cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of a thiocarbamate herbicide compound (pebulate) on magnesium: calcium ratio and blood urea nitrogen levels in exposed sheep and cattle.

S-propyl-butylethylthiocarbamate (pebulate) caused no significant change in Mg:Ca ratio in the plasma of experimental sheep, regardless of whether the sheep were given an emulsifiable concentrate or a technical material. However, when emulsifiable concentrate was given to cattle there was a significant decrease in the Mg:Ca ratios and kidney damage, but there was no effect due to the technical material and formulation inerts.
Electronic structure of six-coordinate iron(III)-porphyrin NO adducts: the elusive iron(III)-NO(radical) state and its influence on the properties of these complexes.

This paper investigates the interaction between five-coordinate ferric hemes with bound axial imidazole ligands and nitric oxide (NO). The corresponding model complex, [Fe(TPP)(MI)(NO)](BF4) (MI = 1-methylimidazole), is studied using vibrational spectroscopy coupled to normal coordinate analysis and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. In particular, nuclear resonance vibrational spectroscopy is used to identify the Fe−N(O) stretching vibration. The results reveal the usual Fe(II)−NO+ ground state for this complex, which is characterized by strong Fe−NO and N−O bonds, with Fe−NO and N−O force constants of 3.92 and 15.18 mdyn/A, respectively. This is related to two strong π back-bonds between Fe(II) and NO+. The alternative ground state, low-spin Fe(III)−NO(radical) (S = 0), is then investigated. DFT calculations show that this state exists as a stable minimum at a surprisingly low energy of only ∼1−3 kcal/mol above the Fe(II)−NO+ ground state. In addition, the Fe(II)−NO+ potential energy surface ...
Cardiac output in systemic arteriovenous fistulas complicated by heart failure

Abstract 1. 1. Three patients with arteriovenous fistulas in whom cardiac output was determined during a period of congestive heart failure were reported upon. The cardiac output was greater than normal during heart failure in two of the patients and less than normal in the other patient studied 7 days prior to death. 2. 2. After the fistulas had been repaired, and the patients had recovered from congestive heart failure, the cardiac output was found to be decreased. Certain hemodynamic dynamic considerations were discussed.
Worst-case interference in DSL systems employing Dynamic Spectrum Management

Dynamic Spectrum Management (DSM) has been proposed to achieve next-generation rates on digital subscriber lines (DSL). Because the copper twisted-pair plant is an interference-constrained environment, the multiuser performance and spectral compatibility of DSM schemes are of primary concern. While the analysis of multiuser interference has been standardized for current static spectrum management (SSM) techniques, at present no corresponding standard DSM analysis has been established.
Intra-ring compression strength of low density hardwoods

Engineered wood composites are being crafted with increasingly smaller and smaller components, yet a search of the literature indicates a lack of intra-ring mechanical property data for almost all commercial wood types, particularly the underutilized low density hardwoods. In addition, there is no universally accepted testing regime for determining micromechanical properties of wood samples. As a result, we developed a testing system for determining compression, tension, and bending properties of growth ring regions of wood samples. Our microtesting system consists of a 45.4 kg load stage, motor drive, data acquisition system, motor control, load cell, strain transducer, and software. In this study, intra-ring compression strength parallel to the grain was determined for small samples (a few millimeters3 in volume) of sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), and red maple (Acer rubrum). It was determined that compression strength is weakly correlated with specific gravity but unrelated to growth rate. Specific gravity was also unrelated to growth rate. Sweetgum values were intermediate between yellow-poplar and red maple
SiGe alloys: growth, properties and applications

Abstract Due to advances in epitaxial techniques, the ability to deposit high-quality epitaxial silicon-germanium alloys at lower temperature, has opened up the applications of pseudomorphicSi1−xGex films in advanced bipolar transistors and in novel device structures. In this review paper, the various methods of growth of Si Ge alloys are discussed, including low-temperature epitaxy by ultra-high vacuum chemical vapor deposition (UHV/CVD) and molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The morphology of growth and the stability of the deposited films are then presented. The major application of Si Ge alloys in integrated processes has been in the bipolar transistors area. The application of these alloys to the bandgap engineering of bipolar devices is discussed, including the most recent accomplishment of 75 GHzfT heterojunction bipolar transistors using Si Ge in the base.
Istanbul (Not Constantinople).

Turkey is one of the ancient areas of the Western world. Bridging Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, Turkey borders Greece, Bulgaria, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, and Syria and is surr...
Purification, characterization, and inhibition of peptide deformylase from Escherichia coli.

Peptide deformylase (EC 3.5.1.31) catalyzes the removal of a formyl group from the N-termini of nascent ribosome-synthesized polypeptides, an obligatory step during protein maturation in eubacteria. Since its discovery in crude Escherichia coli extracts 3 decades ago, the deformylase has resisted all attempts of purification or characterization due to its extraordinary lability. By placing the coding sequence (def gene) of Escherichia coli deformylase behind a bacteriophage T7 promoter, we have, however, been able to overexpress this deformylase in Escherichia coli. Overproduction has allowed the purification of >50 mg of deformylase enzyme from each liter of cell culture. Purified deformylase is highly active toward N-formylated peptide substrates. A new, sensitive assay for the deformylase has been developed by measuring the amount of released formate using a formate dehydrogenase. This has allowed for the assessment of the catalytic properties of peptide deformylase using a series of synthetic N-formyl...
Road salt offers insights into the connections between diet and neural development

Ecologists have long studied how temperature and precipitation generate patterns in the abundance and diversity of life on Earth. Biogeochemistry, moreover, is increasingly seen as a third major driver of ecological pattern from the local to the global scale (1). Shortfalls of any of the 25 or so essential chemical elements—responsible for building tissue, enzymes, and electrolytes—can cause pathology (2). Like temperature and precipitation, these elements can combine to colimit populations and ecosystems, and are nonrandomly distributed across the planet as a result of a variety of natural and anthropogenic drivers (3, 4). Up to now, ecology’s focus has been on carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus—so-called macronutrients—as ecological drivers, given their large contribution to biomass (1). In PNAS, Snell-Rood et al. (5) support a rising tide of evidence showing that micronutrients like sodium (Na) can shape the biology of individuals, communities, and ecosystems. Moreover, the authors suggest that the availability of Na dictates how developing organisms invest in different organ systems. In doing so, they open a new front for ecologists interested in the link between organismal performance and biogeochemistry.
The performance of the refractive status and vision profile survey in a contact lens clinical trial.

Abstract Objective To evaluate the Refractive Status and Vision Profile (RSVP) questionnaire in a contact lens clinical trial and to assess the feasibility of its use in future trials. Design Randomized, crossover clinical trial and survey. Participants The RSVP was administered to 50 contact lens–wearing participants recruited from a large contact lens clinic. Methods RSVP scores were calculated for subjects at three outcome visits: (1) baseline, (2) after wearing daily disposable contact lenses, and (3) after wearing disposable extended wear contact lenses. One-sample t tests were used to compare baseline survey scores with those previously reported for the instrument. The relation of survey scores within and between subjects was assessed with repeated measures analysis of variance. Statistical power and sample size calculations were performed to determine the number of subjects required in future studies to detect differences in RSVP subscale scores. Main outcome measures Eight subscale scores (concern, driving, expectations, glare, optical problems, physical and social functioning, problems with corrective lenses, and symptoms) and the overall RSVP score were calculated on the basis of guidelines reported for scoring of the instrument. Results Five of eight mean subscale scores (concern, expectations, driving, optical problems, and problems with corrective lenses) and the overall score were significantly lower than those previously reported. No differences were found in the following subscales after contact lens treatment: concern, expectations, physical and social functioning, driving, optical problems, problems with corrective lenses, or the overall RSVP score. Significant differences were found on the symptoms ( P = 0.03) and glare ( P = 0.05) subscales; post hoc testing revealed that the significant differences in these scores occurred between baseline and daily disposable lens wear and not between treatment modalities (daily disposable and disposable extended wear). A sample size of 420 would be required to find clinically relevant significant differences (25%) for all subscales in a similar one-sample clinical trial. A more restrictive difference (10%) would require more than 1100 subjects for four of the nine subscales. Conclusions The RSVP questionnaire may not be the appropriate quality-of-life instrument for use in a contact lens clinical trial. The instrument seems to lack sensitivity and discriminative validity in evaluating contact lens treatments.
Dilemma Zone Driver Behavior as a Function of Vehicle Type, Time of Day, and Platooning

A comprehensive investigation of the influence of vehicle type on various aspects of dilemma zone driver behavior, including brake response time, deceleration rate, and red light running occurrence, was performed at six urban or suburban signalized intersections in Wisconsin. Driver behavior data were obtained for 1,275 vehicles that were between 2.0 and 6.5 s upstream of the intersection at the onset of the yellow interval. Each vehicular observation was classified into one of five vehicle type categories: motorcycle, car, light truck (pickup, SUV, van, minivan), single-unit truck (single-unit heavy truck, delivery truck, recreation vehicle, bus), and tractor trailer (multiunit heavy truck). Each observation was also classified by time of day and whether the subject vehicle was part of a platoon. Vehicle type had a statistically significant effect on deceleration rate and red light running occurrence but did not have an effect on brake response time. Deceleration rates were highest for cars and light trucks; single-unit trucks and tractor trailers showed the lowest deceleration rates. Tractor trailers were 3.6 times more likely and single-unit trucks were 2.5 times more likely to commit red light running compared with passenger vehicles. The rates of red light running for cars and light trucks were not substantially different from each other. Time of day (peak versus off-peak) had a statistically significant effect on both deceleration rate and occurrence of red light running. Deceleration rates were significantly higher during off-peak times. Red light running was 1.3 times more likely to occur during peak periods compared with off-peak periods. Platooning had no effect on any of the measures of effectiveness.
Current-source density analysis of the electroretinogram of the frog: methodological issues and origin of components.

The technique of current-source density (CSD) analysis for extracellular potentials is reviewed, along with some methodological features that are important for performing CSD analysis of the electroretinogram. In addition, three formulas for computing CSD’s are examined on model circuits of resistors and current generators. Finally, CSD results from frog retina that bear on the origins of the b, d, and M waves, along with slow PIII, are presented. It is concluded that the b and d waves are generated primarily and directly by bipolar cells, whereas the M wave and the slow PIII are generated by Muller (glial) cells through the K+ spatial buffer mechanism.
The use of adaptation to reduce simulator sickness in driving assessment and research.

Abstract The technical advancement of driving simulators has decreased their cost and increased both their accuracy and fidelity. This makes them a useful tool for examining driving behavior in risky or unique situations. With the approaching increase of older licensed drivers due to aging of the baby boomers, driving simulators will be important for conducting driving research and evaluations for older adults. With these simulator technologies, some people may experience significant effects of a unique form of motion sickness, known as simulator sickness. These effects may be more pronounced in older adults. The present study examined the feasibility of an intervention to attenuate symptoms of simulator sickness in drivers participating in a study of a driving evaluation protocol. Prior to beginning the experiment, the experimental groups did not differ in subjective simulator sickness scores as indicated by Revised Simulator Sickness Questionnaire scores (all p > 0.5). Participants who experienced a two-day delay between an initial acclimation to the driving simulator and the driving session experienced fewer simulator sickness symptoms as indicated by RSSQ total severity scores than participants who did not receive a two-day delay ( F (1,88) = 4.54, p = .036, partial η 2 = .049). These findings have implications for improving client well-being and potentially increasing acceptance of driving simulation for driving evaluations and for driving safety research.
Development and Validation of the Comprehensive Falls Risk Screening Instrument

ABSTRACTAnnually, one in three older adults experiences a fall. Falls can lead to death, disability, and/or decreased health-related quality of life (HRQL). Objectives: To validate the Comprehensive Falls Risk Screening Instrument (CFRSI). Methods: Data were collected on 286 older adults (M age in years = 74.2 ± 10.0). The CFRSI total falls risk score was compared to subscale scores, the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE), the Functional Status Index (FSI), and HRQL (SF-36, PCS, and Mental Component Summary (MCS)) scores. Results: The total CFRSI falls risk score was associated with all subscales (r = 0.25, p < 0.01 to r = 0.69, p < 0.01), PASE (r = −0.30, p < 0.01), FSI (r = 0.30, p < 0.01), and SF-36 PCS and MCS scores (r = −0.44, p < 0.01 to r = −0.24, p = 0.03, respectively). Fallers (n = 90) had a higher total falls risk score (M = 41.03 ± 9.38) than nonfallers (n = 188, M = 34.06 ± 10.05, t [276] = 5.53, p < 0.001). The most important predictor of falling status was only the history risk...
Metabolic pathways of tetraiodothyroacetic acid, triidothyroacetic acid, tetraiodothyropropionic acid and triiodothyropropionic acid.

Abstract Major metabolic pathways for l -thyroxine and l -3,5,3'-triiodothyronine involve removal of an iodine atom from the benzene ring with the side chain and thus inactivation of these hormones. Conjugates of the products 3,3',5'-triiodothyronine and 3,3'-diiodothyronine are excreted in the bile of dogs with livers but accumulate in the blood and urine of dogs without livers. Analogs of the thyroid hormones labeled with 131I in the 3' or 5' position were studied in dogs with biliary fistulas and in hepatectomized dogs. In dogs with biliary fistulas tetraiodothyroacetic acid was metabolized much more slowly than was thyroxine ; much less 131I was excreted in bile or urine. Large amounts of unchanged tetraiodothyroacetic acid with smaller amounts of 3,3',5'-triiodothyroacetic acid were found in the blood. Tetraiodothyropropionic acid was partially deiodinated to 3,3',5'-triiodothyropropionic acid which accumulated in the blood as the amount of unchanged tetraiodothyropropionic acid decreased. Both of these compounds of propionic acid were excreted in bile as glucosiduronides. 3,5,3'-Triiodothyroacetic acid and 3,5,3'-triiodothyropropionic acid were rapidly cleared from the blood and excreted in the bile chiefly as glucosiduronides, with small amounts of the ethereal sulfate conjugates of 3,3'-diiodothyroacetic acid and 3,3'-diiodothyropropionic acid. In dogs without livers, the sulfates of these 3,3'-diiodo-compounds were found in larger amounts in both blood and urine, but the major metabolites appeared to be sulfoconjugates of 3'-monoiodo-derivatives.
Comparison of cell-mediated immunity to melanoma cells in patients with vitiligo, halo nevi or melanoma.

Cell-mediated immunity of partially purified lymphocytes to cultivated melanoma cells was measured in vitro in patients with melanoma, vitiligo or halo net, or with nonpigmentary skin disorders, and in normal individuals. With a long-term line of melanoma cells labeled with 125 I-IUDR it was impossible to discern a difference among the various groups. However, with 3 ;H-proline labeled, recently explanted melanoma cells significant differences in cell-mediated immunity were demonstrable. Twelve melanoma patients reacted to target melanoma cells, with a mean of 32.6% (SE 2.6%). In contrast, 29 patients with vitiligo had a mean reactivity of −10.3% (SE 4.5%). Seven patients with halo nevi had a mean reactivity of 51.4% (SE 7%). There was essentially no reactivity among individuals with nonpigmentary disorders or normal volunteers (mean = −9.8%, SE 8.2%). Autologous serum did not affect cell-mediated reactivity in any group. Reactivity of lymphocytes from melanoma or halo nevi patients to neuroblastoma cells and fibroblasts was slight (mean = 19% and 5%, respectively), indicating a degree of specificity, probably against pigment-containing cells. These studies indicate that idiopathic vitiligo in contrast to halo nevi is not characterized by cell-mediated immunity of peripheral blood lymphocytes against pigmented tumor cells. Other tests of immunity must be brought to bear in these disorders before the role of immunological mechanisms in vitiligo can be definitively resolved.
Integration of precisely aligned lenslet arrays with waveguide arrays

We present a method to fabricate in situ lens arrays on the edge of waveguide arrays that are embedded in a printed circuit board. This fabrication method can guarantee precise alignment between the lenslet and the waveguide arrays, by directly overlaying the lenslet pattern on the waveguide cores. Each fabricated lenslet has a numerical aperture of 0.1, and the beam through it has a divergence angle of 3.29 deg, close to that of a perfectly aligned commercial lenslet array.
Mid-IR photoluminescence of Fe^2+ and Cr^2+ ions in ZnSe crystal under excitation in charge transfer bands

Spectroscopic characterization of Fe:ZnSe(Cr:ZnSe) crystals under visible excitation into the charge transfer bands of Transition Metal ions were studied. The excitation efficiencies of mid-IR photoluminescence between 5 T2( 5 E) and 5 E( 5 T2) states via direct relaxation to the upper laser levels and via metastable upper 3 T1 were investigated. It was demonstrated that the latter route is the dominant process for Cr 2+ ions and could provide sufficient pump rate for mid-IR lasing. The pump efficiencies via direct relaxation to the upper laser levels were estimated to be <2% for both ions under 532 nm excitation wavelength.
Operational Experience with the Fermilab 150 GeV Injection Kicker

The Fermilab E17 injection kicker has been in operation for more than 12000 filament hours and has logged almost 350,000 pulses since commissioning without major failure. The kicker system uses EEV 1193B and 1193C double-ended thyratrons in the MAIN, CLIP and DUMP configuration. In typical operation, the pulser produces 4800 A, 20 ?s pulses at a charging voltage of 60kV and is capable of operating at a 80kV charging voltage. Any failure of the injection process can cause the Tevatron cryogenic magnets to quench. This includes any misfires of the injection kicker. Considerable effort was made to maximize reliability and provide interlocks to limit the problems that could happen from injection kicker misfires. The operating experience and reliability of the EEV thyratron will be discussed. Also, the use of the fiberoptics, unique charging power supplies, and unusual digital interlocks and the role they play in improved reliability will be discussed.
NMDA-, kainate- and quisqualate-stimulated release of taurine from electrophysiologically monitored rat hippocampal slices

While excitatory amino acids (EAAs) are known to evoke the release of taurine in the hippocampus, we have found that taurine is localized primarily in dendrites and only to a lesser extent in terminals in this region. To determine whether taurine is released as a neurotransmitter by non-toxic concentrations of EAAs, or exclusively as a neuroprotectant in response to excitotoxicity, we monitored the release of amino acids from hippocampal slices during simultaneous electrophysiological recording in the CA1 region to assess tissue viability. N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) was the most potent of the EAA agonists tested for stimulating release of taurine. Exposure of slices to 120 microM NMDA increased the concentration of taurine in the perfusate to 1325% of its basal value. Kainate (KA) at a concentration of 128 microM increased taurine to 543% of baseline while quisqualate (Quis) at a concentration of 120 microM increase taurine to only 202% of its baseline value. Release of taurine in response to NMDA and KA peaked during the period when the concentration of the agonist was declining in the bath and did not return to its baseline value until 20 min after removal of the agonist. Increases in release of taurine were associated with concentrations of NMDA, KA, and Quis that caused an incomplete recovery of the CA1 field potential. These results suggest that taurine is primarily released by concentrations of glutamate receptor agonists that exhibit evidence of excitotoxicity in the CA1 region.
Coupling of the interstellar and interplanetary magnetic fields at the heliospheric interface: The effect of neutral hydrogen atoms

Abstract We present numerical results showing the effect of neutral hydrogen atoms on the solar wind (SW) interaction with the local interstellar medium (LISM), where the interstellar magnetic field (ISMF) is coupled to the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) at the surface of the heliopause. The IMF on the inner boundary surrounding the Sun is specified in the form of a Parker spiral and self-consistently develops in accordance with the SW motion inside the heliopause. The model of the SW–LISM interaction involves both plasma and neutral components which are treated as fluids. The configuration is chosen where the ISMF is orthogonal to the LISM velocity and tilted 60° to the ecliptic plane. This orientation of the magnetic field is a possible explanation of the 2–3 kHz emission data which is believed to originate ahead of the heliopause. It is shown that the topology of the heliospheric current sheet is substantially affected by the ISMF. The interaction pattern dependence on the neutral hydrogen density is analyzed.
Quantification of the coarsening kinetics of γ′ precipitates in Waspaloy microstructures with different prior homogenizing treatments

Abstract We report on quantification of the γ ′ precipitate population, and its coarsening behavior, in controlled Waspaloy microstructures synthesized to possess γ matrix grain sizes ranging from 13 to 89 μm. The grain microstructures were produced by initial solution-treatments at 1045, 1090 and 1145 °C. The γ ′ precipitates were obtained by aging at 779 and 796 °C for times ranging from 0.1 to 263.5 h. Specimen characterization was conducted via optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, DC four-point probe resistivity and ex situ ultra-small-angle X-ray scattering (USAXS) experiments at each aging time. The γ ′ size distribution, obtained from the USAXS analysis, transformed from an initial unimodal to an eventual bimodal distribution with continued aging. The overall coarsening kinetics, although non-steady state, followed t 1/3 behavior, when the primary γ ′ radius was used as the quantifying precipitate dimension. The coarsening rate constants were primarily determined by the aging temperature used, while the influence of prior homogenizing treatments was minimal to non-existent. A generic correlation was found to exist between a newly proposed figure-of-merit of scattering, η based on the USAXS-derived γ ′ precipitate distribution(s) and the measured electrical resistivity.
Revisioning nursing scholarship.

Purpose: To propose a universal model of nursing scholarship that (a) indicates the importance of professional practice disciplines, (b) incorporates the synthesis of intellectual pursuit with social change, and (c) is holistic in its design. Organizing Construct: Scholarship, traditionally viewed as part of or generated in the university enterprise, must be an expectation in all settings in which a community of scholars from both discipline and practice can and do coexist. Methods: Review and synthesis of the literature on scholarship, nursing scholarship, nursing as a practice discipline. Findings: The history, culture, and intellectual property of nursing comprise an appropriate basis for adopting a universal holistic model of scholarship built upon a set of universal assumptions about nursing scholarship. As a discipline and a profession, nursing should include four connected domains in a universal holistic model of scholarship: knowing, teaching, practice, and service. Conclusions: Confirmation of this universal holistic model of scholarship can contribute significantly to a larger nursing identity. Use of universal holistic model of nursing scholarship indicates responsibility of the nursing profession collectively and all nurses individually. Additional work is needed to understand how a universal holistic model of nursing scholarship evolves across cultures, domains, and work settings.
Natural history and treatment outcomes of childhood hip disorders.

Normal hip joint growth and development occur as a result of a genetically determined balance of growth of the acetabular and triradiate cartilages and the presence of a well located centered spheric femoral head. The majority of acetabular development is determined by age 8 years. This is a watershed age for prognosis in many pediatric hip disorders. Hip joint growth and development and how these are affected by the disease process and treatment interventions profoundly affect outcome. Outcomes of these disease processes (congenital hip dislocation and dysplasia, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and slipped capital femoral epiphysis), is multifactorial but profoundly influenced by the age at the disease onset (birth to the adolescent growth spurt), and the effects of treatment on the relationship between femoral head and acetabular development. The natural history of many of these childhood hip disorders is the development of degenerative joint disease. Degenerative joint disease and clinical disability may develop in these conditions despite standard up to date treatment interventions. In most of the hip diseases discussed, patients usually do well clinically for many years regardless of treatment.
Enantioselectivity of alcohol dehydrogenase-catalyzed oxidation of 1,2-diols and aminoalcohols☆

Abstract The alcohol dehydrogenase from horse liver is able to catalyze the oxidation of a number of 1,2-diols and α-aminoalcohols enantioselectively to l -α-hydroxyaldehydes and l -α-amino aldehydes. A decrease of enantioselectivity was found in reactions with 1,3-diols and substrates with hydrophobic substituent at position 3. α-Aminoalcohols are not substrates for yeast alcohol dehydrogenase, but the enzyme can catalyze the oxidation of most of the diols to l -hydroxyaldehydes. New methods for determination of the optical purity of α-hydroxy-and α-aminoaldehydes via converting them in situ to the corresponding acids, catalyzed by the aldehyde dehydrogenase from yeast, have been developed. The coupled alcohol dehydrogenase/aldehyde dehydrogenase has been extended to preparatory scale synthesis of optically pure l -α-hydroxyacids in the presence of a cofactor regeneration system. The active-site cubic-space section model has been shown not to be applicable to all substrates.
Crystal structure of core streptavidin determined from multiwavelength anomalous diffraction of synchrotron radiation.

Abstract A three-dimensional crystal structure of the biotin-binding core of streptavidin has been determined at 3.1-A resolution. The structure was analyzed from diffraction data measured at three wavelengths from a single crystal of the selenobiotinyl complex with streptavidin. Streptavidin is a tetramer with subunits arrayed in D2 symmetry. Each protomer is an 8-stranded beta-barrel with simple up-down topology. Biotin molecules are bound at one end of each barrel. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of multiwavelength anomalous diffraction (MAD) procedures for macromolecular crystallography and provides a basis for detailed study of biotin-avidin interactions.
An in numero study of glucose-insulin interaction.

A mathematical model has been developed to simulate the glucose-insulin interaction following a glucose load such as occurs in an IVGTT. This model differs from earlier models in that the insulin response to glucose loading is a recurring all or none threshold response. The model has been simulated on a digital computer using the digital analog simulation language CSMP.
ALTERATION IN RENAL NA AND H2O CONTENT FOLLOWING ADRENALECTOMY.

SummaryIt appears that the conflicting reports in the literature regarding the effects of adrenalectomy on the concentration of water and electrolytes in the kidney may be due to different levels of circulating ADH in the animal at the time of experiment, or to differences in the protocols of the several sets of experiments.
Normal faulting and flexure in an elastic-perfectly plastic plate

Abstract An elastic-perfectly plastic plate model has been developed to analyze the flexure associated with normal faulting. The model consists of a thin layer, which is completely cut by a normal fault, overlying a fluid substratum. For a given applied bending moment at the fault, the relationship between the amount of displacement on the fault and the extent of the failure zone can be calculated. The model is applied to the Wasatch Front region in the eastern Basin and Range Province, USA to determine the correlation of its parameters with geological and geophysical data in the vicinity of a major normal fault, the Wasatch fault, along which there has been 3–4 km of Late Cenozoic uplift. In this region, most seismic activity occurs away from the Wasatch fault in a zone 30 km wide, roughly centered 30 km east of the fault. This activity occurs at depths of 15 km or less. In order to match the observations, the lithospheric layer must have a flexural rigidity of 0.5 to 1.1 · 1022 n-m and a yield stress of 1–2 kb and must have zero applied bending moment at the fault. The effective mechanical thickness of the lithosphere in this region is 20–25 km. These results indicate that the lithosphere in long-term mechanical studies in the eastern Basin and Range is thin and weak. Evaluating these results as compared to the seismic lithospheric thickness and temperature regime of the region produces some interesting correlations with studies in oceanic regions.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ACOUSTIC STRUCTURE OF PASSERINE AND WOODPECKER NESTLING CALLS

ABSTRACT We examined the acoustic structure of the calls of 71 species of nestling passerines (both suboscines and oscines) and 4 species of nestling woodpeckers. Calls varied greatly in general acoustic structure, frequency (pitch) and duration. Some phylogenetic trends occurred, e.g. calls of woodpeckers and suboscines tended to be simpler than those of most oscines. Body size was significantly correlated with both maximum and minimum frequency. Age-related changes occurred in some species but not others. The results suggest some phylogenetic and developmental constraints on call structure, but do not rule out the possibility that selection acts directly on nestling calls. However, the hypothesis that cavity-nesters would have more easily localizable calls than open-nesters because of lowered predation risk was not supported by our study, which showed no significant differences in any frequency or temporal measures of acoustic structure between cavity-nesters and open-nesters.
Novel Roles for the E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Atrophin-interacting Protein 4 and Signal Transduction Adaptor Molecule 1 in G Protein-coupled Receptor Signaling

The CXCL12/CXCR4 signaling axis plays an important role in human health and disease; however, the molecular mechanisms mediating CXCR4 signaling remain poorly understood. Ubiquitin modification of CXCR4 by the E3 ubiquitin ligase AIP4 is required for lysosomal sorting and degradation, which is mediated by the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) machinery. CXCR4 sorting is regulated by an interaction between endosomal localized arrestin-2 and STAM-1, an ESCRT-0 component. Here, we report a novel role for AIP4 and STAM-1 in regulation of CXCR4 signaling that is distinct from their function in CXCR4 trafficking. Depletion of AIP4 and STAM-1 by siRNA caused significant inhibition of CXCR4-induced ERK-1/2 activation, whereas overexpression of these proteins enhanced CXCR4 signaling. We further show that AIP4 and STAM-1 physically interact and that the proline-rich region in AIP4 and the SH3 domain in STAM-1 are essential for the interaction. Overexpression of an AIP4 catalytically inactive mutant and a mutant that shows poor binding to STAM-1 fails to enhance CXCR4-induced ERK-1/2 signaling, as compared with wild-type AIP4, suggesting that the interaction between AIP4 and STAM-1 and the ligase activity of AIP4 are essential for ERK-1/2 activation. Remarkably, a discrete subpopulation of AIP4 and STAM-1 resides in caveolar microdomains with CXCR4 and appears to mediate ERK-1/2 signaling. We propose that AIP4-mediated ubiquitination of STAM-1 in caveolae coordinates activation of ERK-1/2 signaling. Thus, our study reveals a novel function for ubiquitin in the regulation of CXCR4 signaling, which may be broadly applicable to other G protein-coupled receptors.
Looking for Italy's public sphere

Starting out from Jurgen Habermas's definition of the public sphere, and from the criticisms subsequently made of it by various scholars, this article considers whether the concept may be appropriately applied to Italy in the modern era. Is it correct to limit the public sphere to its ‘classic’ liberal form or to understand it in a normative sense rather than a more neutral, descriptive one? Can one, for example, speak of a fascist public sphere? Is the public sphere always fatally undermined by the mass media or can it harness some of the media to its own ends? If there is still a critical public sphere in Italy today, where is it to be found and what forms does it take?
Neighborhood socioeconomic status and behavioral pathways to risks of colon and rectal cancer in women

BACKGROUND: Neighborhood amenities and resources plausibly determine individual modifiable risk factors for colon and rectal cancer. Evidence on the associations between neighborhood socioeconomic status (SES) and incident colon and rectal cancer is limited. METHODS: The authors analyzed a prospective cohort of 111,129 women in the Nurses' Health Study with no history of cancer in 1986 followed to 2006. Neighborhood SES was based on Census-derived characteristics of block groups of residence. Cox models were used to estimate the multivariate-adjusted associations between neighborhood SES and incident colon and rectal cancer, and to examine for effect modification. For significant associations, path models were estimated with behavioral risk factors included as potential mediators. RESULTS: Neighborhood SES was unassociated with colon cancer among all women. However, among women with college or greater education, higher neighborhood SES was inversely related to colon cancer (P for trend = .01; P for interaction between neighborhood SES and education = .03). Path analysis suggested mediation by red meat intakes and body mass index (BMI). Higher neighborhood SES was inversely related to rectal cancer among all women (relative risk in highest quintile, 0.64; 95% confidence interval, 0.44-0.93; P for trend = .08). Path analysis was consistent with mediation by multivitamin use and BMI. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that living in a higher-SES neighborhood may protect against rectal cancer in women and colon cancer in higher-educated women, mediated by selected behavioral risk factors. Risk factor differences between colon and rectal cancer may account for discrepancies in estimated neighborhood effects by cancer site. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Mixed Mathematical and Physical Modeling for Nonlinear Systems

The paper proposes a finite series expansion to approximate general nonlinear dynamic models to arbitrary accuracy. The method produces an approximation of nonlinear dynamics in the form of an aggregation of linear models, weighted by unimodal basis functions, and results in a linear growth bound on the approximation error. Furthermore, the paper demonstrates that the proposed approximation satisfies the modeling assumptions for analysis based on linear matrix inequalities and hence widens the applicability of these techniques to the area of nonlinear control.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Does Beck's Hopelessness Scale really measure several components?

Background. Much of the interest in hopelessness stems from the key role it plays in the prediction of suicidal behaviour. To measure hopelessness, Beck et al.(1974)developed a 20-item scale (BHS), applied exploratory factor analysis and argued that the scale measures three specific components (affective, motivational and cognitive). Subsequent exploratory factor analyses identified two, three or more factors underlying the scale.Method. Several confirmatory factor analyses (LISREL) were run on data on 324 suicide attempters in Sweden in order to test the hypothesized factorial structures and to investigate the psychometric properties of the individual items.Results. Neither three- nor two-factor models fitted the data. A simpler structure was sufficient to account for the observed correlations between most of the items. This led to the development of several variants of a one-factor model, each a combination of affective, motivational and cognitive items. The number of items varied between four and 15.Conclusions. Our findings suggest that most of the items (15) of Beck's Hopelessness Scale measure one factor. They further suggest that the number of items could considerably be reduced. A four-item scale produced an excellent fit. It includes positive and negative items describing the perception of the future in terms of success, darkness, lack of opportunity and faith. It might even be possible to replace the total scale with one item only, ‘my future seems dark to me’.
Laparoscopic Marsupialization of Symptomatic Polycystic Kidney Disease

AbstractPurpose: Although laparoscopic unroofing of simple renal cysts has proved to be an effective form of therapy, its use for treatment of multiple renal cysts or symptomatic autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease only recently has been investigated.Materials and Methods: The results of laparoscopic marsupialization of symptomatic renal cysts in 13 patients was determined 12 to 28 months postoperatively by assessing subjective pain relief, and comparing preoperative and postoperative computerized tomography (CT). Eight patients had autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. Multiple dominant (more than 3 cm.) cysts were marsupialized in 11 patients and 1 dominant cyst was treated in 2.Results: Of 13 patients with symptomatic renal cysts and 8 with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease 8 (62 percent) and 4, respectively were pain-free 12 to 28 months postoperatively. Two patients had persistent pain, while 3 had recurrent pain 7 to 16 months postoperatively. All 5 patients had persisten...
Infrared and Raman spectra, conformational stability, normal coordinate analysis, ab initio calculations, and vibrational assignment of 1–methylsilacyclobutane

Abstract The infrared (3500–40 cm −1 ) spectra of gaseous and solid 1-methylsilacyclobutane, c -C 3 H 6 SiH(CH 3 ), have been recorded. In addition, the Raman spectrum (3500–30 cm −1 ) of the liquid has also been recorded and quantitative depolarization values obtained. Both the axial and equatorial conformers, with respect to methyl group, have been identified in the fluid phases. Variable temperature studies (−55 to −100°C) of the infrared spectra of the sample dissolved in liquid xenon have been carried out. From these data, the enthalpy difference has been determined to be 122±26 cm −1 (1.46±0.32 kJ/mol), with the equatorial conformer being the more stable structure. However, with repeated annealing of the amorphous solid, it was not possible to obtain a polycrystalline solid with a single conformer. A complete vibrational assignment is proposed for the equatorial conformer based on infrared band contours, relative intensities, depolarization values and group frequencies. Most of the fundamentals for the axial conformer have also been identified. Utilizing the frequency of the silicon–hydrogen (Si–H) stretching mode, the Si–H distance has been determined to be 1.490 A for both conformers. The vibrational assignments are supported by normal coordinate calculations utilizing ab initio force constants. Complete equilibrium geometries have been determined for both rotamers by ab initio calculations, employing the 3-21G* and 6-31G* basis sets at the levels of restricted Hartree–Fock (RHF) and/or Moller–Plesset (MP) to second order. The results are discussed and compared with those obtained for some similar molecules.
Linear free energy relationship applied to trivalent cations with lanthanum and actinium oxide and hydroxide structure

Abstract Linear free energy relationships for trivalent cations with crystalline M2O3 and, M(OH)3 phases of lanthanides and actinides were developed from known thermodynamic properties of the aqueous trivalent cations, modifying the Sverjensky and Molling equation. The linear free energy relationship for trivalent cations is as Δ G f,MvX 0 = a MvX Δ G n, M 3 + 0 + b MvX + β MvX r M 3 + , where the coefficients aMvX, bMvX, and βMvX characterize a particular structural family of MvX, r M 3 + is the ionic radius of M3+ cation, Δ G f,MvX 0 is the standard Gibbs free energy of formation of MvX and Δ G n, M 3 + 0 is the standard non-solvation free energy of the cation. The coefficients for the oxide family are: aMvX = 0.2705, bMvX = −1984.75 (kJ/mol), and βMvX = 197.24 (kJ/mol nm). The coefficients for the hydroxide family are: aMvX = 0.1587, bMvX = −1474.09 (kJ/mol), and βMvX = 791.70 (kJ/mol nm).
Mental Workload as a Function of Road Type and Visibility: Comparison of Neurophysiological, Behavioral, and Subjective Indices

Advanced in-vehicle technologies (IVTs) are rapidly being introduced. Methods of assessing the mental workload required by the driving situation are imperative to the safe implementation of these advanced systems. The current investigation compared the sensitivity of an array of assessment techniques to changes in simulated driving task demand. P300 amplitude was sensitive to increased driving task demand due to reduced visibility (presence of fog) but was not sensitive to changes in road type (urban versus freeway). Conversely, RT and accuracy to a secondary task were sensitive to changes in road type but were not sensitive to the visibility manipulation. Subjective workload ratings were not sensitive to either manipulation. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for assessing the impact of environmental factors on the mental workload demands of the driving task and for the design and implementation of adaptive driver interfaces.
Amperometric glucose sensors based on ferrocene-modified poly(ethylene oxide) and glucose oxidase

Abstract Electrical communication between the flavin adenine dinucleotide redox centers of glucose oxidase and a conventional electrode was achieved using two electron-transfer relay systems based on ferrocene-modified poly(ethylene oxide). The results from cyclic voltammetry and stationary potential experiments show that carbon paste electrodes modified with these redox polymers and glucose oxidase respond rapidly to addition of glucose, with larger steady-state response currents than those measured in previous studies of glucose sensors based on ferrocene-modified siloxane polymers. The results also indicate that the mediating ability of the polymers is dependent on the density of bound ferrocene moieties along the polymer chain.
Predicting performance in the first-year of pharmacy school.

Objectives. To determine the predictive validity of the Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) scores and other variables for students’ success in the first year of doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) programs. Methods. PCAT scores, entering grade-point averages (GPAs), demographic characteristics, and GPAs for the first year of pharmacy curriculum were collected from the Pharmacy College Application Service (PharmCAS) and from 22 pharmacy programs. Results. PCAT scores and entering GPAs were positively correlated with subsequent GPAs after the first year. Regression analyses showed the contribution of PCAT scores and entering GPAs in predicting first-year pharmacy GPAs. Conclusions. PCAT scores and prepharmacy GPAs both showed moderate predictive validity in indicating candidates likely to succeed in the first year of the pharmacy program. These findings are consistent with those of previous similar studies.
Tubificid role in soil mineralization and recovery of algal nitrogen by lowland rice

Abstract Uptake of blue-green algal nitrogen (N) and total N uptake by lowland rice ( Oryza sativa ) was affected by tubificid ( Oligochaeta ) presence in submerged soils. Recovery of algal 15 N by the first crop was 24–43% but only 4–7% for the second, and recovery was determined by both the method of algal application (surface vs buried) and the presence of tubificids. Tubificid activities reduced recovery of algal N by rice, increased its total N content and doubled losses of 15 N to the atmosphere. Soil N uptake by rice was increased by tubificid presence. Soil N mineralization, measured as NH 4 + production, was doubled over 7 days by their activities and algal mineralization was also apparently enhanced. The NH 4 + release rate of Limnodrilus sp. was 4.11 ± 0.06 ng NH 4 + -N mg ash free dry wt −1 h −1 . Effects of tubificids on rice nutrition are discussed.