cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison of pulmonary and cutaneous inflammation in nonspecific and delayed hypersensitivity lesions.

Abstract Inflammatory reactions in skin and lung were compared at various times in normal and immunized guinea pigs using purified protein derivative (PPD) as an irritant and delayed tuberculin hypersensitivity as a state of altered reactivity. All lesions were studied histologically, the lungs were weighed and the size and vascular permeability of the cutaneous lesions were measured. In both groups the cellular composition of the different lesions at various times was similar but the cellular responses were more marked and persisted longer in the immunized animals. In both groups the onset of the inflammatory reactions occurred at the same time in both skin and lung but the lesions were more marked earlier in the skin than in the lung. The pulmonary lesions resolved sooner than those in the skin. This comparison of cutaneous and pulmonary inflammatory cell responses revealed quantitative differences which did not appear to affect the reaction to injury in either tissue and were less striking than the similarities.
Myocardial metabolism in cardiac hypoxia

Abstract Cardiac substrate metabolism and energyforming pathways have been outlined, with special emphasis on the metabolic shifts that occur in myocardial hypoxia and ischemia. Metabolic control mechanisms provide a fine balance between utilization and formation of energy, oxygen consumption and intra- and extramitochondrial substrate degradation pathways. The mechanical alterations found in myocardial ischemia have been explained by known metabolic abnormalities in the formation of energy. The use of changes in blood lactate and pyruvate as a measure of myocardial hypoxia has been discussed, and several theoretic objections have been raised. Metabolic and hemodynamic abnormalities found in patients with coronary artery disease have been reviewed, and the potential usefulness of metabolic studies in such patients has been reemphasized.
Brain surface maps from 3-D medical images

The anatomic and functional localization of brain lesions for neurologic diagnosis and brain surgery is facilitated by labeling the cortical surface in 3D images. This paper presents a method which extracts cortical contours from magnetic resonance (MR) image series and then produces a planar surface map which preserves important anatomic features. The resultant map may be used for manual anatomic localization as well as for further automatic labeling. Outer contours are determined on MR cross-sectional images by following the clear boundaries between gray matter and cerebral-spinal fluid, skipping over sulci. Carrying this contour below the surface by shrinking it along its normal produces an inner contour that alternately intercepts gray matter (sulci) and white matter along its length. This procedure is applied to every section in the set, and the image (grayscale) values along the inner contours are radially projected and interpolated onto a semi-cylindrical surface with axis normal to the slices and large enough to cover the whole brain. A planar map of the cortical surface results by flattening this cylindrical surface. The projection from inner contour to cylindrical surface is unique in the sense that different points on the inner contour correspond to different points on the cylindrical surface. As the outer contours are readily obtained by automatic segmentation, cortical maps can be made directly from an MR series.
Kenny and religious experience

Discussion de l'argumentation de A. Kenny contre l'experience religieuse comme preuve de l'existence de Dieu
Studies of the equilibrium behaviour of crystalline fast-ionically conducting systems

Investigations of several different beta- and beta″-aluminas have found that cationic ordering phenomena play a major role in determining the properties of many of these systems. Low-temperature equilibrium states in the “single-ion” isomorphs of the beta″-aluminas are only attained by careful annealing treatments or by slow cooling the samples from the temperature of ion exchange. Rapidly cooled crystals contain non-equilibrium disordered arrangements that are responsible for the high ionic conductivity. In “mixed-ion” systems ordering between the different cations also inhibits the ionic conductivity. Beta″-aluminas containing two ions of different valence can form cationic arrangements involving substantial long-range correlations.
A Single Point Mutation at the 3′-Untranslated Region of Ran mRNA Leads to Profound Changes in Lipopolysaccharide Endotoxin-mediated Responses

By functional cDNA expression cloning, we have previously established that Ran is important in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) signaling. This was achieved by functional comparison between two cDNAs, differing by a single base substitution within the 3′-untranslated region of the cDNA. This point mutation results in a striking RNA conformational change. No dramatic difference in total RNA at steady state could be found between the two molecules. However, at the protein level, RanC/d (from 870C mRNA) was 5–10-fold higher than RanT/n (from 870T mRNA) and this difference was not observed in non-hematopoietic cells transduced with the same vectors. This tissue-specific difference correlated with a difference in LPS endotoxin responses in corresponding hematopoietic cells. Importantly, the amounts of Ran- C/d and RanT/n proteins were similar initially but the difference became obvious with time. Both Ran proteins migrated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, but Ran from RanC/d migrated faster than that of RanT/n. RanT/n protein preferentially remained in the cytoplasm and its overall amount was reduced at steady state, consistent with its degradation by intracellular proteases known to be involved in LPS-mediated signal transduction. As the two proteins are identical, the faster RanC/d nuclear localization and a preferred initial cytoplasmic RanT/n distribution suggest a difference in mRNA intracellular localization between the two molecules, as dictated by their RNA structural difference. By pulse-chase experiments, RanC/d proteins are more resistant to degradation than RanT/n protein; there also appear to have two populations of RanT/n proteins, one may reside in the cytoplasm and the other, in the nucleus. More RanC/d GTPase accumulated in the nuclei would conceivably alter the potency of signal transduction and therefore down-modulate LPS-mediated biological responses.
Design, synthesis, and testing of difluoroboron derivatized curcumins as near infrared probes for in vivo detection of amyloid-β deposits

Amyloid-β (Aβ) deposits have been identified as key players in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recent evidence indicates that the deposits probably precede and induce the neuronal atrophy. Therefore, methods that enable monitoring the pathology before clinical symptoms are observed would be beneficial for early AD detection. Here, we report the design, synthesis, and testing of a curcumin-derivatized near-infrared (NIR) probe, CRANAD-2. Upon interacting with Aβ aggregates, CRANAD-2 undergoes a range of changes, which include a 70-fold fluorescence intensity increase, a 90 nm blue shift (from 805 to 715 nm), and a large increase in quantum yield. Moreover, this probe also shows a high affinity for Aβ aggregates (Kd = 38.0 nM), a reasonable log P value (log P = 3), considerable stability in serum, and a weak interaction with albumin. After intravenous injection of this probe, 19-month-old Tg2576 mice exhibited significantly higher relative signal than that of the control mice over the same peri...
IP mobility to support live migration of virtual machines across subnets

User-transparent live migration is one of the most interesting features of Virtual Machine (VM) environments. Current live-migration technologies require that the VM retains its IP network address; therefore, are typically restricted to movement within an IP subnet. The growing number of portable computing devices has led to the development of IP mobility solutions that enable uninterrupted network connectivity while moving between different IP subnets. In this paper we study the application of current network mobility approaches to VM cross-subnet live-migration. We show that although the core problems are similar, there are significant differences between these domains, in terms of both assumptions and requirements. We present a specific solution for live migration of a VM across IP subnets, and introduce a new framework for synchronizing migration and network configuration, which allows better optimization for different scenarios of live migration.
The Function and Distribution of Different Fimbriae on Strains of Actinomyces viscosus and Actinomyces naeslundii

Actinomyces viscosus and Actinomyces naeslundii differ in their abilities to colonize tooth and epithelial surfaces. These differences appear to be associated with the distribution of different fimbriae on the two species and with the distinct adherence-related functions of these structures.
Effects of IL-12 on human ovarian tumors engrafted into SCID mice.

Abstract Objective. The effects of murine interleuken (IL)-12 on the growth of surgical specimen-derived malignant human ovarian tumors engrafted in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice were assessed. The SCID mouse model facilitated the evaluation IL-12's effect on the host innate immune response against human ovarian cancer xenografts. Methods. Equal portions of specimen-derived human ovarian carcinoma were engrafted subcutaneously into SCID mice. After 7 days, mice were placed into one of two treatment groups: (1) placebo/control or (2) murine IL-12 (0.33 mcg/day intraperitoneally × 20 days). Anti-asialo GM1 was administered on day 0 to 3 mice from the IL-12-treated group. Serial tumor volumes were measured. On day 21, mice from each group were sacrificed, and tumors and spleens were evaluated. Data analysis included χ 2 tests, Student t tests, and analysis of variance when appropriate. The entire experiment was repeated for a total of three times with similar results. A total of 45 mice and two different human tumor specimens were utilized. Representative data were reported. Results. IL-12 resulted in mean tumor growth delay and regression when compared to controls ( P = 0.02). Among the IL-12 group, 22% (2/9) developed complete remissions. When anti-asialo GM1 was added prior to IL-12, no tumor growth delay was noted. Splenic weights were higher among IL-12-treated mice compared to controls ( P Conclusions. Murine IL-12 treatment resulted in significant tumor growth delay and tumor regression in SCID mice engrafted with human ovarian cancer. The data support an immunologic basis for the observed anti-tumor effects and suggest a role for NK cells as part of the effector pool. The current data support the clinical evaluation of IL-12 in the treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer.
Distinct roles of p130Cas and c-Cbl in adhesion-induced or macrophage colony-stimulating factor-mediated signaling pathways in prefusion osteoclasts.

Both p130Cas and c-Cbl have been reported to play critical roles in osteoclast function as downstream targets of c-Src kinase. The purpose of this study was to examine adhesion- and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF)-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of these two molecules in prefusion osteoclasts (pOCs) derived from either Src+/? or Src−/− mice and to directly compare the roles of p130Cas and c-Cbl in osteoclast function. Cell attachment of normal pOCs to vitronectin induces tyrosine phosphorylation of p130Cas and, to a much lesser extent, of c-Cbl. Treatment with M-CSF results in further tyrosine phosphorylation of both p130Cas and c-Cbl, suggesting cooperation between αvβ3 integrin and the M-CSF receptor, c-Fms, in osteoclasts. However, M-CSF induces tyrosine phosphorylation of c-Cbl, but not p130Cas in pOCs in suspension, confirming the role of c-Cbl as a downstream effector of c-Fms. This observation also suggests that M-CSF-mediated p130Cas phosphorylation requires ligand engagement of αvβ3...
Production of organometallic polymers via the interfacial technique. reaction variables in the condensation of diamidoximes with cp2ticl2 and partial thermal characterization of the products

Reaction variables of the interfacial condensation of Cp2TiCl2 with diamidoximes is presented. At 1:1 Cp2TiCl2: diamidoxime ratios and less the product is found to contain predominately units of form I. It is tentatively concluded that the disubstituted product, form II, is formed at Cp2TiCl2:diamidoxime ratios > 1. Sodium hydroxide and triethylamine are both found to be adequate added bases for the reaction. High concentrations of Cp2TiCl2 and low concentrations of diamidoxime favour a more rapid reaction. Thermal degradation of the products in air and nitrogen occur via identical pathways.
An antigen-antihistamine mixture for the treatment of highly sensitive hay fever patients.

Abstract 1.1.Thirty-four highly sensitive hay fever patients were treated preseasonally with combined ragweed-Decapryn Succinate Minergic Solution. 2.2. A greater tolerance for this combined mixture was noted. Higher ceiling dosages and greater dosage increases were given with safety. 3.3. Local and constitutional reactions were infrequent and easily controlled. 4.4. More effective clinical relief was obtained. 5.5. The chief value of the combined ragweed-Decapryn Succinate Minergic Solution is in the therapy of hay fever patients so sensitive that they cannot be treated satisfactorily with the usual aqueous pollen extracts.
Relocation of Navajo from Hopi Partitioned Land in Pinon

Host—relocatee relations in Pinon, a Navajo community where relocation is still an ongoing process, are studied. Both Cernea and Scudder indicate that omitting the host population from pre-relocation considerations is common and invariably result in hostrelocatee conflicts. Although host—relocatee relations are important, the issue has not been explored. This paper examines local and external economic and political forces that were generated by the Navajo—Hopi land dispute and the subsequent relocation of Navajo people. It focuses on the variation in host and relocatee households' responses to relocation in Pinon. It examines the ways in which this variation is shaped by local and external elements, and how response variation in general is linked to local host—relocatee disputes and community development projects. In so doing, the paper addresses some key issues in the study of relocation, issues obscured in previous, more general studies
On the use of envelope and RF signal decorrelation as tissue strain estimators

Bamber and Bush (1995) used the correlation coefficient for freehand elasticity imaging. Varghese and Ophir (1996) found it to be a biased estimator of strain with a large variability. In this study, we systematically investigate the effect of changes in various system and processing parameters on the performance of the correlation coefficient strain estimator, and demonstrate, using simulated data, that noise and frequency-dependent attenuation can introduce variable bias in this estimator.
The potential of a zoom lens system in fiber endoscopy.

A zoom lens system has been adapted to fiberendoscopy. The authors have found this system to enhance the view of distant lesions in otherwise obscure situations, to facilitate biopsy, and to improve photography. Corollary editorial comment follows in this issue.
Nalbuphine-induced psychosis treated with naloxone.

Purpose A case of nalbuphine-induced psychosis, which resolved after the administration of naloxone, is described. Summary A 25-year-old African-American woman with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus was admitted to the hospital for management of cholecystitis. A laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed, and the patient received multiple doses of i.v. hydromorphone for postoperative pain management. Four days later, shortly after receiving a dose of i.v. nalbuphine for opioid-induced pruritus, she experienced an acute psychotic event, with symptoms including intense headache, akathisia, altered mental status, and formication (a hallucinatory sensation of insects crawling on the skin). The neuropsychiatric symptoms abated within 5 minutes of two consecutively administered doses of i.v. naloxone. During this event, which lasted 25–30 minutes, there was no evidence of metabolic abnormalities and were no signs of infection. The patient did not have a history of mental illness or substance abuse. The patient did not receive further doses of nalbuphine and did not experience similar events during her hospital stay; she was discharged home 10 days later without further complications. According to the algorithm of Naranjo et al., the case was assigned a score of 6, indicating a probable adverse reaction to nalbuphine. Conclusion A patient developed an acute psychotic reaction that was probably secondary to administration of i.v. nalbuphine for opioid-induced pruritus. Evidence supporting this diagnosis included correlation between the timing of administration of nalbuphine and symptom onset and the marked improvement in mentation following the administration of naloxone.
Laboratory demonstration of a focal plane coronagraphic interferometer designed for anti-halo apodization of starlight

The coronagraphic focal plane interferometer reflects away the core starlight with a mirror in the focal plane and uses it to form a coherent interferometric reference beam. This is used in a Mach-Zehnder configuration with phase shifting to measure the complex amplitude of the star halo speckles in the focal plane where the interference takes place. We present results from a laboratory prototype in which the speckles are suppressed over half the field by modifying the wavefront in a pupil plane with a MEMS deformable mirror, based on a Fourier transform of the complex halo derived from the focal plane interferometric data. Even deeper suppression of the residual stellar halo over the full 360 degree field will be possible by explicitly constructing an "anti-halo" from the reference beam; a new technique for exoplanet imaging (Codona and Angel, 2004). We present the design and current status of a laboratory prototype to study antihalo apodization. The spatially-filtered core starlight will be modulated by deformable mirrors in a Michelson configuration to form a temporally-coherent copy of the measured residual complex halo, with the same amplitude but opposite phase (i.e. an "anti-halo"). Using components with only modest control accuracy, the method has the potential to reduce an already low residual halo by an additional two decades.
Effect of pharmaceutical agent degradation on axonal transport drug delivery: An analytical solution for a transient situation ☆

Abstract This paper is motivated by recent experimental research that demonstrated pharmacological efficiency of axonal transport drug delivery. The purpose is to develop a model of this process and to study how the rate of destruction of pharmaceutical agent complexes (PACs) affects their transport in the axon. The model includes two populations of PACs: PACs in the state when they are driven retrogradely (from the axon terminal toward the neuron soma) by dynein motors and PACs residing in the accumulated state (but can still be re-released to the dynein-driven state). The coupling between the kinetic states is accounted for by first-order reactions. Utilizing Laplace transform, analytical solutions for concentrations of these two populations of PACs are obtained. The effect of PAC destruction is investigated for different values of other parameters. It is shown that the shapes of the waves describing the PAC concentrations can be significantly affected by transport parameters.
High resolution acoustic measurement system and beam pattern reconstruction method for bat echolocation emissions

Measurements of the transmit beam patterns emitted by echolocating bats have previously been limited to cross-sectional planes or averaged over multiple signals using sparse microphone arrays. To date, no high-resolution measurements of individual bat transmit beams have been reported in the literature. Recent studies indicate that bats may change the time-frequency structure of their calls depending on the task, and suggest that their beam patterns are more dynamic than previously thought. To investigate beam pattern dynamics in a variety of bat species, a high-density reconfigurable microphone array was designed and constructed using low-cost ultrasonic microphones and custom electronic circuitry. The planar array is 1.83 m wide by 1.42 m tall with microphones positioned on a 2.54 cm square grid. The system can capture up to 228 channels simultaneously at a 500 kHz sampling rate. Beam patterns are reconstructed in azimuth, elevation, and frequency for visualization and further analysis. Validation of the array measurement system and post-processing functions is shown by reconstructing the beam pattern of a transducer with a fixed circular aperture and comparing the result with a theoretical model. To demonstrate the system in use, transmit beam patterns of the big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus, are shown.
Design and Digital Implementation of Controller for PMSM Using Extended Kalman Filter

A novel digital implementation of speed controller for a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) with disturbance rejection using conventional observer combined with Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) is proposed. First, the EKF is constructed to achieve a precise estimation of the speed and current from the noisy measurement. Second, a proportional integral derivative (PID) controller is developed based on Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) to achieve speed command tracking performance. Then, an observer is designed and its error is utilized to provide load disturbance compensation. The proposed method greatly enhances the PMSM performance by reducing the control signal variation as well as the disturbance. The speed control performance is significantly improved compared to the case when we have an observer acting alone. The simulation results for the speed response and variation of the states when the PMSM is subjected to the load disturbance are presented. The results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Computerized tomography in malignant tumors

Computerized tomography (CT) was used in the evaluation or follow-up of 89 patients with malignant tumors. Excellent correlation was found between the preoperative CT findings and those at surgical resection of the tumor in 52 patients. CT scan was the only test demonstrating the tumor mass in 18% and was superior to other tests in 67% of patients. When used as a follow-up test to detect recurrence in 74 patients, it was the first test to reveal recurrence in 30.5% of 36 patients who developed recurrence. It was false negative in one patient, and gave rise to false positive interpretations in seven patients. Overall, the CT scan was superior to conventional readiologic techniques, but the latter are not replaced completely and remain essential in the pertinent anatomical situations.
Distributional solutions to a generalized wave equation for gravity waves on deep water

The equations governing the linearized small amplitude approximation for gravity waves on deep water can be reformulated by the introduction of a cross-surface differential operator, H, which acts like a square-root of the two-dimensional Laplacian. This yields a single scalar equation for the amplitude of the wave-like motion off a horizontal static surface resulting in a mixed initial and boundary value problem for the wave operator, ∂tt + c2H. The pressure impulse response for an unperturbed static fluid will be calculated via a formal eigenfunction expansion and it will be shown that this yields a distributional solution. Then, the mixed problem will be generalized to allow for distributional data where the initial data is injected into the non-homogeneous term. By employing eigenfunction representations for distributions with compact support it will be shown that a formal eigenfunction expansion also yields a distributional solution to this generalized mixed problem.
Gs G Protein–Coupled Receptor Signaling in Osteoblasts Elicits Age-Dependent Effects on Bone Formation

Age-dependent changes in skeletal growth are important for regulating skeletal expansion and determining peak bone mass. However, how G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) regulate these changes is poorly understood. Previously, we described a mouse model expressing Rs1, an engineered receptor with high basal G(s) activity. Rs1 expression in osteoblasts induced a dramatic age-dependent increase in trabecular bone with features resembling fibrous dysplasia. To further investigate how activation of the G(s)-GPCR pathway affects bone formation at different ages, we used the tetracycline-inducible system in the ColI(2.3)(+)/Rs1(+) mouse model to control the timing of Rs1 expression. We found that the Rs1 phenotype developed rapidly between postnatal days 4 and 6, that delayed Rs1 expression resulted in attenuation of the Rs1 phenotype, and that the Rs1-induced bone growth and deformities were markedly reversed when Rs1 expression was suppressed in adult mice. These findings suggest a distinct window of increased osteoblast responsiveness to G(s) signaling during the early postnatal period. In addition, adult bones encode information about their normal shape and structure independently from mechanisms regulating bone expansion. Finally, our model provides a powerful tool for investigating the effects of continuous G(s)-GPCR signaling on dynamic bone growth and remodeling.
Eps15 Homology Domain-containing Protein 3 Regulates Cardiac T-type Ca2+ Channel Targeting and Function in the Atria

Proper trafficking of membrane-bound ion channels and transporters is requisite for normal cardiac function. Endosome-based protein trafficking of membrane-bound ion channels and transporters in the heart is poorly understood, particularly in vivo. In fact, for select cardiac cell types such as atrial myocytes, virtually nothing is known regarding endosomal transport. We previously linked the C-terminal Eps15 homology domain-containing protein 3 (EHD3) with endosome-based protein trafficking in ventricular cardiomyocytes. Here we sought to define the roles and membrane protein targets for EHD3 in atria. We identify the voltage-gated T-type Ca2+ channels (CaV3.1, CaV3.2) as substrates for EHD3-dependent trafficking in atria. Mice selectively lacking EHD3 in heart display reduced expression and targeting of both Cav3.1 and CaV3.2 in the atria. Furthermore, functional experiments identify a significant loss of T-type-mediated Ca2+ current in EHD3-deficient atrial myocytes. Moreover, EHD3 associates with both CaV3.1 and CaV3.2 in co-immunoprecipitation experiments. T-type Ca2+ channel function is critical for proper electrical conduction through the atria. Consistent with these roles, EHD3-deficient mice demonstrate heart rate variability, sinus pause, and atrioventricular conduction block. In summary, our findings identify CaV3.1 and CaV3.2 as substrates for EHD3-dependent protein trafficking in heart, provide in vivo data on endosome-based trafficking pathways in atria, and implicate EHD3 as a key player in the regulation of atrial myocyte excitability and cardiac conduction. Background: Endosome-based protein trafficking in the heart is poorly understood. Results: Functional targeting and expression of the T-type Ca2+ channel (TTCC) in the atria requires the endosomal protein, EHD3. Conclusion: Impaired endosomal transport leads to cardiac rhythm and conduction disorders. Significance: Understanding endosome-based protein trafficking in the heart may provide new therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disease.
Test of a lead/liquid argon electromagnetic shower detector

Abstract The design and construction of two lead/liquid argon electromagnetic shower detectors are described. Test results in beams of electrons and π − of momenta 0.125-4 GeV/ c and 1–4 GeV/ c respectively are presented. Measurements were made of the energy resolution for electromagnetic showers, the position resolution, the behavior of the device in a transverse magnetic field and the radial and longitudinal characteristics of energy deposition, especially as they apply to π − /e − discrimination.
CATALYSIS IN HUMAN HYPOXANTHINE-GUANINE PHOSPHORIBOSYLTRANSFERASE : ASP 137 ACTS AS A GENERAL ACID/BASE

Hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRTase) catalyzes the reversible formation of IMP and GMP from their respective bases hypoxanthine (Hx) and guanine (Gua) and the phosphoribosyl donor 5-phosphoribosyl-1-pyrophosphate (PRPP). The net formation and cleavage of the nucleosidic bond requires removal/addition of a proton at the purine moiety, allowing enzymic catalysis to reduce the energy barrier associated with the reaction. The pH profile of kcat for IMP pyrophosphorolysis revealed an essential acidic group with pKa of 7.9 whereas those for IMP or GMP formation indicated involvement of essential basic groups. Based on the crystal structure of human HGPRTase, protonation/deprotonation is likely to occur at N7 of the purine ring, and Lys 165 or Asp 137 are each candidates for the general base/acid. We have constructed, purified, and kinetically characterized two mutant HGPRTases to test this hypothesis. D137N displayed an 18-fold decrease in kcat for nucleotide formation with Hx as substrate, a 275-fold decrease in kcat with Gua, and a 500-fold decrease in kcat for IMP pyrophosphorolysis. D137N also showed lower KD values for nucleotides and PRPP. The pH profiles of kcat for D137N were severely altered. In contrast to D137N, the kcat for K165Q was decreased only 2-fold in the forward reaction and was slightly increased in the reverse reaction. The Km and KD values showed that K165Q interacts with substrates more weakly than does the wild-type enzyme. Pre-steady-state experiments with K165Q indicated that the phosphoribosyl transfer step was fast in the forward reaction, as observed with the wild type. In contrast, D137N showed slower phosphoribosyl transfer chemistry, although guanine (3000-fold reduction) was affected much more than hypoxanthine (32-fold reduction). In conclusion, Asp137 acts as a general catalytic acid/base for HGPRTase and Lys165 makes ground-state interactions with substrates.
A Profile of Those Likely to Reveal Friends' Confidential Secrets

Using Communication Privacy Management theory as a backdrop, this study empirically addresses the issue of whether personal traits and predispositions can predict the tendencies to either reveal or conceal secrets shared in confidence by a best friend. Participants (N = 375) indicated in response to a survey whether they had ever revealed such a secret to others. The survey also measured several trait-like variables shown to be of theoretical or empirical interest. Results, using discriminant analysis, suggested that a combination of several traits could successfully distinguish those who revealed secrets from those who did not. Significant discriminators included tendency to gossip and depth of disclosure. Implications of the study and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Decomposition of leukotriene C4

Abstract Before the structures of leukotrienes C, D, and E were elucidated slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis was known to be highly unstable and particularly labile in solutions of acidic pH. The chemical reactivity of the sulfidopeptide leukotriene has been observed during the spontaneous degradation of this molecule in aqueous solution. At acidic pH, the tendency of these molecules to degrade as well as to adsorb to glass surfaces can be reversed by addition of methanol. In addition, the degradation of leukotriene C 4 (LTC 4 ) induced by ferrous iron was shown to be inhibited by ethylenediaminetetra-acetic acid (ImM). While methanol prevented acid degradation of LTC 4 , it enhanced the Fe ++ -induced degradation. Fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry and ultraviolet spectroscopy were used to partially characterize the degradation products as well as the autodecomposition induced by acid. Two products observed were oxidized by incorporation of one atom of oxygen and formation of the sulfoxides and 15-hydroxy LTC 4 . Several products were characterized by the addition of the elements of hydrogen peroxide and formation of a conjugated diene at the expense of the conjugated triene moiety. The facile degradation of the sulfidopeptide leukotrienes suggests that purification of these species may be necessary before they are used in pharmacologic studies or as tools for radioimmunoassay.
Structural Pattern in Central Uplifts of Cryptoexplosion Structures as Typified by Sierra Madera

The pattern of deformation in central uplifts of Sierra Madera and other well-known cryptoexplosion structures indicates that inward as well as upward movement of strata formed the uplifts. This kind of movement is incompatible with structures not of impact origin with which they have been compared. The structural style of cryptoexplosion structures, together with features that suggest shock deformation, supports the belief that they are the eroded roots of impact craters.
Comparison of Energy Requirements for Conventional and Stirred Ball Milling of Coal-Water Slurries

This paper presents the results of an investigation of energy requirements for grinding of coal-water slurries in conventional and high speed stirred ball mills. The high speed stirred ball mill, featuring a rotor-stator type of stirring device, has been found to outperform a tumbling ball mill for wet grinding of minus 12 mesh coal to a fineness meeting the requirements of utility fuel. Grinding tests showed that the energy reduction which is possible with stirred mills increases linearly with the percentage of material passing 325 mesh up to 90% and beyond this point, energy reduction is even higher. A direct comparison of stirred ball mill and tumbling ball mill performance resulted in grinding minus 12 mesh (1400μm) coal to approximately 96% passing 325 mesh (45 μm) with a specific energy input of 32.6kWh/T (l.0min retention time) and 58.8kWh/T (60min retention time) respectively.
Variance estimation for spatially balanced samples of environmental resources

The spatial distribution of a natural resource is an important consideration in designing an efficient survey or monitoring program for the resource. We review a unified strategy for designing probability samples of discrete, finite resource populations, such as lakes within some geographical region; linear populations, such as a stream network in a drainage basin, and continuous, two-dimensional populations, such as forests. The strategy can be viewed as a generalization of spatial stratification. In this article, we develop a local neighborhood variance estimator based on that perspective, and examine its behavior via simulation. The simulations indicate that the local neighborhood estimator is unbiased and stable. The Horvitz–Thompson variance estimator based on assuming independent random sampling (IRS) may be two times the magnitude of the local neighborhood estimate. An example using data from a generalized random-tessellation stratified design on the Oahe Reservoir resulted in local variance estimates being 22 to 58 percent smaller than Horvitz–Thompson IRS variance estimates. Variables with stronger spatial patterns had greater reductions in variance, as expected. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Procedure for Detecting Intersections of Three-Dimensional Objects

As a step toward the solution of the placement problem in engineering design, a procedure has been developed for detecting intersections of convex regions in 3-space by means of a pseudocharacteristic function. The mathematical techniques underlying the procedure are discussed, and a system of programs embodying these techniques is described. As a special case a solution is given for the hidden-line problem in graphic display.
Characterization of rpoS alleles in Escherichia coli O157:H7 and in other E. coli serotypes

The rpoS nucleotide and predicted amino acid sequences from three Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolates were compared with those from three other E. coli isolates, including the likely O157:H7 progenitor, E. coli O55:H7. These clinical and environmental isolates all had identical σS amino acid sequences, while laboratory strains K12 and DH1 had three and one amino acid alterations, respectively, in comparison with the majority sequence. To extend the analysis of σS sequence conservation to include other Gram-negative bacteria, the E. coliσS sequences were compared with those from diverse Gram-negative organisms; σS sequence identities ranged from 50·2 to 99·7% among the available sequences. The results further confirm the existence of rpoS alleles among different E. coli strains, although all strains were classified as acid-resistant with survival rates >10% after 2 h exposure to pH 2·5. It was also found that all E. coli O157:H7 isolates tested had a unique nucleotide at position 543, thus differentiating these strains from other E. coli serotypes.
Radio frequency treatments for insect disinfestation of dried legumes

Dried legumes (chickpeas, green peas or lentils) are valuable export commodities in the US Pacific Northwest. A major problem in the marketing of these products is infestation by insect pests. Typically, chemical fumigants are used to disinfest product, but regulatory issues, insect resistance, environmental concerns and the increase of the organic market have forced the industry to explore non-chemical alternatives. One possible alternative is the use of radio frequency (RF) energy to rapidly heat product to insecticidal levels. To determine the potential of RF treatments to control insect pests in dried pulse products, the heat tolerance of the cowpea weevil ( Callosobruchus maculatus F.) was evaluated and compared to the tolerance of previously studied insects, and the dielectric properties of both the insect and the products were compared. The most heat tolerant stage of the weevil was found to be the pupal stage, with adults being the most susceptible. Cowpea weevil pupae were fairly heat tolerant; to obtain rapid mortality (exposure < 10 min) temperatures of 56-58°C were needed. At frequencies commonly used by industry for RF heating, dielectric loss factors for both adult and larval cowpea weevil was higher than those for legumes, suggesting that cowpea weevils would heat at a faster rate than the product. Previous studies showed that suitable heating uniformity during RF treatments was obtained through the addition of hot air (60°C) and conveyor belt movement. These studies showed that chickpeas, green peas and lentils were able to tolerate RF treatments of 60°C for 10 min without adverse effects on quality. The results suggest that practical large scale RF treatments to disinfest pulses may be possible. Keywords : Heat treatments, Dried pulses, Cowpea weevil, Radio frequency, Disinfestations
The ubiquitin-proteasome system in cardiac proteinopathy: a quality control perspective

Protein quality control (PQC) depends on elegant collaboration between molecular chaperones and targeted proteolysis in the cell. The latter is primarily carried out by the ubiquitin-proteasome system, but recent advances in this area of research suggest a supplementary role for the autophagy-lysosomal pathway in PQC-related proteolysis. The (patho)physiological significance of PQC in the heart is best illustrated in cardiac proteinopathy, which belongs to a family of cardiac diseases caused by expression of aggregation-prone proteins in cardiomyocytes. Cardiac proteasome functional insufficiency (PFI) is best studied in desmin-related cardiomyopathy, a bona fide cardiac proteinopathy. Emerging evidence suggests that many common forms of cardiomyopathy may belong to proteinopathy. This review focuses on examining current evidence, as it relates to the hypothesis that PFI impairs PQC in cardiomyocytes and contributes to the progression of cardiac proteinopathies to heart failure.
Science Self‐Efficacy and School Transitions: Elementary School to Middle School, Middle School to High School

This study examined the science self-efficacy beliefs of students at the transition from elementary school (Grade 6) to middle school (Grade 7) and the transition from middle school (Grade 8) to high school (Grade 9). The purpose was to determine whether students' perceived competence is impacted at these important school transitions and if the effect is mediated by gender and ethnicity. Science self-efficacy was measured through a modified Self-Efficacy Questionnaire for Children, which was adapted to focus specifically on science self-efficacy. Multiple ordinary least squares regression was used to analyze the data. Two models were developed, one using ninth grade as the comparison group and the other using sixth grade as the comparison group. In each model, the independent variables (grade level, gender, and ethnicity) were regressed on the dependent variable, science self-efficacy. The most striking finding was the large and significant decline in science self-efficacy scores for ninth graders at the transition to high school. We also found that females and Hispanic students had lower scores across grades as compared to males and Caucasians. How these results relate to existing studies, and implications for practice and future research are discussed.
STAT5 isoforms: controversies and clarifications

STAT (signal transducer and activator of transcription) family transcription factors are critical regulators of the development and differentiation of many cell types. STAT isoforms are generated by alternative splicing, but have also been suggested to be generated post-transcriptionally. In this issue of the Biochemical Journal, Schuster and colleagues have identified cathepsin G as the protease that cleaves full-length STAT5 (STAT5alpha) to generate a C-terminally truncated form in immature myeloid cells. However, the authors argue that this proteolytically generated isoform does not occur naturally in vivo; rather, it is artificially generated by cathepsin G during the preparation of cell extracts. This new evidence calls into question the physiological significance of this putative isoform and forces the general re-examination of proteolytically generated STAT isoforms.
Magneto‐optical properties of amorphous terbium–iron alloys

The magneto‐optical properties of rf sputtered amorphous TbxFe1−x alloys (with 0.17≤x≤0.32) were investigated using reflectivity and polar Kerr measurements from a surface overcoated in situ with SiO2. The concentration dependence of the Curie temperature, compensation temperature, and low‐temperature polar Kerr amplitude were all derived and the results compared with a mean‐field theory. The temperature behavior of the coercive force was also determined. While a considerable degree of agreement is obtained with earlier work, it appears that the low‐temperature polar Kerr amplitude can only be determined by the iron sub‐network alone, if the iron moment increases with terbium concentration. The extent to which this view is justified is examined in light of current ideas.The magneto‐optical properties of rf sputtered amorphous TbxFe1−x alloys (with 0.17≤x≤0.32) were investigated using reflectivity and polar Kerr measurements from a surface overcoated in situ with SiO2. The concentration dependence of the Curie temperature, compensation temperature, and low‐temperature polar Kerr amplitude were all derived and the results compared with a mean‐field theory. The temperature behavior of the coercive force was also determined. While a considerable degree of agreement is obtained with earlier work, it appears that the low‐temperature polar Kerr amplitude can only be determined by the iron sub‐network alone, if the iron moment increases with terbium concentration. The extent to which this view is justified is examined in light of current ideas.
Demography, Democracy and Disputes: The Search for the Elusive Relationship Between Population Growth and International Conflict

AbstractWe examine the propensity of states to initiate international conflict conditioned on four primary explanatory variables: (1) changes in population over varying lags, (2) democratic status of the state, (3) the power status of the state, and (4) changes in the state's level of energy consumption. We hypothesize that the responsiveness of a government to the needs of its citizens is sufficiently important that the effect of population growth cannot be properly examined independently of democracy and that major powers tend to become involved in disputes for a much wider set of reasons than minor powers. Thus, we expect to find the strongest effect of population change on conflict initiation in democratic minor powers. We also expect that decreases in energy consumption concurrent with increases in population will lead to conflict initiation. A series of negative binomial regressions over 20 yearly time lags lends robust support to our expectations.
Independent tyrosyl contributions to the CD of Ff gene 5 protein and the distinctive effects of Y41H and Y41F mutants on protein–protein cooperative interactions

The gene 5 protein (g5p) of the Ff virus contains five Tyr, individual mutants of which have now all been characterized by CD spectroscopy. The protein has a dominant tyrosyl 229-nm La CD band that is shown to be approximately the sum of the five individual Tyr contributions. Tyr41 is particularly important in contributing to the high cooperativity with which the g5p binds to ssDNA, and Y41F and Y41H mutants are known to differ in dimer–dimer packing interactions in crystal structures. We compared the solution structures and binding properties of the Y41F and Y41H mutants using CD spectroscopy. Secondary structures of the mutants were similar by CD analyses and close to those derived from the crystal structures. However, there were significant differences in the binding properties of the two mutant proteins. The Y41H protein had an especially low binding affinity and perturbed the spectrum of poly[d(A)] in 2 mM Na+ much less than did Y41F and the wild-type gene 5 proteins. Moreover, a change in the Tyr 229 nm band, assigned to the perturbation of Tyr34 at the dimer–dimer interface, was absent in titrations with the Y41H mutant under low salt conditions. In contrast, titrations with the Y41H mutant in 50 mM Na+ exhibited typical CD changes of both the nucleic acid and the Tyr 229-nm band. Thus, protein–protein and g5p–ssDNA interactions appeared to be mutually influenced by ionic strength, indicative of correlated changes in the ssDNA binding and cooperativity loops of the protein or of indirect structural constraints.
Algorithms for fast, memory efficient switch-level fault simulation

Abs t rac t A new class of fault simulation algorithms, that have recently been developed for gate-level fault simulation and shown to have several advantages over concurrent fault simulation, are adapted for switch-level fault simulation. High speed compiled switch-level simulation is used for circuit evaluation that approaches the speed of gate-level simulation. The fault simulation algorithms are single fault propagation, differential fault simulation, active fault simulation and parallel active fault simulation. Using these algorithms, minimum memory requirements and high simulation efficiency are achieved, both of which are essential to performing practical fault simulation at the switch-level due to the large number of switch-level faults.
When Is Sport Participation Risky or Protective for Alcohol Use? The Role of Teammates, Friendships, and Popularity

Little is known about how adolescents' peer relations might alter whether sport participation is associated with alcohol use. Consistent with social learning theory, we found that sport participation was protective against alcohol use if these peers had low alcohol use, but athletes were likely to use alcohol if their sport friends and teammates had high alcohol use. Interestingly, those with no or low sport participation seemed to emulate the alcohol use of their non-sport friends, whereas adolescents in a high number of sports had elevated alcohol use regardless of their non-sport friends' alcohol use.