cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Biochemical analysis of hypermutational targeting by wild type and mutant activation-induced cytidine deaminase.

Abstract The synthesis of high affinity antibodies requires activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) to initiate somatic hypermutation and class-switch recombination. Here we investigate AID-catalyzed deamination of C → U on single-stranded DNA and on actively transcribed closed circular double-stranded DNA. Mutations are initially favored at canonical WRC (W = A or T, R = A or G) somatic hypermutation hot spot motifs, but over time mutations at neighboring non-hot spot sites increase creating random clusters of mutated regions in a seemingly processive manner. N-terminal AID mutants R35E and R35E/R36D appear less processive and have altered mutational specificity compared with wild type AID. In contrast, a C-terminal deletion mutant defective in CSR in vivo closely resembles wild type AID. A mutational spectrum generated during transcription of closed circular double-stranded DNA indicates that wild type AID retains its specificity for WRC hot spot motifs within the confines of a moving transcription bubble while introducing clusters of multiple deaminations predominantly on the nontranscribed strand.
An ELISA for quantification of murine IgG in rat plasma: application to the pharmacokinetic characterization of AP-3, a murine anti-glycoprotein IIIa monoclonal antibody, in the rat.

Abstract An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has been developed to determine concentrations of murine IgG in rat plasma. Specifically, the assay was developed to measure a murine anti-glycoprotein IIIa antibody (AP-3) in rat plasma to facilitate future investigations of AP-3 pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the rat. The working range of the assay is 15–100 ng ml −1 , corresponding to a limit of quantification of 1.5 μg ml −1 in rat plasma. The assay was validated with respect to accuracy, precision, and cross-reactivity with both pooled rat and mouse IgG. Intra-assay recoveries of AP-3 in rat plasma ranged from 93 to 103% with CV% values ranging from 5.2 to 8.5%. Inter-assay recoveries of the plasma AP-3 samples ranged from 107 to 119% with CV% values ranging from 17.7 to 25.1%. The assay has no appreciable cross reactivity with pooled rat IgG and full cross reactivity with pooled mouse IgG, making this an ideal assay to determine plasma pharmacokinetics of mouse antibodies in the rat. The assay was used to determine the pharmacokinetics of AP-3 in a Sprague–Dawley rat.
Alcohol outlet density and alcohol consumption in Los Angeles County and Southern Louisiana

The objective of this study was to assess the relationship between alcohol availability, as measured by the density of off-premise alcohol outlets, and alcohol consumption in Los Angeles county and southern Louisiana, USA. Consumption information was collected through a telephone survey of 2,881 households in Los Angeles county and pre-Katrina southern Louisiana, nested within 220 census tracts. Respondents' addresses were geo-coded and both neighbourhood (census tracts and buffers of varying sizes) and individual (network distance to the closest alcohol outlet) estimates of off-sale alcohol outlet density were computed. Alcohol outlet density was not associated with the percentage of people who were drinkers in either site. Alcohol outlet density was associated with the quantity of consumption among drinkers in Louisiana but not in Los Angeles. Outlet density within a one-mile buffer of the respondent's home was more strongly associated with alcohol consumption than outlet density in the respondent's census tract. The conclusion is that the relationship between neighbourhood alcohol outlet density and alcohol consumption is complex and may vary due to differences in neighbourhood design and travel patterns.
Insulation reliability of fine-pitch through-vias in glass fiber reinforced halogen-free epoxy substrates

Insulation failures from electrochemical migration is a major reliability concern for achieving reliable small conductor spacings in glass fiber reinforced substrates in the presence of humidity and DC bias voltage. In this study, insulation reliability of fine-pitch copper plated-through-vias in two different halogen-free epoxy substrates was investigated using accelerated testing condition (85 °C, 85 % RH and 100 V DC). The test vehicles included two different conductor geometry: (1) through-via to through-via (spacing: 100 and 150 μm) and (2) through-via to surface-trace (spacing: 75 μm). In accelerated testing, the through-via to through-via test vehicles exhibited insulation failures (failure criterion: 1 MΩ) with a strong dependence on via spacing with through-via spacing of 100 μm showing significantly shorter time to failures compared to test vehicles with spacing of 150 μm. Failure analysis revealed cracking in resin-glass fiber interfaces and within the resin matrix between the failed through-vias. The through-via to surface-trace test vehicles, on the other hand, did not exhibit failures based on the 1 MΩ criterion. However, occurrence of electrochemical migration was visible after optical inspection of the test vehicles. Elemental characterization revealed the presence of copper and chlorine in the resin-glass fiber interface, similar to the previously reported chloride-containing conductive anodic filament compound in printed wiring boards. Accelerating testing and failure analysis in this study indicates a strong dependence of insulation reliability on conductor spacing, geometry and substrate material properties.
Current status of research on childhood disintegrative disorder

Abstract Perhaps the rare and least understood of the autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) is childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD). Affecting males at greater rates than females, it has a reported prevalence of 1.7/100,000. The present review is a critical appraisal of the present status and major future research needs with respect to this topic. By the very nature of the condition, the bulk of the research is on very small samples, often-case descriptions. The need for national/international networks to pool data is posited as one strategy to obtain more representative information concerning children with this disorder.
On the hydroelastic behavior of two-dimensional articulated plates

The hydroelastic behavior of two-dimensional articulated plates is investigated analytically within the scope of linear theory. The connectors are modeled by singular line loading and its derivatives. The velocity potential under the free surface and plate is obtained by use of a wave-maker theory. The characteristics of large displacements at the upstream and downstream edges of the plate and the connectors are obtained from the closed-form solutions. It is also shown that the hydroelastic properties are strongly dependent on the stiffness of the connectors and incoming wave frequency. Finally, the method is used to solve for the response of a multi-module articulated plate.
Politics and Policy in the Western United States

DOI 10.1515/cjpp-2014-0003 Calif. J. Politics Policy 2014; 6(1): 7–21 W. David Patton and Jennifer Robinson* Politics and Policy in the Western United States Abstract: This article examines the politics and policies of the western region. To provide a clearer understanding of the region, we begin with a section on US politi- cal culture that shows the distinctions between the regions of the US as well as the nuances within the western region, particularly between the coastal and Rocky Mountain states. Building upon this understanding, we delve more deeply into the political culture of the West as it relates to public policy. Much of what is important, in terms of public policy, to the western states and its residents is tied to the land, including availability of water and the amount of federal land owned in the region. We then provide a summary of legislation passed during the 2013 legislative season. As we note, the western states grappled with many of the same policy issues that other states did last year; however, a couple of issues that are particular to the West are explored here. We conclude the article with a discussion of elections in the West. Keywords: culture; elections; public policy; values; West; western US. *Corresponding author: Jennifer Robinson, Center for Public Policy and Administration, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA, e-mail: robinson@cppa.utah.edu W. David Patton: Utah Department of Health, State of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA The western region of the US is often thought of as a monolithic entity that looks altogether like Monument Valley in legacy John Wayne movies with vast open areas, sparse populations and long, dusty roads. But the West, like any other region is diverse in many aspects, including its geography. There are wide open spaces, especially in Big Sky country in the north of the region with majestic mountains topped with gleaming glaciers. In the southern part of the region are the arid, beautiful deserts, canyons, and arches cut out of red and tan sand- stone. The Northwest rainforests and California coast are as picturesque as they were when settlers discovered gold in 1849. Still rugged Alaska and paradisiacal Hawaii are unique among all states. Today, there are great cities, with diverse and vibrant economies that include Silicon Valley, international trade centers, and major corporations that are the foundation of the West’s modern economy. Politically, the West is as diverse as any other region of the US and, like other regions, there are uniquely regional threads that run through the political fabric. Some neighboring states like Nevada and Utah could not be more different in some cultural aspects, but both states are very concerned about water issues
Transfer of Ergonomics Know-How: An International Perspective

A framework for studying and transferring ergonomics knowledge across national and cultural lines is proposed. A model for cluster in ergonomics into specialized disciplinary areas and a way to document the science base of each is presented.
Electromagnetic Properties of a Charged Vector Meson

A systematic study is made of the electromagnetic properties of charged vector mesons. The various formalisms used to describe charged particles of spin 1 are compared, and a new first-order formulation of the St\"uckelberg theory is developed. For the most general first-order Proca Lagrangian, subject to the usual symmetry requirements we eliminate the redundant components to obtain a Hamiltonian formulation. The theory is interpreted in the nonrelativistic limit, and the terms corresponding to spin-orbit coupling and electric quadrupole-moment interaction are identified. The analogy to spin-\textonehalf{} theory has led us to consider spin equations of motion which agree with the quantum-mechanical equations to order ${m}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$.This general form for the electromagnetic interaction is applied to a recalculation of the $\ensuremath{\mu}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}e+\ensuremath{\gamma}$ decay rate through a vector-meson intermediary. We conclude, that the absence of this process is not necessarily an argument against the existence of an intermediary meson in weak interactions.
On the infinite differentiability of the right edge in the supercritical oriented percolation

Abstract Consider the oriented percolation model. Let r n be the right edge. By a subadditive argument, it is known that lim n → ∞ r n n = α ( p ) a . s . and in L 1 . In this paper, we show α ( p ) is infinitely differentiable in p for all 1 > p > p c .
Dynamic changes in sarcoplasmic reticulum function in cardiac hypertrophy and failure

Previous studies have demonstrated that cardiac function changes with development of pressure overload-induced hypertrophy. The present study was undertaken to discover the basis for the changes in sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) functions: uptake, (as related to the SR Ca2+ pump properties) and release in isolated, perfused hypertrophied rat hearts. Our results demonstrated significant prolongation of the time-to-90%-relaxation, both during the period of compensation (8 weeks after banding the ascending aorta, group HR1), when systolic function was preserved, and later with progressive hypertrophy (20 weeks after banding, group HR2) and contractile failure (20-22 weeks after banding, group F). The initial rates of the oxalate-supported SR Ca2+ uptake and the maximum transport rate (Vmax) of the SR Ca2+ pump, measured in the left ventricular homogenates, during blockade of the SR Ca2+ release channels with ruthenium red, were preserved in group HR1. To correlate early relaxation abnormalities with SR function, the [Ca2+] required for half-maximal pump activation (EC50) was examined and increased significantly in HRI vs. Sham1 (0.95+/-0.06 vs. 0.81+/-0.04 microM, P<0.05) indicating that the affinity of the SR Ca2+ pump for Ca2+ was reduced. The same tendency was demonstrated in groups HR2 (0.94+/-0.06 vs. 0.79+/-0.05) and F (0.89+/-0.05 vs. 0.78+/-0.05). In addition, with progression of hypertrophy we observed a significant decline in the amount of SR Ca2+ pump, as assessed by the Vmax, from 31.22+/-1.20 (Sham2) to 26.47+/-1.58 HR2) nmol/mg protein per min (P<0.05), and from 33.81+/-1.23 (Sham3) to 25.15+/-1.57 (F) nmol/mg protein per min, (P<0.01). This decrease was accompanied by a parallel reduction in the number of SR Ca2+ release channels by 14% (HR2) and 23% (F), as determined by maximum [3H] ryanodine binding (Bmax). These results suggest that pressure overload-induced changes in SR Ca2+ uptake (as reflected by Vmax and EC50) and SR Ca2+ release (as reflected by Bmax), both leading to diminished Ca2+ sequestration, may contribute to impaired cardiac relaxation with compensatory hypertrophy and failure.
Rate/Mean Regression for Multiple-Sequence Recurrent Event Data with Missing Event Category

. Censored recurrent event data frequently arise in biomedical studies. Often, the events are not homogenous, and may be categorized. We propose semiparametric regression methods for analysing multiple-category recurrent event data and consider the setting where event times are always known, but the information used to categorize events may be missing. Application of existing methods after censoring events of unknown category (i.e. ‘complete-case’ methods) produces consistent estimators only when event types are missing completely at random, an assumption which will frequently fail in practice. We propose methods, based on weighted estimating equations, which are applicable when event category missingness is missing at random. Parameter estimators are shown to be consistent and asymptotically normal. Finite sample properties are examined through simulations and the proposed methods are applied to an end-stage renal disease data set obtained from a national organ failure registry.
The “no treatment” approach to ocular hypertension

Abstract Should patients with ocular hypertension be treated to prevent glaucomatous visual field loss? Three considerations suggest that for most patients the answer is no. First, the average risk of visual field loss in untreated ocular hypertension is small. Population surveys and prospective studies indicate that no more than about one of every nine persons with intraocular pressures higher than 20 mm Hg will develop a visual field defect. Secondly, treatment of ocular hypertension to lower intraocular pressure is of unproven efficacy in preventing visual field defects. Thirdly, adverse reactions to glaucoma therapy occur frequently and are sometimes serious. Although pressure reduction may be indicated for some patients who possess certain risk factors which make them especially susceptible to glaucomatous damage, for most patients “no treatment” is the best management. Untreated patients must be observed carefully with periodic visual field and optic disc examinations.
Microcyclus and related ring-forming bacteria.

(1977). Microcyclus and Related Ring-Forming Bacteria. CRC Critical Reviews in Microbiology: Vol. 5, No. 3, pp. 243-269.
True Friendship and the Logic of Lying

In the twelfth century, Aelred of Rievaulx asserted that the distinguishing mark of true friendship is secrecy. He argues in fact that true friends are bound by a sacred law of faith and security.1 Trust is widely regarded as a virtue among friends, and being trustworthy sometimes requires keeping secrets. But keeping secrets sometimes requires telling lies. We may ask if true friendship justifies lying. Lying is a serious moral matter. Many people would rather not lie at all than risk lying under the wrong circumstances. While this position is attractive, even Aristotle would aver that being able to identify the rare occasions upon which a person ought to lie is a virtue. Philosophers have long defended the propriety of lying when Nazis come knocking at the door asking about the Jews hiding in the attic. There are other interesting cases as well.2 We may ask if lying to preserve a secret constitutive of a true friendship is such a case. We may become particularly uncomfortable when we consider the fact that keeping the secret of one friend may require lying to another friend. For example, Alice may ask Joe whether Betsy is having an affair but Betsy asked Joe not to tell anyone. Although evasion can be a good solution, in many cases it is not feasible. If Joe lies, we may wonder if Alice has a right to be upset. Looking at the problem from the standpoint of ethics immediately draws us into a quagmire of competing moral theories. Looking at the question from the standpoint of logic, however, affords a new clarity. The combined logic of Ockham, Kierkegaard, and Wittgenstein provide support for Aelred’s suggestion that true friendship justifies lying.
Tunneling conductance of the S-N layered model of HTSC

Abstract The tunneling conductance G ( V ) = dJ / dV is analyzed for the layered S-N model of a high-temperature superconductor. In order to fit the qualitative features of the experimental data, it was assumed that the tunneling probability to the normal layers is much less than to the superconducting layers. The conductance is calculated for the case t « Δ, t being the interlayer hopping energy. A brief analysis is given for the case t ∽ Δ, which proves that such an assumption definitely contradicts the experimental data. The possible nature of the electronic states in the normal layers is discussed.
A fetal antigen in a mouse fibrosarcoma with possible cross-reactivity with an adult mouse skin component.

Abstract A late gestation—neonatal phase antigen has been found in a mouse fibrosarcoma. The cross-reacting antigen of tumor, fetal and neonatal mice possessed gamma-mobility upon immunoelectrophoresis in 2% agar at pH 8.6 and was undetectable in extracts of normal adult internal organs. A related, unstable, constituent was detected in normal adult mouse skin.
Security in computer installations

Abstract There are several approaches to tightening up hardware and software security which could be used by DP installation. These include terminal protection, encryption, software protection packages and auditing.
Effects of cytochalasin B on the adhesion and electrophoretic mobility of amphibian gastrula cells.

Abstract At concentrations of 1–10 μg/ml, cytochalasin B caused disaggregation of the early Rana pipiens gastrula, with increasing rapidity at higher concentrations. The tissues of the gastrula responded differentially to the drug in that each required different lengths of time to disaggregate upon treatment with cytochalasin B. Moreover, extensive disaggregation of endoderm and mesoderm was necessary before dorsal lip expansion ceased and gastrulation was inhibited. Thus, cytochalasin B may not directly inhibit cell locomotion within the gastrula, but appears to inhibit gastrulation by virtue of its effect on cell separation. Cytochalasm B produced a significant reduction in the electrophoretic mobilities of disaggregated endoderm and chordamesoderm cells of the late gastrula. The reduction was greater with increasing lengths of exposure to the drug. Cytochalasin B did not significantly alter the electrophoretic mobility of ectoderm cells.
Bovine serum albumin (BSA) can replace patient serum as a protein source in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) program.

Alternate protein sources have been suggested to replace the commonly used cord or patient serum for in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures. During an 11-month period 127 patients treated for in vitro fertilization had elther their serum (N= 71) or bovine serum albumin (BSA;N= 56) used as the protein source in the insemination and growth media. Ham's F-10+0.5% BSA was used for sperm swim-up and insemination media and 1% BSA was used for the growth media. Patient's serum was added to Ham's F-10 culture media at concentrations of 7.5 and 15% for insemination and growth, respectively. Embryo transfer was performed with Ham's F-10 containing 90% maternal serum in both groups. Fertilization rate of 259 oocytes inseminated in medium containing patient's serum did not differ when compared with 200 oocytes inseminated in medium containing BSA. Likewise, rates of obnormal fertilization, cleavage, and pregnancy were similar in both groups. In a second experiment, 148 normally fertilized oocytes were transferred after 24 hr in culture to growth media containing two different concentrations of BSA (0.5 or 1%). Cleavage rates for the two groups were similar and the percentage of embryas developed to ≧4 cells did not differ signficantly. We conclude that a single concentration of BSA can safely be used to supplement culture media in human IVF with several practical and economical benefits.
Religious Diversity and Social Change: American Cities, 1890-1906

Floods of immigration and rapid industrialization and urbanization in America at the turn of the century set in motion the transformation of many long-established institutions. This book examines specific ways in which cultural changes affected the structure of the religious establishment. Statistical models are applied to United States Census data from 1890 and 1906 on city and church populations, revealing connections between the growth of cities, the increase in literacy, and the formation of ethnic subcommunities that led to a new level of religious diversity. The author analyses evidence of growing competition among churches and of a level of individual commitment to congregations, demonstrating that the patterns of religious community established at the turn of the century provided the basis for the current denominational system. The author further analyses the relationship of religious diversity to urban secularization, as well as its role as a catalyst to sectarian conflict. In offering a quantitative assessment of issues central to the history of American religion, this book is a significant contribution to the study of religion in America.
Mitigating power- and timing-based side-channel attacks using dual-spacer dual-rail delay-insensitive asynchronous logic

Side-channel attacks have become a prevalent research topic for electronic circuits in security-related applications, due to the strong correlation between data pattern and circuit external characteristics which can be easily measured. By monitoring the power/timing information of a synchronous circuit, an attacker can easily obtain the secret data stored on the device. Although dual-rail asynchronous circuits have more stable power traces, they are still vulnerable to power-based attacks because of the imbalanced loads between the two rails of each signal. Moreover, asynchronous circuits are among the most prone to timing attacks since their delays are strongly data dependent. Dual-spacer dual-rail delay-insensitive Logic (D^3L), presented in this paper, is able to mitigate both power- and timing-based side-channel attacks. In a D^3L circuit, power consumption is decoupled from data pattern by using a dual-spacer protocol which guarantees balanced switching activities between the two rails of each signal, while timing-data correlation is broken by inserting random delays. Three Advanced Encryption Standard cores have been designed using synchronous logic, traditional dual-rail asynchronous logic, and D^3L. Correlation Power Analysis and Timing Analysis attacks were applied and the results show that the D^3L design is able to render both attacks unsuccessful, while the other two circuits have vulnerabilities.
Rapid determination of chlorophylls and their degradation products by high‐performance liquid chromatography1

Description d'un systeme embarque sur navire, capable de determiner quantitativement les chlorophylles a,b,c, ainsi que les produits de leur degradation. Technique rapide (<20 min), precise, decelant une concentration de chlorophylle a de 13 pg par injection. Exemples de donnees obtenues dans l'Ocean austral
Effects of an aluminum-water treatment residual on performance and mineral status of feeder lambs☆

A 14-week experiment was conducted using 42 feeder lambs. Individual feeding was recorded between weeks 11 and 14. Diets, containing 0.25% P (as fed), included (1) control (10% sand), (2) (9.7% sand and 0.3% AlCl3), (3) (2.5% water treatment residual (WTR) and 7.5% sand), (4) (5% WTR and 5% sand), (5) (10% WTR and 0% sand), and (6) (10% WTR, 0% sand, double the added quantities of the mineral–vitamin premix, and 1.29% dicalcium phosphate). The total Al varied from 910 to 8000 ppm among diets. Lambs fed the control and WTR had no decline in intake, body weight (BW), or average daily gain (ADG) which may be attributed to the non-available Al found in WTR. Whereas lambs fed AlCl3 repeatedly had lower BW and intakes. During week 6, all treatments showed declines in plasma P, but the AlCl3 treatment often declined the most, and during week 11, plasma P began to increase. Accumulations of Al in the brain were greatest for lambs given 2000 ppm Al from AlCl3 and increased incrementally when Al as WTR was fed at levels higher than 2000 ppm. With the exception of the brain, soft tissues did not accumulate large amounts of Al during this 14-week experiment. Apparent P absorption from a 14-day metabolic study was positive (10.9–31.8%) for all lambs fed the control and various levels of WTR. However, lambs that received 2000 ppm Al via AlCl3 had a negative P absorption of −12.9%. This was lower (P < 0.05) P absorption compared to all other treatments. Aluminum, as AlCl3, fed at 2000 ppm reduced dietary P retention, but varying amounts of Al as WTR had no effect on P apparent absorption with similar absorption rates as the control. Therefore when dietary P is supplied in amounts of 0.25% or higher, Al (via WTR) fed to lambs in amounts as high as 8000 ppm did not negatively impact the feed intake, gain, BW, tissue P, plasma P, or P absorption.
Starting primary prevention earlier with statins.

The 2013 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Guideline on the Treatment of Blood Cholesterol to Reduce Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk in Adults was based on a systematic review of randomized trials with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) outcomes and meta-analyses of these trials published through 2011. With evidence of an ASCVD risk reduction benefit greatly outweighing the potential for adverse effects, the guideline recommends statin therapy for primary prevention in those with ≥7.5% 10-year ASCVD risk and consideration of statin therapy in those with 5% to
Induction of lordosis in the female hamster utilizing metabolites of progesterone.

Abstract Progesterone, 6α-methyl-17α-OHP, and several progesterone metabolites were administered to ovariectomized, estrogen-primed female hamsters. Progesterone was most effective in the facilitation of sexual receptivity. 5α-Pregnan-3,20-dione was significantly more effective than the other progestins, which were no more effective than oil.
On the location of surface of tension in the planar interface between liquid and vapour

The structure of the interface of an argon-like fluid in equilibrium with its own vapour at 110 K is studied using the Monte Carlo method. The two components P N(z) and P T(z) (normal and tangential) of the pressure tensor P(r) for the planar interface are determined in the simulation. The normal component is a constant along the direction perpendicular to the surface (the z-direction) and is equal to the hydrostatic pressure. The tangential component varies across the surface. The surface tension γ, and the surface of tension z s are determined. The location of the surface of tension is compared with the location of the Gibbs equimolar dividing surface, and the results are used to determine the curvature dependence of the surface tension for spherical droplets. The results are compared with theory.
An evaluation of sewage-derived nutrients and their influence on the Hudson Estuary and New York Bight☆

Abstract Sewage wastes discharged into estuaries contain oxidizable organic matter and inorganic nutrients from which further organic matter may be formed. This paper presents an evaluation of the total discharge of nutrients into the Lower Hudson Estuary and estimates the quantities taken up by photosynthetic organisms under summer and winter conditions. Primary production is shown not to be nutrient-limited at any time in the Lower Estuary and in a seasonally variable area of the Apex of the New York Bight. Primary production contributes a significant part of the oxidizable organic matter to the Lower Estuary. The general approach requires few input data and can be of value in assessing the impact of sewage wastes on receiving waters.
Dynamics of the shikimate pathway in plants

The shikimate pathway, a collection of seven enzymatic reactions whose end product is chorismate, has been studied for many years in a variety of microorganisms and plants. In microbial systems, the end product of the pathway is used primarily for the synthesis of aromatic amino acids. In plants, chorismate is the precursor not only for the synthesis of aromatic amino acids, but also for many secondary metabolites with diverse physiological roles. Because of the dual involvement of the shikimate pathway in primary and secondary metabolism, there are long-standing questions regarding its subcellular location, and its potential coordinate regulation with other pathways that use chorismate or its products in response to environmental or developmental demands.
A method for exposing primates to marihuana smoke that simulates the method used by human marihuana smokers

A method was developed for exposing rhesus monkeys to marihuana smoke under conditions simulating those used by human marihuana smokers. An ADL II smoking machine was used to generate puffs of smoke of constant volume from marihuana or placebo cigarettes at a constant rate. The outlet of the smoking machine was connected by Tygon tubing to an airtight face mask covering the monkey's nose and mouth. The monkey was seated in an airtight Plexiglas chamber with only its head protruding. When a puff of smoke was generated, a vacuum was imposed on the chamber causing the monkey to inhale deeply and hold its breath. After 6 seconds, the vacuum was removed and the monkey was allowed to exhale and breathe fresh air freely until the next puff. Delivery of smoke to the monkey by this method was more efficient than allowing the monkey to voluntarily inhale the smoke. The method was used in acute dose-effect experiments and, subsequently, in long-term experiments. It may be useful with other animal species and for efficiently delivering other airborne substances of abuse.
Efficacy of succimer chelation of mercury at background exposures in toddlers: a randomized trial.

Objective To examine whether succimer, a mercaptan compound known to reduce blood lead concentration in children, reduces blood mercury concentration. Study design We used samples from a randomized clinical trial of succimer chelation for lead-exposed children. We measured mercury levels in pre-treatment samples from 767 children. We also measured mercury levels in blood samples drawn 1 week after treatment began (n = 768) and in a 20% random sample of the children who received the maximum 3 courses of treatment (n = 67). A bootstrap-based isotonic regression method was used to compare the trend with time in the difference between the adjusted mean mercury concentrations in the succimer group and that in the placebo group. Results The adjusted mean organic mercury concentration in the succimer group relative to the placebo group fell from 99% at baseline to 82% after 3 courses of treatment ( P for trend=.048), but this resulted from the prevention of the age-related increase in the succimer group. Conclusion Succimer chelation for low level organic mercury exposure in children has limited efficacy.
Precios de transferencia en oligopolios

RESUMENEl estudio teorico de la fijacion de los precios de transferencia ha establecido como regla general que la maximizacion de los beneficios recomienda fijar un precio igual al coste marginal. Este trabajo demuestra que, en mercados oligopolisticos y en presencia de interdependencias estrategicas entre las empresas, existen incentivos a fijar precios distintos al coste marginal e influir a traves de ello en el resultado de la competencia estrategica entre las empresas. Caracteristicas estructurales del mercado como diferenciacion o no de los productos y competencia en precios o en cantidades, determinan que, en el equilibrio, el precio de transferencia sea mayor o menor que el coste marginal. El trabajo muestra que las decisiones sobre el precio de transferencia pueden valorarse dentro de un marco mas amplio de eleccion estrategica de la estructura organizativa y los mecanismos de control interno, abriendo nuevas vias para el avance de la Contabilidad de Gestion.
On the vibrational spectra and conformational stability of 1,1-dimethylhydrazine from temperature dependent FT-IR spectra of krypton solutions and ab initio calculations

Abstract Variable temperature (−105 to −150 °C) studies of the infrared spectra (3500–400 cm −1 ) of 1,1-dimethylhydrazine, (CH 3 ) 2 NNH 2 , in liquid krypton have been carried out. No convincing spectral evidence could be found for the trans conformer which is expected to be at least 600 cm −1 less stable than the gauche form. The structural parameters, dipole moments, conformational stability, vibrational frequencies, and infrared and Raman intensities have been predicted from MP2/6-31G(d) ab initio calculations. The predicted infrared and Raman spectra are compared to the experimental ones. The adjusted r 0 parameters from MP2/6-311+G(d,p) calculations are compared to those reported from an electron diffraction study. The energy differences between the gauche and trans conformers have been obtained from MP2 ab initio calculations as well as from density functional theory by the B3LYP method calculations from a variety of basis sets. All of these calculations indicate an energy difference of 650–900 cm −1 with the B3LYP calculations predicted the larger values. The potential function governing the conformational interchange has been predicting from both types of calculations and comparisons have been made. The barrier to internal rotation by the independent rotor model of the inner methyl group is predicted to have a value of 1812 cm −1 and that of the outer one of 1662 cm −1 from ab initio MP2/6-31G(d) calculations. These values agree well with the experimentally determined values of 1852±16 and 1558±12 cm −1 , respectively, from a fit of the torsional transitions with the coupled rotor model. For the coupled rotor model the predicted V ′ 33 ( sin 3τ 0 sin 3τ 1 term) value which ranged from 190 to 232 cm −1 is in reasonable agreement with the experimental value of 268±3 cm −1 but the predicted V 33 ( cos 3τ 0 cos 3τ 1 term) value of −73 to −139 cm −1 is 25% smaller and of the opposite sign of the experimental value of 333±22 cm −1 . These theoretical and spectroscopy results are compared to similar quantities of some corresponding molecules.
A New Long-Term Care Manifesto

This article argues for a fresh look at how we provide long-term care (LTC) for older persons. Essentially, LTC offers a compensatory service that responds to frailty. Policy debate around LTC centers on costs, but we are paying for something we really don't want. Building societal enthusiasm (or even support) for LTC will require re-inventing and re-branding. LTC has three basic components: personal care, housing, and health care (primarily chronic disease management). They can be delivered in a variety of settings. It is rare to find all three done well simultaneously. Personal care (PC) needs to be both competent and compassionate. Housing must provide at least minimal amenities and foster autonomy; when travel time for PC raises costs dramatically, some form of clustered housing may be needed. Health care must be proactive, aimed at preventing exacerbations of chronic disease and resultant hospitalizations. Enhancing preferences means allowing taking informed risks. Payment incentives should reward both quality of care and quality of life, but positive outcomes must be defined as slowing decline. Paying for services but not for housing under Medicaid would automatically level the playing field between nursing homes (NH) and community-based services. Regulations should achieve greater parity between NH and community care and include both positive and negative feedback. Providing post-acute care should be separate from LTC. Using the tripartite LTC framework, we can create innovative flexible approaches to providing needed services for frail older persons in formats that are both desirable and affordable. Such care will be more socially desirable and hence worth paying for.
Psychosis, behavioral disturbance, and the use of neuroleptics in dementia

Despite the widespread use of psychotropic agents in patients with dementia, there is little available research on the nature and prevalence of psychiatric disturbance and behavioral syndromes requiring this treatment, and the results of such therapy. The authors suggest strategies to overcome difficulties inherent in attempting to obtain symptom profiles in demented patients. There is weak evidence to support the use of neuroleptics in the treatment of symptoms like suspiciousness, hallucinations, sleeplessness, agitation, emotional liability, and aggressiveness; no individual neuroleptic can be considered superior to any other for this purpose. Few studies have evaluated the effect of neuroleptics on activities of daily life (ADL), and no study has used detailed neurophsychological evaluation to examine their effects on cognitive function in dementia.
Single-Channel Recording of a Store-Operated Ca2+ Channel in Jurkat T Lymphocytes

In T lymphocytes, a store-operated calcium ion (Ca2+) entry mechanism termed the calcium release–activated Ca2+ channel (CRAC channel) underlies the sustained or oscillatory intracellular calcium concentration signal required for interleukin-2 gene expression and cell proliferation. The use of sodium ions as a current carrier enabled single-channel recordings of CRAC channels during activation, inactivation, and blockade of current in the presence of divalent cations. A large conductance of 36 to 40 picosiemens indicates that 100 to 400 CRAC channels are present in T lymphocytes.
Who preaches protectionism? Economic and electoral influences on trade-related position taking in the Senate

Existing studies of Congressional behavior devote little attention to understanding legislators' trade-related positions outside the context of roll call votes. Using a new dataset on bill sponsorship that spans 15 Congresses, the author explores the factors that affect a senator's propensity to introduce protectionist trade bills, including state-level manufacturing characteristics, economic cycles, and electoral vulnerability. The results provide support for a number of the prominent economic-based explanations for trade policy preferences, including the Heckscher-Ohlin and Ricardo-Viner models, and also draw attention to several additional economic and political influences on policy outcomes. Beyond trade politics, these findings have implications for the expanding body of research on bill sponsorship as well as the literature on the role of Congress in U.S. foreign policymaking.
325-nm Interference Microscope.

We first discuss an interference microscope’s 3D response in terms of Richards and Wolf’s vector theory. We then report the results we obtained with a 325-nm interference microscope using an ultraviolet transparent beam splitter, short-working-distance Mirau interferometer. The microscope performs at near-ideal definitions with a measured FWHM of the intensity spot at 0.14 μm and a FWHM of the depth envelope intensity at 0.25 μm. Feasibility of a shorter wavelength system operating at 248 nm is demonstrated.
Review of studies of trapped radiation with satellite-borne apparatus

Experimental studies of the radiation zones have been subject to the same imperfections as most other experimental physics, with some extra problems because of the features peculiar to rocket and satellite work. We consider that the theoretical physicists must review the existing knowledge, and suggest specific experiments which would be of particular significance. The theoretical studies of radiation-zone phenomena are so new that the theoretician can start essentially afresh, without being fettered by theories based more on longevity than veracity. We trust that this critical review of experimental work may be of value in such efforts.
Agricultural Comparative Advantage and Government Policy Interventions

International trade patterns are often explained by comparative advantage which is frequently thought to depend on variations in national factor endowments. Government intervention in agricultural markets may also have an impact on trade patterns. This study explores the relation between factor endowments and agricultural trade patterns and examines the impact of agricultural and environmental policies on trade flows. Measures of national endowments of capital, labour, land and energy reserves are computed for a sample of 40 countries and used to estimate Heckscher-Ohlin-Vanek equations with net trade in several agricultural commodities as the dependant variable. Variables measuring agricultural policy and environmental regulations are added to the equations and tested for significance. The variables representing government intervention do not contribute to the explanation of trade patterns while national factor endowments do account for much of the variation in trade patterns of grains, oilseeds, cotton, and, to a lesser extent, meat products and an aggregate of all agricultural goods. Commodities such as sugar, tropical products and fruits and vegetables do not appear to be well explained by factor endowments.
Geographic Distribution and rDNA-ITS Region Sequence Diversity of Waitea circinata var. circinata Isolated from Annual Bluegrass in the United States

ABSTRACT Waitea circinata var. circinata is the causal agent of brown ring patch, an emergent disease of turfgrass in the United States. Forty-two isolates from annual bluegrass were obtained from California, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, Oregon, and Rhode Island. Almost all isolates produced white to orange sclerotia (bulbils), 2 to 5 mm in size, that turned dark brown after 21 days on ¼-strength potato dextrose agar. The ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer regions and 5.8S region (ITS) were analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis using MspI and sequencing to attempt identification of the isolates. Some isolates were heterozygous at the MspI restriction site, results not found in previous reports using the RFLP technique for identification. Four additional nucleotide positions were found to be variable within ITS based on sequence analysis, including two indels and two additional heterozygous positions. A total of 17 ITS haplotypes were fo...
Distribution of vertical forces in the pads of Greyhounds and Labrador Retrievers during walking.

Objective To document peak vertical force (PVF) and vertical impulse (VI) in the pads of Greyhounds and Labrador Retrievers. Animals 8 Greyhounds and 8 Labrador Retrievers. Procedure Velocity and acceleration were restricted to ranges of 0.9 to 1.1 m/s and -0.1 to 0.1 m/s2, respectively. The PVF and VI measurements were collected from digital pad (DP)-2, -3, -4, and -5 and the metacarpal pad (McP) or metatarsal pad (MtP) of each limb in each dog. Results We found no significant differences between the left and right forelimbs or hind limbs for any pad in either breed. Vertical forces in the forelimb were always greater than those in the hind limb. The PVF in the forelimbs of Greyhounds was greatest in DP-3, -4, and -5 and DP-3, DP-4, and the MtP in the hind limbs. The VI in Greyhound forelimbs was greatest in DP-3, -4, and -5 but greatest in DP-4 in the hind limbs. The PVF in the forelimbs of Labrador Retrievers was greatest in the McP, whereas in the hind limbs it was greatest in DP-4. The VI in Labrador Retriever forelimbs was greatest in DP-3, DP-4, and the McP but greatest in DP-3 and -4 in the hind limbs. Significant differences were detected in load distribution between the breeds. Conclusions and clinical relevance This study confirms that DP-3 and DP-4 are major weight-bearing pads in dogs. However, loads were fairly evenly distributed, and DP-5 and the McP or MtP bear a substantial amount of load in both breeds.
Empowering Community Health Workers with Technology Solutions

This article will provide evidence that empowering community health workers with appropriate technologies can address primary healthcare needs in developing countries. Through a comparison of case studies from various countries, a review of available resources and challenges facing CHWs, and primary data collected in Kenya, we will highlight the potential remedial impact of technology initiatives for empowering Community Health Workers.
Animal Memory: Rats Bind Event Details into Episodic Memories

A recent study shows that rats remember multiple details of an event in a way that suggests those details are bound into episodic memories that the rats use when faced with a foraging task.
Connections between TET proteins and aberrant DNA modification in cancer

DNA methylation has been linked to aberrant silencing of tumor suppressor genes in cancer, and an imbalance in DNA methylation–demethylation cycles is intimately implicated in the onset and progression of tumors. Ten-eleven translocation (TET) proteins are Fe(II)- and 2-oxoglutarate (2OG)-dependent dioxygenases that successively oxidize 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), 5-formylcytosine (5fC), and 5-carboxylcytosine (5caC), thereby mediating active DNA demethylation. In this review, we focus on the pathophysiological role of TET proteins and 5hmC in cancer. We present an overview of loss-of-function mutations and abnormal expression and regulation of TET proteins in hematological malignancies and solid tumors, and discuss the potential prognostic value of assessing TET mutations and 5hmC levels in cancer patients. We also address the crosstalk between TET and two critical enzymes involved in cell metabolism: O -linked β- N -acetylglucosamine transferase (OGT) and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH). Lastly, we discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting TET proteins and aberrant DNA methylation in cancer.
Effects of succinylacetone on methyl α-d-glucoside uptake by the rat renal tubule

Succinylacetone, a catabolic end-product of tyrosine, is excreted in large quantities in urine from individuals with hereditary tyrosinemia and the Fanconi syndrome. Succinylacetone inhibits rat renal tubular concentrative uptake of the glucose transport analogue, methyl alpha-D-glucoside, in a noncompetitive and reversible fashion. This compound also depresses oxygen consumption by the rat renal tubule without fine structural damage to mitochondria. It is concluded that succinylacetone may be a useful probe in elucidation of the biochemical mechanism underlying the human Fanconi syndrome.