cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Structure of Friendship: How Network Density Influences Identity Verification

Identity theory predicts that negative outcomes associated with identity verification are moderated by how salient and prominent the identity is. However, evidence shows mixed support for this effect. Here, I suggest that proximate social structure may influence identity verification because (1) it provides information about the immediate social context in which verification occurs, and (2) it provides information about relationship-based resources, such as social support, to which individuals have access to offset the negative effects of non-verification. Drawing from social network analysis to measure proximate social structure, I focus on the moderating effect of network density, or the proportion of one’s social contacts that are connected to one other, in the verification process of the friend identity. I hypothesize that a dense friendship network buffers the negative emotions associated identity non-verification. Results from a sample of 277 individuals who participated in an egocentric network survey support the expectations. This advances identity theory by revealing how the structure of one’s social network matters for identity verification. It also bridges identity theory and social network analysis by showing the utility of network-level concepts in conceptualizing and measuring social structure.
Toeplitz approach to problems of the uncertainty principle

Mathematical shapes of uncertainty Gap theorems A problem by Polya and Levinson Determinacy of measures and oscillations of high-pass signals Beurling-Malliavin and Bernstein's problems The type problem Toeplitz approach to UP Toeplitz version of the Beurling-Malliavin theory Bibliography
Effect of Cigarette Smoking on Urinary and Salivary Thiocyanates

Urinary thiocyanates were measured among ten smokers and seven nonsmokers and salivary thiocyanates among eight smokers and two nonsmokers in an attempt to correlate the compound with smoking schedules of increased, normal, and reduced cigarette consumption. Thiocyanate levels, determined by the Aldridge cyanogen bromide method, were only roughly proportional to smoking pattern, with large individual variation. Salivary levels, which differed greatly between smokers and nonsmokers, correlated better with cigarette consumption than did urinary levels. A very rapid increase in salivary thiocyanates was obtained during and immediately after the smoking of one cigarette, which could partially explain the large within- and between-subject variability in the main study. Although neither urinary nor salivary thiocyanates can serve as a precise index of individual exposure to smoking, the reliability of salivary measurements could be employed to separate large populations of smokers and nonsmokers.
Authoritarian Backsliding in New Democracies

New democracies emerging over the last few decades have not faced a smooth path to democratic consolidation. Periodically, citizens’ rights and liberties in these states have been encroached upon, sometimes accompanied by a complete return to authoritarian rule and sometimes not. While recent scholarship has looked at the factors associated with authoritarian reversals, less attention has been given to the broader phenomenon of authoritarian backsliding, which I define as a decline in the freedoms provided to citizens in newly democratized states regardless of whether a regime change takes place. I identify two distinct kinds of authoritarian backsliding: restrictions on civil liberties and restrictions on political rights. An analysis of more than seventy new democracies emerging since the beginning of the third wave will examine the social, economic and political factors associated with each kind of backsliding. Particular attention is paid to those factors that have been shown to be related to authoritarian reversals, including economic downturns and civil strife. Additionally, I will look at the impact that institutions and institutional legacy, overall level of democracy, wealth, and extent of democracy in the region might have upon the restriction of rights and liberties. I demonstrate that while some factors are associated with backsliding writ large, others have different impacts on the restriction of civil liberties and the restriction of political rights in young democracies.
A coenzyme A-dependent adenosinetriphosphate orthophosphate exchange reaction: I. Enzyme properties☆

Abstract A partially purified extract of Escherichia coli catalyzed a rapid exchange of P32-labeled orthophosphate into the terminal position of adenosine triphosphate in the presence of coeznyme A (CoA) and magnesium ions. Although dephosphoCoA was nearly as active as CoA in stimulating the exchange, pantetheine, 4′-phosphopantetheine, and cysteamine were completely ineffective and could not be substituted for CoA. 2,4-Dinitrophenol and p-nitrophenol inhibited the CoA-dependent exchange. Although dinitrophenol inhibited the exchange to the extent of 50% at 2 × 10−3M, the same degree of inhibition was produced by p-nitrophenol at about 10−2M. Inhibition by these compounds could be reversed by increasing the orthophosphate concentration. In addition, both caronyl cyanide m-chlorophenylhydrozone and adenosine diphosphate p-nitrophenol were effective inhibitors of the exchange reaction. The effects of these compounds were not investigated in detail. Further purification of the CoA-dependent exchange enzyme by means of DEAE-cellulose resulted in separation of this activity from succinic thiokinase with which it was usually associated in E. coli extracts.
A professional's guide to systems analysis

This book became a bestseller because it showed system analysts how to solve problems in the real-world workplace. Now it has been extensively updated to address the changes created by distributing computing, microbased systems, reengineering, and other factors affecting systems analysis today. New case studies, illustrations, and examples reflect the latest business environments.
A Solid Phase Synthetic Study of the Active Site Region of Staphylococcal Nuclease-T'

Abstract Solid phase synthetic peptides have been prepared corresponding to the sequence in staphylococcal nuclease of residues 6 through 47, as well as single substitution analogues of this region in which aspartic acid 21, arginine 35, aspartic acid 40, or glutamic acid 43 was replaced with a closely related residue. Aspartic acid was replaced with either asparagine or glutamic acid, arginine with either citrulline or lysine, and glutamic acid with aspartic acid. All synthetic peptides were examined for the ability to form an enzymically active complex analogous to the nuclease-T' complex formed by nuclease-T-(6-48) (nuclease residues 6 through 48) with the native fragment nuclease-T-(49-149) (nuclease residues 49 or 50 through 149). Whereas [Asn40]-synthetic-(6-47) formed a complex with nuclease-T-(49-149) with about 25% the activity of that formed with the normal synthetic peptide, synthetic-(6-47), none of the remaining analogues generated activity. All four "charge-preserved" analogues, namely [Glu21]-, [Lys35]-, [Glu40]-, and [Asp43]-synthetic-(6-47), formed inactive complexes with nuclease-T-(49-149), while the "amide" analogues [Asn21]- and [Cit35]-synthetic-(6-47) did not bind to the native fragment effectively. These, together with earlier data on an analogue with glutamine rather than glutamic acid at position 43 (Ontjes, D. A., and Anfinsen, C. B., J. Biol. Chem., 244, 6316 (1969)), indicate the importance of all of residues 21, 35, 40, and 43 in the formation of enzymically active nuclease-T'. The results support the view, suggested by the structure of nuclease deduced from x-ray studies, that these 4 residues play critical roles in the binding of competitive inhibitors and calcium ions.
A Political Show Trial in the Northern District: The Oberlin-Wellington Fugitive Slave Case

This chapter appears in the recently published Justice and Legal Change on the Shores of Lake Erie: A History of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio (ed. Paul Finkelman and Roberta Sue Alexander) (Ohio Univ. Press, 2012). This chapter is the first scholarly work to examine the legal history of the indictments and trials of abolitionists after the famous Oberlin-Wellington Fugitive Slave Rescue. The article argues that Judge Hiram Willson, the first judge in the new Northern District of Ohio was biased in favor of the prosecution and openly hostile and unfair to the defendants. At the same time, the chapter argues that the abolitionist defendants happily politicized the trials and remained in jail during the trials when they could have easily arranged to be released without actually positing bail. The chapter concludes that in the end the trials were an enormous embarrassment to the Buchanan administration and were mostly helpful to antislavery Republicans.
A mechanism for the evolution of the genetic code

Abstract Multiple coding is proposed as a mechanism facilitating the evolution of the genetic code. Multiple coding can occur when several information storing molecules share the same cytoplasm. These molecules may code for different construction machinery — that is, for different coding systems. Initially this will reduce the efficiency of the system, but will not be lethal if good proteins are still produced. An alternative coding system is retained if it can lead to the production of one useful protein. Under certain conditions the information in the genetic molecules associated with the alternate coding system will be rectified, and this coding system will become predominant.
Effects of Salinity on Denitrification and Greenhouse Gas Production from Laboratory-incubated Tidal Forest Soils

We measured ambient and potential denitrification in tidal freshwater floodplain forest (tidal forests) soils along the Altamaha, Ogeechee, and Satilla Rivers in southeast Georgia to characterize nitrogen removal from these understudied systems. Further, we measured the response of denitrification, greenhouse gas production (CO2, CH4, N2O), and the formation of reduced inorganic sulfur species following laboratory incubations simulating saltwater intrusion with salinity levels of 2 and 5. Ambient denitrification ranged from 0.03 μg N2O/g/hr in the Satilla River to 0.40 μg N2O/g/hr in the Altamaha River. Potential denitrification was two to eight times greater than ambient denitrification. Denitrification from Satilla River soils increased with salinity, while Altamaha and Ogeechee River soils were unaffected. Methane production, however, was inhibited by salinity, decreasing by 77% in the 2 treatment and 89% in the 5 treatment whereas CO2 generally increased with salinity, though exhibited a variable response between the three rivers. Formation of reduced sulfur species followed a similar trend to CO2 production. Our findings suggest that tidal forests are effective sinks for N, capable of producing anywhere from 0.032 to 1.9 μg N2O/g soil/hr. Overall, salinity increased the amount of C mineralized suggesting that low levels of salinity can alter the short-term C dynamics of tidal freshwater forests.
Transference of Heat in Cooled Metals

SEVERAL observers1 have noticed a rise of temperature at the cooler end of a bar of metal when the hot end was suddenly cooled. As this would be a most surprising effect, and as Johns Hopkins University has been mentioned in connection with the subject, Dr. H. A. Rowland has requested me to examine the matter.
Illumination-invariant recognition of texture in color images

We represent texture in a color image by using spatial correlation functions defined within and between sensor bands. This representation has been shown to be useful for surface recognition, but the structure of spatial correlation functions depends on the spectral properties of the scene illumination. Using a linear model for surface spectral reflectance with the same number of parameters as the number of classes of photoreceptors, we show that illumination changes correspond to linear transformations of a surface correlation matrix. From this relationship we derive a distance function for comparing sets of spatial correlation functions that can be used for illumination-invariant recognition. This distance function can be computed efficiently from estimated correlation functions. We demonstrate, using a large body of experiments, that this distance function can be used for accurate surface recognition in the presence of large changes in illumination spectral distribution.
The role of non-verbal behaviour in racial disparities in health care: implications and solutions

Context People from racial minority backgrounds report less trust in their doctors and have poorer health outcomes. Although these deficiencies have multiple roots, one important set of explanations involves racial bias, which may be non-conscious, on the part of providers, and minority patients' fears that they will be treated in a biased way. Here, we focus on one mechanism by which this bias may be communicated and reinforced: namely, non-verbal behaviour in the doctor–patient interaction. Methods We review 2 lines of research on race and non-verbal behaviour: (i) the ways in which a patient's race can influence a doctor's non-verbal behaviour toward the patient, and (ii) the relative difficulty that doctors can have in accurately understanding the nonverbal communication of non-White patients. Further, we review research on the implications that both lines of work can have for the doctor-patient relationship and the patient's health. Results The research we review suggests that White doctors interacting with minority group patients are likely to behave and respond in ways that are associated with worse health outcomes. Discussion As doctors' disengaged non-verbal behaviour towards minority group patients and lower ability to read minority group patients' non-verbal behaviours may contribute to racial disparities in patients' satisfaction and health outcomes, solutions that target non-verbal behaviour may be effective. A number of strategies for such targeting are discussed.
Diagrammatic Analysis of the Method of Correlated Basis Functions. I. Jastrow Correlating Factor for a Weakly Interacting Bose Gas

The method of correlated basis functions (CBF) is examined for the special case of a weakly interacting Bose gas. Using the Hugenholtz-Pines theory, we compute the ground-state energy exactly to fourth order in the interaction strength. The resulting expression is compared term by term with the unperturbed ground-state energy computed in the CBF using a Jastrow function as the correlating factor. We find that the three leading orders are all accounted for by the Jastrow function, while beginning in the fourth order only selected terms are included. The use of a correlated wave function in effect corresponds to summations of sellected diagrams to all orders. In particular, the ring diagrams and the ladder diagrams are most susceptible to these summations. In a separate paper we shall examine effects of perturbation in the CBF.
CdS/CdTe thin-film solar cells with Cu-free MoO 3−x /Au back contacts

The development of high-efficiency CdS/CdTe thin-film solar cells with Cu-free back contacts is an important and challenging issue. In this study, we report on the performance of CdS/CdTe thin-film solar cells with Cu-free MoO3-x/Au back contacts and standard Cu/Au back contacts. All cells were fabricated on SnO2:F-coated soda-lime glass substrates with high resistive transparent SnO2 buffer layers supplied by NSG. The CdS and CdTe layers were deposited by chemical bath deposition and close-spaced sublimation, respectively. The MoO3-x/Au back contact layers were thermally evaporated after chloride activation. The incorporation of MoO3-x layer was found to improve the open circuit voltage but reduce fill factor as compared to the cells using sole Au back contacts. We found that the fill factor is very sensitive to the thickness of the MoO3 layer. With an optimal thickness of MoO3-x, the best small-area cell (0.08 cm2) has achieved a nearly 13% efficiency under an AM1.5 illumination.
Climate, Carbon, and Territory: Greenhouse Gas Mitigation in Seattle, Washington

Hundreds of local governments in the United States have adopted greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals during the past several years, requiring critical examinations of the role of the state in clima...
The Hcr (hepatocarcinogen resistance) loci of DBA/2J mice partially suppress phenotypic expression of the Hcs (hepatocarcinogen sensitivity) loci of C3H/HeJ mice.

Both male DBA/2J and C3H/HeJ mice are highly susceptible to hepatocarcinogenesis induced by experimental treatment with N,N-diethylnitrosamine (DEN) relative to male C57BL/6J mice. While C3H/HeJ mice carry multiple sensitivity loci, designated Hcs (hepatocarcinogen sensitivity), our previous study indicated that the susceptibility of DBA/2J mice results from the combined effects of multiple sensitivity loci and two major resistance loci, Hcr-I and -2 (hepatocarcinogen resistance). We proposed that BXD-15 recombinant inbred mice, which are extremely resistant to DEN-induced hepatocarcinogenesis, may carry the Hcr loci from the parental DBA/2J mice, but few, if any, of the multiple sensitivity loci. Conversely, the extremely sensitive BXD-11 recombinant inbred mice may carry most of the multiple sensitivity loci of the DBA/2J parents, but neither of the major resistance loci. In order to confirm our genetic model for hepatocarcinogenesis in DBA/2J mice and to evaluate the phenotypic effects of the Hcr loci on the Hcs loci of C3H/HeJ mice, we characterized hepatocarcinogen sensitivities of F 1 mice generated from the crosses involving BXD-11, BXD-15, C3H/HeJ and C57BL/6J strains. When male mice were initiated with DEN at 12 days of age and liver tumors were enumerated at 32 weeks of age, (BXD-15 X BXD-11)F 1 mice had one sixth the number of liver tumors observed in (C57BL/6JxBXD-11)F 1 mice, consistent with our previous conclusion that DBA/2J mice possess hepatocarcinogen resistance genes in spite of their high susceptibility to DEN. Significantly, (C57BL/6J X C3H/HeJ)F 1 mice also had a 2.3-fold greater number of liver tumors and 5.5-fold higher total volume of initiated lesions per liver as compared with (BXD-15XC3H/HeJ)F 1 mice, indicating that the hepatocarcinogen resistance genes inherited by BXD-15 mice are capable of suppressing the Hcs phenotype. Thus the Hcr loci may influence a wide variety of hepatocarcinogen sensitivity loci and be able to act as general resistance loci for chemical hepatocarcinogenesis. Stereological analysis of initiated hepatocellular lesions with glucose 6-phosphatase deficiency revealed that the resistance genes largely influence the promotion stage of hepatocarcinogenesis.
SAFETY ASPECTS OF GH THERAPY IN TURNER SYNDROME (TS): NO EVIDENCE FOR VENTRICULAR HYPERTROPHY (VH) AND NORMALIZATION OF INSULIN LEVELS AFTER DISCONTINUATION OF GH. 572

SAFETY ASPECTS OF GH THERAPY IN TURNER SYNDROME (TS): NO EVIDENCE FOR VENTRICULAR HYPERTROPHY (VH) AND NORMALIZATION OF INSULIN LEVELS AFTER DISCONTINUATION OF GH. 572
Moving to congregate housing: The last chosen home

Abstract The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of moving to congregate housing among a group of older adults. Theoretical sampling yielded a sample of 21 new relocatees ranging in age from 72 to 96 (71% female). Using grounded theory, the process of moving was described and included four phases: deciding to move, preparing to move, making the move, and settling in. The move to congregate housing was characterized as the last chosen move and occurred in response to an acknowledgment of personal vulnerability. Feeling at home, or successful relocation, was associated with involvement in the process of moving and achievement of a good fit with the new environment.
A promoter of the rat insulin-like growth factor II gene consists of minimal control elements☆

We have characterized the cis-control signals in one of the two promoters of the developmentally regulated rat insulin-like growth factor II gene (rIGF-II) by a combination of in-vivo transient expression, in-vitro transcription, footprinting, gel band-shifting and methylation-interference experiments, using a series of deletion mutant templates. Our results indicate that this simple (minimal) promoter (P2) consists of no more than 128 base-pairs, which include an ATA box and four proximal upstream GC boxes binding the general transcription factor Spl. Three of the latter sites deviate from the known Spl consensus recognition sequence. The two types of cis-acting regulatory signals (GCATA motif) of the P2 promoter are inter-dependent and sufficient for transcription. A model for the operation of this type of minimal promoter is discussed. S1 nuclease-hypersensitive sites, localized by in-vitro mapping to the region of the P2 Spl-binding sites, are also present in vivo and correlate with the transcriptional state of chromatin in the rIGF-II locus. We show that recognition sites for Spl binding are a subset of sequences that exhibit hypersensitivity to S1.
Structural requirements for the mutagenicity of environmental nitroarenes

Abstract The nitroarenes comprise a large group of widely distributed environmental agents some of which are extraordinarily mutagenic while others are devoid of such activity. A newly developed computer program has been used to determine which structural features of these molecules might account for this broad spectrum of activities. Using Salmonella mutagenicity data for 53 nitroarenes, 2 fragments associated with activity and 2 deactivating fragments have been identified. The coexistence of an active and a deactivating fragment on the same molecule results in a nitroarene possessing marginal or no mutagenicity. The activity of 47 of 53 nitroarenes was correctly predicted by this procedure. Most of the discrepancies involved hexa- and heptacyclic nitroarenes which were predicted to be active but reported to be inactive. The ‘CASE’ program can be used to predict the mutagenicity of the many untested nitroarenes identified in the ambient environment.
Operator work load: when is enough enough?

Three measures of operator mental work load were tested with a large, interactive computer system. Two—operator rating of time stress, and the ratio of the time required to time allowed for each subtask—proved to be significant and easy to use.
Relation of Volume Change to the Mechanism of Rubber Vulcanization

Abstract The present investigation shows that no direct relation exists between either combined sulfur or density and the degree of vulcanization. It is not probable that the various changes in physical properties of the rubber during vulcanization are due to changes in the polymeric state involving a change in primary valence forces. Neither is it apparent in what manner combination of sulfur has contributed directly to the change in physical properties of the rubber. It is probable that the change in physical state is due to a change in manner or degree of aggregation of the rubber molecules.
Communication competence as knowledge, skill, and impression

In response to McCroskey's definition of competence as knowledge of appropriate behavior, distinct from skill and effectiveness, it is argued that competence should be viewed as a function of knowledge, skill, and motivation. In the proposed approach, competent communication refers to functionally effective interaction appropriate to a given relational context. These impressions of appropriateness and effectiveness are more likely when a person is motivated to communicate, knowledgeable about communication, and skilled in communicating in a particular interpersonal relationship and context. Some of the implications of this relational competence approach for theory and pedagogy are discussed.
Stereochemistry in the oxidation of primary amines to nitro compounds by dimethyldioxirane

Abstract Oxidation of the chiral amines, (+) and (−)-isopinocampheylamine, with dimethyldioxirane (1) gives the corresponding nitro compounds with retention of configuration at the amine-bearing carbon atom. When lower amounts of 1 are used in the oxidation the amines give the nitroso dimers as the major products. Treatment of the nitroso dimer from the (−)-amine with additional 1 gave the same nitro compound as obtained from the amine oxidation. To further indicate that no racemization occurs during the amine oxidation we have synthesized the oxime of the nitroso intermediate and shown that it does not tautomerize under the reaction conditions.
The Mechanochemical Cycle of Mammalian Kinesin-2 KIF3A/B under Load

The response of motor proteins to external loads underlies their ability to work in teams and determines the net speed and directionality of cargo transport. The mammalian kinesin-2, KIF3A/B, is a heterotrimeric motor involved in intraflagellar transport and vesicle motility in neurons. Bidirectional cargo transport is known to result from the opposing activities of KIF3A/B and dynein bound to the same cargo, but the load-dependent properties of kinesin-2 are poorly understood. We used a feedback-controlled optical trap to probe the velocity, run length, and unbinding kinetics of mouse KIF3A/B under various loads and nucleotide conditions. The kinesin-2 motor velocity is less sensitive than kinesin-1 to external forces, but its processivity diminishes steeply with load, and the motor was observed occasionally to slip and reattach. Each motor domain was characterized by studying homodimeric constructs, and a global fit to the data resulted in a comprehensive pathway that quantifies the principal force-dependent kinetic transitions. The properties of the KIF3A/B heterodimer are intermediate between the two homodimers, and the distinct load-dependent behavior is attributable to the properties of the motor domains and not to the neck linkers or the coiled-coil stalk. We conclude that the force-dependent movement of KIF3A/B differs significantly from conventional kinesin-1. Against opposing dynein forces, KIF3A/B motors are predicted to rapidly unbind and rebind, resulting in qualitatively different transport behavior from kinesin-1.
In vitro correction of medium chain acyl CoA dehydrogenase deficiency with a recombinant adenoviral vector.

Defects of mitochondrial β-oxidation are a growing group of disorders with variable clinical presentations ranging from mild hypotonia to sudden infant death. Current therapy involves avoidance of fasting, dietary restrictions, and cofactor supplementation. Unfortunately, times of acute illness and noncompliance can interfere with these therapies and result in a rapid clinical decline. The development of a safe, durable, and effective gene delivery system remains an attractive alternative therapy for individuals with these disorders. To this end, a recombinant first-generation adenovirus vector (Ad/cmv-hMCAD) has been prepared that constitutively expresses the human medium chain acyl CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) protein under the control of the CMV promoter and bovine polyadenylation signal. Characterization of human fibroblasts deficient in MCAD infected with Ad/cmv-hMCAD including Western analysis, immunohistological staining visualized with confocal microscopy, electron transfer protein (ETF) reduction assay, and palmitate loading studies was performed. Infection of MCAD deficient fibroblast with Ad/cmv-hmcad resulted in the production of a 55 kDa protein that co-localized in cells with a mitochondrial marker. Extracts prepared from Ad/cmv-hMCAD infected deficient fibroblasts demonstrated correction of the block seen in the MCAD catalyzed reduction of ETF in the presence of octanoyl CoA. Finally, MCAD deficient fibroblasts infected with increasing amounts of Ad/cmv-hMCAD showed a stepwise improvement of the abnormal acylcarnitine profile exhibited by the deficient cells. Together these studies demonstrate our ability to express and monitor the expression of MCAD in treated cells and support further in vivo murine studies to assess toxicity and duration of correction with this and other MCAD recombinant vectors.
Minimum support nonlinear parametrization in the solution of a 3D magnetotelluric inverse problem

In this paper we describe a new approach to sharp boundary geophysical inversion. We demonstrate that regularized inversion with a minimum support stabilizer can be implemented by using a specially designed nonlinear parametrization of the model parameters. This parametrization plays the same role as transformation into the space of the weighted model parameters, introduced in the original papers on focusing inversion. It allows us to transform the nonquadratic minimum support stabilizer into the traditional quadratic minimum norm stabilizer, which simplifies the solution of the inverse problem. This transformation automatically ensures that the solution belongs to the class of models with a minimum support. The method is illustrated with synthetic examples of 3D magnetotelluric inversion for an earth conductivity structure. To simplify the calculations, in the initial stage of the iterative inversion we use the quasi-analytical approximation developed by Zhdanov and Hursan (2000 Inverse Problems 16 1297–322). However, to increase the accuracy of inversion, we apply rigorous forward modelling based on the integral equation method at the final stage of the inversion. To obtain a stable solution of a 3D inverse problem, we use the Tikhonov regularization method with a new nonlinear parametrization. This technique leads to the generation of a sharp image of anomalous conductivity distribution. The inversion is based on the regularized conjugate gradient method.
Antibody-array technique reveals overexpression of important DNA-repair proteins during cardiac ischemic preconditioning.

Abstract It is well known that repetitive ischemia followed by reperfusion (four cycles of 5 min of ischemia and 10 min of reperfusion) demonstrates protective effect against subsequent severe ischemic insult, known as ischemic preconditioning (PC). This phenomenon causes reduction in oxidative DNA damage, infarct size, and the extent of apoptotic cell death, leading to adaptation on functional recovery. The involvement of DNA-repair mechanisms in PC has not been well studied. We utilized the antibody-array technique to identify DNA-repair proteins that were upregulated by ischemic PC in the permanent left anterior coronary artery occlusion myocardial infarction (MI) model. The antibody-array system enabled us to identify three double-strand-break-repair proteins—Rad50, DNA topoisomerase I, Ku80—that were upregulated and might be involved in cell-survival processes during adaptation. With Western blot analysis, we found no significant difference in Ku80 protein expression between preconditioned and control groups after MI. Therefore, this report focuses on the overexpression of Rad50 and DNA topoisomerase and proposes that the DNA-repair mechanism in the permanent left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) occlusion model involves these two proteins.
Density matrix of the Universe

The Hartle-Hawking wave function for the Universe gives a pure-state density matrix that may be expressed as a path integral over compact Euclidean four-geometries and matter fields which have two disjoint pieces, one of which is bounded by the first argument (a three-geometry with its matter configuration) of the density matrix and the other of which is bounded by the second. Here an alternate proposal is suggested, that the density matrix of the Universe is given by a path integral over all compact Euclidean four-geometries bounded by both three-geometries. Connected four-geometries joining the two three-geometries would be a new contribution to the density matrix which would not factorize, so the entire density matrix proposed here would represent an impure mixed state of the Universe.
Dilute-As AlNAs semiconductor for ultraviolet emitters

First-principle analysis of the band structures for dilute-As AlN 1−x A sx semiconductor was performed, and the findings showed the direct bandgap properties of this alloy covering the deep ultraviolet spectral regime useful for new ultraviolet emitter.
Coarsening of the Sn-Pb solder microstructure in constitutive model-based predictions of solder joint thermal mechanical fatigue

Thermal mechanical fatigue (TMF) is an important damage mechanism for solder joints exposed to cyclic temperature environments. Predicting the service reliability of solder joints exposed to such conditions requires two knowledge bases: first, the extent of fatigue damage incurred by the solder microstructure leading up to fatigue crack initiation, must be quantified in both time and space domains. Secondly, fatigue crack initiation and growth must be predicted since this metric determines, explicitly, the loss of solder joint functionality as it pertains to its mechanical fastening as well as electrical continuity roles. This paper will describe recent progress in a research effort to establish a microstructurally-based, constitutive model that predicts TMF deformation to 63Sn-37Pb solder in electronic solder joints up to the crack initiation step. The model is implemented using a finite element setting; therefore, the effects of both global and local thermal expansion mismatch conditions in the joint that would arise from temperature cycling.
Imaging performance and computed radiography (CR) film density

Detection of low-contrast discs in computed radiography (CR) radiographs of a phantom was investigated as a function of film density. A Leeds Test Object 10 phantom was used that contains discs 0.25 to 11.1 mm in diameter. A series of radiographs was obtained using identical Cr imaging plates exposed to approximately 1 mR. The imaging plates were processed in a CR system using a linear characteristic curve sequentially adjusted to modify the density of the output film while maintaining a constant image contrast. Twelve radiologists viewed the resultant films in a darkened room, indicating the number of discs visible at each hole size. The mean number of discs seen at a constant film density of 1.11 was 58.7 +/- 2.8 out of the total of 108 discs present. Variation in disc visibility between radiologists ranged +/- 30% about the mean value. Optimal imaging performance occurred at a density range of between 0.8 and 1.0. Disc detectability was reduced to 90% of this optimal value at lower and upper film densities of 0.55 and 1.50, respectively.
On best behaviour

Man and Beast Revisited.. Edited by Michael H. Robinson and Lionel Tiger. Smithsonian Institution Press: 1991. Pp.386. $16.95, £13.25 (pbk)
Effect of bound-nucleotide substitution on the properties of F-actin

Abstract F-actins have been prepared in which the bound adenosine nucleotide has been replaced by inosine or cytidine nucleotide, and their properties have been studied. The intrinsic viscocity of IDP-containing F-actin was the same as that of ADP-containing F-actin, but the intrinsic viscosity of CDP-containing F-actin was about half this value. There were no differences in the myosin-binding affinities of the three types of F-actin or in their ability to activate the magnesium-ATPase of myosin. On the other hand, the exchangeability of the F-actin-bound nucleotide, both in the presence and in the absence of myosin, was dependent on the type of bound nucleotide in the actin, increasing in the order IDP
Development of otoacoustic emissions in gerbil : evidence for micromechanical changes underlying development of the place code

Abstract The development of the acoustic distortion product (ADP) 2ƒ 1 —ƒ 2 was studied in gerbils, beginning 12 days after birth (P12). ADPs were measured as a function of stimulus frequency region (1.0 to 13.0 kHz) and level (10 to 80 dB SPL). There was an orderly progression in the appearance and maturation of the emissions, with responses to high-frequency stimuli ( ƒ 2 = 13.0 kHz ) appearing first, at P13–14. Responses to mid and high frequencies ( ƒ 2 = 3.9 to 13.0 kHz ) matured earlier than responses to lower frequencies. Responses to low-frequency stimuli ( ƒ 2 = 1.3 KHz ) did not appear until P18–19 and were not mature until after one month of age. The first emissions to develop in a given frequency region had elevated thresholds, were reduced in amplitude, and displayed monotonie input-output functions. As the auditory system matured, emission growth functions became non-monotonic displaying saturation, but initially retained a reduced dynamic range. Data from the developing gerbil suggest that initially its cochlear mechanics are passive and that active elements associated with normal outer hair cell function mature first in the basal turn and last near the apex. Furthermore, the development of active nonlinear elements underlying ADP generation is consistent with the development of frequency selectivity and developmental shifts in the place code which have been demonstrated in the gerbil.
Using color to segment images of 3-D scenes

Physical models for color image formation provide constraints which are useful for interpreting 3D scenes. I summarize the physics underlying color image formation. Models for surface and body reflection from metals and dielectrics are analyzed in detail. This analysis allows us to evaluate the benefits we stand to gain by using color information in machine vision. I show from the reflection models that color allows the computation of image statistics which are independent of scene geometry. This principle has been used to develop an efficient algorithm for segmenting images of 3D scenes using normalized color. The algorithm applies to images of a wide range of materials and surface textures and is useful for a wide variety of machine vision tasks including 3D recognition and 3D inspection. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate the scope of the models and the capabilities of the segmentation algorithm.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Intestinal adaptation to dietary calcium restriction in rats fed high protein diets

Abstract In humans, high protein diets can increase urinary calcium excretion withoutadaptive increases in intestinal calcium absorption. High protein-low calcium diets could cause excessive bone loss. We investigated if feeding a high protein diet to rats impaired the normal intestinal adaptation to dietary calcium restriction. Increasing dietary protein from 18% to 36% caused an increase in urinary calcium loss regardless of dietary calcium content. Dietary protein level had no effect on serum total calcium, ionic calcium, pH, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D or intestinal calcium absorption. Dietary calcium restriction caused a significant increase in serum 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and calcium absorption and a decrease in urinary calcium excretion. These findings show that intestinal calcium absorption does not adapt to protein-induced hypercalciuria in the rat; however, a normal homeostatic adaptation to dietary calcium restriction is maintained during high protein feeding, thereby protecting against excessive skeletal losses.
Biochemical, histochemical and ultrastructural studies of thyroid serotonin, parafollicular and follicular cells during development in the dog.

A study was made of the concentration and cellular localization of serotonin in the thyroid gland of the dog. This species is characterized by a low level of serotonin in the adult thyroid gland. Endogenous serotonin consequently cannot be demonstrated by fluorescence microscopy following treatment of frozen-dried adult thyroid tissue with formaldehyde vapor. In contrast, the thyroid concentration of serotonin was found to be high, in both beagle and basenji (purebred dogs of European or African origin respectively), around the time of birth. The serotonin concentration then fell rapidly as development of the animals proceeded. This pattern also seemed true of the rabbit. When the concentration of serotonin was high, just prior to birth, a yellow fluorophore, probably the condensation product formed between serotonin and formaldehyde could, as in other species, be demonstrated in parafollicular cells after exposure of tissue to formaldehyde gas. Thyroid follicular cells never showed serotonin but instead, a striking accumulation of autofluorescent apical dense bodies (0.3–1.0 μ in diameter), probably lysosomes, occurred during the first year of life.
Evaluation of a toolkit to introduce standing orders for influenza and pneumococcal vaccination in adults: a multimodal pilot project.

Abstract Background Immunization of adults with influenza vaccine and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine remains lower than recommended levels. Standing order programs (SOPs) in which non-physician medical personnel are permitted to assess an adult patient's immunization status and administer vaccines without an individual physician order are a proven method of increasing adult vaccinations, yet they are used by less than one half of primary care physicians caring for adults. Methods Following a national survey of primary care physicians about barriers to SOPs for adult immunizations, a SOP toolkit was developed. After review by a panel of experts, the toolkit was pilot tested in three primary care practices in a health care network with the same electronic medical record (EMR) system and low adult vaccination rates. Practice staffs were trained in the use of SOPs and the toolkit at a group meeting. This study was designed to pilot-test and evaluate the toolkit with the express intention of improving it. Three methods were used to evaluate the toolkit: (1) direct observation and interviews of each practice's staff; (2) surveys of each practice's staff; and (3) influenza and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) vaccination rates. Results The staffs at all sites were equally likely to find the presentations and toolkit useful and did not differ in their knowledge of using SOPs for vaccination. They expressed a common set of barriers to implementing SOPs despite using the toolkit, and provided ideas for improving implementation. One site viewed SOPs in general in a more negative light and expressed that SOPs unfairly increased their workload. Vaccination rates in this site did not differ from those of the control site. Conclusion The evaluation suggested that the SOP toolkit should be expanded to include additional strategies to improve its applicability and effectiveness.
Role of the oncogenic Raf-1 in orchestration of discrete nuclear factor-kappaB-activating pathways.

Raf-1, a key kinase in the Ras signaling pathway, plays critical roles in cell differentiation, proliferation, and tumorigenesis. However, knowledge of the Raf-1 in inflammation is limited. Using an inducible oncogenic Raf-1, we show that the Raf-1 orchestrates the discrete NF-kappaB activating pathways. While the Raf-1 activation induces a modest IkappaB degradation by enhancing the basal IkappaB kinase activity, it contradictorily suppresses the proinflammatory cytokine inducible IkappaB kinase complex, leading to an inhibition of TNF-alpha- and IL-1beta-induced NF-kappaB activation. Despite considerable degrees of overlap, LPS signaling is not affected by Raf-1. By either conditionally reducing Raf-1 activity or completely disrupting the Raf-1 signaling by PD98059, a specific inhibitor of MEK1, the otherwise inhibited cytokine responses can be restored. Moreover, when the activity of Raf-1 is up-regulated during the cell cycle progression from the G(0) phase to the late G(1) phase, the enhanced Raf-1 activity suffices to shift the TNF-alpha response from the sensitive to the insensitive state. Together, these studies elucidate a mechanism by which signaling outputs are shaped by the intracellular Raf-1, thus explaining the "cellular context"-dependent cytokine response.
Psychometric evaluation of the HIV symptom distress scale

The objective of this article is to psychometrically validate the HIV symptom distress scale (SDS), an instrument that can be used to measure overall HIV symptom distress or clinically relevant groups of HIV symptoms. A secondary data analysis was conducted using the Collaborations in HIV Outcomes Research US Cohort (CHORUS). Inclusion criteria required study participants (N=5521) to have a valid baseline measure of the AIDS Clinical Trial Group Symptom Distress Module, with an SF-12 or SF-36 completed on the same day. Psychometric testing assessed unidimensionality, internal consistency, and factor structure using exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling (SEM). Construct validity examined whether the new measure discriminates across clinical significance (CD4 and HIV viral load). Findings show that the SDS has high reliability (α=0.92), and SEM supports a correlated second-order factor model (physical and mental distress) with acceptable fit (GFI=0.88, AGFI=0.85, NFI=0.99, NNFI=0.99; RMSEA=0.06, [90% CI 0.06 - 0.06]; Satorra Bentler scaled, C (2) =3274.20; p=0.0). Construct validity shows significant differences across categories for HIV-1 viral load (p<0.001) and CD4 (p<0.001). Differences in mean SDS scores exist across gender (p<0.001), race/ethnicity (p<0.05), and educational attainment (p<0.001). Hence, the HIV SDS is a reliable and valid instrument, which measures overall HIV symptoms or clinically relevant groups of symptoms.
A Lagrangian Vorticity Collocation Method for Viscous, Axisymmetric Flows with and without Swirl

This paper presents a new Lagrangian vorticity collocation method for viscous, axisymmetric fluid flows with or without swirl. The velocity calculation is performed using a representation of the vorticity field in terms of Gaussian vortex rings for off-center points and Gaussian vortex blobs along the axis of symmetry. A matrix equation for the element “amplitudes” is obtained via a collocation approach, by fitting the vorticity representation to the known vorticity values at the control points, prior to each velocity evaluation. This matrix equation is solved using an iterative procedure, which both speeds the calculation and filters out “noise” in the element amplitudes. Viscous diffusion is accomplished with use of a diffusion velocity method, in which control points are moved with the sum of the local fluid velocity and an additional “diffusion velocity” that accounts for the effect of viscosity on the spread of vorticity support. Derivatives are obtained by locally fitting a polynomial function to control points about a given control point via a least-square formulation and then differentiating the polynomial. This method is found to maintain high accuracy even for very irregularly spaced control points. The method introduced for viscous diffusion in the paper can also be used for three-dimensional vortex methods in general.
Computer simulation of the early development of the gametophyte of Dryopteris thelypteris (L.) Gray

The development of the gametophyte of the fern Dryopteris thelypteris (L.) Gray was observed under sterile cultural conditions in order to recognize those features necessary for computer simulation of the thallus geometry. Drawings of plants at 12-hour intervals revealed that the triangular apical cell divides according to a left-right alternation of cell plate orientation and that cell lineages derived from vegetative daughters of apical cell divisions progressively enlarge and are pushed to the sides and down along the thallus. A computer program was written that includes both biological rules and laws of physical constraints. The computerized plant passed through the typical filamentous, juvenile asymmetric, heart-shaped and biauriculate stages. Descriptive morphology can become more objective by selection of simple traits as the criteria for an ontogenic reconstruction of an observed pattern.