cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Production of Volatiles from Amino Acid Homopolymers by Irradiation

UR STUDIES SHOWED THAT ALL IRRADIATED MEAT PRODUCED characteristic irradiation odor regardless of degree of lipid oxidation. Also, irradiated meat produced more volatiles than nonirradiated meat, and the chromatograms of raw and cooked irradiated meat suggested that lipid oxidation could be responsible for a small part of the off-odor in irradiated meat (Ahn and others 1997; Ahn and others 1998a, 1998b, 1999). Patterson and Stevenson (1995) found that dimethyl trisulfide is the most potent off-odor compound in irradiated chicken meat, followed by cis-3- and trans-6-nonenals, oct-1-en-3one and bis(methylthio-)methane. Hashim and others (1995) reported that irradiating uncooked chicken breast and thigh produced a characteristic “bloody and sweet” aroma that remained after the thighs were cooked, but was not detectable after the breasts were cooked. Heath and others (1990) reported that irradiating uncooked chicken breast and leg at 2 or 3 kGy produced a “hot fat,” “burned oil,” or “burned feathers” odor that remained after the thighs were cooked. Chen and others (1999) reported that irradiation before cooking did not influence lipid oxidation of cooked pork during storage. These studies also supported the concept that the changes that occur following irradiation are different from those of warmed-over flavor in oxidized meat, and that other mechanisms such as radiolysis of proteins play an important role in the production of volatiles in irradiated meat. Irradiation of amino acids produced distinct volatile compounds via the radiolytic degradation of amino acids (Jo and Ahn 2000). However, radiolytic degradations of amino acids not only occurred at side chains, but also at amino and carboxyl groups. Thus, the volatile compounds produced from amino acid monomers by irradiation cannot represent the volatiles produced from proteins. To overcome this problem, we used amino acid homopolymers in this study. The objective of this study was to determine the volatile compounds produced from each amino acid polymer by irradiation and the odor characteristics of the irradiated amino acid polymers.
The secondary crater population of Mars

Abstract Impact craters (“craters”) are ubiquitous across most solid surfaces in the Solar System. The most common use of crater populations (populations as defined by diameter- or “size-” frequency) is to estimate relative and absolute model surface ages based on two assumptions: Craters will form spatially randomly across the planetary body, and craters will form following a random distribution around a known or assumed temporal flux. Secondary craters – craters that form from the ejecta of a crater formed by an extraplanetary-sourced impactor – belie both of these assumptions and so will affect crater-based ages if not removed from crater counts. A question unanswered with observational data to this point has been, what is the population of primary versus secondary craters on a given planet? We have answered this question for Mars for craters larger than 1 km in diameter by using a recently published global crater database, classifying craters as primary or secondary, and creating maps of the population statistics. Our approach was to err on the side of a crater being primary by default and hence our work is a conservative measurement. We show that, globally, secondary craters are at least 24% as numerous as primary craters (comprising 19% of the total population) for diameters D ≥ 1 km . However, there are many “hot spots” across the globe where secondary craters are more numerous than primary craters for diameters as large as 9 km. This is the first time such a study has been conducted globally for any body and it shows that, not only are secondary craters numerous, but they can significantly affect crater populations in a non-uniform way across a planetary surface.
Enhancing biological hydrogen production from cyanobacteria by removal of excreted products.

Abstract Hydrogen is produced by a [NiFe]-hydrogenase in the cyanobacterium Arthrospira (Spirulina) maxima during autofermentation of photosynthetically accumulated glycogen under dark anaerobic conditions. Herein we show that elimination of H 2 backpressure by continuous H 2 removal (“milking”) can significantly increase the yield of H 2 in this strain. We show that “milking” by continuous selective consumption of H 2 using an electrochemical cell produces the maximum increase in H 2 yield (11-fold) and H 2 rate (3.4-fold), which is considerably larger than through “milking” by non-selective dilution of the biomass in media (increases H 2 yield 3.7-fold and rate 3.1-fold). Exhaustive autofermentation under electrochemical milking conditions consumes >98% of glycogen and 27.6% of biomass over 7–8 days and extracts 39% of the energy content in glycogen as H 2 . Non-selective dilution stimulates H 2 production by shifting intracellular equilibria competing for NADH from excreted products and terminal electron sinks into H 2 production. Adding a mixture of the carbon fermentative products shifts the equilibria towards reactants, resulting in increased intracellular NADH and an increased H 2 yield (1.4-fold). H 2 production is sustained for a period of time up to 7 days, after which the PSII activity of the cells decreases by 80–90%, but can be restored by regeneration under photoautotrophic growth.
Transformational leadership and team performance

Despite transformational leadership enjoying success and attention as an exceptional leadership theory, few scholars have investigated a specific link between transformational leadership theory and team performance. As such, we discuss how transformational leadership theory can provide a framework in which to investigate a leader's impact on team performance. We posit that idealized influence/inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration could produce intermediate outcomes such as shared vision, team commitment, an empowered team environment and functional team conflict. In turn, these intermediate outcomes may positively affect team communication, cohesion and conflict management. Implications for team development, team training and team structure are presented. Limitations and future directions are also discussed.
On the diffusion of new technology: A game theoretic approach

This paper is an attempt at a rigorous (albeit not exceedingly general) analysis of the diffusion of new technology. In particular, consider an industry composed of two firms, each using the current best-practice technology. The firms are assumed to be operating at Nash equilibrium output levels, generating a market price (given demand) and profit allocations. When a cost-reducing innovation is announced, each firm must determine when (if ever) to adopt it, based in part upon the discounted cost of implementing the new technology, and in part upon the behavior of the rival firm. If either firm adopts before the other, it can expect to make substantial profits at the expense of the other firm. On the other hand, the discounted sum of purchase price and adjustment costs may decline with the lengthening of the adjustment period as various quasi-fixed factors become more easily variable. Therefore, although waiting costs the firm more in terms of foregone profits, it may save money on the cost of purchasing the new technology. Thus the firm must weigh the costs and benefits of delaying adoption, as well as take account of its rival's strategic behavior.
Differential Induction of Progestin-Binding Sites in Uterine Cell Types by Estrogen and Antiestrogen

Effects of antiestrogen on progestin binding in uterine cell types were determined and compared to those of estrogen. Effects on uterine morphology were also studied. Immature rats were treated with four daily sc injections of 100 ng hydroxytamoxifen [TAM(OH)], 5 μg estradiol (E2), or oil. On day 5 the rats were injected iv with 1 ng of the synthetic progestin [3H]Org 2058, and 1 h later uteri were excised, weighed, and processed for thaw-mount autoradiography. Treatment with TAM(OH) or E2 resulted in uterine weight gain, which was greater in animals treated with E2. E2 treatment resulted in cellular hypertrophy in all tissue compartments, especially in the luminal epithelium and myometrium, but TAM(OH) treatment resulted in hypertrophy of only the luminal epithelium. Treatment with TAM(OH) or E2 changed the pattern and intensity of nuclear binding of [3H]Org 2058 from that in oiltreated controls. E2 increased progestin binding in stroma and myometrium and decreased it in luminal epithelium. TAM(OH), simi...
Characteristics of Senior Citizens' Educational Tuition Waivers in Twenty-One States: A Follow-Up Study.

The extent to which senior adults have enrolled in postsecondary educational institutions through the provisions of tuition‐waiver programs is unknown. Many administrators describe the potential impact of the concept of tuition waivers for senior adults as limited, yet few state educational coordinating bodies have collected data to confirm or dispel such an opinion. This study reports the results of a survey of the 27 states identified by Long and Rossing (1979) as having statewide legislation or policies concerning tuition‐waiver programs. Responses were received from 21 states concerning community college programs. Based on the data provided, the following conclusions were drawn: Data on enrollment, academic interest, and academic success are limited. The limited data, however, suggest that the stereotyped arts and crafts orientation is inaccurate; the liberal arts and business courses are more popular. The limited data also indicate that participants in the senior adults’ tuition‐waiver programs perfo...
Effect of blockade of spinal NMDA receptors on sympathoexcitation and cardiovascular responses produced by cerebral ischemia

Pharmacological blockade of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptors in the spinal cord was produced by intrathecal administration of the NMDA receptor antagonist D-2-amino-7-phosphonoheptanoic acid. Blockade of spinal NMDA receptors significantly reduced arterial pressure, heart rate and sympathetic nerve activity and reduced by approximately 50% the pressor and sympathoexcitatory responses evoked by cerebral ischemia. These results indicate that NMDA receptors in the spinal cord participate in the maintenance and regulation of the sympathetic nervous system and suggest that excitatory amino acid neurotransmitters may play a role in sympathoexcitation produced by physiological activation of descending bulbospinal pathways.
Treatment of rats with the peroxisome proliferator ciprofibrate results in increased liver NF-kB activity

Nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB) is an important stress-induced transcription factor in many cell types, including hepatocytes. Previous studies have shown that reactive oxygen species, including hydrogen peroxide, are potent activators of NF-kappaB. Peroxisome proliferators are a group of rodent chemical carcinogens that have been proposed to act by increasing reactive oxygen in the liver. These results led us to consider whether peroxisome proliferators would increase NF-kappaB activity in the liver. Here we demonstrate that rats fed diets containing the peroxisome proliferator ciprofibrate exhibit increased hepatic NF-kappaB DNA-binding activity. This observation suggests that NF-kappaB may contribute, in part, to peroxisome proliferator-mediated changes in the liver.
Warfarin-induced skin necrosis.

Warfarin-induced skin necrosis is a rare but serious complication of oral anticoagulant therapy. This review will discuss the clinical presentation, natural history, incidence, and possible etiologies of this condition as well as the limited therapeutic options available to the clinician
The current state of psychiatry in the treatment of violent patients

• During the past 2 decades psychiatry has made great progress in describing patterns of violence by psychiatric patients and developing standards for the evaluation and treatment of these patients. Studies have found that roughly 10% of patients were violent toward other persons just prior to psychiatric hospitalization. Young male patients and patients in certain diagnostic groups had higher rates of violence. This report describes the proper evaluation of violent patients and proposes a model for the short-term potential of violent behavior. Psychiatry has developed guidelines for the acute treatment of violent patients using verbal intervention, physical restraint, and emergency medication. Long-term treatment relies on medication for the underlying disorder. Beyond their traditional indications, carbamazepine, propranolol hydrochloride, and lithium carbonate may be effective in diminishing violence. Some violent patients respond to long-term psychotherapy.
Determination of Trifloxystrobin and Its Metabolites in Hawaii Soils by ASE−LC-MS/MS

Analytical methods for the determination of trifloxystrobin and four of its metabolites were developed in a leaching study conducted in Hawaii. To duplicate plots at each of five locations representing various agricultural areas in Hawaii, trifloxystrobin was applied at label rates and allowed to leach under normal rain and irrigation conditions. Soil samples were collected at weekly to monthly intervals and the residual concentrations of trifloxystrobin and metabolites measured. A quantitative analytical method for their determination in various soil samples was developed using accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), coupled with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Extraction solvent with various ratios of methanol to water, addition of EDTANa2 to the extract solvent, and ASE cell temperature were adjusted to improve recovery. Deuterated (E, E)-trifloxystrobin was chosen as the internal standard of the analytical method. The limit of quantitation was 2.5 ppb in the soil for trifloxystrobin and its metabolites. Laboratory aerobic degradation studies with the soils from the five sites were also conducted to measure the same compounds.
Fractal Distribution of Snow Depth from Lidar Data

Abstract Snowpack properties vary dramatically over a wide range of spatial scales, from crystal microstructure to regional snow climates. The driving forces of wind, energy balance, and precipitation interact with topography and vegetation to dominate snow depth variability at horizontal scales from 1 to 1000 m. This study uses land surface elevation, vegetation surface elevation, and snow depth data measured using airborne lidar at three sites in north-central Colorado. Fractal dimensions are estimated from the slope of a log-transformed variogram and demonstrate scale-invariant, fractal behavior in the elevation, vegetation, and snow depth datasets. Snow depth and vegetation topography each show two distinct fractal distributions over different scale ranges (multifractal behavior), with short-range fractal dimensions near 2.5 and long-range fractal dimensions around 2.9 at all locations. These fractal ranges are separated by a scale break at 15–40 m, depending on the site, which indicates a process cha...
Using Randomized Controlled Trials to Evaluate Interventions for Releasing Prisoners.

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are rarely used to evaluate social and behavioral interventions designed for releasing prisoners. Objective: We use a pilot RCT of a social support intervention (Support Matters) as a case example to discuss obstacles and strategies for conducting RCT intervention evaluations that span prison and community contexts. Method: First, we summarize existing studies with current and former prisoner samples that highlight RCT methodological techniques. Then, we introduce the trial of Support Matters and discuss obstacles and efforts to overcome those obstacles. Results and Conclusions: We focus on factors related to sampling frame, participant eligibility, sample size, engagement, and attrition. We conclude with general recommendations related to project delays, compromised research sites, and retention. This article provides guidance based on lessons learned from an RCT of a social support intervention with releasing prisoners and their loved ones. Barriers discussed and recommendations presented here will help interventionists develop and implement RCTs in prison to community contexts. Language: en
Chemical Vapor Deposition of Metal Borides, 4: The Application of Polyhedral Boron Clusters to the Chemical Vapor Deposition Formation of Gadolinium Boride Thin‐film Materials

The chemical vapor deposition of high-quality polycrystalline thin films of gadolinium hexaboride, GdB 6 , was achieved through the vacuum copyrolysis of gas-phase boron hydride clusters, such as nido-pentaborane(9) [B 5 H 9 ] and nidodecaborane(14) [B 10 H 14 ], and gadolinium(III) chloride. These films typically displayed deep blue colors, were very hard and adhered very well to most deposition substrates. Depositions were carried out on a variety of substrates including quartz, copper, silicon, SiO 2 and ceramic materials. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopic data showed the formation of highly crystalline materials with a strongly preferred orientation in the (111) direction. Attempted depositions of gadolinium boride films on CaF 2 (111) resulted in the apparent formation of a ternary (Ca/Gd)B 6 phase in which the calcium is presumably substituted for gadolinium atoms in the cubic GdB 6 structure. The gadolinium boride thin films were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray emission spectroscopy (XES), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and glow-discharge mass spectrometry (GDMS). GDMS showed that the GdB 6 films were relatively uniform in composition in the bulk material.
Catalytic Macrocyclization of 3,3-Dimethylthietane by Re2(CO)9(SCH2CMe2CH2)

The reaction of Re2(CO)9(NCMe), 1, with 3,3-dimethylthietane (SCH2CMe2CH2, 3,3-DMT) yielded the complex Re2(CO)9(SCH2CMe2CH2), 2. Compound 2 has been found to react with 3,3-DMT at 100 °C to yield the polythioether macrocycles 3,3,7,7,11,11-hexamethyl-1,5,9-trithiacyclododecane, 3 (Me612S3), 3,3,7,7,11,11,15,15-octamethyl-1,5,9,13-tetrathiacyclohexadecane, 4 (Me816S4), and 3,3,7,7,11,11,15,15,19,19-decamethyl-1,5,9,13,17-pentathiacycloeicosane, 5 (Me1020S5), catalytically, but the activity and yields of the macrocycles are low. High molecular weight oligomers of 3,3-DMT are the principal products. A macrocyclization mechanism consisting of a metal-induced ring-opening cyclooligomerization of three, four, and five molecules of 3,3-DMT, respectively, is proposed. The reaction of 3 with CpMn(CO)3 in the presence of UV irradiation yielded the complex CpMn(CO)2(η1-Me612S3), 6. The molecular structures of each of the macrocycles 3, 4, and 5 and the complexes 2 and 6 were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffr...
Chronic bilirubin encephalopathy: diagnosis and outcome

Chronic bilirubin encephalopathy (kernicterus) can be diagnosed using semi-objective criteria based on history, physical and neurological examination and laboratory findings including auditory brainstem responses and magnetic resonance imaging. Classical kernicterus is a well-described clinical tetrad of (i) abnormal motor control, movements and muscle tone, (ii) an auditory processing disturbance with or without hearing loss, (iii) oculomotor impairments, especially impairment of upward vertical gaze, and (iv) dysplasia of the enamel of deciduous teeth. Subtle kernicterus or bilirubin-induced neurologic dysfunction (BIND) refers to individuals with subtle neurodevelopmental disabilities without classical findings of kernicterus that, after careful evaluation and consideration, appear to be due to bilirubin neurotoxicity. Kernicterus can be further classified as auditory predominant or motor predominant and characterized based on the severity of clinical sequelae. Proposed research definitions for kernicterus diagnosis in infants from 3 to 18 months are reviewed, as are treatments of auditory and motor deficits and other complications of bilirubin encephalopathy.
Worker policing in the honeybee

IN most species of social Hymenoptera with queen–worker dimorphism, workers cannot mate but retain functional ovaries1; because males arise from unfertilized haploid eggs, workers can potentially produce males. Worker-derived males are frequent in some species, but in others occur only in queenless colonies2,3. Workers are more related to their own sons (coefficient of 0.5) than to the queen's sons (their brothers; 0.25); they are also more related to nephews (0.375) than brothers if queens mate with one male, but if queens mate with more than two unrelated males a worker's mean rela tedness to nephews is less than to brothers3–5. In this case workers could benefit by 'worker policing'3,5: prevent-ing each other from producing males, perhaps by destroying worker-laid eggs or by aggression toward reproductive workers. Worker reproduction is rare in queenright colonies of species with multiply mated queens (such as honeybees6 and some yellowjacket wasps7), but is common in some monandrous species (bumblebees and stingless bees3). Here we describe experiments showing strong discrimination by honeybee (Apis mellifera) workers against worker-laid male eggs, supporting the worker-policing hypothesis. The honeybee was studied because queens mate with 10–20 males8, making worker policing seem likely as a cause for the rarity of worker-derived males (about one in a thousand males is worker-derived6).
“Stimulate the phagocytes!” Fascin-ating! Are DCs actin' up?

[Comment on Geyeregger et al, page 4288][1]Geyeregger and colleagues demonstrate that liver X receptor agonists can down-regulate human dendritic cell activation of T cells at the level of the immune synapse. G. B. Shaw's play, A Doctor's Dilemma , honored the concepts of phagocytosis (large-
Effect of aminotriazole on thyroid function in the rat.

Abstract These studies were designed to determine the minimal dietary dose of aminotriazole (ATZ) producing a measurable effect on activity of the thyroid gland of male rats. At 0.5 ppm in food, no effect was observed on any of 7 separate measures of thyroid function studied. However, at 2 ppm in food, 2 of 16 separate measures of thyroid function were affected significantly. At 10 ppm in food, 3 of 16 measures were affected significantly while at 50 ppm, 5 of 16 measures were affected significantly. Hence, the dose of ATZ affecting activity of the thyroid gland lies somewhere between 0.50 and 2 ppm. ATZ acts on the thyroid gland by inhibiting uptake of radioactive iodide. Interrelationships among the various measures of thyroid activity were also studied by means of a correlation matrix. The measure correlating best with the others was uptake of 131 I by the thyroid gland excised 24 hours after administration of the isotope.
Potentiometric electrode measurement of serum antibodies based on the complement fixation test

Abstract Trimethylphenylaminoniuin-selective electrodes are used in the measurement of serum antibodies to bovine serum albumin, with serum complement and sensitized, marker-loaded sheep red blood cell ghosts as mediators. The result is a sensitive and reproducible assay system for the antibody in the presence of its antigen. In addition, the method described is shown to be valuable for basic studies of immune complex—complement interactions.
AAC outcomes for children and youths with severe disabilities: when seeing is believing

This paper highlights several issues related to the concept of efficacy, particularly with respect to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) outcomes for children and youths with severe disabilities. The author recounts examples of his past and present research interests, using these to operationalize constructs such as treatment efficiency and interaction effects. The pitfalls of naturalistic research are discussed, along with some specific protocols and considerations that may be helpful in appraising AAC outcomes without compromising validity.
Application of Screw Theory to Rigid Body Dynamics

This paper applies screw theory to the dynamic analysis of a rigid body in general spatial motion. Particular emphasis is placed upon the geometric interpretation of the velocity screw, the momentum screw, and the force screw which provide valuable physical insight into the dynamic behavior of the rigid body. The geometric relation between the velocity screw and the momentum screw is discussed in some detail. The paper shows that the dual angle between the two screws provides insight into the kinetics of the rigid body. The dynamic state of motion of the body is then described by a dual vector equation, referred to as the dual Euler equation
Can 3D virtual world environments and game-based learning effectively teach computer science concepts? (abstract only)

MOOCs, 3D virtual world environments, game-based learning, simulations, digital story telling, and other learning-focused digital interactions hold tremendous potential for presenting information science concepts and problem-solving strategies to the generations of the 21st century. We use them to present both theoretical and practical concepts in an engaging manner, tailored to specific age groups and at many levels of abstraction. An abundance of recent projects have examined these individually and brought to light many common concerns. This session explores several interrelated questions: How can these varied activities can be integrated to effectively teach programming concepts, problem solving strategies, and programming skills at age- and discipline-appropriate levels? Do interactive digital simulations and visualizations facilitate construction of the mental models underlying computing concepts? What assessments will be effective in determining whether we are achieving our knowledge- and skill-related goals? How are these tools related to student learning styles and learning objectives? How can these artifacts be disseminated and sustained in the context of dynamic delivery platforms? This brainstorming session is an opportunity to share ideas and explore future collaborations.
Effects of cytochalasin B on polymorphonuclear leucocyte locomotion, phagocytosis and glycolysis☆

Abstract Observations have been made on the inhibitory action of cytochalasin B (CB) on locomotion, phagocytosis and glycolysis in human, horse, and rabbit polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs). Locomotion in all three species was suppressed by as little as 0.3 μg/ml CB and completely blocked by 3 μg/ml, as judged by direct observation or by a Millipore filter assay system. Phagocytosis was evaluated morphologically as well as in a bactericidal system. Three μg/ml CB suppressed, but did not completely block, phagocytosis by horse and human cells; increasing the concentration of CB to 40 μg/ml exerted little additional suppression of phagocytic capacity. Rabbit exudate cells ingested and killed certain species of bacteria Staph. aureus or Salmonella less effectively than did horse or human cells; in these instances CB did not alter the killing rate significantly CB did inhibit the killing of E. coli by rabbit cells. Three μg/ml CB resulted in a partial inhibition of several glycolytic parameters, i.e., glucose utilization, lactate production, and CO2 production from C-1 or C-6 labeled glucose. These parameters were inhibited more than 75 % by 10 μg/ml CB. Studies made thus far indicate that CB probably suppresses glycolysis by interfering with glucose transport or phosphorylation. Comparison of the inhibition of various parameters by CB and by other metabolic inhibitors suggests that the glycolytic inhibition by CB is probably not the primary drug action responsible for the altered locomotion and phagocytosis.
Few-photon switching via two-photon absorption in Rb-filled photonic bandgap fibers

We show 40% all-optical modulation with 1 nW total power via non-degenerate two-photon absorption in Rb vapor confined to a photonic bandgap fiber. This corresponds to 12 photons of switching energy.
Antibodies from patients with Parkinson's disease react with protein modified by dopamine oxidation

To determine whether specific antibodies are present in PD, we used an enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) that identifies increased immunoglobulin (IgG) levels towards a synthetic substrate prepared by incubating ovalbumin with dopamine and copper sulfate. Altered absorption spectrum and specific chemical detection demonstrated quinone modification of the ovalbumin. This modified protein was demonstrated to react with serial dilutions of PD sera. A threshold dilution of 1:500 was subsequently used to screen sera from patients with PD (n = 21), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (n = 7), Alzheimer's disease (n = 7) and other neurological disease controls (n = 7). The assay produced a positive result in 7/21 PD patients and 0/21 disease controls (P < 0.02, Kruskal–Wallis test). Further testing of sera from untreated PD patients (n = 6) identified one positive sample. Thus, a subset of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients has immunoglobulin (IgG) to ovalbumin modified by dopamine oxidation. The presence of antibody reactivity to quinone-modified proteins could contribute to or amplify the inflammatory response in PD. J. Neurosci. Res. 53:551–558, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Assay of glycogen phosphorylase in isolated fat cells of the rat

Abstract A sensitive fluorometric assay for glycogen phosphorylase (alpha-1,4-glucon: orthophosphate glucosyl transferase; E.C. 2.4.1.1) was applied to the rat isolated fat cells. Phosphorylase activity was proportional to time and the amount of tissue. Maximum activity was observed at pH values of 6.5 and 7.0. The assay had an absolute requirement for glycogen and inorganic phosphate, thus appearing to be specific for glycogen phosphorylase. Activation of phosphorylase by catecholamines, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and the dibutyryl derivative of cyclic 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate was observed when these agents were incubated with intact fat cells. Serotonin failed to activate the enzyme. When epinephrine was incubated with broken cells, no activation of phosphorylase occurred.
Managed Business Artifacts

Traditionally disparate approaches have been used for business process modeling and business process monitoring. The connections are often achieved through IT-level models e.g. state machine models. In this paper we provide a unified model - managed business artifacts - that captures the process modeling and monitoring concerns. We establish the connections through a business-level model. The concepts are illustrated through a simple example of the job application process.
Chitosan but Not Chitin Activates the Inflammasome by a Mechanism Dependent upon Phagocytosis

Chitin is an abundant polysaccharide found in fungal cell walls, crustacean shells, and insect exoskeletons. The immunological properties of both chitin and its deacetylated derivative chitosan are of relevance because of frequent natural exposure and their use in medical applications. Depending on the preparation studied and the end point measured, these compounds have been reported to induce allergic responses, inflammatory responses, or no response at all. We prepared highly purified chitosan and chitin and examined the capacity of these glycans to stimulate murine macrophages to release the inflammasome-associated cytokine IL-1β. We found that although chitosan was a potent NLRP3 inflammasome activator, acetylation of the chitosan to chitin resulted in a near total loss of activity. The size of the chitosan particles played an important role, with small particles eliciting the greatest activity. An inverse relationship between size and stimulatory activity was demonstrated using chitosan passed through size exclusion filters as well as with chitosan-coated beads of defined size. Partial digestion of chitosan with pepsin resulted in a larger fraction of small phagocytosable particles and more potent inflammasome activity. Inhibition of phagocytosis with cytochalasin D abolished the IL-1β stimulatory activity of chitosan, offering an explanation for why the largest particles were nearly devoid of activity. Thus, the deacetylated polysaccharide chitosan potently activates the NLRP3 inflammasome in a phagocytosis-dependent manner. In contrast, chitin is relatively inert.
Evaluating the Economic Impact of International Remittances On Developing Countries Using Household Surveys: A Literature Review

This literature review covers 50 recent empirical studies of the economic impact of international remittances on the developing world that are based on household survey data. It begins by reviewing...
n-Dodecyl β-D-maltoside specifically competes with general anesthetics for anesthetic binding sites.

We recently demonstrated that the anionic detergent sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) specifically interacts with the anesthetic binding site in horse spleen apoferritin, a soluble protein which models anesthetic binding sites in receptors. This raises the possibility of other detergents similarly interacting with and occluding such sites from anesthetics, thereby preventing the proper identification of novel anesthetic binding sites. n-Dodecyl β-D-maltoside (DDM) is a non-ionic detergent commonly used during protein-anesthetic studies because of its mild and non-denaturing properties. In this study, we demonstrate that SDS and DDM occupy anesthetic binding sites in the model proteins human serum albumin (HSA) and horse spleen apoferritin and thereby inhibit the binding of the general anesthetics propofol and isoflurane. DDM specifically interacts with HSA (Kd = 40 μM) with a lower affinity than SDS (Kd = 2 μM). DDM exerts all these effects while not perturbing the native structures of either model protein. Co...
Optimal Neural Spike Classification

Being able to record the electrical activities of a number of neurons simultaneously is likely to be important in the study of the functional organization of networks of real neurons. Using one extracellular microelectrode to record from several neurons is one approach to studying the response properties of sets of adjacent and therefore likely related neurons. However, to do this, it is necessary to correctly classify the signals generated by these different neurons. This paper considers this problem of classifying the signals in such an extracellular recording, based upon their shapes, and specifically considers the classification of signals in the case when spikes overlap temporally.
Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor–associated Protein: A Novel Modulator of Angiotensin II Actions in the Nephron

See related article, pp 1203–1210 Most physiological actions of angiotensin (Ang) II are mediated by its binding to the Ang II type 1 receptors (AT1R). These include, but are not limited to, vasoconstriction, increased renal sodium and water reabsorption, as well as the stimulation of aldosterone release, thirst, vasopressin secretion, and cell growth. Not surprisingly, the biochemistry of the AT1R has been a subject of intense research for >30 years. These studies revealed that the cytoplasmic tail of the AT1R is an important site for several protein-to-protein interactions, phosphorylation, and thereby the regulation of receptor signaling, desensitization, and endocytosis.1 Accordingly, considerable efforts have been made to identify and to study molecules with affinity to this region; one of such molecules is the angiotensin receptor–associated protein (ATRAP). ATRAP is an 18-kDa protein that was first identified and cloned in 1999 using a yeast 2-hybrid assay.2 Successive in vitro studies showed that ATRAP lacks catalytic activity.3 Instead, ATRAP is a membrane protein with 3 predicted transmembrane domains and a cytoplasmic tail that is important for its interactions with the carboxyl terminal of the AT1R.3 ATRAP colocalizes with the AT1R mostly in intracellular compartments, it induces AT1R internalization and reduces its signaling.2,3 Thus, available data indicate that ATRAP is a negative modulator of AT1R activity. ATRAP is made by many organs, including the heart, testis, and adrenal glands. However, by far the kidneys are the site of highest expression.2 Studies using gene targeting technology have provided valuable insights into the …
Therapeutic Chorale for Persons with Chronic Mental Illness: A Descriptive Survey of Participant Experiences

The purpose of this survey was to assess the relationship between participation in a bilingual therapeutic performance choir and the reported quality of life for persons living with a chronic psychiatric illness. The participants were 16 volunteers who ranged in age from 32-65, had a diagnosis of a major mental illness, and were members of an existing choir within a psychiatric outpatient department of a large urban general hospital. Participants completed a self-reported quality of life questionnaire designed by the researcher using Likert scales, a check list, and qualitative questions. Results demonstrated that aspects of participants' lives that they perceived were most positively affected by choir membership included self-esteem, emotional expression, mood alteration, coping with stress, comfort level within in the group, and the establishment of a regular routine. Implications for the use of choirs as a therapeutic medium and limitations of the study were discussed.
A detached pole tip design of perpendicular write heads for high data-rate recording

Single pole perpendicular recording heads with track width below 100 nm have been examined using three-dimensional dynamic micromagnetic modeling, with focus on the dynamic field reversal and the head relaxation process. A head laminated through the thickness with the pole tip detached from the yoke shows very fast field response to the driving current, well repeatable domain configurations, instantaneous field relaxation after writing as well as robust near-zero remanent field.
Influence of social factors on immune function and reproduction

Animals are presented with continuous energy demands that vary seasonally. For example, during the winter many small mammals and birds inhibit reproduction and growth and funnel energy into thermogenesis or cellular maintenance. As energy shortages become more severe, survival may become compromised because processes such as immune function and thermogenesis are impaired. Thus, there are trade-offs between energetically expensive processes such as reproduction and immune function. In this review, the immune function and reproduction of seasonally breeding species are evaluated in relation to social interactions. It is proposed that individuals maintain the highest degree of immune function that is energetically possible within the constraints of other survival needs, as well as growth and reproduction, in habitats in which energy requirements and availability often fluctuate. It is hypothesized that extrinsic factors, such as social environment, modulate energy allocation to reproductive and immune function and that hormonal mechanisms underlie the partitioning of energy to various physiological components.
Compendium of Test Results of Single Event Effects Conducted by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

This paper reports heavy ion and proton induced single event effects results for a variety of microelectronic devices targeted for possible use in NASA spacecrafts. The compendium covers a sampling of devices tested over the past eight years.
MIXED VENOUS OXYGENATION IN FATAL GRAM-NEGATIVE SEPTICEMIA

Changes in mixed venous and arterial PO2 values were examined during the early, middle and late stages of fatal gram-negative septicemia in seven patients. The early stage of septicemia was characterized by tachycardia (mean rate 108/min), mild hypotension (mean arterial pressure (MAP) 83 mmHg), arterial hypoxemia requiring supplemental oxygen therapy, and high, low or normal mixed venous PO2 (mean 37 mmHg). During the middle stage, hypotension was severe (MAP 67 mmHg) and mixed venous PO2 invariably rose (mean 50 mmHg). Arterial PO2 increased in association with the rise in mixed venous PO2, despite constant FIO2 and expired ventilation. Severe metabolic acidosis developed in six of the seven patients. In the final stage, mixed venous PO2 was normal (mean 42 mmHg) in the presence of continuing metabolic acidosis. We postulate that the elevations of mixed venous PO2 seen result from systemic arterial-venous shunting, and that during septicemia, the mixed venous PO2 is an unreliable index of tissue oxygenation. A theoretical model of the relationship of tissue oxygenation and mixed venous oxygenation in septicemia, based upon the above study, is presented.
Architecture of a modular streaming media server for content delivery networks

A mobile streaming media content delivery network can facilitate the access of rich multimedia streams by mobile users on next generation wireless networks. A principal component of this network is the edge servers that cooperate to provide streaming functionalities. This paper describes some of the design requirements for such servers. It then describes the architecture of such a streaming content, a modular design, and an intelligent scheduler for providing better video quality in varying network conditions. Finally, preliminary performance results are shown.
Disordered Eating and Body Image in Cystic Fibrosis

The pressures patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) face in managing their disease through diet (i.e., high calorie and fat intake), weight, and exercise may trigger body image and eating concerns. This chapter describes the most recent literature on body image and disordered eating among those with CF. Treatment strategies and interventions aimed at screening for and reducing body dissatisfaction and disordered eating also are discussed. Overall, health care providers and families need to be aware of the body image concerns and disordered eating behaviors sometimes endorsed among those with CF and regularly monitor patient psychosocial well-being in the efforts to improve CF prognosis and survival.
HIV Tat controls RNA Polymerase II and the epigenetic landscape to transcriptionally reprogram target immune cells

HIV encodes Tat, a small protein that facilitates viral transcription by binding an RNA structure (trans-activating RNA [TAR]) formed on nascent viral pre-messenger RNAs. Besides this well-characterized mechanism, Tat appears to modulate cellular transcription, but the target genes and molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. We report here that Tat uses unexpected regulatory mechanisms to reprogram target immune cells to promote viral replication and rewire pathways beneficial for the virus. Tat functions through master transcriptional regulators bound at promoters and enhancers, rather than through cellular 'TAR-like' motifs, to both activate and repress gene sets sharing common functional annotations. Despite the complexity of transcriptional regulatory mechanisms in the cell, Tat precisely controls RNA polymerase II recruitment and pause release to fine-tune the initiation and elongation steps in target genes. We propose that a virus with a limited coding capacity has optimized its genome by evolving a small but 'multitasking' protein to simultaneously control viral and cellular transcription.
Response to Letter Regarding Article, “Familial Clustering of Mitral Valve Prolapse in the Community”

We thank Dr Barison and colleagues for their interest in our article.1 In our manuscript, we demonstrate that both parental mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and parental mild, nondiagnostic MVP are associated with increased prevalence of MVP in the offspring in the Framingham Heart Study community. In their letter, Barison et al underline the importance of age when assessing MVP prevalence, stating that MVP is more common among older participants in the offspring or generation 2 (Gen 2) than in the younger generation 3 (Gen 3). Based on published Framingham Heart Study literature,2 the prevalence of MVP in Gen 2 is 2.4% at their fifth examination cycle. This percentage is slightly higher in the same cohort at their sixth examination cycle (98/3380 or 2.9%) and at their eighth examination cycle (94/2725 or 3.4%; ie, 11 to 17 years …
Decentering the Firm: The Limited Liability Company and Low Wage Immigrant Women Workers

Congress is now considering radical changes to the immigration system. This article looks at the immigration issue as a labor and employment law question, and proposes a possible solution based on this approach. I suggest that forming Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) will benefit low-wage immigrant women workers by transforming them into business owners. By using existing legal structures to their benefit, low-wage women workers can curtail at least a portion of the exploitation that they currently experience. Instead of being hired to perform a job, having the intermediary take a cut, and then pay them some amount out of that, with an LLC structure, the LLC receives the income, and the intermediary receives a set salary. By becoming members of the LLC, workers can also purchase group benefits, such as health insurance, and better control over their working environments.
Pyrazinetetracarboxamide: A Duplex Ligand for Palladium(II)

Tetraethylpyrazine-2,3,5,6-tetracarboxamide forms a dipalladium(II) complex with acetates occupying the fourth coordination sites of the two bound metal ions. Crystallographic results indicate that the "duplex" dipincer has captured two protons that serve as the counterions. The protons lie between adjacent amide carbonyl groups with very short O···O distances of 2.435(5) A. In the free base, the adjacent carbonyl groups are farther apart, averaging 3.196(3) A. While the dipalladium(II) complexes stack in an ordered stepwise fashion along the a axis, the free base molecules stack on top of each other, with each pincer rotated by about 60° from the one below.
Buddhist psychology: A Western interpretation.

This chapter provides a Western psychological interpretation of the fundamentals of Buddhist thought with special attention to integration with cognitive science, behaviour modification, psychoanalysis, and transpersonal psychology (Mikulas, 2007). To help, a few conceptualizations are drawn from the author's integrated psychology, called Conjunctive Psychology (Mikulas, 2002). The expression “essential Buddhism” is used to mean the fundamental principles of Buddhist thought that are traditionally attributed to the historical Buddha and are recognised as basic to all major schools of Buddhism. Insightful understanding of essential Buddhism has been continually stressed from the Buddha through to the current Dalai Lama. Essential Buddhism deals with many psychological topics, such as sensation, perception, emotion, motivation, cognition, mind, and consciousness. Levine (2000) suggests a number of commonalities between Buddhism and Western psychology. Both are concerned with alleviating human suffering and focus on the human condition and interpret it in natural rather than religious terms. Both see humans as caught in a matrix of forces, including cravings and drives, based in biology and beliefs. Both teach the appropriateness of compassion, concern, and unconditional positive regard toward all beings. Besides this both share the ideal of maturing and growth. And both acknowledge that the mind functions at a superficial and deep level. Basic Constructs There are some crucial concepts that may be considered the basic constructs of essential Buddhism. These were all first introduced in the Buddha's classic discourse about the Four Noble Truths, which includes the Eightfold Path (Rahula, 1974). Although the discussion here is from a Western psychological perspective and different from what is found in the traditional Buddhist literature, everything we believe is totally compatible with essential Buddhism.