cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Familial Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Mutations from Different Functional Regions of Troponin T Result in Different Effects on the pH and Ca2+ Sensitivity of Cardiac Muscle Contraction

To understand the molecular function of troponin T (TnT) in the Ca(2+) regulation of muscle contraction as well as the molecular pathogenesis of familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (FHC), eight FHC-linked TnT mutations, which are located in different functional regions of human cardiac TnT (HCTnT), were produced, and their structural and functional properties were examined. Circular dichroism spectroscopy demonstrated different secondary structures of these TnT mutants. Each of the recombinant HCTnTs was incorporated into porcine skinned fibers along with human cardiac troponin I (HCTnI) and troponin C (HCTnC), and the Ca(2+) dependent isometric force development of these troponin-replaced fibers was determined at pH 7.0 and 6.5. All eight mutants altered the contractile properties of skinned cardiac fibers. E244D potentiated the maximum force development without changing Ca(2+) sensitivity. In contrast, the other seven mutants increased the Ca(2+) sensitivity of force development but not the maximal force. R92L, R92W, and R94L also decreased the change in Ca(2+) sensitivity of force development observed on lowering the pH from 7 to 6.5, when compared with wild type TnT. The examination of additional mutants, H91Q and a double mutant H91Q/R92W, suggests that mutations in a region including residues 91-94 in HCTnT can perturb the proper response of cardiac contraction to changes in pH. These results suggest that different regions of TnT may contribute to the pathogenesis of TnT-linked FHC through different mechanisms.
Photosynthesis and Respiration in Five Species of Benthic Foraminifera that Host Algal Endosymbionts

Oxygen production and consumption were measured in five species of benthic foraminifers using a “Clark-type” oxygen electrode. Net photosynthesis and respiration were calculated and normalized to μg chlorophyll a for the chlorophyte-bearing soritid foraminifers Archaias ( Ar. ) angulatus and Cyclorbiculina compressa , and the diatom-bearing amphisteginids Amphistegina gibbosa , Am. lessonii , and Am. radiata . Chlorophyll a concentrations were 40–50% lower in C. compressa than in the four other species. Photosynthesis/Irradiance (P/E) curves were generated by fitting data to the hyperbolic tangent equation, P = P max tanh (α E/P max ), yielding the derived photosynthetic parameters, P max , α, and E k . Calculated maximum oxygen production (P max ), when normalized to chl a, was 3–4× higher in the soritids than in the amphisteginids. Photosynthetic efficiency (α) was approximately two-fold higher in Am. gibbosa and ~50% higher in Am. lessonii than in the soritids. Calculated P/E data for Am. radiata were too variable to estimate an α. Median E k , which indicates approaching light saturation, was 13 μmol photon m −2 s −1 for Am. gibbosa and Am. radiata, 26 μmol photon m −2 sec −1 for Am. lessonii , and 86 and 122 μmol photon m −2 sec −1 respectively for Ar. angulatus and C. compressa . These values are consistent with the habitats occupied by these foraminifers and with results of previous studies that used other methods. Median factorial metabolic scope, which is the ratio of respiration rate under normal activity to resting metabolic rate, was 2–4 for the amphisteginids versus 9–10 for the soritids. Archaias angulatus, C. compressa and Am. lessonii appear to be net primary producers, whereas Am. gibbosa and Am. radiata are net consumers.
Elastic modeling in discontinuous media

Results from elastic-wave simulations in a simple model show that for models characterized by a set of layers with sharp boundaries (discontinuous stiffness tensor), traditional finite-difference methods fail to correctly describe the dynamics of the propagation process. The failure comes from the lack of distinction between model and field variables; the same differential operator is applied to discontinuous (model) and continuous (wavefield) components. This problem is solved with a modified high-order finite-difference modeling scheme (dual-operator method) that uses two distinct operators for evaluating the model and field derivatives, a modified version of Virieux-staggered grid, and Shoenberg-Muir averaging relations. The dual-operator method generates a dynamic response that is more accurate than traditional finite-difference schemes and comparable to Haskell-Thomson propagator-matrix schemes, with the advantage that it can be applied to structurally complex models. The method produces stable, accurate results for both solid and liquid layers.
Automating and estimating glomerular filtration rate for dosing medications and staging chronic kidney disease

Objective The purpose of this paper is to serve as a review for primary care providers on the bedside methods for estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) for dosing and chronic kidney disease (CKD) staging and to discuss how automated health information technologies (HIT) can enhance clinical documentation of staging and reduce medication errors in patients with CKD. Methods A nonsystematic search of PubMed (through March 2013) was conducted to determine the optimal approach to estimate GFR for dosing and CKD staging and to identify examples of how automated HITs can improve health outcomes in patients with CKD. Papers known to the authors were included, as were scientific statements. Articles were chosen based on the judgment of the authors. Results Drug-dosing decisions should be based on the method used in the published studies and package labeling that have been determined to be safe, which is most often the Cockcroft-Gault formula unadjusted for body weight. Although Modification of Diet in Renal Disease is more commonly used in practice for staging, the CKD-Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation is the most accurate formula for estimating the CKD staging, especially at higher GFR values. Automated HITs offer a solution to the complexity of determining which equation to use for a given clinical scenario. HITs can educate providers on which formula to use and how to apply the formula in a given clinical situation, ultimately improving appropriate medication and medical management in CKD patients. Conclusion Appropriate estimation of GFR is key to optimal health outcomes. HITs assist clinicians in both choosing the most appropriate GFR estimation formula and in applying the results of the GFR estimation in practice. Key limitations of the recommendations in this paper are the available evidence. Further studies are needed to better understand the best method for estimating GFR.
Cytogenetic abnormalities in noncutaneous peripheral T-cell lymphoma

Abstract Cytogenetic studies were performed on lymph nodes from eight patients with noncutaneous peripheral T-cell lymphoma. At least one chromosomally abnormal clone was identified in each patient. Chromosomes having structural abnormalities in two or more patients included chromosome #1 (four), chromosome #2 (three), chromosome #4 (two), chromosome #8 (two), chromosome #14 (two), and chromosome #17 (two). The abnormal clones from seven patients had structural abnormalities involving either chromosomes #1 or #2, and the eighth patient had an abnormal clone that was trisomic for chromosome #1. We did not observe structural rearrangements in chromosome #14 at bands q11 or q12 in any of our cases, in contrast to previous suggestions that this chromosomal region may play a critical role in the development of T-cell lymphomas. Our findings suggest that other nonrandom chromosome abnormalities are common and may be important in the development of non-cutaneous peripheral T-cell lymphomas.
Helicity dependence of optically encoded second-harmonic generation in glasses

Homogeneous silica-based and heterogeneous semiconductor-doped glasses were optically encoded with circularly polarized beams for efficient second-harmonic generation (SHG) at 532 nm. SHG growth rates for circularly polarized writing beams with both the same and opposite helicity show that ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\chi}}}^{(3)}$(0;\ensuremath{\omega},\ensuremath{\omega},-2\ensuremath{\omega}) mixing symmetries are well obeyed in semiconductor microcrystallite-doped glass but not in homogeneous silicate glasses. The radiated second-harmonic free-space mode and ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\chi}}}^{(2)}$ tensor symmetries for cohelically encoded gratings in SK5 glass determined an electric field which possessed a radial component as well as a component which had a constant direction across the readout beam axis. The results are discussed in light of present theories.
Direct interpretation in the treatment of a case of schizophrenia.

Direct interpretation was used in the treatment of a woman suffering from schizophrenia, marked by seclusiveness and outbursts of agitation and violence. Paranoid and hebephrenic elements were also present. This condition had necessitated her spending the majority of her time in mental hospitals for the past 12 years. The shock therapies had been of little or no value. The use of questioning, as in the treatment of neurosis, showed the patient to be inaccessible; but, under direct interpretation, a dramatic release of affect was produced. After this had been worked through, the patient was able to settle down at home for over a year and move at will in the community without bizarre behavior. A continuation of treatment became impossible because of the hostility of her parents; and at the end of about 14 months, she began to show signs of restlessness and preoccupation.
Personality, coping, and objective outcomes: extraversion, neuroticism, coping styles, and academic performance

Abstract The framework for the present research is that the relationship between coping and objective outcomes can be understood through a consideration of the coping patterns of different personalities. It is thought that personality gives rise to particular types of coping. It should also be possible to observe departures from the general personality-coping-outcome trend in that some people with potentially distracting (personality-based) coping tendencies can modify these tendencies in order to perform well. Undergraduate subjects reported their coping strategies, with respect to academic Stressors. They filled out the Eysenck Personality Inventory, to assess their levels of Extraversion and Neuroticism. Ss' exam scores in Introductory Psychology were used as the performance criterion. Analyses suggest that Introverts cope in ways that are amenable to better academic performance. In contrast to predictions, better performing Extraverts' coping did not appear to be similar to Introverts' coping. Discussion centers around the ideas that (1) objective coping outcomes can be understood by including personality in the relationship; and (2) it may be important to think of coping in terms of personality, rather than in terms of the Stressor.
Test time reduction with SATOM: Simultaneous AC-DC Test with Orthogonal Multi-excitations

Test time controls the competitiveness and viability of new precision products in two fundamental ways: it determines final test cost which is a major part of the recurring manufacturing cost, and it determines characterization test time which directly adds to time to market. This paper introduces a new test strategy aimed at dramatically reducing test time for precision analog and mixed signal products. The strategy is termed SATOM for Simultaneous AC-DC Test with Orthogonal Multi-excitations. In SATOM, a device under test is excited with multiple mutually-orthogonal stimulus signals that are simultaneously applied at different input points of the device. A single set of response data is acquired and an intelligent processing algorithm is used to simultaneously compute multiple AC and DC test specifications for the device. This results in a reduction of well over 90% in test time for those specs, with no negative impact on test coverage and test accuracy. Extensive measurement results demonstrated effectiveness, efficiency and robustness of the new method.
Obscured Inequalities in Mechanisms for Managing Workplace Disputes

Although the law gives workers a variety of rights, actually implementing them is a battle in itself. When settling workplace disputes outside the courtroom, the dispute is met with a mandate to compromise, often ignoring the parties’ rights. If dispute resolution occurs within the workplace, employees often face an even more uneven playing field when confronting their employers, who enjoy greater experience, the appearance of legitimacy, and substantial experience with many such grievances. Moreover, the hierarchical organization of the workplace further hampers employees’ abilities to effectively resolve their disputes if they are able to raise the grievance at all.
Some considerations of the discrete Fourier and Walsh-Hadamard transforms

In this Paper, we summarize a set of properties of the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) and compare them with corresponding properties of the Walsh-Hadamard transform (WHT) [see Table I]. It is hoped that such a summary will assist in observing the analogy between Walsh-Hadamard and discrete Fourier analyses for those who are relatively more familiar with the latter.
Atheroprotective mechanisms of flow: inhibition of apoptosis

Abstract Steady laminar flow is atheroprotective through multiple beneficial effects on endothelial cells (EC). Among these effects, promotion of EC survival by inhibiting apoptosis is particularly important. We discuss the mechanisms by which steady laminar flow inhibits EC apoptosis in this review.
Estimating the spatial distribution of zooplankton biomass by combining Video Plankton Recorder and single-frequency acoustic data

Abstract Estimation of zooplankton biological parameters such as biomass distributions from single-frequency acoustic surveys of zooplankton is generally not possible because of the diversity of taxa present in assemblages and resultant ambiguities in acoustic analysis. We present an approach that assumes that at a given, fixed depth, the relative proportions of sizes across species remains constant. Using this assumption, along with independently sampled Video Plankton Recorder (VPR) data on the species and size composition of the sound scattering assemblage, single-frequency acoustic data have been used to estimate the spatial distribution of zooplankton taxa and their biomass within a region of ocean without the use of acoustic scattering models. The data from a joint-ship study of the fine-scale physical and biological structure of a 3.5 km×4.5 km×75 m deep region of Georges Bank were used to demonstrate the utility of this approach. The spatial distributions of zooplankton biomass were estimated for pteropods, copepods, amphipods, euphausiids, chaetognaths and fish. Within each of the six parallel cruise legs that constituted the joint-ship survey, we estimated the relationship between mean zooplankton concentration from the VPR and mean acoustic volume backscatter within each 2 m depth bin. These relationships were used to scale the volume backscatter data throughout the transect into estimates of total zooplankton concentrations. The relative proportion of each taxon was estimated from the VPR for each 2 m depth bin within each leg and used to convert total zooplankton concentrations to taxon-specific concentrations. We then estimated biomass for each taxon using VPR estimates of mean sizes along the transect in conjunction with length-wet mass morphometric relationships. Several large acoustic patches were detected within the surveyed volume of water. Volume backscattering within the 10–20 m depth strata was largely associated with copepod biomass, while deeper scattering appeared to be a consequence of pteropod biomass. Amphipods contributed to scattering in the upper 10 m of the sixth leg of the grid. Euphausiids made minor contributions to the observed volume backscattering, while scattering due to chaetognaths and fish appeared to be negligible. Our results suggest that these patches were primarily due to the presence of copepods and pteropods. Our biomass estimates were highly correlated with data from a 1 m2 MOCNESS tow in leg 6; however, they predicted only 19–29% of the measured silhouette biomass from the net tow. This discrepancy was explained by a systematic underestimation of zooplankton concentrations by the semi-automatic image analysis system used to process VPR data. The results described herein suggest that the combination of independent data from optical samplers, nets or pumps and single frequency acoustic surveys may provide a viable method for generating near real-time estimates of zooplankton biomass distributions.
Ionic aggregates in Zn‐ and Na‐neutralized poly(ethylene‐ran‐methacrylic acid) blown films

The morphology of ionic aggregates in semicrystalline Zn- and Na-neutralized poly(ethylene-ran-methacrylic acid) (EMAA) ionomer blown films has been explored with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and small angle X-ray scattering. The ionic aggregates of Zn-EMAA are spherical, monodisperse, and uniformly distributed in as-extruded pellets and blown films prepared at low and high blow-up ratio. Thus, although the biaxial stresses of film blowing are sufficient to alter the PE superstructure, the ionic aggregates in Zn-EMAA are unaffected. In contrast, the morphology of Na-EMAA as detected by STEM changes from featureless in the as-extruded pellets to a heterogeneous distribution of Na-rich aggregates in the blown films. This transformation in Na-EMAA morphology is consistent with our earlier study of quiescent annealing, suggesting that the morphological change is the result of thermal processing rather than the biaxial stresses of film blowing. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 43: 3549–3554, 2005
Enhanced characterization of oilfield emulsions via NMR diffusion and transverse relaxation experiments.

Abstract The procedure proposed by Packer and Rees (J. Colloid Interface Sci. 40 (1972) 206) to interpret pulsed field gradient spin-echo (PGSE) experiments on emulsions is commonly used to resolve for the distribution of droplet sizes via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Nevertheless, such procedure is based on several assumptions that may restrict its applicability in many practical cases. Among such constrains, (a) the amplitude of the spin-echo (signal) must be influenced solely by the drop phase, and not by the continuous phase; and (b) the shape of the drop size distribution must be assumed a priori. This article discusses new theory to interpret results from PGSE experiments and a novel procedure that couples diffusion measurements (PGSE) with transverse relaxation rate experiments (the so-called CPMG sequence) to overcome the above limitations. Results from experiments on emulsions of water dispersed in several crude oils are reported to demonstrate that the combined CPMG–PGSE method renders drop size distributions with arbitrary shape, the water/oil ratio of the emulsion and the rate of decay of magnetization at the interfaces, i.e. the surface relaxivity. It is also shown that the procedure allows screening if the dispersion is oil-in-water (o/w) or water-in-oil (w/o) in a straightforward manner and that it is suitable to evaluate stability of emulsions.
Characterization of the promoter of the human ribonucleotide reductase R2 gene.

Abstract We describe here cloning and characterization of the promoter region of the human ribonucleotide reductase R2 gene. Primer extension and sequence data indicated that two different transcripts were produced via using two different promoter regions. Promoter activity of the 5′ flanking region of the first transcript was approximately 100-fold higher than controls, and that of the second transcript was approximately 30-fold higher than controls. Particularly, the proximal region of the first transcript, −125 to +1 bp, was responsible for approximately a 50-fold increase in promoter activity, compared to controls. This region had three CCAAT sequences, each of which contributed similarly to promoter activity. When all three CCAAT sequences were mutated, promoter activity declined 80%. In addition, the promoter region −125 to +1 bp was responsible for cell-cycle-specific expression. These data provided essential information concerning regulatory mechanisms of cell-cycle-specific expression of human ribonucleotide reductase R2.
Making the Case for Early Identification and Intervention for Young Children at Risk for Learning Disabilities

The early identification of children with learning disabilities (LD) is difficult but can be accomplished. Observation of key behaviors which are indicators of LD by preschool and kindergarten teachers can assist in this process. This early identification facilitates the use of intervention strategies to provide a positive early experience for children at risk for academic difficulties.
Living in Arizona: Reflections on Life in the Tumultuous Sunbelt

Two sociologists reflect on nearly 4 decades of living in Arizona, which has emerged as a center of reactionary politics. Draconian immigration policies are contextualized with a gun culture, demographic shifts, and a mass media emphasis on fear. Comparisons with the national crime and social control agenda are offered.
Molecular and infectivity studies of porcine circovirus in vaccines

This report describes FDA's laboratory response to the 2010 reports that porcine circovirus type 1 (PCV-1) DNA was present in U.S.-licensed rotavirus vaccines and in cells used to produce inactivated poliovirus vaccines. In the present study, Rotarix® (GlaxoSmithKline, Rixenxart, Belgium) was found to contain full-length PCV-1 genomes that are particle-associated, and cell culture assays in swine testis (ST) and PCV-free porcine kidney (PK-15) cells confirmed that PCV-1 sequences in this vaccine represent infectious virus. RotaTeq® (Merck and Co., West Point, PA, USA) contained small PCV-1 and PCV-2 genome fragments, but did not contain detectable larger portions of (or full-length) PCV genomes, and cell culture assays did not amplify PCV from this vaccine. Inactivated poliovirus vaccine bulks (GlaxoSmithKline) were also negative for the presence of PCV by cell culture infectivity assay. In these vaccines, molecular characterization of PCV nucleic acids was useful for predicting the results of cell culture assays.
Interpretation of tails of X-ray bursts

Four reasons for ruling out the Alcock and Hatchett (1978) proposal concerning the tails of X-ray bursts are advanced. This proposal suggests that the tails of X-ray bursts observed during burst decay are due to the small-angle scattering of the original pulse of X-rays on interstellar dust grains; grains with a typical size of approximately 3 microns are assumed. The arguments against this theory involve differences in burst tail sizes sometimes observed for bursts from the same source; the different kinds of bursts emitted by MXB 1730-335 (rapid burster); an indication that MXB 1730-335 bursts have tails less than 2 s long; and the lack of correlation between relative strength of burst tails and the interstellar absorption.
THE UPTAKE OF LABELED VITAMIN A ACID IN KERATOACANTHOMA

Previous studies have shown that vitamin A acid, when topically applied to the epithelial tumor, keratoacanthoma, can produce within this tumor a mucous metaplasia. The uptake of labeled vitamin A acid in the keratinocyte of the keratoacanthoma was studied by the method of electron microscopic radioautography for various time periods. It was observed that vitamin A acid was taken up by the tumor. After 24 hours, most of the grains are localized over the cytoplasm and tonofibrils of the keratinocyte. After 48 and 96 hours most of the grains are over the nuclei. However, when 2 chases are used, over a time period of 5 days, most of the isotope is reduced from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. We have attempted to correlate the distribution of label in relation to the structural changes observed in the experimentally produced metaplasia.
A nonlinear integral equation associated with gas absorption in a liquid

A recently suggested model for the absorption of gas through a liquid surface gives rise to a nonlinear Volterra integral equation of the form $$\varphi (t) = \pi ^{ - 1/2} \int_o^t {(t - s)^{ - 1/2} \{ [\varphi (s)]^{ - n} - \varphi (s)\} ds, t \geqslant 0, n > 0} $$ Here ϕ(t) denotes the time-dependent gas concentration at the interface, with normalization such that 0≤ϕ(t)≤1. This investigation establishes the existence and uniqueness of a solution to the integral equation, and determines the asymptotic behavior ast→0,∞.
Homogeneous Thue systems and the Church-Rosser property

Homogeneous Thue systems are considered. It is shown that if a homogeneous Thue system is not Church-Rosser, then there is no Church-Rosser system that is equivalent to it. This result contrasts with the theorems of O'Dunlaing [10, 11] showing that it is undecidable whether the congruence generated by a finite Thue system is also generated by a finite Church-Rosser system.
Gender Differences in Willingness to Guess

We present the results of an experiment that explores whether women are less willing than men to guess on multiple-choice tests. Our test consists of practice questions from SAT II history tests; we vary whether a penalty is imposed for a wrong answer and the salience of the evaluative nature of the task. We find that when no penalty is assessed for a wrong answer, all test takers answer every question. But, when there is a penalty for wrong answers, women answer significantly fewer questions than men. We see no differences in knowledge of the material or confidence in the test takers, and differences in risk preferences explain less than half of the observed gap. Making the evaluative aspect of the test more salient does not impact the gender gap. We show that, conditional on their knowledge of the material, test takers who skip questions do significantly worse on our test. Data, as supplemental material, are available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2013.1776 This paper was accepted by Uri Gneezy, behavioral economics.
Independent and complementary methods for large-scale structural analysis of mammalian chromatin

The fundamental building block of chromatin, the nucleosome, occupies 150 bp of DNA in a spaced arrangement that is a primary determinant in regulation of the genome. The nucleosomal organization of some regions of the human genome has been described, but mapping of these regions has been limited to a few kilobases. We have explored two independent and complementary methods for the high-throughput analysis of mammalian chromatin structure. Through adaptations to a protocol used to map yeast chromatin structure, we determined sites of nucleosomal protection over large regions of the mammalian genome using a tiling microarray. By modifying classical primer extension methods, we localized specific internucleosomally cleaved mammalian genomic sequences using a capillary electrophoresis sequencer in a manner that allows high-throughput nucleotide-resolution characterization of nucleosome protection patterns. We developed algorithms for the automated and unbiased analysis of the resulting data, a necessary step toward large-scale analysis. We validated these assays using the known positions of nucleosomes on the mouse mammary tumor virus LTR, and additionally, we characterized the previously unreported chromatin structure of the LCMT2 gene. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the combined methods for reliable analysis of mammalian chromatin structure in a high-throughput manner.
Alveolar Hypoventilation and Cor Pulmonale Associated with Chronic Airway Obstruction in Infants with Down Syndrome

Four infants with Down syndrome developed cor pulmonale and heart failure in association with chronic upper airway obstruction. Features of the sleep apnea syndrome were conspicuous; namely, noisy breathing with retraction, cyanosis and frequent apnea during sleep, and daytime lethargy and somnolence. The clinical picture masqueraded as cyanotic congenital heart disease. Arterial blood gas analyses revealed alveolar hypoventilation, especially during sleep. The nature of the obstructive element was variable. Adenoidectomy provided partial relief in one patient, and tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy resulted in temporary improvement in two others. Three patients were markedly benefitted by tracheostomy. Functional inspiratory pharyngeal closure was demonstrated fluorographically in one patient. Infants with Down syndrome may be predisposed to upper airway obstruction by virtue of hypoplasia of facial and oropharyngeal structures and generalized hypotonia. Additional obstructive elements may be contributed by hypertrophied lymphoid tissue, excessive secretions, and glossoptosis. Removal of the obstructive element is helpful, but functional obstruction may only be relieved by tracheostomy.
A hierarchical strategy for testing Web-based applications and ensuring their reliability

After examining the specific problems of testing and quality assurance for Web-based applications, we propose a strategy by integrating existing testing techniques and reliability analyses in a hierarchical framework. This strategy combines various usage models for statistical testing to perform high level testing and to guide selective testing of critical and frequently used subparts or components using traditional coverage-based structural testing. Reliability analysis and risk identification form an integral part of this strategy to help assure and improve the overall reliability for Web-based applications. Some preliminary results are included to demonstrate the general viability and effectiveness of our approach.
BUSINESS CONDITIONS AND EXPECTED RETURNS ON STOCKS AND BONDS

Abstract Expected returns on common stocks and long-term bonds contain a term or maturity premium that has a clear business-cycle pattern (low near peaks, high near troughs). Expected returns also contain a risk premium that is related to longer-term aspects of business conditions. The variation through time in this premium is stronger for low-grade bonds than for high-grade bonds and stronger for stocks than for bonds. The general message is that expected returns are lower when economic conditions are strong and higher when conditions are weak.
Response of air sac mesothelium to expansion of extracellular fluid volume in Gallus domesticus.

Abstract In this study, scanning electron microscopy was used to examine the effects of hydrothorax on the morphology of the air sac visceral mesothelium of Gallus domesticus . Anaesthetized chickens were subjected to acute hydrodynamic pulmonary oedema induced by expansion of the extracellular fluid volume with an infusion of Ringer's solution equal to 6·5% of body weight. Tissue samples from the visceral surface of the abdominal air sacs near their ostia were obtained and fixed after death induced by anaesthetic overdose. These were compared with similar samples from control “non-volume-loaded” birds. The air sac visceral mesothelium of the volume-loaded animals presented an increased density of bulbous or swollen microvilli. These deformations were similar to changes reported in the visceral pleura of mammals subjected to hydrothorax, suggesting a commonality with regard to the role of these mesothelia in liquid clearance during pulmonary oedema.
Environmental sensitivity of the superconducting cavity maser oscillator

The superconducting cavity maser oscillator (SCMO) is tested for environmental sensitivity in the controlled environment of a frequency standards test facility (FSTF). Measured sensitivities to temperature, magnetic field, pressure and humidity are used to predict SCMO performance in various laboratory environments. A comparison to SCMO frequency stability tests in these same environments shows good results, and indicates a need to reduce sensitivities to temperature and magnetic field. Characterization provides continual evaluation of SCMO for the next generation of frequency standards for NASA's deep space network. >
Analysis of the function of Escherichia coli poly(A) polymerase I in RNA metabolism

To help understand the role of polyadenylation in Escherichia coli RNA metabolism, we constructed an IPTG-inducible pcnB [poly(A) polymerase I, PAP I] containing plasmid that permitted us to vary poly(A) levels without affecting cell growth or viability. Increased polyadenylation led to a decrease in the half-life of total pulse-labelled RNA along with decreased half-lives of the rpsO, trxA, lpp and ompA transcripts. In contrast, the transcripts for rne (RNase E) and pnp (polynucleotide phosphorylase, PNPase), enzymes involved in mRNA decay, were stabilized. rnb (RNase II) and rnc (RNase III) transcript levels were unaffected in the presence of increased polyadenylation. Long-term overproduction of PAP I led to slower growth and irreversible cell death. Differential display analysis showed that new RNA species were being polyadenylated after PAP I induction, including the mature 3'-terminus of 23S rRNA, a site that was not tailed in wild-type cells. Quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) demonstrated an almost 20-fold variation in the level of polyadenylation among three different transcripts and that PAP I accounted for between 94% and 98.6% of their poly(A) tails. Cloning and sequencing of cDNAs derived from lpp, 23S and 16S rRNA revealed that, during exponential growth, C and U residues were polymerized into poly(A) tails in a transcript-dependent manner.
Cytotoxic effects of vascular smooth muscle cells of the chimeric toxin, heparin binding TGFα-Pseudomonas exotoxin

Objective: Smooth muscle cell proliferation appears to be very important in restenosis after angioplasty. A chimeric toxin created by genetically fusing the gene encoding TGFα (targets the EGF receptor) to the gene encoding Pseudomonas exotoxin (PE) preferentially kills rapidly proliferating smooth muscle cells. Recently, a heparin binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) has been identified. The HB domain enhances the mitogenic activity for smooth muscle cells. The purpose of this study was to design a new chimeric toxin, having both heparin binding and EGF receptor binding function, and to determine whether it is more cytotoxic to smooth muscle cells. Methods: By recombinant DNA techniques, a new chimeric toxin, HB-TGFα-PE4EKDEL, was synthesised. Cytotoxic assays were performed by assessing the capacity to inhibit protein synthesis of rat vascular smooth muscle cells. Results: The toxin preferentially killed rapidly proliferating smooth muscle cells (p < 0.025). The HB domain increased the cytotoxicity of the molecule when compared to the other chimeric toxins tested against smooth muscle cells. The cytotoxic effect of the new molecule was significantly decreased by exogenously added heparin (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The presence of a heparin binding domain increases the smooth muscle cell cytotoxicity of the TGFa fusion toxin, perhaps because HB-TGFa-PE4EKDEL functions as a molecule with two ligands. It will be important to determine whether the greater smooth muscle cell cytotoxicity that exists in vitro will facilitate the specific targeting and killing of rapidly proliferating cells in vivo. Cardiovascular Research 1993; 27 :1691-1697
The IbpA and IbpB small heat-shock proteins are substrates of the AAA+ Lon protease.

Small heat-shock proteins (sHSPs) are a widely conserved family of molecular chaperones, all containing a conserved α-crystallin domain flanked by variable N- and C-terminal tails. We report that IbpA and IbpB, the sHSPs of Escherichia coli, are substrates for the AAA+ Lon protease. This ATP-fueled enzyme degraded purified IbpA substantially more slowly than purified IbpB, and we demonstrate that this disparity is a consequence of differences in maximal Lon degradation rates and not in substrate affinity. Interestingly, however, IbpB stimulated Lon degradation of IbpA both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, although the variable N- and C-terminal tails of the Ibps were dispensable for proteolytic recognition, these tails contain critical determinants that control the maximal rate of Lon degradation. Finally, we show that E. coli Lon degrades variants of human α-crystallin, indicating that Lon recognizes conserved determinants in the folded α-crystallin domain itself. These results suggest a novel mode for Lon substrate recognition and provide a highly suggestive link between the degradation and sHSP branches of the protein quality-control network.
Barriers and facilitators to HIV testing in primary care among health care providers.

Abstract Purpose Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a preventable disease that can have improved outcomes with early diagnosis and treatment. The CDC recommends that HIV testing be incorporated into clinical settings as part of routine medical care. Methods Individual, open-ended interviews were conducted with primary care providers and administrators to obtain their views regarding the meaning of routine HIV testing and the barriers and facilitators to implementing routine HIV testing in their respective practices. Results Most respondents supported routine HIV testing, although their definitions of roufine varied. Barriers for providers included time and financial constraints to appropriately conduct HIV counseling and testing and inadequate HIV education and training. Facilitators for implementing routine HIV testing included patients' feelings of empowerment and reduced HIV stigma. Conclusions The implementation of routine HIV testing in primary care practices appears to be an acceptable public health intervention. Next steps should include efforts to standardize the definition of routine HIV testing and working with primary care settings to better understand and reduce barriers to routine testing.
Role of ROS in ischemia-induced lung angiogenesis

Pulmonary artery obstruction and subsequent lung ischemia have been shown to induce systemic angiogenesis despite preservation of normoxia. The underlying mechanisms, however, remain poorly understood. In a mouse model of lung ischemia induced by left pulmonary artery ligation (LPAL), we showed previously, the formation of a new systemic vasculature to the ischemic lung. We hypothesize that LPAL in the mouse increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and these molecules play an initiating role in subsequent lung neovascularization. We used oxidant-sensitive dyes (DHE and H(2)DCF-DA) to quantify ROS and measured the antioxidant-reduced glutathione (GSH) and its oxidized form (GSSG) as indicators of ROS levels after LPAL. The magnitude of systemic neovascularization was determined by measuring systemic blood flow to the left lung with radiolabeled microspheres 14 days after LPAL. An increase in ROS was observed early (30 min: 55% increase in H(2)DCF-DA) after LPAL, with a return to baseline by 24 h. GSH/GSSG was decreased (∼50%) 4 h after LPAL, suggesting earlier ROS upregulation. Mice treated with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine showed attenuated angiogenesis (62% of wild-type LPAL), and mice lacking Nrf2, a transcription factor important for antioxidant synthesis, resulted in increased neovascularization (207% of wild-type LPAL). Overall, GSH/GSSG was inversely associated with the magnitude of neovascularization. These results demonstrate that LPAL induces an early and transient ROS upregulation, and ROS appear to play a role in promoting ischemia-induced angiogenesis.
Identification of Multiple QTL Hotspots in Sockeye Salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) Using Genotyping-by-Sequencing and a Dense Linkage Map

Understanding the genetic architecture of phenotypic traits can provide important information about the mechanisms and genomic regions involved in local adaptation and speciation. Here, we used genotyping-by-sequencing and a combination of previously published and newly generated data to construct sex-specific linkage maps for sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka). We then used the denser female linkage map to conduct quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis for 4 phenotypic traits in 3 families. The female linkage map consisted of 6322 loci distributed across 29 linkage groups and was 4082 cM long, and the male map contained 2179 loci found on 28 linkage groups and was 2291 cM long. We found 26 QTL: 6 for thermotolerance, 5 for length, 9 for weight, and 6 for condition factor. QTL were distributed nonrandomly across the genome and were often found in hotspots containing multiple QTL for a variety of phenotypic traits. These hotspots may represent adaptively important regions and are excellent candidates for future research. Comparing our results with studies in other salmonids revealed several regions with overlapping QTL for the same phenotypic trait, indicating these regions may be adaptively important across multiple species. Altogether, our study demonstrates the utility of genomic data for investigating the genetic basis of important phenotypic traits. Additionally, the linkage map created here will enable future research on the genetic basis of phenotypic traits in salmon.
Arab American Protest in the Terror Decade: Macro- and Micro-Level Response to Post-9/11 Repression

Arab Americans have borne the greatest brunt of government and non-state repression in the aftermath of the terrorists’ attacks on September 11, 2001. In this study, we document how post-9/11 repression affects Arab American protest at the macro and micro level. Coding articles from the Detroit Free Press (1999–2010), we find at the macro level that Arab American protest in the Detroit area spiked in the aftermath of 9/11 and that there is a strong temporal relationship between anti-Arab/Muslim hate crime and protest. At the micro level, results from the Detroit Arab American Study (2003) show that personally experiencing repression enhances protest participation most strongly for those whose Arab identity is not especially salient. We interpret this finding to mean that such individuals experience repression as a moral shock and/or quotidian disruption and hence such encounters especially motivate them to protest. This is one of the first studies to demonstrate that repression can be especially mobilizing for those who under other circumstances would be least likely to protest. Our study pushes theorizing about repression by highlighting that the state is not the only actor who represses; that repression need not target protestors to affect the possibilities of protest; and that state and non-state repression is often tightly coupled for racial and ethnic minority populations. Los estadounidenses arabes han sufrido una represion estatal y no estatal como consecuencia de los ataques terroristas del 11 de septiembre de 2001. En este estudio examinamos como la represion post-11/9 da forma a la protesta arabe a nivel macro y micro. A nivel macro, y por medio de la codificacion de articulos de la Detroit Free Press (1999-2010), descubrimos que la movilizacion arabe en el area de Detroit aumento precipitadamente a raiz de 9/11 y que existe una relacion temporal entre el sentimiento anti-arabe/musulman y dicha movilizacion. Los resultados de la Encuesta Arabe-Americana de Detroit (2003) muestran que, a nivel micro, la participacion en dichas protestas aumenta entre aquellos cuya identidad arabe no es especialmente relevante pero si han sido victimas personalmente de la represion. Para tales individuos dicha represion representa un choque moral y/o interrupcion de su vida cotidiana lo que les motiva a protestar. Este es uno de los primeros estudios que demuestran que la represion puede llevar a movilizar a aquellos que, en otras circunstancias, serian menos propensos a movilizarse. Nuestro estudio avanza el marco teorico sobre la represion al mostrar que el Estado no es el unico agente que reprime; que la posibilidad de participacion en protestas no esta ligada a la represion directa de los manifestantes; y que la represion estatal y no estatal esta estrechamente ligada a las poblaciones de minoria racial y etnica.
Energy expenditure during level human walking: seeking a simple and accurate predictive solution

Accurate prediction of the metabolic energy that walking requires can inform numerous health, bodily status, and fitness outcomes. We adopted a two-step approach to identifying a concise, generalized equation for predicting level human walking metabolism. Using literature-aggregated values we compared 1) the predictive accuracy of three literature equations: American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), Pandolf et al., and Height-Weight-Speed (HWS); and 2) the goodness-of-fit possible from one- vs. two-component descriptions of walking metabolism. Literature metabolic rate values (n = 127; speed range = 0.4 to 1.9 m/s) were aggregated from 25 subject populations (n = 5-42) whose means spanned a 1.8-fold range of heights and a 4.2-fold range of weights. Population-specific resting metabolic rates (Vo2 rest) were determined using standardized equations. Our first finding was that the ACSM and Pandolf et al. equations underpredicted nearly all 127 literature-aggregated values. Consequently, their standard errors of estimate (SEE) were nearly four times greater than those of the HWS equation (4.51 and 4.39 vs. 1.13 ml O2·kg(-1)·min(-1), respectively). For our second comparison, empirical best-fit relationships for walking metabolism were derived from the data set in one- and two-component forms for three Vo2-speed model types: linear (∝V(1.0)), exponential (∝V(2.0)), and exponential/height (∝V(2.0)/Ht). We found that the proportion of variance (R(2)) accounted for, when averaged across the three model types, was substantially lower for one- vs. two-component versions (0.63 ± 0.1 vs. 0.90 ± 0.03) and the predictive errors were nearly twice as great (SEE = 2.22 vs. 1.21 ml O2·kg(-1)·min(-1)). Our final analysis identified the following concise, generalized equation for predicting level human walking metabolism: Vo2 total = Vo2 rest + 3.85 + 5.97·V(2)/Ht (where V is measured in m/s, Ht in meters, and Vo2 in ml O2·kg(-1)·min(-1)).
Arbitration Awards: Understanding the Limitation of Vacatur and the Possibilities for an Appeal

Few realize that an arbitrator's award is not always final. By right, whether applying the Federal Arbitration Act or individual state law, awards can be reviewed by courts to insure that the arbitrators actions were free of misconduct and within his or her authority. But a second avenue may exist, one that is rarely considered, some form of an appeal either to a court or to another arbitrator. No matter which type of appeal is deemed appropriate, it can only come about by agreement between the parties. There is no statutory right to an appeal. Each of these three routes have risks. In this article I discuss these risks and benefits within the context of the Federal Arbitration Act, the laws of New York and the rules of the major providers of arbitration services such as the American Arbitration Association, JAMS, CPR and National Arbitration Forum. The general principles discussed have application to the arbitration laws of all the states.
Open Regionalism in the Andean Community: Creation or Deviation of Commerce?

This paper evaluates the extent to which the establishment of the Andean Free Trade Zone (AFTZ) has led to trade creation, as promised by open regionalism, or to trade diversion. The analysis of ex post income elasticities of import demand before (1980-1993) and after (1993-2000) the establishment of the AFTZ shows that the establishment of the AFTZ led to an increase of Andean Community trade, as the open regionalism view proposes, and not to a contraction of extra-regional trade. These results are confirmed by the intensity of trade index and the propensity to export intra- and extra-regionally.