cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Voltage-Clamp Fluorometry Assigns Distance Constraints to BK Channel VSD Structural Transitions

Voltage-clamp fluorometry (VCF) is a hybrid optical/electrophysiological approach allowing the simultaneous tracking of local protein movements (reported by a Cys-conjugated, environment-sensitive fluorophore) and membrane current. While VCF data reveal the voltage dependence of the labeled protein domain, the direction and distance of protein movements are not straightforward to extract. We recently used the ability of Trp to collisionally quench fluorophores, to resolve the direction of activation-dependent helix movements in the BK channel VSD: Trp-203 (extracellular to S4) diverged from labels on S0, S1 and S2, reported as positive voltage-dependent fluorescence deflections (ΔF>0); and a Trp introduced near S2 approached the S1 label (ΔF<0). This information sufficed to compile a dynamic map of helix rearrangements; however, the distances of these movements were unknown.Here we show that VCF can be enhanced to measure distances by using fluorophores of different lengths: tetramethylrhodamine (TMR) labels with variable links to a Cys-binding maleimide moiety. To account for fluorophore flexibility, we simulated the conformers of isolated Cys-fluorophore conjugates using molecular dynamics (MMFF94,50ps), generating distributions of the distance between the Cys α-C and a C-atom near the TMR center. Fluorophore TMR-6′-M had the shortest distance distribution (mode=10.4A), followed by TMR-5′-M (11.6A), TMR-6′-C2-M (14.0A), TMR-5′-C2-M (14.8A) and a mixture of TMR-5′/6′-C6-M isomers (16.8A).The extracellular flank of voltage-insensitive helix S1 (Cys-136) was labeled with each fluorophore and voltage-dependent ΔF were resolved, reporting the divergence of S4 Trp-203. TMR-5′-M produced the strongest ΔF (8.1±1.7%/mS,n=6), followed by TMR-6′-M (4.0±0.53,n=3), TMR-6′-C2-M (2.6±0.67,n=4), TMR-5′-C2-M (0.97±0.27,n=4) and TMR-5′/6′-C6-M (−0.49±0.21,n=3). Given the Cys/fluorophore distance distributions, these results are consistent with the extracellular portion of S4 being ∼11A away from S1 at rest and diverging to ∼20A upon activation. Thus, VCF can be used to determine state-dependent distances between assigned protein loci.
Gonadal function in fifty men with untreated pituitary adenomas.

Abstract Gonadal function was studied in 50 men with untreated pituitary adenomas. Seventy-four percent had impaired gonadotropin secretion, 82% had GH deficiency, 52% had TSH deficiency, 30% had ACTH deficiency, and 31% had PRL deficiency. Several unexpected abnormalities of gonadal function were found, including the following. 1) Four of the 14 men who could provide a semen specimen had normal total sperm counts in spite of subnormal serum testosterone concentration. 2) Although 35 of the 50 men (70%) had serum testosterone concentrations and LH responses to gonadotropin-releasing hormone that were either both normal or both subnormal, 11 men (22%) had subnormal serum testosterone concentrations but normal LH responses and 4 men (8%) had normal serum testosterone but subnormal LH responses. 3) Twelve men (24%) had supranormal serum FSH concentrations basally and/or in response to gonadotropin-releasing hormone. These 12 men had serum concentrations of testosterone that were low or low normal and serum c...
A flow-through chamber for toxicity testing of 80–200 μm organisms

Abstract A flow-through chamber was developed for toxicity testing of mobile species that require microscopic observation to assess viability and development; no sub-sampling was required in this method. Organisms were held in 1.5 mL volumes in 30 mm plastic petri plates adapted with two side sections containing 35 μm screening to provide drainage. Test solutions continuously entered via a drip tube; five 1.5 mL volumes were exchanged per hour. The 30 mm organism dish was housed in an outer dish (60 mm petri plate) that captured effluent for water quality measurements. Direct observation of organisms in the thin water layer occurred without refocusing the microscope. The flow-through chamber was used to test the toxicity of copper to Mercenaria mercenaria (hard clam) as they developed from free swimming larvae (∼80+μm) through metamorphosis to the settlement stage (∼200 μm). The flow-through chamber performed well and good water quality was maintained throughout the assay. Metamorphosis occurred at the appropriate developmental time with relatively low variability between replicates. Copper, at a concentration of 14 μg/L Cu, was shown to significantly increase mortality and inhibit metamorphosis after 36 h of exposure.
Unpacking the ‘colorblind approach’: accusations of racism at a friendly, mixed-race school

The desire to ignore race in favor of a ‘colorblind’ approach has so permeated the cultural ethos of the US, that many whites, teachers included, fear that talking about race in any capacity leaves them open to accusations of racism. As a result, race has become a taboo subject in many US classrooms. This article explores the implications of the colorblind approach in the lives of students and teachers at a suburban, mixed-race high school. In spite of the friendly environment at the school, white students and teachers expressed a racial identity that was infused with racial tensions over possible accusation of racism. White students’ confusion and anxiety about how to discuss race in mixed-race settings coexisted with resentment over perceived marginalization by African Americans. Apprehension over discussing race hindered productive classroom conversations and stopped teachers from addressing evidence of racial inequity. Teachers, administrators, and students need support and training on how to engage i...
VUV optical ring resonator for the Duke storage ring free electron laser

Abstract The conceptual design of a multifaceted-mirror ring resonator for the Duke storage ring VUV FEL is presented. The expected performance of the OK-4 FEL with the ring resonator is described.
Identification of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine as tyrosinase cofactor in melanoma.

The tyrosine hydroxylase activity of tyrosinase from hamster melanoma requires a reduced co-substrate. The most efficient co-substrate for in vitro experiments was shown to be L-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (dopa) (Pomerantz, 1964, 1966); only a catalytic amount of dopa was required because it is also a product of the hydroxylation (Equation (1)). The cofactor activity of dopa L-tyrosine-3,5-3H + L-dopa + O2 → L-dopa-5-3H + L-dopa quinone + 3HOH (1) for tyrosinase may be contrasted with the reduced pteridine required for the tyrosine hydroxylase of adrenal medulla (Brenneman and Kaufman, 1964; Nagatsu et al, 1964). This report describes the concentration from hamster melanoma of a substance with cofactor activity for tyrosine hydroxylation by tyrosinase, and the identification of this substance as L-dopa.
Egg capsule sheath of Loligo opalescens Berry : structure and association with bacteria

The sheath forming the outer layer of the egg capsule of the squid Loligo opalescens is an acellular matrix 1–2 mm thick which contains approximately 100 striations parallel to the capsule surface. Throughout this matrix is suspended a dense culture of bacteria arranged in one to five layers. The probable source of these bacteria is the accessory nidamental gland.
Manduca sexta serpin-7, a putative regulator of hemolymph prophenoloxidase activation

Serpins regulate various physiological reactions in humans and insects, including certain immune responses, primarily through inhibition of serine proteases. Six serpins have previously been identified and characterized in the tobacco hornworm Manduca sexta. In this study, we obtained a full-length cDNA sequence of another Manduca serpin, named serpin-7. The open reading frame of serpin-7 encodes a polypeptide of 400 amino acid residues with a predicted signal peptide of the first 15 residues. Multiple protein sequence alignment of the reactive center loop region of the M. sexta serpins indicated that serpin-7 contains Arg–Ile at the position of the predicted scissile bond cleaved by protease in the serpin inhibition mechanism. The same residues occur in the scissile bond of the reactive center loop in M. sexta serpin-4 and serpin-5, which are protease inhibitors that can block prophenoloxidase activation in plasma. Serpin-7 transcript was detected in hemocytes and fat body, and its expression increased in fat body after injection of larvae with Micrococcus luteus. Recombinant serpin-7 added to larval plasma inhibited spontaneous melanization and decreased prophenoloxidase activation stimulated by bacteria. Serpin-7 inhibited prophenoloxidase-activating protease-3 (PAP3), forming a stable serpin-protease complex. Considering that serpin-3 and serpin-6 are also efficient inhibitors of PAP3, it appears that multiple serpins present in plasma may have redundant or overlapping functions. We conclude that serpin-7 has serine protease inhibitory activity and is likely involved in regulation of proPO activation or other protease-mediated aspects of innate immunity in M. sexta.
The Confiscation of American Prosperity: from Right Wing Extremism and Economic Ideology to the Next Great Depression

The Confiscation of American Prosperity: from Right Wing Extremism and Economic Ideology to the Next Great Depression Michael Perelman New York, Palgrave Macmillan, 2007, 239 pp., $56.00 hardcover ...
Increased resting Tl-201 lung-to-heart ratio is associated with invasively determined measures of left ventricular dysfunction, extent of coronary artery disease, and resting myocardial perfusion abnormalities.

Stress lung thallium 201 uptake correlates with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and extent of coronary artery disease (CAD). Although Tl-201 is used less commonly for stress imaging, dual-isotope stress and viability protocols continue to use Tl-201 for rest imaging. We sought to investigate the association between increased resting Tl-201 lung-to-heart ratio (LHR) and hemodynamic indices of LV dysfunction, indices of myocardial perfusion, and extent of CAD. Over a 1-year period, we identified 192 consecutive patients who underwent dual-isotope stress perfusion imaging and cardiac catheterization within 30 days, without interim events or revascularization. Resting LHR was measured, and its association with invasively measured hemodynamic parameters, extent of CAD, and indices of myocardial perfusion at rest and stress was examined. Increased resting Tl-201 LHR was weakly but significantly associated with lower LV ejection fraction (EF) (r = 0.209, P < .05), higher pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (r = 0.25, P < .005), and LV end-diastolic pressure (r = 0.215, P < .01) but not with pulmonary artery systolic pressure. Increased LHR was also weakly associated with rest perfusion abnormalities including the sum rest score (r = 0.271, P < .001) and number of abnormally perfused segments (r = 0.25, P < .001) bud did not correlate with stress perfusion indices or ischemic burden. The 76 patients (40%) with LHR greater than 0.5 were more likely to have LVEF lower than 40% and 3-vessel/left main CAD. Increased rest Tl-201 LHR is weakly associated with higher LV end-diastolic pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and lower LVEF. LHR is also associated with the extent of previously infarcted myocardium and may indicate the presence of 3-vessel/left main CAD. (J Nucl Cardiol 2003;10:140-7.)
A note on uniform asymptotic edge ‘diffraction’ for the diffusion equation

In einer fruheren Arbeit wurden asymptotische Losungen von Warmeleitungsproblemen betrachtet, bei denen die Randflachen des betrachteten Gebietes Kanten enthalten. Diese Losungen erwiesen sich auf gewissen Kurven und Flachen sowie auf den Kanten als singular. Das Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist eine allgemeingultige Beschreibung der Losungen von Kantenproblemen der betrachteten Art. Diese Losungen erscheinen in der Form von asymptotischen Entwicklungen, die nirgends singular sind.
A statistical analysis of the aggressive communications systems of some hermit crabs.

Abstract 1. Observations of the results of 1,000 aggressive interactions for each of eight species of hermit crabs were carried out. These data were used to determine the distribution of acts by one crab following the execution of each act by a second crab. These distributions were compared with the overall distribution of patterns following all acts. 2. Most of the behaviour patterns were found to have some communicatory value, i.e. elicited some change in the behaviour of a recipient crab, although the amount of change varied considerably for different acts. 3. These acts statistically tended to inhibit the execution of some acts and/or be directive toward the occurrence of other acts. 4. Analysis of three-act sequence patterns showed that there can be a second-order probability effect in determining what behaviour pattern will follow a given behavioural act. 5. Certain acts were found to be particularly auto-directive; feeding movements by one crab tended to be followed by feeding movements by the other crab, a double cheliped extension tended to be followed by a d.c.e. by the other crab. 6. The average amount of information transferred per display was calculated for each species. This ranged from 0·35 bits per display in the highly gregarious speciesClibanarius tricolor to 0·52 bits per display inPagurus marshi, individuals of which tend to be camouflaged by accumulated detritus material. The average for the eight species was 0·41 bits/display. 7. The rate of information transmission was calculated for each species. The overall range was from 0·4 to 1·0 bits per second forPaguristes grayi to 0·9 to 4·4 bits per second forPagurus bonairensis. The total range for these crabs (0·4 to 4·4 bits/second) is slightly higher but of the same order of magnitude as the rates calculated for the honey bee waggle dance and fire ant odour trial.
Therapeutic rescue of misfolded mutants: validation of primary high throughput screens for identification of pharmacoperone drugs.

Background: Functional rescue of misfolded mutant receptors by small non-peptide molecules has been demonstrated. These small, target-specific molecules (pharmacological chaperones or ‘‘pharmacoperones’’) serve as molecular templates, promote correct folding and allow otherwise misfolded mutants to pass the scrutiny of the cellular quality control system (QCS) and be expressed at the plasma membrane (PM) where they function similarly to wild type (WT) proteins. In the case of the gonadotropin releasing hormone receptor (GnRHR), drugs that rescue one mutant typically rescue many mutants, even if the mutations are located at distant sites (extracellular loops, intracellular loops, transmembrane helices). This increases the value of these drugs. These drugs are typically identified, post hoc, from ‘‘hits’’ in screens designed to detect antagonists or agonists. The therapeutic utility of pharmacoperones has been limited due to the absence of screens that enable identification of pharmacoperones per se. Methods and Findings: We describe a generalizable primary screening approach for pharmacoperone drugs based on measurement of gain of activity in stable HeLa cells stably expressing the mutants of two different model G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) (hGnRHR[E 90 K] or hV2R[L 83 Q]). These cells turn off expression of the receptor mutant gene of interest in the presence of tetracycline and its analogs, which provides a convenient means to identify false positives. Conclusions: The methods described and characterized here provide the basis of novel primary screens for pharmacoperones that detect drugs that rescue GPCR mutants of specific receptors. This approach will identify structures that would have been missed in screens that were designed to select only agonists or antagonists. Non-antagonistic pharmacoperones have a therapeutic advantage since they will not compete for endogenous agonists and may not have to be washed out once rescue has occurred and before activation by endogenous or exogenous agonists.
Persistent current measurements in superfluid films in a rotating superleak

Abstract Using doppler shifted surface wave velocities we have measured the persistent currents in the films coating a rotating superleak and find the same kind of hysteresis curves found in filled pore superleaks indicating that this system also is analogous to a highly irreversible type II superconductor.
What We Know, What We don't Know, and What We Need To Know about Graduated Driver Licensing.

On November 5-7, 2002, the Symposium on Graduated Driver Licensing in Chatham, MA, brought together 75 researchers and practitioners from the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand to document the current science of graduated driver licensing (GDL) and to outline research needs. Participants reviewed 12 background papers and discussed the papers in depth. The symposium's background papers are published in this issue of the Journal of Safety Research. This paper summarizes and provides a quick reference to information from the symposium papers and participant discussions. It cites the 12 symposium papers, which in turn provide more information and cite original sources. Issues and recommendations not followed by a citation were raised in the symposium discussions. This paper is divided into seven sections. The first six sections summarize information from the symposium papers and discussions. The sections are: (1) The need for graduated driver licensing; (2) Effectiveness of GDL as implemented; (3) The learner's permit phase; (4) The provisional license phase; (5) The roles of teens, parents, and public agencies; and (6) Enacting and implementing GDL. In each of these six sections, research needs are classified as either high priority (important for designing and implementing effective GDL programs) or lower priority (useful but not critical for GDL at this time). The final section summarizes the discussion of research issues and priorities from the symposium's closing session. This section has three topics: general research, issues involving parents, and issues involving graduated licensing legislation and implementation. It presents participants' collective views on both broad priorities and specific issues. In providing a concise summary of presentations and discussions from the symposium, this paper necessarily omits some information and points of discussion. The views and judgments expressed are the authors' best attempt to capture the symposium's consensus, but they do not necessarily represent the views of the authors, their organizations, or any other individual symposium participant. In particular, they are not necessarily endorsed by the symposium's sponsors: General Motors, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the National Safety Council, and Nationwide.
Seed dispersal and recruitment limitation across spatial scales in temperate forest fragments

Despite increasing evidence of seed limitation in forest ecosystems, data remain sparse on spatial patterns of seed rain at large (>1 ha) spatial scales. We monitored seed rain (28.5 m2) throughout five northern hardwood forest fragments (27 ha sampled across 14-km2 area) in southeastern Michigan over two years. Four fragments were nearest neighbors (300–700 m), yet varied in species composition, providing the opportunity to detect landscape-scale seed exchange. Of the 37 species of woody plants present in the seed rain (98 032 mature seeds), only three (Betula papyrifera, Ostrya virginiana, and Ulmus americana) had widespread seed dispersions within all fragments containing resident sources (seed in >70% of traps in each fragment). Seed dispersions, measured as the percentage of traps within a fragment receiving seed, differed among species using different dispersal vectors with animal-dispersed species arriving in a lower percentage of seed traps than wind-dispersed seeds. At a given source density, seed dispersions increased with decreasing seed mass. Light-seeded, fecund species such as Betula or Tsuga required lower source densities to saturate fragments with seed compared to heavy-seeded species (Acer, Fraxinus, Tilia). Heavy-seeded wind- and animal-dispersed species also displayed the strongest evidence of seed limitation, with seedling presence significantly associated with presence of seed for Carpinus caroliniana, Fagus grandifolia, Prunus avium, and Tilia americana. Of 17 species, landscape-scale seed exchange was detected for only four disturbance-associated species (Acer negundo, Betula papyrifera, Celastrus scandens, Eleaganus umbellata). No exchange was detected for Acer rubrum, Betula alleghaniensis, or Tsuga canadensis, despite broad seed dispersions (>50%) in fragments with resident sources, suggesting the potential for seed limitation for these species at larger spatial scales. Seed encounter probabilities suggest that potential seed competitors often fail to simultaneously colonize microsites. We suggest that all dominant species in northern hardwood forests can be seed limited at some spatial scale and that results are consistent with “winning by forfeit” scenarios of diversity maintenance in forest ecosystems.
The applicability of the Debye model to thermal conductivity

The thermal conductivity of KBr crystals containing known concentrations of KNO2 is studied at low temperatures. The conductivity of the doped crystals is greatly reduced and can be described with a simple relaxation time using the model of the thermal conductivity proposed byDebye. Crystals of KBr containing small concentrations of KI show a decrease in thermal conductivity very similar to that observed in mixed crystals with KCl as host lattice. This observation supports the model proposed byWagner that quasi localized modes act as phonon scatterers.
The gauge in general relativity. II

The present paper and a companion work are intended as one possible realization of a non-customary gauge theory of general relativity-as set forth in only broad outline in an earlier work. In this first paper, it is found that both radar echo delay and the perihelion shift differ slightly from their customary expressions. Unfortunately, it is also found that the usual statement of the principle of equivalence does not hold in the present formulation. Finally, in the second paper, a single cosmological model is investigated that appears to be promising.
Validation of the Revised Self-Administered Alcohol Screening Test (SAAST-R)

This study examined the sensitivity and specificity of the revised Self-Administered Alcohol Screening Test (SAAST-R)1 among adult outpatients evaluated at community addictions and psychiatry and psychology clinics. A total of 417 adults (mean +/- SD age of 41.4 +/- 15.0 years, 52% female, 91% Caucasian) completed the 36-item SAAST-R prior to their evaluation. Based on the clinician's documentation of the patient's alcohol use, two criterion groups were established: one composed of subjects classified as having no alcohol problems (n = 214), and one with alcohol problems (n = 203). The SAAST-R was found to have high internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.96), sensitivity (90%), and specificity (82%) for differentiating outpatients with and without alcohol problems, respectively, using a cut point of >or=4 to indicate risk for alcohol-related problems. The SAAST-R was found to have good sensitivity and specificity among both males and females.
Population pressure, intensification of agriculture, and rural-urban migration

Abstract Low rates of labor absorption in rural areas with relatively low population density, such as Sub-Saharan Africa, are usually explained by poor natural conditions, mainly infertile tropical soil. I offer an explanation based on the extensive techniques of land use emplopyed in low density areas. I incorporate the intensity of land use as a parameter in a standard two-sector model to show that the rate of labor absorption (defined as the rate of natural population growth in the rural areas minus the rate of rural-urban migration) is positively correlated with the intensity of the technique of cultivation. An empirical section employs cross-section data from Iran to illustrate and confirm the relationships derived from the model.
Learning From Reviews of Early Intervention

Reviews of the literature are frequently advocated to advance knowledge in the social sciences. Unfortunately, most reviewers do not explicitly consider or attempt to learn from what previous reviewers of the same or closely related topics have done. This omission is inconsistent with good scientific practice and is significantly detrimental to advancing knowledge. Using 52 previous reviews of the early intervention efficacy literature as an example, this article demonstrates the value of systematically considering previous reviews before initiating a new review. The results establish a foundation that should be particularly helpful to future reviewers of the early intervention efficacy literature and demonstrate a process that should be used by reviewers in all areas.
Simulated climate change effects on dissolved oxygen characteristics in ice-covered lakes

Abstract A deterministic, one-dimensional model is presented which simulates daily dissolved oxygen (DO) profiles and associated water temperatures, ice covers and snow covers for dimictic and polymictic lakes of the temperate zone. The lake parameters required as model input are surface area ( A S ), maximum depth ( H MAX ), and Secchi depth as a measure of light attenuation and trophic state. The model is driven by daily weather data and operates year-round over multiple years. The model has been validated with extensive data (5976 points). Standard error between simulated and measured dissolved oxygen is 1.9 mg/l. The model is applied to simulate effects of climate change on dissolved oxygen characteristics of 27 lake classes in Minnesota. The projected climate changes due to a doubling of atmospheric CO 2 are obtained from the output of the Canadian Climate Center Global Circulation Model (CCC GCM). Climate change delays the ice formation and shortens the ice cover period. Winter anoxia, even in shallow lakes, therefore disappears under a projected 2 × CO 2 climate condition. This eliminates winterkill in these lakes. Herein, the simulated DO characteristics have been plotted and interpolated graphically in a coordinate system with a lake geometry ratio ( A 0.25 S H MAX ) on one axis and Secchi depth on the other. The lake geometry ratio expresses a lake's susceptibility to stratification. To illustrate the effect of projected climate change on DO characteristics, separate graphs are presented for values simulated with inputs of past climate conditions (1961–1979) and with a projected 2 × CO 2 climate scenario.
C–H⋯π interactions as modulators of carbocation structure – implications for terpene biosynthesis

Density functional theory calculations on geometries and interaction energies for C–H⋯π interactions involving carbocations are described. C–H bonds involved in strong hyperconjugation are shown to be strong C–H⋯π donors and their participation in C–H⋯π interactions with specific geometries is shown to promote large modifications to the structures of carbocations. Implications for terpene biosynthesis are discussed.
Spatial Analysis of 3′ Phosphoinositide Signaling in Living Fibroblasts, III: Influence of Cell Morphology and Morphological Polarity

Activation of phosphoinositide (PI) 3-kinase is a required signaling pathway in fibroblast migration directed by platelet-derived growth factor. The pattern of 3' PI lipids in the plasma membrane, integrating local PI 3-kinase activity as well as 3' PI diffusion and turnover, influences the spatiotemporal regulation of the cytoskeleton. In fibroblasts stimulated uniformly with platelet-derived growth factor, visualized using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy, we consistently observed localized regions with significantly higher or lower 3' PI levels than adjacent regions (hot and cold spots, respectively). A typical cell contained multiple hot spots, coinciding with apparent leading edge structures, and at most one cold spot at the rear. Using a framework for finite-element modeling with actual cell contact area geometries, we find that although the 3' PI pattern is affected by irregular contact area shape, cell morphology alone cannot explain the presence of hot or cold spots. Our results and analysis instead suggest that these regions reflect different local 3' PI dynamics, specifically through a combination of mechanisms: enhanced PI 3-kinase activity, reduced 3' PI turnover, and possibly slow/constrained 3' PI diffusion. The morphological polarity of the cell may thus bias 3' PI signaling to promote persistent migration in fibroblasts.
Re-Creating Neighborhoods for Successful Aging

Pauline S. Abbott, Nancy Carman, Jack Carman, and Bob Scarfo, editors. Health Professions Press, Baltimore, MD, 2009. 288 pages. $38.95 (paperback). This book offers a collection of essays reviewin...
Welfare Reform: Revolution or Retrenchment?

This article introduces the two main themes of this special issue of Publius: The Journal of Federalism, workfare and federalism. At this early stage in the history of the 1996 Welfare Reform Act, these themes must be stated as questions rather than answers, as hypotheses not conclusions. What does the new welfare policy seek to accomplish? What are the effects-intended and unintended--of its limited devolution of power to the states?
Hydrogen storage capacity of carbon nanotubes, filaments, and vapor-grown fibers

Abstract We have studied the sorption of hydrogen by nine different carbon materials at pressures up to 11 MPa (1600 psi) and temperatures from −80 to +500°C. Our samples include graphite particles, activated carbon, graphitized PYROGRAF vapor-grown carbon fibers (VGCF), CO2 and air-etched PYROGRAF fibers, Showa-Denko VGCF, carbon filaments grown from a FeNiCu alloy, and nanotubes from MER Corp. and Rice University. We have measured hydrogen sorption in two pieces of equipment, one up to 3.5 MPa, and one to 11 MPa. The results so far have been remarkably similar: very little hydrogen sorption. In fact, the sorption is so small that we must pay careful attention to calibration to get reliable answers. The largest sorption observed is less than 0.1 wt.% hydrogen at room temperature and 3.5 MPa. Furthermore, our efforts to activate these materials by reduction at high temperatures and pressures were also futile. These results cast serious doubts on any claims so far for room temperature hydrogen sorption in carbon materials larger than a 1 wt.%.
The equilibrium defect structure of iron-doped MgO in the range 600–1200° C

High-temperature electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy with a CO2 laser heat source was used to study the 600 to 1200° C point defects and precipitates in MgO doped with up to 4300ppm Fe. Mass action relations incorporating Debye-Huckel activity coefficient corrections were developed to describe Fe Mg . -v mg ″ association and magnesioferrite precipitation.
The Effect of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Pain after Thoracotomy

The effect of postoperative transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) was evaluated in 24 patients in two randomly selected groups who underwent thoracotomy. The patients in one group received TENS through periincisional electrodes, and the remaining patients were treated with sham stimulator setups. The stimulators remained in place for 48 hours after operation. Subjective pain scores, duration of stay in the recovery room, tolerance to chest physical therapy, complaints of nausea, time to end of mechanical ventilation, and narcotic requirements were evaluated. Patients in the TENS group had significantly lower pain scores during the first 24 hours postoperatively (p = 0.014), shorter recovery room stays (p = 0.013), and better tolerance of chest physical therapy on both day 1 (p = 0.018) and day 2 (p = 0.006). No respiratory complications occurred in either group.
Transgastric ventral hernia repair: a controlled study in a live porcine model (with videos).

Background Ventral hernia repair is currently performed via open surgery or laparoscopic approach. Objective To develop an alternative ventral hernia repair technique. Setting Acute and survival experiments on twelve 50-kg pigs. Design and Interventions An endoscope was introduced transgastrically into the peritoneal cavity. An abdominal wall hernia was created through a 5-mm skin incision followed by a 5-cm-long incision of the abdominal wall muscles and aponeurosis. A hernia repair technique was developed in 3 acute experiments. Then animals were randomized into 2 groups. In the experimental group (5 animals) Gore-Tex mesh was transgastrically attached to the abdominal wall, repairing the previously created abdominal wall hernia. In the control group (4 animals), the hernia was not repaired. In both groups, the endoscope was then withdrawn into the stomach, and the gastric wall incision was closed with T-bars. The animals survived for 2 weeks and were then euthanized. Main Outcome Measurement The presence of ventral hernia on necropsy. Results In the control group, the ventral hernia was present on necropsy in all animals. In the experimental group, the ventral hernia was easily repaired, with no evidence of hernia on necropsy. In the first animal in the experimental group, necropsy revealed infected mesh. After this discovery, we used sterilized cover for mesh delivery and did not find any signs of infection in 4 subsequent study animals. Limitation The study was performed in a porcine model. Conclusions Transgastric ventral hernia repair is feasible, technically easy, and effective. It can become a less invasive alternative to the currently used laparoscopic and surgical ventral hernia repair.
On the Modesty of Women in Arab Muslim Villages: A Study in the Accommodation of Traditions1

The modesty code constitutes a fundamental pattern in Middle Eastern culture, found at the level of both its great tradition (Islamic law and Quranic ethics) and its little tradition (village custom and belief). The peculiar conditions of peasant life, however, make conformity to the code difficult and require accommodation at the level of both action and thought. It is the accommodation at the two analytically separate levels of thought and action and the interrelationship between these accommodations, rather than the search for the historical origins of discrete cultural traits, that should constitute the focus for studies relating the great and little traditions. This study demonstrates that accommodation in thought (Redfield's “social organization of tradition”) is intimately related to the success of achieving accommodation in action between particular groups in critical situations (Firth's “social organization” at large). It also demonstrates that the persistence and the pervasiveness of the modesty code in Middle Eastern culture can be explained only by a combination of structural, psychological, and historical factors.
Ionic polarons in solid electrolytes

Abstract Small polaron theory is used to calculate the activation energy of cationic hopping in solid electrolytes. The numerical results show a small activation energy for materials which have forms which are good super ionic conductors, and large for those which have not.
The Effect of Advanced Lactation in the Cow on the Physical and Chemical Composition of the Milk

Summary 1.The results are given of the laboratory examination of the milk from 112 quarters of 24 cows during the early and late stages of their lactation periods. 2.It is shown that the milk produced by certain cows after 8 months of lactation had a higher pH, percentage of chlorides, and cell content than the milk the same cows had produced during the first 4 months of the same or succeeding lactation periods. 3.In view of these observations it is suggested that prolonged milking is conducive to certain physical and chemical changes in the secretion which affect the normal bacteriostatic substance in the milk. These changes, perhaps, not only increase the susceptibility of the gland to bacterial multiplication but also may result in a low-grade physical change in the secretory tissue of the udder and eventually shorten the total production life of the cow.
Non-Gaussian uncertainty propagation in statistical circuit simulation

The combination of random and systematic variability in state of the art IC technologies often results in non-Gaussian distributions of key performance parameters. A Mixture of Gaussian (MOG) variance propagation scheme is proposed to estimate the transistor-level circuit performance distribution without costly Monte-Carlo simulations. In the proposed method, interval representations and moment matching algorithms are used to find the MOG of the circuit performance.
Agitation and pain assessment using digital imaging

Pain assessment in patients who are unable to verbally communicate with medical staff is a challenging problem in patient critical care. The fundamental limitations in sedation and pain assessment in the intensive care unit (ICU) stem from subjective assessment criteria, rather than quantifiable, measurable data for ICU sedation and analgesia. This often results in poor quality and inconsistent treatment of patient agitation and pain from nurse to nurse. Recent advancements in pattern recognition techniques using a relevance vector machine algorithm can assist medical staff in assessing sedation and pain by constantly monitoring the patient and providing the clinician with quantifiable data for ICU sedation. In this paper, we show that the pain intensity assessment given by a computer classifier has a strong correlation with the pain intensity assessed by expert and non-expert human examiners.
STATISTICAL APPROXIMATIONS FOR CHARACTERISTIC-MODE-BASED POWER FLOW ANALYSIS

This paper presents a general statistical treatment for power flow analysis in a complex structure. The nominal power flow is computed using the characteristic constraint (CC) modes of the component structures. These CC modes are built from component mode synthesis (CMS) of finite element models, and they form a highly-reduced order basis for capturing the motion of the interface between components — and thus the power flow. The power flow statistics are then calculated over an ensemble of systems due to the variation of structural system parameters. Each modal response is expanded in a basis of quadrature polynomials or locally linear interpolation (LLI) functions in these uncertain parameters. The system equations for the reduced order CMS model with uncertainties are derived using Galerkin's method. These equations have the same form as the nominal power flow equations, but the number of equations is increased by a factor equal to the order of the polynomials (when using quadrature polynomials) or the number of nodes in the parameter space (when using LLI functions). Thus, the ensemble-averaged power flow can be calculated by solving this new set of equations, instead of using Monte Carlo simulations. A cantilever plate and a L-shaped plate are used as example structures for the demonstration of these statistical approximations. In general, this statistical treatment provides efficient and accurate modeling of parameter uncertainties, which is critical for mid-frequency vibration analysis.
Magnetic interactions in Chevrel phase ternary compounds

Detailed results are reported of ab-initio self-consistent LMTO energy band studies of several Chevrel phase ternaries, EuMo/sub 6/S/sub 8/ and SnMo/sub 6/S/sub 8/. In these unique calculations, all electrons of the full 15 atoms/unit cell are treated explicitly with a self-consistent Hedin-Lundqvist exchange and correlation potential in the relativistic Dirac equation but without spin-orbit coupling. As in our earlier work on the rare-earth ternary borides, the total and separate (by atom) l-decomposed contributions to the density of states (which show the Eu atoms to be magnetically isolated) are used to discuss their magnetic and superconducting properties.
The Influence of Social Bonds on Recidivism: A Study of Texas Male Prisoners

Abstract The present study examines the influence of social bonds on recidivism for a random sample of 250 male offenders released from Texas prisons since 2001. Recidivism is a continuous variable, in which the researcher measured months between release from prison and reincarceration. Based on life-course theory, the researcher hypothesized that offenders released from prison who become employed or were married would have lower hazard ratios than offenders who were not employed or married. Results from survival analyses indicate recidivists who obtained employment upon release had longer crime-free periods before recidivating than recidivists who did not obtain employment. This is potentially important when considering desistance from crime as a process, since the offenders exhibited initial motivation, commitment, and behavioral change.
Comparative studies of coupled assays for phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC) from higher plants is usually assayed by using malate dehydrogenase (MDH) as a coupling enzyme. To avoid erroneous readings caused by metal ions, which convert oxaloacetate (OAA) to pyruvate, lactic dehydrogenase can be included. Reporting the total NADH used by both coupling enzymes gives the total OAA production. Microbial PEPC has been assayed by employing citrate synthase (CS) as a coupling enzyme which detects the reaction of CoA with Ellman's reagent. Comparable Km values for MgPEP are found with the two assays. When MDH alone is used as the coupling system, the Vmax value is about 60% larger than the one found with the CS assay. However, when MDH is added to the CS assay without the NADH cofactor, Vmax is brought back to the same level as that with the NADH-coupled enzyme. Malate inhibition of PEPC assayed with the CS coupling system is blocked by low concentrations of citrate in the range produced in the assay. High concentrations of citrate inhibit PEPC. Glucose-6-phosphate in concentrations higher than 1 mM blocks the response of PEPC to added MDH in the CS assay.
How Modification of the Nutrition Facts Panel Influences Consumers at Risk for Heart Disease: The Case of Trans Fat:

Abstract Making well-informed, healthful food choices helps people maintain a high quality of life. This is especially true for consumers suffering from serious diseases and conditions, such as coronary heart disease and diabetes. Two studies examine how the provision of information on trans fat, a nutrient that provides no known beneficial health benefits, in the Nutrition Facts panel influences consumers' product perceptions and purchase intentions. Using a sample of consumers suffering from diabetes, the authors show that trans fat knowledge and level (disclosed in a Nutrition Facts panel) interact to influence risk perceptions of cardiovascular disease. The results also indicate that responses of consumers who are at risk for heart disease are influenced by the interplay among consumer knowledge, trans fat level, and motivation to process nutrition information. Specifically, the authors find that motivation in the absence of knowledge can lead to a misinterpretation of the nutrient information. Overal...
The chewing lice (Insecta: Phthiraptera: Ischnocera: Amblycera) of Japanese pigeons and doves (Columbiformes), with descriptions of three new species

Abstract: The chewing louse fauna of pigeons and doves in Japan is reviewed based on published records and new collections. An updated checklist of the chewing lice of Japanese pigeons and doves is provided, and 3 new species are described: Columbicola asukae n. sp. and Coloceras nakamurai n. sp., both from Columba janthina Temminck, 1830 (Japanese wood pigeon), and Columbicola lemoinei n. sp. from Treron formosae permagnus Stejneger, 1887, and Treron formosae medioximus (Bangs, 1901) (whistling green-pigeons). This checklist includes data on the first records of Coloceras chinense (Kellogg and Chapman, 1902), Coloceras piriformis (Tendeiro, 1969), and Columbicola guimaraesi Tendeiro, 1965, in Japan. New host records of Hohorstiella sp. from Columba janthina and Treron formosae permagnus, and Coloceras sp. from Treron sieboldii sieboldii (Temminck, 1835) (white-bellied green-pigeon) are provided.
Generation of iPSCs as a Pooled Culture Using Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting of Newly Reprogrammed Cells

Although significant advancement has been made in the induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) field, current methods for iPSC derivation are labor intensive and costly. These methods involve manual selection, expansion, and characterization of multiple clones for each reprogrammed cell sample and therefore significantly hampers the feasibility of studies where a large number of iPSCs need to be derived. To develop higher throughput iPSC reprogramming methods, we generated iPSCs as a pooled culture using rigorous cell surface pluripotent marker selection with TRA-1-60 or SSEA4 antibodies followed by Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS). We observed that pool-selected cells are similar or identical to clonally derived iPSC lines from the same donor by all criteria examined, including stable expression of endogenous pluripotency genes, normal karyotype, loss of exogenous reprogramming factors, and in vitro spontaneous and lineage directed differentiation potential. This strategy can be generalized for iPSC generation using both integrating and non-integrating reprogramming methods. Our studies provide an attractive alternative to clonal derivation of iPSCs using rigorously selected cell pools and is amenable to automation.
Representative Benchmark Suites for Barrier Heights of Diverse Reaction Types and Assessment of Electronic Structure Methods for Thermochemical Kinetics.

We propose three small sets of barrier heights for heavy-atom transfer, nucleophilic substitution, and unimolecular and association reactions as benchmarks for comparing and developing theoretical methods. We chose the data sets to be statistically representative subsets of the NHTBH38/04 database. Each data set consists of 6 barrier heights; we call these small benchmark suites HATBH6, NSBH6, and UABH6. Benchmark values are tabulated for 205 combinations of theory level and basis set. The theory levels studied include single-level wave function theory like Hartree−Fock, Moller−Plesset perturbation theory, quadratic configuration interaction, and coupled cluster theory; they also include multicoefficient correlation methods, local and hybrid density functional theory, and semiempirical molecular orbital methods. The three new representative data sets are combined with a previous representative data set for hydrogen-transfer reactions to form a new compact but diverse and representative data set called DBH...
Evidence-Based Review of Subjective Pediatric Sleep Measures

Objective This manuscript provides an evidence-based psychometric review of parent and child-report pediatric sleep measures using criteria developed by the American Psychological Association (APA) Division 54 Evidence-Based Assessment (EBA) Task Force. Methods Twenty-one measures were reviewed: four measures of daytime sleepiness, four measures of sleep habits/hygiene, two measures assessing sleep-related attitudes/cognitions, five measures of sleep initiation/maintenance, and six multidimensional sleep measures. Results Six of the 21 measures met ‘‘well-established’’ evidence-based assessment criteria. An additional eight measures were rated as ‘‘approaching well-established’’ and seven were rated as ‘‘promising.’’ Conclusions Overall, the multidimensional sleep measures received the highest ratings. Strengths and weaknesses of the measures are described. Recommendations for future pediatric sleep assessment are presented including further validation of measures, use of multiple informants, and stability of sleep measures over time.
Hyperplasia of the gastric glands after small bowel resection in the rat.

One month and 7 months after proximal or distal small bowel resection, adult Sprague-Dawley rats show a significant increase in the number of epithelial cells of the gastric glands (total cells, P