cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Responses of intercostal muscle biopsies from normal subjects and patients with myasthenia gravis.

In order to evaluate the mechanisms of weakness in muscles of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG), intercostal muscle biopsies were obtained from 9 normal subjects and 6 MG patients, and the compound muscle action potential (AP) and tension responses to nerve and muscle stimulation, and contracture responses on exposure to caffeine, were monitored in vitro. In normal muscle, on stimulation of the nerve or muscle at 30 to 100 Hz, the AP responses showed decrement in amplitude, one-third of which was attributable to failure of neuromuscular transmission and two-thirds to failure of muscle membrane excitation. On stimulation at 1 to 5 Hz, the AP responses showed very little decrement, while the contractile responses showed significant fade in tension, due to failure of E-C coupling or contractility. In muscle from patients with generalized MG, stimulation of the nerve at all frequencies (1 to 100 Hz) caused much greater decrement in APs and fade in tension responses than in normal muscle, due mainly to failure of neuromuscular transmission. However, at 100 Hz, 40% of the decrement in APs was due to failure of muscle membrane excitation, and at 1 to 5 Hz, 40% of the fade in tension was due to failure of E-C coupling or contractility, as in normal muscle. On direct stimulation the contraction and half-relaxation times were slower and the tetanic tension was smaller than in normal muscle, especially in the MG patient with thymoma. Caffiene-induced contractures were smaller in MG muscle than in normal muscle. These results indicate that while the weakness of MG muscle than in normal muscle. These results indicate that while the weakness of MG muscle is due mainly to failure of neuromuscular transmission, it is also partly due to reduced E-C coupling or contractility.
Sound Radiation From a Propeller in a Submerged Rib-Stiffened Duct

This paper examines the interaction of nonuniform flows with propeller blades in a submerged elastic duct. The acoustic radiation from the duct is calculated and correlated to the flow nonuniformities and the propeller and duct characteristics. The case of a stiffened duct with ribs is also considered and the dispersion relation of the duct modes is compared with that of a regular duct. The dispersion relation of the stiffened duct has a periodic structure similar to that of connected oscillators with large number of independent modes. Because of our interest in the acoustic radiation of such a system, we focus our attention on the flexure modes. The model is first tested with simple internal forces such as monopoles and dipoles. The results for unstiffened ducts show strong directivity as the dipole radial location moves closer to the duct wall. For stiffened ducts, the magnitude of the acoustic response as well as the directivity vary strongly and show large peaks near the stiffened duct free modes. For a propeller, an Euler code provides the pressure distribution along the blades. This represents the dipole strength distribution. Its radiated sound is calculated by summing up the contribution of the distributed dipoles. In this process, compact source effects are also taken into account.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Biodegradation of Naphthalene-Contaminated Soils in Slurry Bioreactors

The effects of naphthalene concentrations and soil constituents (sand, clay, organic matter) on biodegrading naphthalene-contaminated soils using an acclimated Flavobacterium sp. were examined in c...
When Diseases Disappear — The Case of Familial Dysautonomia

The incidence of familial dysautonomia has decreased precipitously since population screening began in 2001. Dr. Barron Lerner writes that the potential disappearance of new cases of a disease raises profound questions.
Synthesis of Path Generation Compliant Mechanisms Using Variable Width Spline Curves

Path generation is to guide a point tracing a prescribed path. Compliant mechanisms (CMs) have been synthesized for path generation mechanisms. In this paper, each connection in a synthesized CM is represented as a variable width spline curve and the entire synthesized CM is modeled as a set of variable width spline curves. The synthesis of a path generation CM is systemized as the optimization of control parameters of a set of variable width spline curves. A variable width spline curve is a center spline curve with variable perpendicular width. The center spline curve is for the shape description of its represented connection while variable width is for the size of the connection. The shape and size of a variable width spline curve is defined by its interpolation circles. The locations of interpolation circles are utilized as interpolation nodes of the center spline curve for connection shape and the diameters of interpolations circles are interpolated for connection size. The centers of all interpolation circles in a synthesized CM form a network of nodes. The network of nodes decides the topology of the synthesized CM and can be classified based on degree of genus (DOG). The presented synthesis approach is demonstrated by synthesizing CMs with different DOGs to generate curved paths.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Thermogenomics: Thermodynamic-based approaches to genomic analyses of DNA structure

The postgenomic era is all about learning about function by comparing genomic sequences within and between organisms. This review describes an approach that applies detailed thermodynamic information, as opposed to sequence motif searches, to analyze genomes (thermogenomics) for the occurrence of sequences with the potential to form left-handed Z-DNA and those that bind the eukaryotic nuclear factor I (NFI) transcriptional regulators. Such thermogenomic strategies allow us to address the questions of whether Z-DNA forming sequences can potentially function in regulating transcription of eukaryotic genes and how such function may emerge relative to other GC-rich elements, such as NFI recognition sites, to become a transcriptional coactivator.
A unitary cause for the exclusion of Na+ and other solutes from living cells, suggested by effluxes of Na+, D-arabinose, and sucrose from normal, dying, and dead muscles.

The effluxes of labelled Na(+), D-arabinose, and sucrose from normal muscle and muscle poisoned with low concentrations of iodoacetate were studied. The procedure involved repeated loading with isotope, followed by washing of the same muscle while still normal and at different stages of dying. The rates of Na(+) efflux in both the fast and slow fraction remained either quite constant or showed some unpredictable, minor fluctuations. This was true for both Na(+) and the two sugars studied, confirming earlier conclusions that the steady levels of these solutes were not maintained by pumps. In all cases studied, the efflux curves showed at least two fractions. It is the fast-exchanging fraction that steadily and consistently increased in magnitude as the muscles were dying, until finally the concentration of solute in this fraction reached and sometimes surpassed the labelled solute concentrations in the original labelled solutions in which the muscles were equilibrated. The slow fractions showed only a transient increase or none at all. These observations show that it is the fast fraction that represents solute dissolved in cell water and rate-limited by passage through the cell surface and that the partial exclusion of Na(+) and the sugars have a unitary cause -more » a reduced solubility in the cell water which in the presence of ATP exists in the state of polarized multilayers.« less
Group Care for Children in California: Trends in the '90s

Based upon a cross-sectional mailed survey of all group home providers in the state of California, this study provides current information on the size of group home settings, the cost of care, and the staffing in various group home arrangements. Issues such as staff turnover are discussed in addition to the need for a commitment to ethnic and cultural diversity among staff. Agency administrators' views of the future trends in group home care are provided along with recommendations for change.
Loss of nuclear p27 (CDKN1B/KIP1) in colorectal cancer is correlated with microsatellite instability and CIMP.

Downregulation of p27 (cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor-1B, CDKN1B or KIP1) is caused by increased ubiquitin-mediated proteasomal degradation in colorectal cancer, and has been associated with poor prognosis. CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) is a phenotype of colorectal cancer with extensive promoter methylation, and associated with high degree of microsatellite instability (MSI-H) and BRAF mutations. We have recently shown that both CIMP and MSI-H are inversely associated with downregulation of p21 (CDKN1A or CIP1), another cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor. However, no study to date has examined relationship between p27 and CIMP status in colorectal cancer. Using MethyLight assays, we measured DNA methylation in five CIMP-specific gene promoters {CACNA1G, CDKN2A (p16), CRABP1, MLH1 and NEUROG1} in 706 colorectal cancer samples obtained from two large prospective cohorts. Among the 706 tumors, 112 (16%) were CIMP-high tumors with ≥4/5 methylated promoters. We assessed p27 and p53 expressions by immunohistochemistry. Loss of nuclear p27 expression {observed in 231 tumors (33%)} was significantly associated with CIMP-high, MSI-H and BRAF mutations, and these associations were much more pronounced among p53-negative tumors than p53-positive tumors. When CIMP-high and non-CIMP-high tumors were stratified by MSI status (or KRAS and BRAF status), CIMP-high and MSI-H (but not BRAF mutations) were still significantly associated with nuclear p27 loss. Nuclear p27 loss did not appear to be directly related to CDKN2A (p16) methylation. We conclude that downregulation of nuclear p27 is associated with CIMP-high and MSI-H in colorectal cancer. These associations are stronger among p53 wild-type tumors, implying important interplay of p27 and p53 functions (or dysfunctions) in the development of various molecular subtypes of colorectal cancer.
Small power: Autonomous nano- and micromotors propelled by self-generated gradients

Summary In this article we review the development, current status and future prospects of nano- and microscale motors propelled by locally generated fields and chemical gradients. These motors move autonomously in fluids by converting different sources of energy into mechanical work. Most commonly they are particles that are similar in their largest dimensions to bacteria (a few microns) or eukaryotic cells (10–20 μm). Their shapes and compositions are designed to break symmetry in some way to create a local gradient (chemical, acoustic, thermal, etc.). A few important principles are introduced for readers to understand the physics of powered movement on small length scales. Interesting collective and emergent behaviors, as well as current and developing applications of these motors are also reviewed. Nano- and micromotors that are propelled by other mechanisms such as bubble recoil and magnetic induction are also briefly discussed.
Two ammonium templated gallophosphates: synthesis and structure determination from powder diffraction data of 2D and 3D-GAPON

Abstract Two new ammonium templated gallophosphates have been synthesized solvothermally using mixtures of ethylene glycol and water as solvent. The structure of both phases was determined from X-ray powder diffraction data. [Ga(PO 4 )(OH)] − ·[NH 4 ] + (2D-GAPON) crystallizes in monoclinic symmetry, space-group P2 1 / m with cell parameters a =8.564(1) A, b =6.0387(8) A, c =4.4883(6) A, β =98.05(1)° and V =229.84(3) A 3 . Its two-dimensional structure consists of infinite anionic layers separated by ammonium cations. [Ga 2 (PO 4 ) 3 ] 3− ·3[NH 4 ] + (3D-GAPON) has monoclinic symmetry, space-group C2 / c , with unit cell dimensions a =13.462(2) A, b =10.301(1) A, c =8.992(1) A, β =111.28(1)° and V =1161.9(6) A 3 . Its three-dimensional structure contains constricted elliptical channels running along the c axis, which host the ammonium ions.
Profile of RGS expression in single rat atrial myocytes.

Abstract ‘Regulators of G protein signaling’ (RGS proteins) are members of a large family of GTPase-activating proteins that are differentially expressed in various cell types and accelerate the termination of heterotrimeric G protein signaling. To identify RGS proteins that may affect autonomic regulation of atrial excitability, we screened the expression of nineteen RGS genes (RGS subfamilies A, B, C, and D) in single spontaneously beating rat atrial myocytes maintained in primary culture. Expression profiling by single-cell reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) analysis revealed that seven distinct RGS genes are endogenously expressed in atrial myocytes which were also identified in poly(A) + mRNA from rat atria (RGS2, RGS3, RGS4, RGS6, RGS10, GAIP, and RGSZ2). Other RGS transcripts were detected in atrial poly(A) + mRNA but not single atrial myocytes (RGS5, RGS12, RGS16, and RGS18), and therefore are likely to originate from non-myocyte sources in atrial tissue. The single-cell RT–PCR experiments also led to the identification of putative splice variants for RGS6 and GAIP. Immunocytochemistry using RGS-specific antibodies confirmed the presence of selected RGS proteins in the cultured atrial myocytes. These results demonstrate a rich diversity of RGS expression in atrial myocytes whose specific role in G-protein signaling is yet to be determined. The identification of endogenous RGS proteins in atrial myocytes will facilitate targeted suppression and/or deletion studies to determine how each RGS protein may affect atrial excitability and its short-term and long-term regulation by G-protein signaling events.
Introduction to "Binders Full of Women: Gendered Identities, Experiences, and Institutions"

The title of this special issue of Sociological Spectrum, “Binders Full of Women: Gendered Identities, Experiences, and Institutions,” was prompted by a comment made during the second U.S. presiden...
The Obesity Epidemic: Metabolic Imprinting on Genetically Susceptible Neural Circuits

The apparent obesity epidemic in the industrialized world is not explained completely by increased food intake or decreased energy expenditure. Once obesity develops in genetically predisposed individuals, their obese body weight is avidly defended against chronic caloric restriction. In animals genetically predisposed toward obesity, there are multiple abnormalities of neural function that prime them to become obese when dietary caloric density and quantity are raised. Once obesity is fully developed, these abnormalities largely disappear. This suggests that obesity might be the normal state for such individuals. Formation of new neural circuits involved in energy homeostasis might underlie the near permanence of the obese body weight. Such neural plasticity can occur during both nervous system development and in adult life. Maternal diabetes, obesity, and undernutrition have all been associated with obesity in the offspring of such mothers, especially in genetically predisposed individuals. Altered brain neural circuitry and function often accompanies such obesity. This enhanced obesity may then be passed on to subsequent generations in a feed-forward, upward spiral of increasing body weight across generations. Such findings suggest a form of “metabolic imprinting” upon genetically predisposed neural circuits involved in energy homeostasis. Centrally acting drugs used for obesity treatment lower the defended body weight and alter the function of neural pathways involved in energy homeostasis. But they generally have no permanent effect on body weight or neural function. Thus, early identification of obesity-prone mothers, infants, and adults and treatment of early obesity may be the only way to prevent the formation of permanent neural connections that promote and perpetuate obesity in genetically predisposed individuals.
THE GENUS DIELLIA AND THE VALUE OF CHARACTERS IN DETERMINING FERN AFFINITIES

IN THE CURRENT renaissance of fern taxonomy it vould seem important to emphasize the nature and relative value of the characters which can be used as evidence of relationship. Certain allegedly "conservative" characters, especially features of the sori, the characteristic aggregations of sporangia-such as their position in relation to the veins and leaf margins, their outlines, and protective indusiahave frequently been used as absolute criteria of affinities in the higher leptosporangiate ferns. Another character which has frequently been employed is leaf form-the outline of the blades and leaflets, the venation pattern, and the degree of dissection. These are conspicuous characters, easily seen with the naked eye or under a hand lens. But, unfortunately for the superficial observer, the ferns show numerous and striking, undoubted examples of parallel or convergent evolution in regard to these gross features. In the case of leaf form, the well-known "reniform ferns," for instance, all have leaves which are nearly alike in appearance; but these are entirely unrelated ferns, as illustrated by such species as Adiantum reniforme, Pterozonium reniforme, Cardiomanes reniforme, and Lindsaea reniformis. The sorus, in spite of the fact that much of our classification has been founded on it, is itself equally liable to parallel or convergent evolutionary changes. Indeed, at one time practically all ferns which possess round sori but no indusia were placed in "Polypodium"; and ferns in which the sporangia covered the dorsal pinna surfaces were put in an all-inclusive genu,, "Acrostichum," but now it is evident in case after case that this was an artificial and unnatural disposition. Even so recently as 1928, Bower considered the familiar genus Athyrium as being closely related to Asplenium because these two genera possess approximately the same soral type. However, information available now on such varied characters as scale structure, stipe anatomy, sporangial features, and cytology in the respective genera, rather firmly establishes the fact that the gross soral resemblance is probably only a coincidence, an example of convergent evolution. The purpose of this paper is to discuss and on
Spontaneous recovery rate in traumatic sixth-nerve palsy.

Purpose To estimate the spontaneous recovery rate of isolated traumatic sixth-nerve palsy. Method A retrospective chart review over a 24-year period at a single institution, excluding patients who were first seen more than 6 weeks after injury, to reduce bias toward nonrecovery. Results The Kaplan-Meier survival estimate of spontaneous recovery at 6 months was 27% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5% to 44%) in unilateral traumatic sixth-nerve palsy and 12% (95% CI, 0% to 33%) in bilateral traumatic sixth-nerve palsy. Conclusion Spontaneous recovery from isolated traumatic sixth-nerve palsy may be lower than previously reported. A prospective study is needed to provide a more accurate estimate of recovery rate.
Electrical conductivity of magmatic liquids - Effects of temperature, oxygen fugacity and composition

Abstract The effects of temperature, f O2 and composition on the electrical conductivity of silicate liquids have been experimentally determined from 1200 to 1550°C under a range of f O2 conditions sufficient to change the oxidation state of Fe from predominantly Fe 2+ to Fe 3+ . Oxidation of ferrous to ferric iron in the melt has no measurable effect on the conductivity of melts with relatively low ratios of divalent to univalent cations. Under strongly oxidizing conditions a minor decrease of conductivity is detected inth high ΣM 2 /ΣM + ratios. It is concluded that for purposes of estimating the conductivity of magmatic liquids, f O2 may be ignored to a first approximation. Both univalent and divalent cation transport is involved in electrical conduction. Melts relying heavily on divalent cations for conduction, i.e. melts with relatively large ΣM 2+ /ΣM + ratios, show strong departures from Arrheenius temperature dependence with the apparent activation energies decreasing steadily as the temperature increases. Conductivities dominated by the univalent cations, in melts with relatively small ΣM 2+ /ΣM + ratios, show classical Arrhenius temperature dependence. These observations are discussed in terms of the general characteristics of the melt structure. Compositional variations within the magmatic range account for much less than an order of magnitude variation in electrical conductivity at a fixed temperature. This observation, combined with previous measurements of the conductivity of olivine (A. Duba, H.C. Heard and R. Schock, 1974) make it possible to state with reasonable confidence that melts occurring within the mantle will be more conductive by 3–4 orders of magnitude than their refractory residues. Potential applications to geothermometry are discussed.
A morphometric analysis of the somata and organelles of regenerating hypoglossal motoneurons from the rat

A detailed morphometric evaluation of the somata and organelles of regenerating hypoglossal motoneurons from the rat was conducted. The volume of the hypoglossal nucleus and various parameters used to appraise neuronal size were estimated from 50 μm sections. The subcellular composition of randomly selected neurons was quantified from 1 μm and ultrathin sections. The volume of neuronal nuclei, nucleoli, mitochondria and lysosomes as well as the surface area of intracellular membranes were determined. Seven to 30 days following axotomy the volume of the hypoglossal nucleus was significantly diminished, undoubtedly reflecting dendritic retraction (P < 0.05). Concomitantly, all estimates of neuronal size indicated significant neuronal enlargement (P < 0.05). Ultrastructural alterations were most prominent 7 days following nerve transection: nucleolar volume was significantly increased, rough endoplasmic reticulum surface area was reduced, and non-Golgi smooth membrane surface area increased (P < 0.05). In general, other organelles resisted the influence of axotomy and all ultrastructural parameters returned to control levels 21 to 30 days following the nerve transection. Functional recovery was detected in all animals 21 and 30 days following axotomy. The measured responses of axotomized hypoglossal motoneurons are similar to those reported for retinal ganglion cells of the goldfish (Whitnall & Grafstein, 1982, 1983), suggesting common metabolic events among these distinct neuronal populations following axonal transection.
Specifying distributed multi-agent systems in chemical reaction metaphor

This paper presents an application of Chemical Reaction Metaphor (CRM) in distributed multi-agent systems (MAS). The suitability of using CRM to model multi-agent systems is justified by CRM's capacity in specifying dynamic features of multi-agent systems. A case study in an agent-based e-learning system (course material updating) demonstrates how the CRM based language, Gamma, can be used to specify the architectures of multi-agent systems. The effectiveness of specifying multi-agent systems in CRM from the view point of software engineering is further justified by introducing a transformational method for implementing the specified multi-agent systems. A computation model with a tree-structured architecture is proposed to base the design of the specified multi-agent system during the implementation phase. A module language based on the computation model is introduced as an intermediate language to facilitate the translation of the specification of multi-agent systems. The multicast networking technology pragmatizes the implementation of communications and synchronization among distributed agents. The paper also discusses the feasibility of implementing an automatic translation from the Gamma specification to a program in the module language.
Adaptation of the Introductory Course in Poultry Husbandry

Abstract THE older members of Poultry Science Association are familiar with the problems confronting the instructor in charge of the general or introductory poultry course required of all students in Agrictulture and Veterinary Medicine in the Land Grant Colleges. For the benefit of the younger men, permit me to enumerate some of the problems. Many students who are not interested in the subject are enrolled in required courses. Such courses not only include students of varied interests and activities who expect to major in one of a half-dozen or more different departments, and in veterinary medicine, but the group may often include freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors, which further complicates matters. Some of these students come to class with an excellent foundation in poultry husbandry gained through their 4-H Club or their vocational agriculture experience. Along with these students who are easy to interest, may be others who have no love . . .
Nanofluid acrylate composite resins—initial preparation and characterization

The introduction of solvent-free nanofluids composed of suitably surface functionalized nanoparticles (nanosilica for example) has led to some interesting new materials. Here we show that the process of surface functionalizing with both nanofluid-inducing surface groups and with reactive (acrylate) surface groups produces solvent free nanofluids that can be incorporated in reactive coatings, films, and bulk materials and composites. We demonstrate in this study some composite materials based on our new reactive acrylate-nanofluid and a commercially available tetraacrylate. While it is widely known that addition of fillers and nanoparticles to resins often produces increased storage and elastic moduli, while generally also increasing brittleness, we found in this study that increasing weight fractions of reactive nanofluid in an otherwise very brittle environment, produces materials that are tougher (softer) while maintaining or decreasing storage moduli (depending on whether the loading is small or large). Possible applications include a new class of clearcoat protective overcoats and interesting new materials where softness is a formulation variable, such as in plasticization. In addition, we demonstrate that nanocomposites at high loading may be made thermally responsive in ways the parent polymer matrix is not. AFM surface analyses show that the nanofluid particles exhibit surface activity at the air–polymer interface similar to that observed for interfacial nanoparticles in Pickering emulsions. This surface activity, along with the intrinsic softness of the nanofluid particles, may offer a simple approach to providing intrinsic lubrication for polymeric surfaces subject to frictional shear.
Studies on the mechanism of the suppression of the preovulatory surge of luteinizing hormone in the rat by arginine vasotocin.

The finding that iv injections of 8- arginine vasotocin (AVT) inhibit the preovulatory surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the proestrous rat prompted studies to characterize the physiological mechanisms involved in this process further. Intraventricular injections of AVT (0.2 μg every hour from 1300 to 1600 h) in proestrous rats eliminated the preovulatory LH surges in 75% of the animals and the remaining 25% showed delayed surges. Similar AVT administration at the 0.0001 μg level resulted in complete elimination of the surge in approximately 33% and a delayed surge in 50%. In additional studies, steroid-primed rats 14 days after ovariectomy received 15 μg prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in 5 μl of diluent intraventricularly, producing approximately a 4-fold increase in LH within 10 min. Administration of AVT both iv (doses of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 μg) and intraventricularly (0.1 μg) every 30 min for 90 min before PGE2 injection had no eifect on the LH rise. Electrochemical stimulation with 1000 μA for 30 sec in th...
Geographic Clustering Of Diabetic Lower-Extremity Amputations In Low-Income Regions Of California

For patients suffering from diabetes and other chronic conditions, a large body of work demonstrates income-related disparities in access to coordinated preventive care. Much less is known about associations between poverty and consequential negative health outcomes. Few studies have assessed geographic patterns that link household incomes to major preventable complications of chronic diseases. Using statewide facility discharge data for California in 2009, we identified 7,973 lower-extremity amputations in 6,828 adults with diabetes. We mapped amputations based on residential ZIP codes and used data from the Census Bureau to produce corresponding maps of poverty rates. Comparisons of the maps show amputation “hot spots” in lower-income urban and rural regions of California. Prevalence-adjusted amputation rates varied tenfold between high-income and low-income regions. Our analysis does not support detailed causal inferences. However, our method for mapping complication hot spots using public data sources...
Carrion cycling in food webs: comparisons among terrestrial and marine ecosystems

In light of current global changes to ecosystem function (e.g. climate change, trophic downgrading, and invasive species), there has been a recent surge of interest in exploring differences in nutrient cycling among ecosystem types. In particular, a growing awareness has emerged concerning the importance of scavenging in food web dynamics, although no studies have focused specifically on exploring differences in carrion consumption between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. In this forum we synthesize the scavenging literature to elucidate differences in scavenging dynamics between terrestrial and marine ecosystems, and identify areas where future research is needed to more clearly understand the role of carrion consumption in maintaining ecosystem function within each of these environments. Although scavenging plays a similar functional role in terrestrial and aquatic food webs, here we suggest that several fundamental differences exist in scavenging dynamics among these ecosystem types due to the unique selection pressures imposed by the physical properties of water and air. In particular, the movement of carcasses in marine ecosystems (e.g. wave action, upwelling, and sinking) diffuses biological activity associated with scavenging and decomposition across large, three-dimensional spatial scales, creating a unique spatial disconnect between the processes of production, scavenging, and decomposition, which in contrast are tightly linked in terrestrial ecosystems. Moreover, the limited role of bacteria and temporal stability of environmental conditions on the sea floor appears to have facilitated the evolution of a much more diverse community of macrofauna that relies on carrion for a higher portion of its nutrient consumption than is present in terrestrial ecosystems. Our observations are further discussed as they pertain to the potential impacts of climate change and trophic downgrading (i.e. removal of apex consumers from ecosystems) on scavenging dynamics within marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
Perceived Enablers and Barriers Related to Sustainability of School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports

The purpose of this study was to identify the most important perceived enablers and barriers regarding sustainability of school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports. School personnel representing 860 schools implementing or preparing to implement school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports completed an open-ended survey of factors regarding its sustainability. Qualitative analyses were used to assess perceptions of the most important factors related to sustainability. Thematic analysis produced 13 themes regarding enablers and/or barriers. The most commonly cited enablers were staff buy-in, school administrator support, and consistency. The most commonly cited barriers were staff buy-in, resources: time, and resources: money. Results are discussed in terms of enhancing durability of evidence-based practices in schools.
Ultra-stable phosphoglucose isomerase through immobilization of cellulose-binding module-tagged thermophilic enzyme on low-cost high-capacity cellulosic adsorbent.

One-step enzyme purification and immobilization were developed based on simple adsorption of a family 3 cellulose-binding module (CBM)-tagged protein on the external surface of high-capacity regenerated amorphous cellulose (RAC). An open reading frame (ORF) Cthe0217 encoding a putative phosphoglucose isomerase (PGI, EC 5.3.1.9) from a thermophilic bacterium Clostridium thermocellum was cloned and the recombinant proteins with or without CBM were over-expressed in Escherichia coli. The rate constant (kcat) and Michaelis–Menten constant (Km) of CBM-free PGI at 60°C were 2,765 s−1 and 2.89 mM, respectively. PGI was stable at a high protein concentration of 0.1 g/L but deactivated rapidly at low concentrations. Immobilized CBM (iCBM)-PGI on RAC was extremely stable at ∼60°C, nearly independent of its mass concentration in bulk solution, because its local concentration on the solid support was constant. iCBM-PGI at a low concentration of 0.001 g/L had a half-life time of 190 h, approximately 80-fold of that of free PGI. Total turn-over number of iCBM-PGI was as high as 1.1 × 109 mole of product per mole of enzyme at 60°C. These results suggest that a combination of low-cost enzyme immobilization and thermoenzyme led to an ultra-stable enzyme building block suitable for cell-free synthetic pathway biotransformation that can implement complicated biochemical reactions in vitro. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2011.
Current Trends in Wireless Sensor Network Design

The self-organizing nature of sensor networks, their autonomous operation and potential architectural alternatives make them suitable for different data-centric applications. Their wider acceptance seems to be rising on the horizon. In this article, we present an overview of the current state of the art in the field of wireless sensor networks. We also present various open research issues and provide an insight about the latest developments that need to be explored in greater depth that could possibly make this emerging technological area more useful than ever.
Adaptive design of nanoscale dielectric structures for photonics

Using adaptive algorithms, the design of nanoscale dielectric structures for photonic applications is explored. Widths of dielectric layers in a linear array are adjusted to match target responses of optical transmission as a function of energy. Two complementary approaches are discussed. The first approach uses adaptive local random updates and progressively adjusts individual dielectric layer widths. The second approach is based on global updating functions in which large subgroups of layers are adjusted simultaneously. Both schemes are applied to obtain specific target responses of the transmission function within selected energy windows, such as discontinuous cutoff or power-law decay filters close to a photonic band edge. These adaptive algorithms are found to be effective tools in the custom design of nanoscale photonic dielectric structures.
Crystal structure of nitrated human manganese superoxide dismutase: mechanism of inactivation.

Abstract A cellular consequence of the reaction of superoxide and nitric oxide is enhanced peroxynitrite levels. Reaction of peroxynitrite with manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) causes nitration of the active-site residue Tyr34 and nearly complete inhibition of catalysis. We report the crystal structures at 2.4 A resolution of human MnSOD nitrated by peroxynitrite and the unmodified MnSOD. A comparison of these structures showed no significant conformational changes of active-site residues or solvent displacement. The side chain of 3-nitrotyrosine 34 had a single conformation that extended toward the manganese with O1 of the nitro group within hydrogen-bonding distance (3.1 A) of Ne2 of the second-shell ligand Gln143. Also, nitration of Tyr34 caused a weakening, as evidenced by the lengthening, of a hydrogen bond between its phenolic OH and Gln143, part of an extensive hydrogen-bond network in the active site. Inhibition of catalysis can be attributed to a steric effect of 3-nitrotyrosine 34 that impedes substrate access and binding, and alteration of the hydrogen-bond network that supports proton transfer in catalysis. It is also possible that an electrostatic effect of the nitro group has altered the finely tuned redox potential necessary for efficient catalysis, although the redox potential of nitrated MnSOD has not been measured.
A relational view of causality in normal and abnormal development

An understanding of developmental phenomena demands a relational or coactive concept of causality, as opposed to a conceptualization that assumes that singular causes can act in isolation. In this article we present a developmental psychobiological systems view of relational (bidirectional, coactional) causality, in which it is proposed that developmental outcomes are a consequence of at least two specific components of coaction from the same or different levels of a developmental system. The levels are genetic, neural, behavioral, and environmental; the latter level includes the cultural, social, and physical aspects of an organism's environment. We show the applicability of this view to the understanding of the development of normal and abnormal behavioral and psychological phenotypes through illustrations from the existing animal and human literature. Finally, we discuss future possibilities and potential stumbling blocks in the implementation of a more fully realized bidirectional, coactional perspective in developmental psychopathological research.
Localized algorithm for aggregate fairness in wireless sensor networks

For data-collection applications in sensor networks, it is important to ensure all data sources have equal (or weighted) access to network bandwidth so that the base stations receive a complete picture about the monitored area. We point out the fairness problem in the current design of sensor networks, which may cause extremely biased bandwidth allocations. It is a challenge to design a fully distributed fairness solution due to the lack of global knowledge about the distribution of data sources and their routing paths. This paper proposes a new aggregate fairness model and a localized algorithm (called AFA) that implements the model. AFA is designed to work with any routing protocol. In particular, it allows the packets from a data source to follow an arbitrary set of forwarding paths to the base stations. This flexibility makes it considerably harder to allocate bandwidth fairly among different data sources. AFA solves the problem with only localized operations at the sensors. It is easy to implement, which is an attractive property for sensor networks. Moreover, the algorithm automatically adjusts a sensor's forwarding rate to avoid packet drops due to downstream congestion, which helps improve energy efficiency. We perform extensive simulations, demonstrating that the proposed algorithm can effectively improve end-to-end fairness.
Experimental determination of critical temperatures and pressures of mixtures: The methane‐ethane‐n‐butane system

An experimental unit has been designed and constructed for the study of critical phenomena in multicomponent systems. This unit has been built to utilize a new visual PVT cell capable of operating at temperatures up to 300°F. and pressures to 10,000 lb./sq. in. abs. This cell is of the liquid piston type with mercury as the pressurizing fluid and affords unobstructed visual observation of its contents. The dependability of the unit has been tested on two mixtures of ethane and n-butane. Phase equilibria data were obtained, which in turn were used to establish the critical temperture and pressure. Critical temperatures and pressures have been determined for six different compositions of the methane-ethane-n-butane system. These mixtures consisted of two series, each of three compositions differing only in methane content. The data obtained from them, in conjunction with previously reported critical values for the binaries of this system, have been utilized to generate the complete critical locus for the ternary system. The results for the six mixtures of this study have been compared with critical values predicted by methods available in the literature.
Characterization of light shift below 10/sup -15/ in a cesium fountain frequency standard operated without the use of mechanical shutters

We characterize the light shift in the interaction region of a laser-cooled frequency standard and demonstrate an approach for its mitigation without the use of mechanical shutters. The light shift is confirmed to be below 10-15 and expected to be orders of magnitude lower. This technique makes use of a master-slave laser configuration where cutting the injection power to a slave laser causes it to lase at its free-running wavelength, often two or more nanometers off from the atomic resonance
A Stochastic Model to Compare Breeding System Costs for Synchronization of Estrus and Artificial Insemination to Natural Service

Abstract A stochastic model was used to compare costs of natural-service breeding with several synchronization of estrus and AI systems and to identify important factors in determining the differences in expected economic returns between systems. Three herd sizes, 3 cow-to-bull ratios, and 7 systems for synchronization of estrus were examined. Stochastic variables in the model included bull purchase price, percent calf crop, calf price, AI conception rate, cull bull value, cull bull weight, genetic value premium of AI-sired calf, heat detection rate, season pregnancy rate, semen cost, and synchronized calf weight advantage. The AI systems were more cost effective at lower cow-to-bull ratios. Compared with natural service, heat detection and cleanup fixed-time AI synchronization systems were economically preferred 33% of the time, 41% for strict fixed-time AI, and 49% for heat detection only systems. Heat detection only systems in large herds using low cow-to-bull ratios demonstrated a net economic advantage relative to natural service 85% of the time. Genetic value premiums and semen cost were consistently included in the top 3 factors that determined expected economic differences between natural service and AI systems across herd sizes and cow-to-bull ratios. Variability in bull purchase price was the most important factor when the cow-to-bull ratio was low. Estrus synchronization and AI were economically advantageous compared with natural service when a sufficient genetic value premium could be obtained from AI-sired calves.
Successful Read-Alouds in Today's Classroom.

AbstractPositively influence comprehension, vocabulary, syntax, and oral language development with read-aloud strategies. The author shares tips for making read-alouds successful.
Abstract 356: IKK-Beta Deletion Alleviates the Atherogenetic Effect of Intermittent Hypoxia Induced Macrophage Foam Cell Formation

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a common sleeping disorder characterized by intermittent hypoxia (IH). Clinical studies have previously shown an independent association between obstructive sleep apnea and atherosclerosis. Furthermore, it has been previously shown that such a predisposition to atherosclerosis in OSAS patient can be caused by various inflammatory mediators, particularly the NF-kappa B (NF-kB) pathway. Foam cells or lipid-laden macrophages in the atherosclerotic lesion have been well documented as a hallmark of atherosclerosis; however, the contribution of IH, such as in OSAS, to foam cell formation is not yet fully understood. Previous observations have led us to hypothesized that IH induces macrophage foam cell formation due to the activation of NF-kappa B pathway. Methods: Myeloid restricted IKK-beta deleted mice were generated by a Cre/lox recombination system to inactivate the NF-kB pathway in macrophages. Thioglycollate-elicited peritoneal macrophages were incubated with 200 μg/ml of low-density lipoprotein and simultaneously exposed to either IH (Normoxia: 8min, 0.5% O2: 10min) or normoxia for 24 hours. After exposure, the extent of foam cell formation was assessed by quantification of intracellular cholesterol. Finally, we compared the differences in gene expression using RNA-seq between wild type and IKK-beta deleted macrophages exposed to either IH or normoxia for 24 hours. Results: IH significantly increased total cholesterol in wild type macrophages (63.4±3.3 μg/mg of cellular protein, n=9) in comparison to normoxia (51.2±1.6). Interestingly, such increase in intracellular cholesterol in response to IH-exposure was abolished by IKK-beta deletion (IH 52.4±1.1; normoxia 50.0±1.6 n=8), suggesting that NF-kB pathway regulated gene expression is critical for IH-induced foam cell formation. Indeed, we have found that NF-kB knockout abolished IH-induced expressional alterations in 364 genes, which are potential candidates for regulating intracellular cholesterol. Conclusion: NF-kB activation plays a critical role in IH-induced macrophage foam cell formation.
Beg Borrow or Steal: Ten Lessons Law Schools Can Learn from Other Educational Programs in Evaluating Their Curriculum

It is indisputable that law schools are clamoring for and working toward change in their curriculum. Generally, higher education institutions have been acknowledged to have a “responsibility to endeavor to prepare graduates who are able to manage and respond effectively to change and its demands, challenges and tensions.” However, despite criticisms and active discussions regarding curriculum reform for 25 years, law school curriculum reform has been seen as tedious and frustrating, resulting through the years in only modest changes.While in the past, law schools have not had strong incentives to change, things may be different now. In our most recent economic times, tinkering with the law curriculum may have been a luxury. Now, many law schools are realizing that they are proverbially “rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic.” Law schools are seeking to change legal training -- not just incorporating more practical skills, but really thinking about doing business differently. That is a vast undertaking for legal faculties, many of whom are without direction other than their own experiences.Our system of law is obviously known for its reliance on precedents. Legal education has modeled that through the years, taking a very “stare decisis” approach to our educational product. However, in the law, when a new case comes to a court which demonstrates that the law they have been faithfully applying for years is no longer serving its purpose, courts change course. But before inventing radical new courses on which to embark however, courts look to other jurisdictions or situations in which they might borrow a method or process and develop a new plan accordingly.The time has come for legal education to do the same. The current crisis in legal education should be demonstrating to legal educators that their decisions should not stand. Legal educators should be looking at other programs in higher education, other programs turning out professionals, and those with years of experience studying education, as “persuasive authority” to help us determine what the right path is for legal education. While this article is not the first to suggest that other educational theories need to be incorporated into legal education, these ten suggestions, ‘begged, borrowed and stolen” from other areas of education should be considered by every institution as part of its new plan for legal education in the 21st Century.
Consumer Service Company (A)

This case provides an effective means (through an in-class role play) for uncovering, highlighting, and discussing principles for development of a sales budget and the ethical issues embedded in the relationship between individuals charged with developing and implementing the budget. The case is best used as a follow on to a prior class (e.g., Oriole Furniture) that has introduced students to the purposes and processes of budgeting. It can be used in one 60-90 minute class.