cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Expression and Function of the Mouse V-ATPase d Subunit Isoforms

We have identified a cDNA encoding a novel isoform of the mouse V-ATPase d subunit (d2). The protein encoded is 350 amino acids in length and shows 42 and 67% identity to the yeast d subunit (Vma6p) and the mouse d1 isoform, respectively. Reverse transcriptase-PCR analysis using isoform-specific primers demonstrate that d2 is expressed mainly in kidney and at lower levels in heart, spleen, skeletal muscle, and testis. Although d1 and d2 show similar levels of sequence homology to Vma6p, only the d1 isoform can complement the phenotype of a yeast strain in which VMA6 has been disrupted when cells are grown at 30 degrees C. The d2 isoform, however, can complement the vma6Delta phenotype when cells are grown at 25 degrees C. Moreover, partial assembly of the V-ATPase complex on the vacuolar membrane can be detected under these conditions, although assembly is significantly lower than that observed for the strain expressing Vma6p. This reduced assembly is also reflected in a reduced level of concanamycin-sensitive ATPase activity and proton transport in isolated vacuoles. Comparison of the kinetic properties of V-ATPase complexes containing Vma6p and d1 demonstrate that although the Km for ATP hydrolysis is similar (0.26 and 0.31 mm, respectively), the coupling ratio (proton transport/ATP hydrolysis) is approximately 3-6-fold higher for d1-containing complexes than for Vma6p-containing complexes. These results suggest that subunit d may play a role in coupling of proton transport and ATP hydrolysis.
Sensory electrical stimulation improves foot placement during targeted stepping post-stroke

Proper foot placement is vital for maintaining balance during walking, requiring the integration of multiple sensory signals with motor commands. Disruption of brain structures post-stroke likely alters the processing of sensory information by motor centers, interfering with precision control of foot placement and walking function for stroke survivors. In this study, we examined whether somatosensory stimulation, which improves functional movements of the paretic hand, could be used to improve foot placement of the paretic limb. Foot placement was evaluated before, during, and after application of somatosensory electrical stimulation to the paretic foot during a targeted stepping task. Starting from standing, twelve chronic stroke participants initiated movement with the non-paretic limb and stepped to one of five target locations projected onto the floor with distances normalized to the paretic stride length. Targeting error and lower extremity kinematics were used to assess changes in foot placement and limb control due to somatosensory stimulation. Significant reductions in placement error in the medial–lateral direction (p = 0.008) were observed during the stimulation and post-stimulation blocks. Seven participants, presenting with a hip circumduction walking pattern, had reductions (p = 0.008) in the magnitude and duration of hip abduction during swing with somatosensory stimulation. Reductions in circumduction correlated with both functional and clinical measures, with larger improvements observed in participants with greater impairment. The results of this study suggest that somatosensory stimulation of the paretic foot applied during movement can improve the precision control of foot placement.
Percutaneous Trephine Biopsy of the Lung

Needle lung biopsy performed with a trephine cutting needle attached to a high speed pneumatic drill is a new technique which can be expected to yield a high quality lung specimen in 85 percent – 90 percent of attempts. This technique is especially applicable to diffuse pulmonary disease. The most frequent complication is the development of pneumothorax (in up to 65 percent of biopsies) which if handled appropriately is not dangerous and, therefore, should not be considered to outweigh the benefits of a pathologic and often etiologic diagnosis.
Mammalian bombesin-like peptides: neuromodulators of gastric function and autocrine regulators of lung cancer growth.

Abstract Peptides corresponding closely in structure to the biologically active carboxyl terminal region of the amphibian peptide bombesin have now been isolated from several mammalian species, including man. Two principal forms have been found: one contains 27 amino acids and exhibits variations in amino acid sequence in the amino terminal region; the other is the carboxyl terminal decapeptide and probably does not vary among mammals. These peptides exhibit full immunoreactivity with most bombesin antisera and account for “bombesin-like immunoreactivity” that has been described in mammalian brain, sympathetic ganglia, and nerve fibers in the gut as well as in fetal lung endocrine cells and certain lung tumors, especially small cell lung carcinoma. The name gastrin releasing peptide (GRP) was given to the porcine and avian heptacosapeptides by McDonald and Mutt. The larger and smaller mammalian peptides now often are called GRP27 and GRP10. Both forms exhibit the full spectrum of activity shown by bombesin. Evidence has been obtained that neural release of mammalian bombesin-like peptides is physiologically important in regulation of gastrin release from the stomach. Lung tumors that produce bombesin-like peptides also have receptors for bombesin. These receptors appear to be involved in the autocrine regulation of tumor cell proliferation.
Changing concepts in long-term central venous access: catheter selection and cost savings.

Abstract Background And Objectives: Long-term central venous access is becoming an increasingly important component of health care today. Long-term central venous access is important therapeutically for a multitude of reasons, including the administration of chemotherapy, antibiotics, and total parenteral nutrition. Central venous access can be established in a variety of ways varying from catheters inserted at the bedside to surgically placed ports. Furthermore, in an effort to control costs, many traditionally inpatient therapies have moved to an outpatient setting. This raises many questions regarding catheter selection. Which catheter will result in the best outcome at the least cost? It has become apparent in our hospital that traditionally placed surgical catheters (ie, Hickmans and central venous ports) may no longer be the only options. The objective of this study was to explore the various modalities for establishing central venous access comparing indications, costs, and complications to guide the clinician in choosing the appropriate catheter with the best outcome at the least cost. Methods: We evaluated our institution's central venous catheter use during a 3-year period from 1995 through 1997. Data was obtained retrospectively through chart review. In addition to demographic data, specific information regarding catheter type, placement technique, indications, complications, and catheter history were recorded. Cost data were obtained from several departments including surgery, radiology, nursing, anesthesia, pharmacy, and the hospital purchasing department. Results: During a 30-month period, 684 attempted central venous catheter insertions were identified, including 126 surgically placed central venous catheters, 264 peripherally inserted central catheters by the nursing service, and 294 radiologically inserted peripheral ports. Overall complications were rare but tended to be more severe in the surgical group. Relative cost differences between the groups were significant. Charges for peripherally inserted central catheters were $401 per procedure, compared with $3870 for radiologically placed peripheral ports and $3532 to $4296 for surgically placed catheters. Conclusions: Traditional surgically placed central catheters are increasingly being replaced by peripherally inserted central venous access devices. Significant cost savings and fewer severe complications can be realized by preferential use of peripherally inserted central catheters when clinically indicated. Cost savings may not be as significant when comparing radiologically placed versus surgically placed catheters. However, significant cost savings and fewer severe complications are associated with peripheral central venous access versus the surgical or radiologic approach. (AJIC Am J Infect Control 2001;29:32-40)
Religious Premarital Education and Marital Quality Within the Orthodox Jewish Community

Although a majority of premarital education occurs in religious contexts, research in this area is limited. The current authors studied the religious service delivery model of premarital education among 1244 married Orthodox Jews. Results indicate that education focusing on the religious approach and practices regarding the sexual relationship is significantly associated with greater marital quality. The findings also suggest a need for increased premarital education related to communication and conflict resolution.
Application of pulsed spark discharge for calcium carbonate precipitation in hard water

The effect of underwater pulsed spark discharge on the precipitation of dissolved calcium ions was investigated in the present study. Water samples with different calcium hardness were prepared by continuous evaporation of tap water using a laboratory cooling tower. It was shown that the concentration of calcium ions dropped by 20-26% after 10-min plasma treatment, comparing with no drop for untreated cases. A laser particle counting method demonstrated that the total number of solid particles suspended in water increased by over 100% after the plasma treatment. The morphology and the crystal form of the particles were identified by both scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Calcite with rhombohedron morphology was observed for plasma treated cases, comparing with the round structure observed for no-treatment cases. It was hypothesized that the main mechanisms for the plasma-assisted calcium carbonate precipitation might include electrolysis, local heating in the vicinity of plasma channel and a high electric field at the tip of plasma streamers, inducing structural changes in the electric double layer of hydrated ions.
Note: Determining the detection efficiency of excited neutral atoms by a microchannel plate detector

We present a method for determining the detection efficiency of neutral atoms relative to keV ions. Excited D* atoms are produced by D2 fragmentation in a strong laser field. The fragments are detected by a micro-channel plate detector either directly as neutrals or as keV ions following field ionization and acceleration by a static electric field. Moreover, we propose a new mechanism by which neutrals are detected. We show that the ratio of the yield of neutrals and ions can be related to the relative detection efficiency of these species.
Designing a pharmacy residency program: focus on a common accreditation challenge.

Purpose One organization’s stepwise approach to achieving full compliance in an area often cited for improvement in pharmacy residency accreditation surveys is described. Summary Principle 4 of the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) accreditation standard for postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) residencies lists requisite components of program design, conduct, and evaluation; many organizations seeking accreditation are evaluated as being in partial compliance with one or more elements of Principle 4. Several years ago, the Marshfield Clinic, a physician group practice in Wisconsin, launched an initiative to expand its postgraduate medical training program to include a PGY1 pharmacy residency. After a gap analysis of current practices and accreditation requirements, monthly meetings of pharmacy, faculty, and corporate leaders were conducted to address program development challenges, with ongoing input from the clinic’s division of education. Strategies were developed for meeting all Principle 4 criteria. For example, with regard to component 4.2 (Program Delivery), the clinic developed a residency program handbook including standing operating procedures and a residency preceptor guide with a trainee evaluation scale, professional development resources, and guidance on providing resident feedback. After an internally conducted mock site visit to identify and resolve Principle 4 issues and other compliance issues, the clinic underwent an ASHP site visit and was subsequently accredited by the ASHP Commission on Credentialing. Conclusion Marshfield Clinic used an efficient step-by-step process in the development of its PGY1 pharmacy residency program and achieved full compliance with all of the criteria outlined in Principle 4 of the ASHP accreditation standard.
Strategic Goals and Practices of Innovative Family Businesses

A profile of 231 Washington state family businesses is presented. This article focuses on the business strategies of these firms, analyzing the relationship between strategy, performance, and busin...
Kinetic analysis of curing of tetraepoxides and diamines in the presence of etherification side reactions

The theory of branching processes is used to describe the polymer network formation resulting from the reaction of tetraepoxides with diamines using various initial compositions. Differences in reactivities of primary and secondary amine groups and the reaction between the epoxide groups and reaction-generated hydroxyl groups are taken into account; however, intramolecular reactions in the pregel stage are neglected. Expressions are derived for the critical epoxide conversion at the gel point, molecular weight in the pregel stage, changes in sol and gel fraction in the post-gel stage, and the concentration of elastically active network chains as a function of reaction conditions. The analysis of the simulation results shows that etherification reactions significantly raise the concentration of elastically active network chains of the mixture under stoichiometric excess of epoxide groups.
Evidence from the Lake Champlain Valley for a later onset of the Champlain Sea and implications for late glacial meltwater routing to the North Atlantic

Abstract Ocean circulation models indicate that freshwater runoff from the North American continent during the last deglaciation may have had an effect on North Atlantic Ocean circulation, and thereby have altered regional climate. One such example is a flood from Lake Agassiz, which has been proposed by previous workers to have caused the onset of the Younger Dryas at around 12,850 calibrated years B.P. by entering the North Atlantic through the Gulf of St. Lawrence. We present two radiocarbon ages from terrestrial organic sources in the Champlain Valley that we associate with the pre-Champlain Sea proglacial lake phases; a musk-ox bone with an AMS age of 11,362 ± 115 14 C years B.P. (13,438–13,020 calibrated years B.P.), and a wood fragment with an AMS age of 10,901 ± 76 14 C years B.P. (12,995–12,793 calibrated years B.P.). These ages together with a glacial lacustrine varve estimate suggest that the initiation of the Champlain Sea may not have occurred until after the onset of the Younger Dryas. If the Lake Agassiz flood event occurred before the opening of the Champlain Sea then the floodwaters would have been diverted down the Champlain and Hudson valleys to the North Atlantic. Another possibility is that the Agassiz flood may have been contemporaneous with the opening of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It is also possible that there may have been a large enough flood produced by meltwater originating in the Champlain Valley and St. Lawrence Lowlands at the inception of the Champlain Sea to have affected ocean circulation without the influence of Lake Agassiz.
Effect of pre-dissolved hydrogen on fracture initiation in metastable beta Ti-3Al-8V-6Cr-4Mo-4Zr

Hydrogen embrittlement (HE) in certain {beta}-Ti alloys has been conclusively attributed to either the formation of a brittle hydride or the raising of the ductile to brittle transition temperature (DBTT) by hydrogen. Yet there remains a need to understand the mechanism(s) governing HE in solution heat treated + aged (STA) metastable beta alloys that do not show either of these two phenomena. Therefore, the possibility of additional mechanisms needs to be addressed to understand HE of {beta}-Ti alloys at these intermediate H concentrations.
Signal transduction through the cAMP-dependent protein kinase

Temporal cellular events responsible for hormonal activation of responses mediated by the cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) have been studied in living cells. By selectively perturbing molecular function of Gs, the catalytic subunit of PKA (C), or the nuclear factor CREB, in cells through microinjection of inhibitory agents specific for these mole cules or activated forms of these molecules, we have obtained evidence for a requirement for the function of each of these molecules in the hormonal stimulation of cAMP-regulated genes. Moreover, by introducing fluorescently labeled PKA subunits into these cells as molecular tracers, or by immunofluorescence of C subunit, we have observed biological translocation of C subunit from the cytoplasm to the nucleus during transcriptional activation and a quenching of this by the inhibitor molecule, PKI. The implications of these cellular and molecular events in the signal transduction of hormonal responses are discussed. (Mol Cell Biochem 127/128: 179–186, 1993)
Reversible arrest of Chinese hamster V79 cells in G2 by dibutyryl cyclic AMP

Abstract Chinese hamster V79 cells cultured in the presence of dibutyryl cAMP (db-cAMP) grew at a slower rate and to a lower saturation density than untreated control cells. After 48 h of culture with the drug there was no increase in cell number. The cells remained viable, however, since upon removal of the drug the cell number increased to that of untreated control cultures. Within 1 h after removal of the db-cAMP up to 20% of the population was in mitosis. The mitotic index remained elevated for a total of 2–3 h after which it fell 4-fold, suggesting that a population of cells had accumulated shortly before the onset of mitosis, either at the end of the S phase or in G2. Autoradiographic analysis of an experiment in which the cells were pulse-labeled with [3H]TdR at the time the drug was removed showed that none of the mitotic cells during the initial burst of mitosis was labeled, indicating that in the presence of db-cAMP these cells had accumulated in G2.
A comparison of the antiemetic effects of droperidol and prochlorperazine in chemotherapy with cis-platinum

Abstract The antiemetic effect of droperidol was compared with that of prochlorperazine in women receiving cis -diamminedichloroplatinum. Droperidol was found to be more effective in relieving the vomiting induced by this chemotherapeutic agent. Droperidol is a butyrophenone used widely in anesthetic practice as a sedative, but the effective antiemetic dose is lower than the sedative dose.
2-(1,3-dithian-2-yl)benzaldehyde and N-[2-[2-(1,3-dioxan-2-yl)phenoxy]ethyl]phthalimide.

The crystal structures of two elaborated-porphyrin precursors have been determined. In the crystalline state, 2-(1,3-di­thian-2-yl)­benz­aldehyde, C11H12OS2, has its di­thiane ring in a slightly distorted chair conformation. The mol­ecules pack in anti-parallel chains. N-{2-[2-(1,3-Dioxan-2-yl)­phenoxy]­ethyl}­phthal­imide, C20H19NO5, is in a folded conformation. The dihedral angle between the phthal­imide and phenyl planes is 80.07 (3)°. In the crystalline states, mol­ecules stack on top of one another.
Analysis of the Properties of the N-Terminal Nucleotide-Binding Domain of Human P-Glycoprotein†

Human P-glycoprotein, the MDR1 gene product, requires both Mg(2+)-ATP binding and hydrolysis to function as a drug transporter; however, the mechanism(s) defining these events is not understood. In the present study, we explored the nature of Mg(2+)-ATP binding in the N-terminal nucleotide-binding domain of human P-glycoprotein and identified the minimal functional unit required for specific ATP binding. Recombinant proteins encompassing amino acids within the region beginning at 348 and ending at 707 were expressed in Escherichia coli, purified from inclusion bodies under denaturing conditions, and renatured by rapid dilution. The ability of ATP to interact with these proteins was examined by use of the photoactive ATP analogue [alpha-(32)P]-8-azido-ATP. Photoaffinity labeling of recombinant proteins identified the region between amino acids 375 and 635 as the region necessary to obtain specific ATP-binding properties. Specific protein labeling was saturable, enhanced by Mg(2+), and inhibited by ATP. Recombinant proteins confined within the region beginning at amino acid 392 and ending at amino acid 590 demonstrated nonspecific [alpha-(32)P]-8-azido-ATP labeling. Nonspecific labeling was not enhanced by Mg(2+) and was inhibited only by high concentrations of ATP. Using a D555N mutated protein, we found that the conserved aspartate residue in the Walker B motif plays a role in magnesium-enhanced ATP-binding. Taken together, these data define the region of the N-terminal nucleotide-binding domain of P-glycoprotein that is required for specific ATP binding and suggest that magnesium may play a role in stabilizing the ATP-binding site.
Development and characterization of wheat lines carrying stem rust resistance gene Sr43 derived from Thinopyrum ponticum

Key message Wheat lines carrying Ug99-effective stem rust resistance geneSr43on shortened alien chromosome segments were produced using chromosome engineering, and molecular markers linked toSr43were identified for marker-assisted selection.
Seismic swarm associated with the 2008 eruption of Kasatochi Volcano, Alaska: Earthquake locations and source parameters

[1] An energetic seismic swarm accompanied an eruption of Kasatochi Volcano in the central Aleutian volcanic arc in August of 2008. In retrospect, the first earthquakes in the swarm were detected about 1 month prior to the eruption onset. Activity in the swarm quickly intensified less than 48 h prior to the first large explosion and subsequently subsided with decline of eruptive activity. The largest earthquake measured as moment magnitude 5.8, and a dozen additional earthquakes were larger than magnitude 4. The swarm exhibited both tectonic and volcanic characteristics. Its shear failure earthquake features were b value = 0.9, most earthquakes with impulsive P and S arrivals and higher-frequency content, and earthquake faulting parameters consistent with regional tectonic stresses. Its volcanic or fluid-influenced seismicity features were volcanic tremor, large CLVD components in moment tensor solutions, and increasing magnitudes with time. Earthquake location tests suggest that the earthquakes occurred in a distributed volume elongated in the NS direction either directly under the volcano or within 5–10 km south of it. Following the MW 5.8 event, earthquakes occurred in a new crustal volume slightly east and north of the previous earthquakes. The central Aleutian Arc is a tectonically active region with seismicity occurring in the crusts of the Pacific and North American plates in addition to interplate events. We postulate that the Kasatochi seismic swarm was a manifestation of the complex interaction of tectonic and magmatic processes in the Earth's crust. Although magmatic intrusion triggered the earthquakes in the swarm, the earthquakes failed in context of the regional stress field.
HEAT-INDUCED TRANSITIONS IN THE PROTEIN-PROTEIN INTERACTION OF BOVINE NATURAL ACTOMYOSIN

Protein-protein interaction of bovine natural actomyosin (NAM) was studied by means of optical density changes resulting from discrete particle formation in the temperature range of4°C to 70°C. From Arrhenius plots, the apparent heat of activation (ΔHa) at pH 5.5 (17.1 kcallmole) was significantly (P<0.05) lower than activation energies in the pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The lower Δ Ha resulted in initiation of protein-protein interaction at a temperature near 16°C at pH 5.5, whereas interaction did not proceed until the temperature approached 37°C at pH 6.0 and above. Derivative curves (dOD/dT) at pH 5.5 and 6.0 showed two distinct NAM thermal transition regions. Tm1 occurred at 43.0°C at pH 5.5 and 48.5°C at pH 6.0, with the 5.5°C difference possibly arising from effects of proton binding in altering protein conformation. Only a 1.5°C difference in Tm2 (56.0°C at pH 5.5 versus 57.5°C at pH 6.0) was found. Although the overall heat-mediated NAM aggregation (in dilute solution) was found to follow first order kinetics by two evaluation methods, the existence of two thermal transitions supports a two-step reaction mechanism proposed for the formation of protein gels (in higher concentration solutions).
Management of multiple miliary osteoma cutis.

Background. Multiple miliary osteoma cutis of the face is a variant of osteoma cutis that usually occurs in women with a previous history of acne vulgaris. Objective. To effectively treat cosmetically objectionable lesions of multiple miliary facial osteomas. Methods. We report a patient with multiple miliary osteoma cutis, without a previous history of acne vulgaris, and the results of treatment of these lesions with curettage and the carbon dioxide continuous-wave laser. Results. The patient had an excellent cosmetic outcome with minimal scarring and faint hypopigmentation after 3 treatment sessions. Conclusion. Surgical ablative therapy remains the treatment of choice for patients with this condition, and the use of curettage and carbon dioxide laser ablation provided excellent results for our patient. To our knowledge, this approach to treatment has not been previously described.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone immunoreactivity in the adult and fetal human olfactory system.

Studies in fetal brain tissue of rodents, nonhuman primates and birds have demonstrated that cells containing gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) migrate from the olfactory placode across the nasal septum into the forebrain. The purpose of this study was to examine GnRH neurons in components of the adult and fetal human olfactory system. In the adult human brain (n=4), immunoreactive GnRH was evident within diffusely scattered cell bodies and processes in the olfactory bulb, olfactory nerve, olfactory cortex, and nervus terminalis located on the anterior surface of the gyrus rectus. GnRH-immunoreactive structures showed a similar distribution in 20-week human fetal brains (n=2), indicating that the migration of GnRH neurons is complete at this time. In 10-11-week fetal brains (n=2), more cells were noted in the nasal cavity than in the brain. Our data are consistent with observations made in other species, confirming olfactory derivation and migration of GnRH neurons into the brain from the olfactory placode.
The Need for Ecological Information and the Use of Bioindicators in US Federal Regulatory Agencies

United States federal regulatory agencies develop indicators and other ecological information tools for a variety of reasons, including providing a framework for supporting decision making that is defensible to Congress and the public. Agencies typically develop indicators for their own specific regulatory or programmatic purposes and coordination with other agencies and other indicator projects is often limited. Here we give an overview of incentives driving the development of indicators at different federal agencies and provide some examples of federally supported monitoring and indicator projects. There has been a trend in management and related indicator projects toward coordinating efforts across larger geographic scales (ecosystem/regional). However, there is currently insufficient institutional leadership to coordinate development of indicators at the national scale. This article not subject to United States copyright law.
What DO we know about high T c

From twenty years of experimental research, we can draw several conclusions that do not depend on any particular model of high-temperature superconductivity. With these in mind, it's time to assess the theoretical landscape, and wonder whether we have been asking the right questions.
Apparent cyclophosphamide (cytoxan) embryopathy: a distinct phenotype?

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is an alkylating agent widely used in treating cancer and autoimmune disease. CP is classified as a pregnancy risk factor D drug and is teratogenic in animals, but population studies have not conclusively demonstrated teratogenicity in humans. Six isolated reports of prenatally exposed infants with various congenital anomalies exist, but to date no specific phenotype has been delineated. The purpose of this report is to document a new case of in utero CP exposure with multiple congenital anomalies and to establish an apparent CP embryopathy phenotype. The mother had systemic lupus erythematosus and cyclophosphamide exposure in the first trimester. She also took nifedipine, atenolol, clonidine, prednisone, aspirin, and potassium chloride throughout pregnancy. The infant had growth retardation and multiple anomalies including microbrachycephaly, coronal craniosynostosis, hypotelorism, shallow orbits, proptosis, blepharophimosis, small, abnormal ears, unilateral preauricular pit, broad, flat nasal bridge, microstomia, high-arched palate, micrognathia, preaxial upper limb and postaxial lower limb defects consisting of hypoplastic thumbs, and bilateral absence of the 4th and 5th toes. Chromosomes were apparently normal. The reported cases of in utero exposure to cyclosposphamide shared the following manifestations with our patient: growth deficiency, developmental delay, craniosynostosis, blepharophimosis, flat nasal bridge, abnormal ears, and distal limb defects including hypoplastic thumbs and oligodactyly. We conclude that (a) cyclophosphamide is a human teratogen, (b) a distinct phenotype exists, and (c) the safety of CP in pregnancy is in serious question.
Capillary electrophoretic analysis of hydroxyl radicals produced by respiring mitochondria

Here, we report the use of a capillary electrophoretic method with laser-induced fluorescence detection to evaluate hydroxyl radicals produced by respiring mitochondria. The probe, hydroxyphenylfluorescein (HPF), is separated from the product, fluorescein, in under 5 min with zeptomole and attomole limits of detection for fluorescein and HPF, respectively. Purification of the probe with a C-18 SPE column is necessary to reduce the fluorescein impurity in the probe stock solution from 0.4 % to less than 0.001 %. HPF was responsive to hydroxyl radicals produced by isolated mitochondria from L6 cells, and this signal was blunted when DMSO was added to scavenge hydroxyl radicals and when carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone was added to depolarize the mitochondria. The method was used to compare hydroxyl radical levels in mitochondria isolated from brown adipose tissue of lean and obese mice. Mitochondria from obese mice produced significantly more hydroxyl radicals than those from lean mice.
Fracture resistance of teeth restored with class II composite restorations

Teeth with large mesio-occlusal-distal cavity preparations fracture more easily than intact teeth. An intracoronal restoration capable of increasing tooth fracture resistance is desired. This in vitro study compared the fracture resistance of maxillary premolars restored with enamel bonding and dentin bonding. The effects of the type of curing system (chemical or photochemical) and marginal preparation (beveled or not) were also evaluated. Premolars restored with large MOD composite resin restorations were approximately twice as strong as the unrestored prepared tooth. However, all restored teeth were no more than half as strong as the intact tooth. Dentin bonded restorations were not significantly stronger than enamel bonded restorations.
pH effects on growth and lipid accumulation of the biofuel microalgae Nannochloropsis salina and invading organisms

Biofuels derived from non-crop sources, such as microalgae, offer their own advantages and limitations. Despite high growth rates and lipid accumulation, microalgae cultivation still requires more energy than it produces. Furthermore, invading organisms can lower efficiency of algae production. Simple environmental changes might be able to increase algae productivity while minimizing undesired organisms like competitive algae or predatory algae grazers. Microalgae are susceptible to pH changes. In many production systems, pH is kept below 8 by CO2 addition. Here, we uncouple the effects of pH and CO2 input, by using chemical pH buffers and investigate how pH influences Nannochloropsis salina growth and lipid accumulation as well as invading organisms. We used a wide range of pH levels (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10). N. salina showed highest growth rates at pH 8 and 9 (0.19 ± 0.008 and 0.19 ± 0.011, respectively; mean ± SD). Maximum cell densities in these treatments were reached around 21 days into the experiment (95.6 × 106 ± 9 × 106 cells mL−1 for pH 8 and 92.8 × 106 ± 24 × 106 cells mL−1 for pH 9). Lipid accumulation of unbuffered controls were 21.8 ± 5.8 % fatty acid methyl esters content by mass, and we were unable to trigger additional significant lipid accumulation by manipulating pH levels at the beginning of stationary phase. Ciliates (grazing predators) occurred in significant higher densities at pH 6 (56.9 ± 39.6 × 104 organisms mL−1) than higher pH treatments (0.1–6.8 × 104 organisms mL−1). Furthermore, the addition of buffers themselves seemed to negatively impact diatoms (algal competitors). They were more abundant in an unbuffered control (12.7 ± 5.1 × 104 organisms mL−1) than any of the pH treatments (3.6–4.7 × 104 organisms mL−1). In general, pH values of 8 to 9 might be most conducive to increasing algae production and minimizing invading organisms. CO2 addition seems more valuable to algae as an inorganic carbon source and not as an essential mechanism to reduce pH.
Human Factors Hazards of IPADS In General Aviation Cockpits

The rapid proliferation and application of portable iPads in General Aviation (GA) aircraft has outpaced the human factors hazard analyses that is normally associated with the introduction of new cockpit technology. Insights into human factors hazards associated with iPad cockpit technology were derived from an information synthesis of archival publically available narratives of anomalous events that were voluntarily and anonymously self-reported by pilots through the Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS). The most prevalent type of anomalous event category in which pilots reported iPad use as the primary problem were airspace/procedural violations with situational awareness and human-machine-interface as the most common human factors causal categories. A narrative analysis revealed issues with improper use of zooming/panning, data selection/reading/entry errors, database currency, and workload due to unfamiliarity with the iPad. These specific themes that informed the human factors causal categories sh...
Specific cation effects on conformational transitions of DNA in aqueous solutions.

Abstract The circular dichroism (CD) and absorption spectral properties of calf thymus DNA have been examined in aqueous solutions containing varying concentrations of MgCl2, CaCl2, MnCl2, ZnCl2 and CoCl2. When the CD spectra were analyzed by methods previously described (Hanlon, S., Brudno, S., Wu, T.T. and Wolf, B. (1975) Biochemistry 14, 1648—1660), it was found that the spectral changes observed between 0 and 0.1 molal concentrations of each salt could be satisfactorily accounted for as a linear combination of two independent spectral components. One of these components had the spectrum which we had previously obtained in dilute solutions of NaCl (0.01—0.04 molal) and in 0.2 M tetramethyl ammonium chloride and attributed to a B-like structure. The other spectral endpoint was similar but not identical to the C spectrum obtained in the monovalent series. These differences were particularly pronounced for the transition metal ions, Mn2+, Zn2+ and Co2+. Since significant band shifts were also observed in the absorption spectra of DNA in the presence of these transition metal ions, we have concluded that the differences observed between the C spectrum previously reported and that found for these ions is attributable to changes in the absorption properties of the monomers due to cation association, rather than dramatic differences in conformational properties of the C secondary structure of DNA in the presence of these ions. The greater efficiency of these divalent ions compared to the monovalent ions previously studied in effecting the B → C transconformational reaction is attributed to the more effective screening of electrostatic interactions, both along the phosphate backbone, and between sites on the bases which bear partial negative charges and the negatively charged phosphate groups. In the light of these present results, we believe that it is this electrostatic factor which is primarily involved in effecting the transition from a B to a more C-like state. The role of dehydration is viewed as a subsidiary one which facilitates better ion association, especially at the weaker base sites, thus effecting better damping of the repulsive electrostatic interactions.
"Dream deprivation": effects on dream content.

Dream content elicited following the selective deprivation of rapid-eye-movement sleep was intensified compared to that elicited under nondeprivation conditions. This effect was observed both for repressers and for sensitizers, but was significant only for repressers. On nondeprivation nights, the dream periods of sensitizers were shorter and their dreams more intense than those of repressers.
Should Political Science Have a Civic Mission? An Overview of the Historical Evidence

Like many organizations, the American Political Science Association has taken the dawn of the new millennium as an opportunity to reevaluate its institutional mission. At APSA's 2000 annual meeting, the Strategic Planning Committee (SPC) presented to the APSA Council its final report on “the overall condition of the Association relative to its mission and to the key challenges and opportunities in the external environment” (among other things). Interestingly, the SPC acknowledges that when first asked to “view the future of the APSA through the prism of its organizational mission and objectives,” it was “surprised to learn that the Association had no explicit mission statement beyond its purpose, in the original words of its Constitution, ‘to encourage the study of Political Science’ ” ( ). Accordingly, the Committee decided to craft an APSA mission statement suitable for the twenty-first century.
Effects of weaning on somatotrophic gene expression and circulating levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and IGF-2 in pigs.

Abstract The present study evaluated somatotrophic gene expression in liver, muscle and adipose tissue 4 d after weaning, a time point corresponding to greatly reduced serum concentrations of insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 and IGF-2 in pigs. Two-week-old barrows were either cross-fostered to a sow (SOW, n = 8) or weaned and fed a phase 1 diet containing either 0 or 7% spray-dried plasma (NP, n = 8 and SDP, n = 8; respectively). Piglets were allocated such that two size groups were equivalently represented in each experimental group (small, 3.5–4.3 kg and large, 4.6–5.7 kg). Animals were weighed daily and sacrificed 4 d after weaning for blood and tissue collection. Daily gains of the SOW piglets were significantly greater than those of the weaned pigs for the first 3 d of the experiment (P 0.05). Liver IGF-binding protein (IGFBP)-3 and acid-labile subunit (ALS) mRNA levels also were unaffected by weaning. Small pigs had lower levels of liver ALS (P = 0.0003), muscle IGF-2 (P = 0.02), and muscle GH receptor (P = 0.006) mRNAs. In contrast, adipose tissue IGF-1 and IGF-2 mRNA levels were greatest in the small piglets (P = 0.001 and 0.029, respectively).
Atomic physics and ionization balance of high-Z Ions: Critical ingredients for characterizing and understanding high-temperature plasmas

Abstract A correct description of the ionization balance of high-Z ions, i.e., the fractional abundance of different charge states of a particular element, is critical for interpreting diagnostic line ratios, for describing radiation flow within and out of the plasma, and for assessing the energy balance of high-temperature plasmas. Despite the fundamental nature of this atomic physics parameter, the ionization balance as a function of plasma electron density and electron temperature is generally rather poorly known both experimentally and theoretically. This is the case irregardless of the type of plasma, i.e., low-density astrophysical and coronal plasmas, intermediate density magnetically confined fusion plasmas, or high energy density (HED) laboratory plasmas. We illustrate these points by reviewing existing measurements of the ionization balance of high-Z elements in high-temperature plasmas and discussing the difficulties associated with ionization balance calculations. We focus on the two high-Z elements tungsten (Z = 74) and gold (Z = 79), which play important roles in magnetic fusion and HED plasmas and for which we present calculations of the ionization energies for each charge state. We show that the accuracy of the treatment of dielectronic recombination is currently a limiting factor in proper modeling of the ionization balance and propose “differential” measurements that determine the amount of dielectronic recombination concurrently with the ionization balance as the next step for advancing ionization balance modeling. As an example of the differential measurement approach, we present recent experiments carried out at the Livermore electron beam ion trap, which investigated the ionization balance of gold in the presence of beam-resonant dielectronic recombination. These plasmas limit the immense complexity of dielectronic recombination resonances so that both approximate and reasonably complete detailed calculations can be compared to the measurements. This represents a path forward for constructing and selecting those approximations that produce the most reliable ionization balance models.
The concurrent element level processing for nonlinear dynamic analysis on a massively parallel computer

Abstract The goal of this paper is to explore parallel methodologies with the desired flexibility, generality and accuracy for nonlinear dynamic finite element analysis on massively parallel computer. This paper tests the generality of the concurrent element processing approach and proposes a basic software design strategy to fully take advantage of features available in massively parallel computers having a hierarchical ring architecture. As a testbed, a large scale general purpose code, DYNA3D as used and modified as appropriate to test proposed parallel design concepts on a KSRI parallel computer.
STUDIES ON PHENOLIC STEROIDS IN HUMAN SUBJECTS: EVALUATION OF ENZYMATIC HYDROLYSIS OF ESTROGEN CONJUGATES12

A comparison of the ability of three enzyme preparations of bacterial, mammalian and molluscan origin to hydrolyze urinary and bilary conjugates of the metabolites of C14-labelled estrone, estradiol-17β and estriol revealed the last to be slight superior in hydrolyzing urinary conjugates and markedly superior in hydrolyzing biliary conjugates. It is recommended that for the hydrolysis of urinary estrogen conjugates, incubation with 300 units of molluscan β-glucuronidase per milliliter of urine be conducted at pH 5.5 and 37° C for 96 hours. For the hydrolysis of biliary estrogen conjugates, the concentration should be increased to 1,000 units/ml. A combination of enzymatic hydrolysis and continuous extraction at pH 1 will liberate 30–50% more conjugates than will rcfluxing urine for 45 minutes with 5% (v/v) concentrated sulfuric acid. All three preparations contained enzymes capable of modifying non-conjugated estrone, estradiol-17β and estriol. In the case of estradiol-17β, conversions were quite extensiv...
The Effects of Presentation of Noise and Dental Appliances on Speech

The effects of dental appliances on speech were studied when subjects wore the appliances, both in quiet and in the presence of an intense noise. A group of 24 normal-speaking subjects read lists of syllables, words, and sentences and spoke spontaneously in each of six appliance and noise conditions. Several acoustic and perceptual measurements were made in each condition. In general, speech deteriorated when appliances were placed and when noise was presented. The type and amount of speech disruption varied as a function of speech task and aspect of speech. There was no evidence that the effects of appliances on speech differed in quiet and noise conditions. Inter-subject variability was large.
Macroinvertebrate communities and environmental conditions in recently constructed wetlands

ABSTRACT We quantified macroinvertebrate community characteristics in nine temporary or permanent wetlands, and related these to environmental conditions. Macroinvertebrates inhabiting the water column and shallow sediment (42-cm depth) were sampled 20 months after wetland construction in June 2005. A total of 29 taxa were collected, and macroinvertebrate communities varied among wetlands. Total macroinvertebrate biomass (mean ± SE = 16.44 ± 4.72 g AFDW/m3) and densities (mean ± SE = 372,096 ± 124,972 individuals/m3) were positively related to coarse particulate organic matter abundance (living and nonliving plant matter; CPOM) and negatively related to turbidity. Density of ecologically sensitive EOT (Ephemeroptera, Odonata, Trichoptera) taxa was also positively related to CPOM and negatively related to turbidity. Total taxa richness was negatively related to turbidity, and percent of total macroinvertebrate density consisting of EOT (% EOT) was positively related to CPOM. These relationships were gr...
Party Membership in the United States, I.

In any party system, it would seem of some importance to establish rules and qualifications for membership in the different party groups, in order to bring together those persons, and only those persons, who adhere to the respective party principles. That should be particularly important in a two-party system, where the principles and issues are presumably sharply defined and clearly distinguishable. This matter has received increasing attention during recent years, and the importance of the problem was well stated by the Chicago Tribune, in an editorial referring to the Illinois primary campaign of 1938:“The advantages of party organization and party responsibility have been proved over a long range of political testing, and although the abuses at times seem substantial. If a party is to be recognized as having legal standing, and if it is to make its nominations under the direction of law, there should be, it would seem, some determined qualification of its voters…. There shouldn't be a pretence of one thing and a fact of another. If Democrats and Republicans are to have legal standing as such, then Democrats should not make Republican decisions and Republicans should not make Democratic decisions. To permit this is to commit a fraud against the citizens who are trying to make their organization and their decisions according to the prevailing theory of political action and party responsibility.”
Function-based recognition from incomplete knowledge of shape

The paper describes a function-based reasoning system that analyzes incomplete object shape descriptions of the type that can be acquired from a single view or from a sequence of views in which not all of the object is seen. Results are presented for the analysis of the partial shape descriptions extracted from over 200 real laser range finder images taken by a mobile robot. The work represents the first function-based recognition system to reason from incomplete knowledge of 3D object shape and also the first to analyze 3D shape descriptions acquired from real image data. Results demonstrate that function based recognition is a feasible and practical capability to pursue for autonomous robotic systems. >