purpose of this article is to describe qualitative metasynthesis as an innovative research approach for the field of early childhood intervention. Although this is not a new research approach in other fields, the authors suggest that it can offer a promising practice in the field of early childhood intervention. In this article, the authors explore how qualitative metasynthesis can be a practical and effective approach of inquiry as they continue to broaden their understanding about young children with disabilities and their families.
An adaptive mesh semi-implicit conservative unsplit method for resistive MHD

We present a cell-centered semi-implicit algorithm for solving the equations of single fluid resistive MHD for block structured adaptive meshes. The unsplit method [1] is extended for the ideal MHD part, and the diffusive terms are solved implicitly. The resulting second-order accurate scheme is conservative while preserving the ∇ · B = 0 constraint. Numerical results from a variety of verification tests are presented.
Specific Charged Residues on the Myosin Heavy Chain (K368 and R406) Contribute to Head Interaction of Relaxed Smooth Muscle Myosin

Vertebrate smooth muscle contraction is regulated by phosphorylation of the myosin regulatory light chains. EM studies of smooth muscle myosin molecules suggest that in the dephosphorylated state, activity is switched off by asymmetric interactions between the two myosin heads, in which the “blocked” head is thought to be unable to bind to actin, while the “free” head has its ATPase activity inhibited. Comparative sequence analysis and molecular modeling suggest that the head interaction may be stabilized by charge attraction between D748 in the converter domain of the free head and K368 of the blocked head, and between R406 or K416 of the blocked head and E169 of the free head (Jung et al., MBC, 2008). To test these possibilities, we investigated the structure of expressed smooth muscle myosin and heavy meromyosin in which the charges at some of these sites was neutralized or reversed. While most of the mutants showed no obvious change in structure compared with wild type, HMM with charge reversal at both 368 and 406 showed fewer molecules with interacting heads when observed by metal shadowing. This was supported by a decrease in sedimentation coefficient (determined by analytical ultracentrifugation) and an increase in actin-activated ATPase activity of the mutant. Whole myosin with the same mutations formed filaments more readily than wild type, also consistent with these results. These observations suggest that charge interactions involving K368 and R406 play a role in stabilizing the head-head interaction of the inactive state. Interestingly, mutation of R403 in cardiac myosin (R406 in smooth muscle) increases motor activity of myosin and causes familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Our results suggest that this could be in part a result of changes in head interaction.
Individual differences in the macronutrient preference profile of outbred rats: Implications for nutritional, metabolic, and pharmacologic studies

While screening outbred male Holtzman Sprague-Dawley rats for their macronutrient (protein, carbohydrate, and fat) preferences, we noticed substantial group-to-group variation in the preference profile. This led us to analyze preference data on two hundred and seventy rats collected over a three-year period to determine whether preferences could be predicted. The results led us to conclude that observed variations in macronutrient preference profiles may be secondary to genetic heterogeneity in the outbred population. We have also shown that the outcome of the pharmacologic effects of two agents (insulin and enterostatin) on appetitive behavior will vary from animal to animal within a single group. Accordingly, researchers must be aware that the breeding history of the laboratory animal is a major factor in the outcome of the experiment and interpretation of the findings.
DISCRETE ALMOST PERIODIC OPERATORS

This paper deals with discrete almost periodic linear operators in the space of bounded sequences. We study the invertibility of such operators in that space, as well as in the space of almost periodic sequences. One of main results is a discrete version of wellknown First Favard Theorem, and is based on the notion of the envelope of an almost periodic operator. Another result is restricted to finite order operators. It characterizes the invertibility in therms of the operator in question only. RESUMEN
Identification of brominated carbazoles in sediment cores from Lake Michigan.

During the analysis of brominated flame retardants in sediment cores taken from Lake Michigan, a group of unknown brominated compounds were observed. To identify their chemical structures, a variety of gas chromatographic mass spectrometric techniques were used. With the help of high-resolution and positive chemical ionization mass spectrometry, the molecular formula of the most abundant congener was established to be C12H5Br4N. On the basis of the electron impact and electron capture negative ionization mass spectra, this chemical was suspected of being a tetrabromocarbazole. The structure was confirmed by comparing the mass spectra and gas chromatographic retention times of an authentic standard of 1,3,6,8-tetrabromocarbazole with those of the most abundant unknown. The other unknown compounds may be other bromocarbazole congeners. The time trend determined by measuring these compounds as a function of depth in the Lake Michigan sediment cores indicated that the concentration of 1,3,6,8-tetrabromocarbaz...
Mediating the War of Olives and Pines: Consensus-Based Land-Use Planning in a Multicultural Setting

The proposed Nahal Tzalmon national park lies in the Galilee region of northern Israel. It encompasses land of unique natural beauty, some of which is occupied by Arab-Israeli families. Statutory plans defining the park's boundaries were enacted more than twenty years ago. Despite ongoing preparation, however, the park has not yet opened to the public, in part because of continuous conflict between the Israeli government authorities and the resident families over property rights affecting construction, land use, and nature preservation. In 2000, after a long period of stagnation and discord, the Joint Environmental Mediation Service ( JEMS), guided by its founding organizations — the Consensus Building Institute and the Israel–Palestine Center for Research and Information — led a mediation process in the region. This was the first such process in the history of Israeli land-use planning. The mediation resulted in a settlement that was agreed to and signed by nearly all parties on July 8, 2004. The agreement allows residents to remain on their land and it includes incentives, such as park employment, to ensure that they help preserve the natural environment. Plans based on this agreement are currently undergoing state ratification, although several implementation challenges are yet to be resolved. This case points to the importance of having a mediation team knowledgeable about and sensitive to local cultural norms and the difficulties of ensuring appropriate representation in the absence of a strong civic culture and organized advocacy groups. It also highlights the requisite for ensuring that all parties thoroughly understand the consensus building process and how it fits in with established bureaucratic procedures, as well as the critical need to secure strong support from implementing agencies at the outset.
In Situ Thermocouples in Macro-Components Fabricated Using SALD and SALDVI Techniques. I. Thermochemical Modeling

Abstract To fabricate macro-structural SiC components containing an In Situ SiC/C thermocouple using an integrated SALD and SALDVI technique, thermodynamic analyses on the involved reactant gases have been performed with the CET89 code based on the minimization of the system free energy. The gaseous precursors considered include tetramethylsilane (TMS) and methyltrichlorosilane (MTS) for the deposition of silicon carbide, and methane, ethylene and acetylene for the deposition of carbon. Reactions between disilane and acetylene and between TMS and ammonia have also been thermodynamically calculated for the deposition of silicon carbide and silicon nitride (for use as an insulation layer between the thermocouple and the matrix), respectively. Based on these analyses, four characteristic temperature zones have been defined for the decomposition of silicon carbide from TMS. A silicon nitride deposition map has been built for the TMS and ammonia system. The deposition temperature range of silicon nitride is fo...
Estimates of the Validity and Utility of the Conners’ Continuous Performance Test in the Assessment of Inattentive and/or Hyperactive-Impulsive Behaviors in Children

This study evaluated the validity and classification utility of the Conners' Continuous Performance Test (CCPT) in the assessment of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive behaviors in children. Significant, positive correlations between the CCPT parameters and behavioral ratings of ADHD behaviors were hypothesized. In addition, it was hypothesized that the CCPT parameters would perform better than a random test (chance) and show fair to moderate utility of classification across the different indices. Participants were 104 children between 6 and 12 years of age who were referred for evaluation of attention problems. The first hypothesis was not supported. There were no significant, positive correlations between the CCPT parameters and parent and teacher ratings of inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive behaviors. The second hypothesis was only partially supported. The CCPT Overall Index and the Omission Errors (84th percentile cutoff) performed better than a random test; however, the utility of the CCPT Overall Index only ranged from poor to slight. Receiver operating characteristic analyses showed the accuracy of the CCPT to be low. The implications and limitations of this study and future research directions are discussed.
Mutual antagonism of calcium entry by capacitative and arachidonic acid-mediated calcium entry pathways.

Abstract In nonexcitable cells, the predominant mechanism for regulated entry of Ca2+ is capacitative calcium entry, whereby depletion of intracellular Ca2+ stores signals the activation of plasma membrane calcium channels. A number of other regulated Ca2+ entry pathways occur in specific cell types, however, and it is not know to what degree the different pathways interact when present in the same cell. In this study, we have examined the interaction between capacitative calcium entry and arachidonic acid-activated calcium entry, which co-exist in HEK293 cells. These two pathways exhibit mutual antagonism. That is, capacitative calcium entry is potently inhibited by arachidonic acid, and arachidonic acid-activated entry is inhibited by the pre-activation of capacitative calcium entry with thapsigargin. In the latter case, the inhibition does not seem to result from a direct action of thapsigargin, inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pumps, depletion of Ca2+ stores, or entry of Ca2+ through capacitative calcium entry channels. Rather, it seems that a discrete step in the pathway signaling capacitative calcium entry interacts with and inhibits the arachidonic acid pathway. The findings reveal a novel process of mutual antagonism between two distinct calcium entry pathways. This mutual antagonism may provide an important protective mechanism for the cell, guarding against toxic Ca2+ overload.
Multiple molecular forms of malate dehydrogenases in Echinoderm embryos

Abstract 1. 1. Malate dehydrogenase activity is a property of a number of different proteins present in tissues of sea urchins and starfish. 2. 2. These proteins differ in their electrophoretic mobility, in their rates of reaction with pyridine nucleotide analogs and with d - and l -malate, in their thermal inactivation and in their solubility in ammonium sulfate. 3. 3. Of the five l -malate dehydrogenases present in Arbacia eggs only three are found in very young embryos and four after 12 hr of development.
Response of the bronchial mucociliary clearance system in rabbits to inhaled sulfite and sulfuric acid aerosols

Abstract A group of eight rabbits was exposed (orally) for 1 hr to a distilled water aerosol (sham control) or to submicrometer aerosols of either a transition metal sulfite complex (Fe(III)S(IV)), sodium sulfite (Na 2 SO 3 ), or sulfuric acid (H 2 SO 4 ). Mucociliary clearance was evaluated by external retention measurements of radioactively tagged tracer particles from the bronchial tree. Fe(III)S(IV) in the range of 238 to 1227 μg/m 3 (as SO 3 2− ) produced no significant change from sham control in the mean residence time (MRT) of the tracer, indicating no effect upon mucociliary clearance rate. On the other hand, Na 2 SO 3 at levels ≥1200 μg/m 3 (as SO 3 2− ) resulted in clearance acceleration; the lack of effect of Fe(III)S(IV) is possibly due to its stability. H 2 SO 4 at 260 to 2155 μg/m 3 produced a significant dose-related response, indicating clearance acceleration at low concentrations and a depression at higher levels.
Simultaneous high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of theophylline, ephedrine hydrochloride, and phenobarbital in tablets

A rapid reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method was developed for the simultaneous assay of theophylline, ephedrine hydrochloride, and phenobarbital in a tablet matrix. A methanolic extract of the powdered sample containing salicylamide as the internal standard was injected into the chromatograph. The HPLC system used methanol-0.007 M monobasic potassium phosphate (37:63, pH 2.3) as the mobile phase. Detection was at 254 nm, and quantitation was based on the drug-internal standard peak area ratio. This ratio was linear over a concentration range of 20.9-83.5 μg of theophylline, 4-15.9 μg of ephedrine hydrochloride, and 1.3-5.1 μg of phenobarbital. Overall recoveries (±SD) from three synthetic tablets were: theophylline, 99.8 ± 1.3%; ephedrine hydrochloride, 100.2 ± 0.6%; and phenobarbital, 99.4 ± 0.7%. The method was compared to the compendial method and also was applied to the assay of commercial tablets containing these three active ingredients. The proposed method is applicable to the assay of individual tablets.
Cooling of a single atom in an optical trap inside a resonator

We present detailed discussions of cooling and trapping mechanisms for an atom in an optical trap inside an optical cavity, as relevant to recent experiments. The interference pattern of cavity QED and trapping fields in space makes the trapping wells, in principle, distinguishable from one another. This adds considerable flexibility to creating effective trapping and cooling conditions and to detection possibilities. Friction and diffusion coefficients are calculated in and beyond the low excitation limit and full three-dimensional simulations of the quasiclassical motion of a Cs atom are performed.
Idiopathic Juxtafoveolar Retinal Telangiectasis: Update of Classification and Follow-up Study

Background: Idiopathic juxtafoveolar retinal telangiectasis may cause visual loss. The treatment of this disease is controversial. Methods: The authors reviewed the records of 140 patients with idiopathic juxtafoveolar telangiectasis. A classification scheme based on biomicroscopic and fluorescein angiographic findings is presented. In addition, the effect of photocoagulation on the natural history of the disorder is evaluated. Findings: Patients are categorized into three groups. Group 1 comprises 39 male patients with nonfamilial, easily visible telangiectasis and intraretinal exudation. The telangiectasis is unilateral in 94% of patients. The telangiectasia in this group is probably of developmental origin (Coats syndrome). Group 2 comprises 94 patients with occult juxtafoveolar telangiectasis, minimal exudation, superficial retinal crystalline deposits, and right-angle venules. Late in the course of the disease, foveolar atrophy, intraretinal pigment plaques, and subretinal neovascularization develop. The telangiectasis is acquired during middle age and is bilateral in 98% of patients. Group 3 comprises seven patients with bilateral easily visible telangiectasis, minimal exudation, and capillary occlusion. All of these patients had systemic disease, which was probably related to their eye disease. Conclusion: Slow visual loss beginning in adulthood characterizes most of these patients. The telangiectasis appears to be caused primarily by retinal capillary leakage in group 1, capillary diffusion abnormalities in group 2, and capillary occlusion in group 3. Photocoagulation is probably beneficial for patients in group 1 and not for patients in group 2, at least before their development of subretinal neovascularization.
The sounds of social life: naturalistic (acoustic) observation sampling

This paper reviews a novel methodology called the Electronically Activated Recorder or EAR. The EAR is a portable audio recorder that periodically records snippets of ambient sounds from participants' momentary environments. In tracking moment-to-moment ambient sounds, it yields acoustic logs of people's days as they naturally unfold. In sampling only a fraction of the time, it protects participants' privacy. As a naturalistic observation method, it provides an observer's account of daily life and is optimized for the assessment of audible aspects of social environments, behaviors, and interactions. The paper discusses the EAR method conceptually and methodologically and identifies three ways in which it can enrich research in psychology and related fields. Specifically, it can (1) provide ecological, behavioral criteria that are independent of self-report, (2) calibrate psychological effects against frequencies of real-world behavior, and (3) help with the assessment of subtle and habitual behaviors that evade self-report.