cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Imatinib Mesylate Does Not Inhibit BCR-ABL Kinase Activity in CML Stem Cells In Vitro.

Imatinib mesylate (IM, Gleevec, Novartis), a specific inhibitor of the tyrosine kinase BCR-ABL, promotes an impressive complete cytogenetic remission rate in patients with chronic phase Chronic Myeloid Leukaemia (CML). In most cases however, molecular disease persists and may lead to eventual relapse. IM selectively interacts with BCR-ABL thereby inhibiting activation of downstream targets, in particular phosphorylation of CrkL. We have previously demonstrated the sensitivity of rare Ph+ CD34+ CML stem cells ( in vitro . We hypothesised that these rare cells may also behave differently from total CD34+ cells in terms of their kinase response to IM. The effect of IM on the phosphorylation status of CrkL was therefore investigated, in total CD34+ and in primitive CD34+/38- cells from 6 untreated chronic phase CML patients. Ph+ CD34+ and CD34+/38- cells were cultured in serum free medium for up to 72h, in the presence and absence of IM (5mM). After 16 and 72h the phosphorylation status of CrkL was measured with an antibody specifically designed to recognise only the phosphorylated form of the protein. After 16h total CD34+ cells showed a significant dephosphorylation of CrkL in response to IM. However, after 72h the remaining viable BCR-ABL+ cells failed to show any de-phosphorylation of CrkL, consistent with an IM selected, resistant population of stem cells. Primitive CD34+/38- cells from the same patients exhibited no de-phosphorylation of CrkL after either 16 or 72h, confirming their innate/inherent resistance to the drug. These data show, for the first time, that very primitive CML cells exhibit BCR-ABL dependent resistance (i.e. BCR-ABL kinase remains active during drug exposure) and suggest that the drug is not reaching or binding its target at inhibitory concentrations. Novel approaches to eliminate these cells will be critical to the development of curative strategies for CML.
Chapter 9 – Effector Transfer

The manuscript reviews the theoretical underpinnings proposed to account for the production and effector transfer of simple and more complex movement sequences. Special attention is given to the Hikosaka perspective, which, in our opinion, has the potential to provide, with some modifications, a unifying way to understand the various factors that influence the coding and effector transfer of a large range of movement sequences. In addition, we discuss how the sequence link between subsequences is disrupted by effector transfer, the finding that multiple representations can be used to benefit transfer, the relationship between implicit-explicit coding and the coordinate system used to code the sequence, and lastly, we discuss the role handedness and hemispheric asymmetries play in the effector transfer of movement sequences.
Ventral Rectopexy: Indications, Surgical Considerations, and Outcomes

Laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy was first described as an alternative approach to the standard abdominal rectopexy for external prolapse. This operation limits posterior rectal dissection and spares the sacral nerves, thereby avoiding rectal denervation and minimizing postoperative de novo constipation. Since its description, the procedure has been widely adopted by colorectal surgeons treating rectal prolapse and other pelvic floor disorders for its favorable outcomes and minimally invasive approach. This chapter will describe the spectrum of rectal prolapse and indications for laparoscopic ventral mesh rectopexy, detail operative technique, and review the literature with a focus on outcomes and complications of this operation.
What’s love got to do with it? Understanding local cognitive and affective responses to wind power projects

Abstract Negative perceptions of renewable energy development can lead to protest, resulting in project delay or failure. Alternatively, good communication and sensitivity to community feelings are pathways to success. While literature referencing the social aspects of wind power siting have become widespread, analyses which include individuals’ affect or emotional dimensions are rarer. Appreciation for emotional as well as cognitive perceptions is crucial for adequate understanding of not just consumptive or productive aspects of energy, but entire systems. We use a US national cross-sectional data set of 1705 individuals who live within 8 km of a wind turbine collected in a research project led by Lawrence Berkeley National Lab in a random probability-based phone, mail, and online survey in 2016. We hypothesize that individuals who moved-in prior to commencement of project construction will differ markedly from those who move in afterwards in terms of the cognitive and affective aspects of their attitude formation, and in particular, that negative emotions will be distinct. Variables include emotions such as pride, anger, and annoyance, perceptions of fit with the landscape, descriptions of the turbines as industrial and whether they added to or detracted from the community. We find affect is the stronger driver of attitude, but not merely by negative emotions. When we include both cognitive and affective variables, individual emotions are generally more predictive of attitude for pre-construction neighbors and cognitive variables such as wind being an effective means of climate mitigation and perception of property value change are stronger post-construction.
Bedside estimates of dead space using end-tidal CO2 are independently associated with mortality in ARDS.

Purpose In acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), dead space fraction has been independently associated with mortality. We hypothesized that early measurement of the difference between arterial and end-tidal CO2 (arterial-ET difference), a surrogate for dead space fraction, would predict mortality in mechanically ventilated patients with ARDS. Methods We performed two separate exploratory analyses. We first used publicly available databases from the ALTA, EDEN, and OMEGA ARDS Network trials (N = 124) as a derivation cohort to test our hypothesis. We then performed a separate retrospective analysis of patients with ARDS using University of Chicago patients (N = 302) as a validation cohort. Results The ARDS Network derivation cohort demonstrated arterial-ET difference, vasopressor requirement, age, and APACHE III to be associated with mortality by univariable analysis. By multivariable analysis, only the arterial-ET difference remained significant (P = 0.047). In a separate analysis, the modified Enghoff equation ((PaCO2-PETCO2)/PaCO2) was used in place of the arterial-ET difference and did not alter the results. The University of Chicago cohort found arterial-ET difference, age, ventilator mode, vasopressor requirement, and APACHE II to be associated with mortality in a univariate analysis. By multivariable analysis, the arterial-ET difference continued to be predictive of mortality (P = 0.031). In the validation cohort, substitution of the arterial-ET difference for the modified Enghoff equation showed similar results. Conclusion Arterial to end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2) difference is an independent predictor of mortality in patients with ARDS.
Carbon dynamics in response to climate and disturbance: recent progress from multi-scale measurements and modeling in AmeriFlux.

The CO2 flux network, AmeriFlux, aims to quantify and understand the role of terrestrial ecosystems in the global carbon cycle. The network has grown to over 100 sites, with about 25 cluster sites in different disturbance classes or different vegetation types within a climate zone. This chapter summarizes the network objectives, recent findings of AmeriFlux research, and future directions necessary to meet global climate change research goals. The information gained from flux sites, multi-factor experiments on processes, and multi-observation networks can help to improve and parameterize models that are applied to quantify and understand carbon budgets across regions and continents.
Brittle fracture toughnesses of GaN and AlN from first-principles surface-energy calculations

Cracks are a major limitation for the growth of III-nitride bulk crystals and thick epitaxial films. The propensity for a crack to propagate on a given plane is determined by the anisotropic fracture toughness, Γ. Using first-principles surface-energy calculations, we have determined toughnesses for brittle fracture (Γb) in GaN and AlN, for cracks on the nonpolar {101¯0} m-and {112¯0} a planes, and the polar (0001)+(0001¯) c plane. For both materials, Γb values for cracks on the nonpolar planes are similar, and significantly smaller than for the c plane. Calculated critical thicknesses for AlGaN grown on GaN correctly predict the fracture planes in polar and nonpolar growth.
Enzymatic transamination of d-kynurenine generates kynurenic acid in rat and human brain

J. Neurochem. (2012) 120, 1026–1035. Abstract In the mammalian brain, the α7 nicotinic and NMDA receptor antagonist kynurenic acid is synthesized by irreversible enzymatic transamination of the tryptophan metabolite l-kynurenine. d-kynurenine, too, serves as a bioprecursor of kynurenic acid in several organs including the brain, but the conversion is reportedly catalyzed through oxidative deamination by d-aminoacid oxidase. Using brain and liver tissue homogenates from rats and humans, and conventional incubation conditions for kynurenine aminotransferases, we show here that kynurenic acid production from d-kynurenine, like the more efficient kynurenic acid synthesis from l-kynurenine, is blocked by the aminotransferase inhibitor amino-oxyacetic acid. In vivo, focal application of 100 μM d-kynurenine by reverse microdialysis led to a steady rise in extracellular kynurenic acid in the rat striatum, causing a 4-fold elevation after 2 h. Attesting to functional significance, this increase was accompanied by a 36% reduction in extracellular dopamine. Both of these effects were duplicated by perfusion of 2 μM l-kynurenine. Co-infusion of amino-oxyacetic acid (2 mM) significantly attenuated the in vivo effects of d-kynurenine and essentially eliminated the effects of l-kynurenine. Thus, enzymatic transamination accounts in part for kynurenic acid synthesis from d-kynurenine in the brain. These results are discussed with regard to implications for brain physiology and pathology.
Diminished Control and Unmet Expectations: Testing a Model of Adjustment to Unplanned Cesarean Delivery

Compared to vaginal deliveries, surgical (cesarean) deliveries are associated with more complications, longer recovery, lower satisfaction, and greater risk of postpartum mood disturbances. Despite a steep rise in rates of surgical delivery, there have been few theoretically founded investigations of the mechanisms by which delivery method has an effect on psychosocial outcome. We tested a model of adjustment to unplanned cesarean delivery, focusing on two mediators: diminished control over labor and delivery; and unmet expectations of control over childbirth. Participants were 164 women anticipating a normal vaginal childbirth. Women who delivered by unplanned surgical delivery (24% of the sample) experienced significantly lower childbirth satisfaction than women delivering vaginally. As hypothesized, the association of delivery method with childbirth satisfaction was mediated by diminished control and unmet expectations, even after controlling for other predictors. Differences were not found between delivery groups in postpartum depressed mood. Irrespective of delivery method, perceived control during labor and delivery was strongly associated with childbirth satisfaction and lower depressed mood. Findings suggest that enabling women to exert desired control over childbirth is likely to enhance satisfaction and reduce the likelihood of postpartum mood disturbance. Implications for policies relevant to hospitals, employers, insurance companies, and legal practice are discussed.
Electricity and federalism: Understanding regional diversity

Abstract Regional systems, increased competition, and environmental imperatives are forcing a reallocation of state and federal regulatory responsibilities for the US electric power sector. The great extent of regional diversity in the sector raises a policy relevant empirical question. Is this diversity due to choice or circumstance? This paper finds circumstance to be a more significant determinant of fundamental performance than choice, but also finds evidence that decisions at the margin reflect the diverse preferences of regional policies. This suggests a continued role for (more responsive) state level regulation in order to satisfy diverse preferences. Uncertainty about the optimal endpoint of restructing reinforces the value of continued state regulatory experimentation.
Meteorology: Improve weather forecasts for the developing world.

Global prediction partnerships would cost little and reduce the regional carnage caused by floods, droughts and tropical cyclones, argues Peter J. Webster.
Growth of Dunning Transplantable Prostate Adenocarcinomas in Rats Fed Diets with Various Fat Contents

The effects of dietary fat concentration (5 vs. 20% corn oil, 0.5 vs. 20% corn oil and fat-free vs. 20% corn oil) on the growth of the Dunning R3327-H (hormone-sensitive, well-differentiated, slow-growing) and R3327-150 (hormone-insensitive, anaplastic, rapidly growing) transplantable prostate tumor sublines were studied in Copenhagen x Fisher F1 male rats. Rats fed 5 vs. 20% corn oil or 0.5 vs. 20% corn oil showed no differences in either R3327-H or R3327-150 tumor growth. Fat-free diets had no effect on the growth of R3327-150 tumors. However, the mean weight of the R3327-H tumor at necropsy, 16 wk after implantation, was reduced by 40% in rats fed a fat-free diet compared with 20% corn oil (P less than 0.05). Energy intake, weight gain and the weight of the pituitary and prostate glands in rats bearing either tumor was lower in rats fed the fat-free diet than in those fed the 20% corn oil diet. There were no differences in serum prolactin, pituitary prolactin or serum testosterone associated with dietary fat concentration in any study. In summary, no differences in transplantable prostate tumor growth were seen over a wide range of lipid intake (0.5-20%), although a fat-free diet reduced the growth of the R3327-H prostate adenocarcinoma.
Heterogeneity and Functional Properties of Subtypes of Sodium-Dependent Glutamate Transporters in the Mammalian Central Nervous System

Publisher Summary In recent times, there has been a tremendous expansion in knowledge of Na + -dependent glutamate (Glu) transporters. A large family has been identified using pharmacological as well as molecular biological techniques. At present, the cloned transporters do not reconstitute all of the pharmacological subtypes observed in vivo and in vitro . Furthermore, the clones provide evidence for subtypes of transport activity that were not differentiated pharmacologically. The acidic amino acids, glutamate (Glu), and aspartate (Asp) are the predominant excitatory neurotransmitters in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). Several types of transport activities for Glu and Asp have been differentiated in mammals. Although at least two families of these transporters are localized to the plasma membrane, other subtypes of transporters appear to be selectively localized to subcellular organelles. Only one of the families of transporters that is localized to the plasma membrane appears to be coupled to an electrochemical gradient that permits transport of the acidic amino acids against their concentration gradient. This family of active Na + -dependent transporters is the focus of this chapter. The pharmacological evidence to suggest that there are several subtypes of this transport system are presented here.
Quantum unique ergodicity

Consider a compact Riemannian manifold with ergodic geodesic flow. Quantum ergodicity is generalized from orthonormal bases of eigenfunctions of the Laplacian to packets of eigenfunctions. It is shown that this more general result is sharp. Namely, there may exist exceptional packets of eigenfunctions which concentrate on a submanifold.
Time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau model with noise for neutral s-wave superconductor

Time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau model with noise for neutral s-wave superconductor is derived from real-time finite-temperature quantum field theory by integrating over fermions in the density matrix propagator. Quantum decoherence due to environment of pair breaking fluctuations is identified. Dynamics is described by Langevin equation in the near critical regime and by a nonlinear Schrodinger equation at zero temperature.
Identification of Candidate Coral Pathogens on White Band Disease-Infected Staghorn Coral

Bacterial diseases affecting scleractinian corals pose an enormous threat to the health of coral reefs, yet we still have a limited understanding of the bacteria associated with coral diseases. White band disease is a bacterial disease that affects the two Caribbean acroporid corals, the staghorn coral Acropora cervicornis and the elkhorn coral A. palmate. Species of Vibrio and Rickettsia have both been identified as putative WBD pathogens. Here we used Illumina 16S rRNA gene sequencing to profile the bacterial communities associated with healthy and diseased A. cervicornis collected from four field sites during two different years. We also exposed corals in tanks to diseased and healthy (control) homogenates to reduce some of the natural variation of field-collected coral bacterial communities. Using a combination of multivariate analyses, we identified community-level changes between diseased and healthy corals in both the field-collected and tank-exposed datasets. We then identified changes in the abundances of individual operational taxonomic units (OTUs) between diseased and healthy corals. By comparing the diseased and healthy-associated bacteria in field-collected and tank-exposed corals, we were able to identify 16 healthy-associated OTUs and 106 consistently disease-associated OTUs, which are good candidates for putative WBD pathogens. A large percentage of these disease-associated OTUs belonged to the order Flavobacteriales. In addition, two of the putative pathogens identified here belong to orders previously suggested as WBD pathogens: Vibronales and Rickettsiales.
11C-JHU75528: A Radiotracer for PET Imaging of CB1 Cannabinoid Receptors

The development of the radioligands for PET imaging of the cerebral cannabinoid receptor (CB1) is of great importance for studying its role in neuropsychiatric disorders, obesity, and drug dependence. None of the currently available radioligands for CB1 are suitable for quantitative PET, primarily because of their insufficient binding potential (BP) in brain or low penetration through the blood–brain barrier (BBB). The goal of this study was to evaluate 11C-JHU75528, an analog of the selective CB1 antagonist rimonabant, in vivo as a potential CB1 radioligand for PET. Methods: The brain regional distribution and pharmacology of 11C-JHU75528 have been evaluated in vivo in mice (dissection) and baboons (PET). Results:11C-JHU75528 readily entered the mouse and baboon brain and specifically and selectively labeled cerebral CB1 receptors. The ratio of striatum to brain stem in mice and the binding potential (BP) in the baboon putamen were 3.4 and 1.3–1.5, respectively. The specific binding of 11C-JHU75528 in vivo was blocked by preinjection of nonlabeled JHU75528. Administration of rimonabant (1 mg/kg, intravenously) also blocked the specific binding of 11C-JHU75528 in the mouse and baboon brain, whereas various central noncannabinoid drugs did not significantly reduce the 11C-JHU75528 binding in the mouse brain. 11C-JHU75528 formed several hydrophilic metabolites, but only a minute fraction of metabolic radioactivity penetrated the BBB. Conclusion:11C-JHU75528 holds promise as a radiotracer with suitable imaging properties for quantification of CB1 receptors in the human brain.
Mesh assembly framework for hybrid 3D FEM/FEBI/MoM electromagnetic simulations

In this paper we will introduce a powerful 3D electromagnetic simulation framework for meshing and solving multi-scale 3D high frequency systems including rapid parametric studies. The fundamental aspect of this framework is to break up a complex model into 3D components which can be meshed independently and then assembled. This method, called assembly meshing, provides several benefits: more robust meshing, reuse of component meshes, accelerated system meshing by creation of the 3D component meshes in parallel, and accelerated parametric studies. In addition, the most appropriate meshing and solver algorithms can be used for each component. All the aforementioned benefits are essential for a robust and efficient 3D system simulator.
A lucky career in bacterial vaccines.

(2012). A lucky career in bacterial vaccines. Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics: Vol. 8, No. 4, pp. 420-422.
Cast iron pot from Deerfield, MA, USA: A PIXE study

Abstract A cast iron pot now in the possession of the Winterthur Museum of Delaware was unearthed in a field in Deerfield, MA, between 1950 and 1955. On the basis of its style, apparent cast iron construction and the location of the find, this pot was attributed to the Hammersmith cold blast furnace at the Saugus Iron Works (≈1647–1669). Recently, Bartol was asked and accepted the task of aiding the Winterthur personnel in the effort of establishing the origin of this pot. With little to go on, a study of cast iron objects from early America and England of a similar time period was undertaken, along with the fragments obtained from the site of the original furnace in Saugus, MA. The end results of this study are somewhat inconclusive because of the large scatter in the data and the relatively small sample size of the different objects. However, the Saugus fragments and the pot have measurably higher levels of phosphorous and arsenic, which is suggestive of a Saugus origin.
Effects of Low Intensity Red Light on Testicular Recrudescence in Japanese Quail

Experiments were conducted to determine if sighted and blind plumage color mutants of Japanese quail elicit comparable testicular recrudescence when exposed to long daily photoperiods of low intensity red light. Quail exhibiting testicular regression after exposure to 8 hr of light daily for several weeks were blinded via bilateral ocular enucleation. A control group was not enucleated. Two light intensities, 1.4 and 2.8 lx, were applied to half of the birds in each group during a 16 hr daily photoperiod for several weeks. Enucleated birds and birds under the 2.8 lx intensity had greater testis weights than the controls. Birds were also blinded by optic tract sectioning, and a .7 lx red light intensity treatment was included. Greater testis weights were found in birds under higher light intensities. Three plumage pigmentation mutants, sex linked incomplete albino, white and wild-type, were exposed to 8 hr of light daily for either 4 or 8 weeks to induce testicular regression. They were then exposed to the three light intensities for 3 weeks. Higher intensities and albinism resulted in greater testicular recrudescence only when the regression interval was 8 weeks, even though testicular regression appeared after 4 weeks. The absence of eyes or plumage pigmentation, resulting in an increased exposure of the encephalon for extraretinal light reception, may have effected greater testicular recrudescence. Severed optic tracts with tract eyes did not produce this response to light, indicating that the eyes may play a role in mediating the photosexual reflex in quail. Lower intensities may have resulted in reduced tissue penetration and testicular growth. A definite threshold intensity necessary to elicit testis growth was not found.
Determinants of chymotrypsin C cleavage specificity in the calcium-binding loop of human cationic trypsinogen.

The pancreatic serine protease chymotrypsin C (CTRC) cleaves the Leu81–Glu82 peptide bond in the calcium-binding loop of human cationic trypsinogen and thereby promotes its degradation. This serves as a protective mechanism against ectopic trypsinogen activation in the pancreas. In the present study, we demonstrate that cleavage of the Leu81–Glu82 peptide bond by CTRC is highly specific, and other human pancreatic chymotrypsins (CTRB1, CTRB2 and CTRL1) and elastases (ELA2A, ELA3A and ELA3B) do not catalyze this reaction. To elucidate the mechanistic basis for CTRC specificity, we surveyed the primary (P1) cleavage preference of these pancreatic proteases on peptide substrates. We found that CTRC cleaved after a P1 Leu with at least tenfold higher catalytic efficiency than other enzymes tested. To assess extended sub-site interactions, we introduced Ala mutations into human cationic trypsinogen at the P3, P1′ P3′ and P4′ amino acid positions, where P1–P1′ corresponds to Leu81–Glu82. Interestingly, CTRC-mediated cleavage was stimulated threefold by mutation E82A and unaffected by mutations E79A and N84A, but all three mutations compromised specificity and resulted in increased cleavage by ELA2A. Mutation E85A decreased CTRC cleavage by twofold. Remarkably, other chymotrypsins and elastases did not cleave human cationic trypsinogen even with the L81F or L81A mutations, which introduced favorable P1 residues for these enzymes. We conclude that specific cleavage of the Leu81–Glu82 peptide bond in human cationic trypsinogen by CTRC is primarily determined by its distinctively high activity on leucyl peptide bonds, with the P1′ Glu82, P3′ Asn84 and P4′ Glu85 residues serving as additional specificity determinants.
Design and Synthesis of Metals (Tungsten) with Structural Hierarchy for Very High Temperatures

The strength of metals is limited by the weakest link in their microstructures. At high temperature, the weakest link is usually a grain boundary. Mobile dislocations represent another type of weak link. The strength-limitation by this two-level hierarchy of crystal defects can be minimized through microstructure design. Although the strengthening mechanisms differ for grain boundaries and dislocations, it is possible to design microstructural architectures that strengthen both. The design must take the stress state into consideration that the component will encounter during its later use. Processing strategies can then be devised for the synthesis of such components. It is imperative to stabilize the designed microstructure at high temperature because this will determine how well and how long the material will be able to perform. Design, synthesis and stabilization are discussed in the present paper. The lamp filament wire technology is the basis for a new method that enables the synthesis and stabilization of artificial microstructures in high-temperature materials.
Urban nitrogen biogeochemistry: status and processes in green retention basins

Nitrogen (N) cycling has been poorly characterized in urban ecosystems. Processes involving N are of specific concern due to increasing anthropogenic inputs from fertilizer uses and fossil fuel combustion in cities. Here we report on a study of N biogeochemistry in city green retention basins and city parks in the Phoenix metropolitan area, Arizona, USA. City retention basins receive N inputs from street runoff, and along with city parks, fertilizer input from management, making these urban patches potential hot spots for biogeochemical cycling. We sampled soils from six retention basins and two non- retention city parks and measured soil organic matter (SOM) content, net N mineralization, net ni- trification, denitrification potential, and intact core denitrification flux and nitrate retention. Our results showed significantly higher SOM, extractable nitrate, nitrification rates and potential denitrification rates in surface soils (0-7.5 cm; soil that is directly affected by fertilizer N input, irrigation, and storm runoff) than in deeper soils. We also observed a distinct horizontal trend of decreasing SOM and denitrification potentials from inlet to outlet (dry well) in the retention basins. Denitrification rates, measured both as potential rates with substrate amendment (390-1151 ng N2O-N g � 1 soil h � 1 ), and as intact core fluxes (3.3-57.6 mg N m � 2 d � 1 ), were comparable to the highest rates reported in literature for other ecosys- tems. Management practices that affect biogeochemical processes in urban retention basins thus could affect the whole-city N cycling.
The Kv1.2 Paddle Chimera Channel in a Lipid Bilayer

The Kv1.2 paddle chimera structure (Long et al. 2007, Nature 450: 376) is the first voltage-dependent ion channel structure that reveals all residues at high resolution. In addition, fragments of lipid acyl chains and headgroups are also revealed. We present results of an atomistic molecular dynamics simulation of the Kv1.2 paddle-chimera tetramer in a POPC bilayer in excess water. The initial configuration includes the crystallographic waters and lipid fragments (reconstructed as POPC molecules) observed in the crystal structure (PDB ID 2R9R). Similar to previous simulation studies of Kv1.2 (Treptow and Tarek 2006, Biophys. J. 90:L64; Jogini and Roux 2007, Biophys. J. 93:3070), we find the basic side chains of the S4 helix in a polar environment formed by water molecules, lipid headgroups, and acidic side chains. As suggested by the crystal structure, the H-bond network that solvates each voltage sensor domain is interrupted by F233, a side chain highly conserved among Kv channels. The lipid fragments observed in the crystal structure are fully consistent with the lipid bilayer configuration and present a distinctive dynamics that contrasts with the bulk-like behavior of the lipid molecules far from the protein. These results suggest that these lipid fragments should be considered structural lipids, and would imply an important role for the lipid-protein interactions in the channel stability and crystallization. Research supported by NIGMS and NSF.
A comparative study of the homology of certain enzymes in elapid venoms

Abstract 1. 1. Similar electrophoretic mobilities for esterases with identical substrate specificities have been shown for the venoms of several closely related elapidae. 2. 2. Two lactate dehydrogenase isozymes were shown for most Naja venoms with the slower migrating band (at alkaline pH's) showing constant mobility for all Naja species tested. 3. 3. Bungaris, Ophiophagus and Dendroaspis venoms gave markedly different patterns from Naja venoms for cholinesterase and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities.
Multiple network embeddings into hypercubes

Abstract In this paper we consider the problem of embedding r guest networks G0, ..., Gr−1, into a k-dimensional hypercube H so that every processor of H is assigned at most r guest processors and dilation and congestion are minimized. Network G, can be a complete binary tree, a leap tree, a linear array, or a mesh. We show that r such guest networks can simultaneously be embedded into H without a significant increase in dilation and congestion compared to the embedding of a single network when r ≤ k. For r > k, the increase in the cost measures is proportional to r/k. We consider two models which differ in the requirements imposed on the r guest processors assigned to a processor of H.
Axel rover NanoDrill and PowderDrill: Acquisition of cores, regolith and powder from steep walls

This paper describes development and testing of low-mass, low-power drills for the Axel rover. Axel is a two-wheeled tethered rover designed for the robotic exploration of steep cliff walls, crater walls and deep holes on earth and other planetary bodies. The Axel rover has a capability to deploy scientific instruments and/or samplers in the areas of interest to scientists currently inaccessible by conventional robotic systems. To enable sample recovery, we developed two drills: NanoDrill for acquisition of 25 mm long and 7 mm diameter cores and PowderDrill for acquisition of either in situ regolith/soil or drilled cuttings from depths of up to 15 mm. Both drills have been successfully tested in laboratory in limestone and sandstone rocks and on-board the Axel rover in the Mars Yard at NASA JPL. The drills managed to acquire limestone and sandstone cores and powder, with an average power of less than 5 Watts. The penetration rate of the NanoDrill was ∼ 2 mm/min and of the PowderDrill it was ∼9 mm/min. After sample acquisition, both drills successfully ejected of the acquired samples (cores and powder).
Diagnosis and management of laryngeal disease in the dog and cat.

The larynx of the dog and cat. controls the air flow to the lungs and prevents food or fluid from entering the airway during swallowing. Also, the larynx is important for vocalization and generating the explosive force necessary to expel material from the airways during the cough reflex. This article discusses the diagnosis and management of laryngeal disease in the dog and cat.
Taxonomy of Cordylanthus subgenus Hemistegia (Scrophulariaceae)

A taxonomic revision ofCordylanthus subg.Hemistegia based on evidence from morphology, chromosome numbers, habitat, ecology, and geographic distribution is presented, recognizing four species and five subspecies. Three new combinations on the subspecific level are proposed. The first chromosome counts for subg.Hemistegia are reported with haploid numbers ofn = 14, 15, and 21. Each species is illustrated with line drawings showing habit and floral morphology; distribution maps indicate sites of known populations. The possible extinction ofC. mollis ssp.mollis andC. pamatus is discussed, and the urgent need for preservation of their saline and alkaline habitats is emphasized.
Substance P mechanisms in the regulation of striated muscle microcirculation

Abstract The effects of substance P (SP) on microvessels in the cremaster of sodium pentobarbital-anesthetized male, Sprague-Dawley rats were investigated using closed-circuit television microscopy. Topically added SP (bath concentrations of 10 −13 to 10 −8 M ) caused significant dilation of small arterioles. SP vasodilation was sensitive to pretreatment of the muscle tissue with SP analogues, [ d -Arg 1 , d -Pro 2 , d -Trp 7,9 , Leu 11 ]-substance P (APTL-SP) and [ d -Pro 2 , d -Trp 7,9 ]-substance P (PT-SP). Attenuation of the responses by pyrilamine suggests that part of the SP-induced dilation involves the release of histamine. The vasodilation was abolished by hydroquinone, suggesting an intermediate role for endothelium-derived relaxing factor in the response to SP.
Visually lossless coding based on temporal masking in human vision

This paper presents a method for perceptual video compression that exploits the phenomenon of backward temporal masking. We present an overview of visual temporal masking and discuss models to identify portions of a video sequences masked due to this phenomenon exhibited by the human visual system. A quantization control model based on the psychophysical model of backward visual temporal masking was developed. We conducted two types of subjective evaluations and demonstrated that the proposed method up to 10% bitrate savings on top of state of the art encoder with visually identical video. The proposed methods were evaluated using HEVC encoder.
Efficient monitoring of database assertions

A principal impediment to the use of declarative assertions for monitoring the state of a dynamic database is the high cost of conventional implementation techniques for such a facility. This paper presents a means of efficiently detecting violations of assertions caused by updates to a database. Our technique is based on the premise that the structure of updates to a database can generally be anticipated, and that an analysis of the potential effect that an update may have on an assertion can enable the assertion to be efficiently tested when the update is performed.This analysis is performed by a compile-time assertion processor; for each type of update operation defined on the database, the assertion processor synthesizes a procedure that will be used to evaluate a set of given assertions whenever an operation of the given type is performed on the database. For each assertion and operation, the assertion processor performs a detailed logical analysis, called perturbation analysis, of the effect that the operation may have on the assertion. Perturbation analysis identifies conditions that can be efficiently tested at run-time (when an operation of the given type is performed) and that minimize the extent to which the assertion must be fully reevaluated; the identified conditions also enable the assertion to be tested before the update is actually performed, thereby avoiding the need for expensive back-out procedures in the case that the assertion is found to be violated. Based on this analysis, the assertion processor generates a set of alternative efficient means of determining whether or not execution of the operation causes the assertion to be violated. A database transaction processor, which estimates the performance cost of each of the alternatives in the context of the physical representation and access methods of the database, can then be used to identify the least expensive means of testing the assertion.This work has been done in the particular context of semantic integrity assertions, but it readily extends to related problems of database monitoring. The efficiency of testing that can be achieved through the use of our assertion processing technique in comparable with that attainable through the use of hand-coded procedures. The technique therefore supports all the advantages of the declarative approach to database assertion-monitoring, while retaining the level of efficiency that is usually associated with procedural methods.
Perceiving, its component stream of perceptual experience, and Gibson's ecological approach

Gibson's theory nearly explicitly distinguishes the activity or process of perceiving from its component stream of perceptual experience (awareness). An activity of perceiving is a total process of a perceiver's using a perceptual system to perceive something in the environment or of himself or herself in that environment. An activity of perceiving includes, inter alia, an obtained stimulus energy flux at the respective receptors, as well as a stream of perceptual experience (awareness) which proceeds at certain brain centers of the respective perceptual system. Obtaining stimulation, though this be highly structured and nomically specific to environmental properties, is not the having of perceptual experience (awareness); in addition to information pick-up, there must take place, in the nervous system, extraction of informational features (invariants and variants) of the stimulus energy flux. But the Gibsonian Lombardo argues that perceptual awareness is not a brain process; it occurs, rather, at the ecological level of organization. In effect, this contradicts Gibson's theory, which holds (a) that information pick-up, but not extraction, occurs at the interface between perceiving and environment, and (b) perceptual experience (awareness), in contrast to perceiving, is not publicly observable, as it would be by definition if it occurred at the ecological level of organization.
WHO ARE WE? EXAMINING THE RESULTS OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR PLAY THERAPY MEMBERSHIP SURVEY

This article explores the various characteristics and attributes of a sample of play therapists (N=891). The data were collected using multiple methods, including a web-based survey, to collect information from the membership of the Association for Play Therapy (APT). The survey instrument collected information on various issues such as members' educational background, continuing education experiences and needs, methods of obtaining supervision, work settings, and distribution of play therapy as a portion of their overall workload. Descriptive and inferential statistics (including t-tests, Chi- squares, and ANOVA's where appropriate) were conducted to highlight significant differences in the sample across specific variables (gender and academic discipline). The findings are discussed, with recommendations provided to assist APT in planning strategies to best meet the needs of its members.
THE PRIMARY COSMIC RADIATION AT HIGH LATITUDES

Various properties of the new group of low energy primary cosmic-ray particles ($El1.6$ Bev for protons) which enter the top of the atmosphere at geomagnetic latitudes north of 52\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} were investigated during the summer of 1950. Measurements at both 52\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}N (Swarthmore, Pennsylvania) and 69\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}N (Fort Churchill, Manitoba) were obtained with the same quadruple-coincidence counter trains used previously, oriented either horizontally or vertically, and with pulsed ionization chambers biased to detect bursts exceeding 1.0 $\mathrm{P}\mathrm{o}\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\alpha}$.
Teaching Elementary Bayesian Statistics with Real Applications in Science

Abstract University courses in elementary statistics are usually taught from a frequentist perspective. In this paper I suggest how such courses can be taught using a Bayesian approach, and I indicate why beginning students are well served by a Bayesian course. A principal focus of any good elementary course is the application of statistics to real and important scientific problems. The Bayesian approach fits neatly with a scientific focus. Bayesians take a larger view, and one not limited to data analysis. In particular, the Bayesian approach is subjective, and requires assessing prior probabilities. This requirement forces users to relate current experimental evidence to other available information–-including previous experiments of a related nature, where “related” is judged subjectively. I discuss difficulties faced by instructors and students in elementary Bayesian courses, and provide a sample syllabus for an elementary Bayesian course.
Effects of FGF-1 and FGF-2 on GD3 immunoreactive spinal neuroepithelial cells

Embryonic central nervous system neuroepithelial cells are a transient population of cells that give rise to neuronal and glial progenitors. In the E12-E16 embryonic rat spinal neural tube we have identified neuroepithelial cells as radially oriented cells expressing the GD3 ganglioside as recognized by the monoclonal anti-GD3 ganglioside antibodies, R24 and LB1. In vitro, neuroepithelial cells, which migrate from the ventral aspect of E12 rat lumbosacral neural tube explants, also express GD3 ganglioside immunoreactivity, thus permitting their distinction from neural crest cells (NCC) which migrate from the dorsal aspect of such explants. Fibroblast growth factor-1 (FGF-1, acidic FGF) and FGF-2 (basic FGF) increase the migration of neuroepithelial cells and the extent to which they incorporate the thymidine analogue bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). They do not, however, alter the rate at which these migrating neuroepithelial cells undergo cell death. Previous observations established the actions of FGF-1 and FGF-2 on neuronal and glial cells. The present study indicates that these growth factors also influence the motility and proliferation of progenitor cells at a developmental stage which precedes their divergence into neuronal and glial lineages.
Intra-medial prefrontal cortex injections of scopolamine increase instrumental responses for cocaine: an intravenous self-administration study in rats.

Abstract The present experiments examined the effects of muscarinic cholinergic receptor blockade in the nucleus accumbens (NAC) and medial prefrontal cortex (MPC) on intravenous cocaine self-administration. Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were implanted with chronic indwelling jugular catheters and guide cannulae stereotaxically aimed at the NAC or MPC. The rats were then given the opportunity to intravenously self-administer cocaine (0.8 mg/kg/infusion) during daily 2-h sessions. Intra-NAC microinjections of methyl-scopolamine (2, 4, 8, 16, and 32 μg/side) or vehicle did not affect either the number of lever presses made or infusions delivered. On the other hand, intra-MPC injections of scopolamine significantly increased responding, although there was only a trend for an increase in the number of cocaine infusions. The effects of intra-MPC injections of scopolamine (8 and 16 μg/side) on locomotor activity were also evaluated. Intra-MPC injections of scopolamine (16 μg/side) produced significant increases in locomotor activity. However, these same microinjections decreased locomotor activity when the animals also received cocaine (15 mg/kg, i.p.). These results suggest that cholinergic neurotransmission at muscarinic receptors in the MPC is involved in regulating cocaine-maintained responding.
A new method for separation, characterization, and quantification of natural nanoparticles from soils

Properties and distribution dynamics of nanoparticles are pertinent to ecological and human health. Wide variation in particle density confounds their accurate separation for study. The objective of this study was to develop a fine-particle separation protocol requiring no constant density assumption. Six soils with contrasting properties were chosen for study. Size distributions of suspended particles following centrifugation were assessed using dynamic light scattering. Mineralogy was determined by X-ray diffraction. Particle characteristics were examined using transmission electron microscopy. A significant pooled logarithmic relationship was found between centrifugation speed and particle-size distribution. Nanoparticles (<100 nm) became dominant by fractional volume at widely differing separation energies among the six soils. However, relations were strong between separation energies and fractional volume for individual soils. Bi- and tri-modal-size distributions within suspensions were related to density differences of soil components. Re-aggregation at high separation energy was apparent for the tropical soils. Light-scattering, UV–Visible absorbance, and chemical analyses distinguished samples of high hematite content from those without hematite. These results indicate that dynamic light scattering in conjunction with a standard centrifuge regimen provides a practical means of collecting colloidal particles within a targeted size range, compensating for natural variations among the soil samples.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE ELECTRIC CHARGE ACQUIRED BY AN ICE SPHERE MOVING THROUGH NATURAL SNOWFALL1

Abstract The factors affecting the electric charge acquired by an ice sphere moving through natural snowfall have been investigated experimentally. When graupel particles were in the air the sphere always received a positive charge. If graupel was not present the sign of the charge appeared to be related to the direction of the atmospheric electric field. When the field was directed downwards the ice sphere received negative charge, and when the field was directed upwards the sphere received positive charge. The results are explained in terms of the direct transfer to the ice sphere of some of the net charge on the ice particles in the air making a glancing contact with the ice sphere. The charges that an ice sphere received by this mechanism appeared to be much larger than any charges that might have been generated by asymmetrical rubbing between the ice particles in the air and the surface of the ice sphere.
Laves phases of uranium and 3d transition metals

Abstract Laves phases of uranium and 3 d transition metals have been investigated theoretically and experimentally. Pauling's description of metal bonds was used to calculate bond numbers and d orbital participation in bonding. Limits to compound formation were found to be related to limits in d orbital hybridization. Simple equations are presented to calculate interatomic distances and composition limits of these Laves phases. Lattice constants for Laves phases in the UCrFe, UCrCo, UCrNi, and UCrFeNi systems are also presented and discussed.