cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Overlapping multi-site domains of the muscarinic cholinergic Hm1 receptor involved in signal transduction and sequestration

Alanine mutagenesis scanning of the intracellular portion of the human muscarinic cholinergic Hm1 receptor was performed to identify domains mediating agonist induced receptor sequestration. Using these multiple alanine point mutants of Hm1, we had previously identified several receptor domains in the intracellular loops i1-3 that play a role in coupling to phosphatidyl inositol turnover, most notably, a lipophilic residue, Leu-131, in the conserved i2 loop domain DRYXXVXXPL (Moro, O., Lameh, J., Hogger, P., and Sadee, W. (1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 6862-6865). We now demonstrate that alanine substitutions in three of these domains, i.e. middle of the i2 loop and both junctions of the i3 loop, also result in defective sequestration (loss of surface receptor sites accessible to a polar tracer) in transfected human kidney U293 cells. The i2 loop was studied further by single point mutations. The strongest impairment of sequestration occurred with mutant L131A which was also highly defective in phosphatidyl inositol (PI) coupling. Substitution of Leu-131 with several distinct amino acids indicated that a bulky lipophilic residue is required for sequestration in this position, as shown for coupling to PI turnover. Further, the double point mutation, V127A/L131A, almost completely suppressed both sequestration and coupling of Hm1. In the beta 2 adrenoceptor, alanine substitution of the i2 residue Phe-139, equivalent to Leu-131 in Hm1, also resulted in impaired coupling to adenylyl cyclase and sequestration, indicating a general role for this conserved i2 loop residue in both processes. The combined results show that the multi-site domain involved in signal transduction of Hm1 is similar to and overlaps with that involved in sequestration. However, three Hm1 mutants that were moderately deficient in stimulating PI turnover displayed normal sequestration, suggesting distinct mechanisms. We propose that cellular mediators of receptor sequestration are structurally similar or identical to the heterotrimeric G proteins.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Cervical Spine: A Review on the Role of Surgery

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic inflammatory disease affecting a significant percentage of the population. The cervical spine is often affected in this disease and can present in the form of atlantoaxial instability (AAI), cranial settling (CS), or subaxial subluxation (SAS). Patients may present with symptoms and disability secondary to these entities but may also be neurologically intact. Cervical spine involvement in RA can pose a challenge to the clinician and the appropriate role of surgical intervention is controversial. The aim of this paper is to describe the pathology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic evaluation of rheumatoid arthritis in the cervical spine in order to provide a better understanding of the indications and options for surgery. Both the medical and surgical treatment options for RA have improved, so has the prognosis of the cervical spine disease. With the advent of disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), fewer patients are presenting with cervical spine manifestations of RA; however, those that do, now have improved surgical techniques available to them. We hope that, by reading this paper, the clinician is able to better evaluate patients with RA in the cervical spine and determine in which patients surgery is indicated.
Natural history and management of Fanconi anemia patients with head and neck cancer: A 10‐year follow‐up

Objectives/Hypothesis To describe the management and outcomes of Fanconi anemia (FA) patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Study Design Cohort study. Methods Demographic information, prognostic factors, therapeutic management, and survival outcomes for FA patients enrolled in the International Fanconi Anemia Registry who developed head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) were analyzed. Results Thirty-five FA patients were diagnosed with HNSCC at a mean age of 32 years. The most common site of primary cancer was the oral cavity (26 of 35, 74%). Thirty patients underwent surgical resection of the cancer. Sixteen patients received radiation therapy with an average radiation dose of 5,050 cGy. The most common toxicities were high-grade mucositis (9 of 16, 56%), hematologic abnormalities (8 of 16, 50%), and dysphagia (8 of 16, 50%). Three patients received conventional chemotherapy and had significant complications, whereas three patients who received targeted chemotherapy with cetuximab had fewer toxicities. The 5-year overall survival rate was 39%, with a cause-specific survival rate of 47%. Conclusions Fanconi anemia patients have a high risk of developing aggressive HNSCC at an early age. Fanconi anemia patients can tolerate complex ablative and reconstructive surgeries, but careful postoperative care is required to reduce morbidity. The treatment of FA-associated HNSCC is difficult secondary to the poor tolerance of radiation and chemotherapy. However, radiation should be used for high-risk cancers due to the poor survival in these patients. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 2015
Doppler domain localization for collision avoidance in VANETs by using omnidirectional antennas

Vehicle-2-Vehicle safety applications using Dedicated Short Range Communication (DSRC) radios allow automobiles to exchange Basic Safety Messages (BSMs) to avoid automotive collisions. Most of these applications rely on GPS and integrated on-board sensors to obtain the position and motion information that is transmitted in a BSM. In the event that the BSM contents are compromised (i.e. hacking), providing an alternative method to detect impending collisions is critical. This paper proposes a creative architecture that uses omni-directional antennas to achieve 3D localization and employs Doppler domain analysis to determine the threat of collision, without changing any existing DSRC protocols. Through rigorous mathematical modeling and simulations, the feasibility of this architecture can correctly predict a head-on collision with an accuracy up to 60.87% and an optimal false alarm rate as low as of 41.70%.
Shared Responsibilities for Nuclear Disarmament

The Japanese and Austra-lian governments announced the cre-ation of the International Commissionon Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Dis-armament in June 2008. Both SenatorsJohn McCain and Barack Obama explic-itly supported the vision of a world freeof nuclear weapons during the 2008election campaign. In April 2009, at the London Summit, President BarackObama and President Dmitri Medved-ev called for pragmatic U.S. and Rus-sian steps toward nuclear disarmament,and President Obama then dramatical-ly reaf½rmed “clearly and with convic-tion America’s commitment to seek the peace and security of a world with-out nuclear weapons” in his speech inPrague. There is a simple explanation for thesestatements supporting nuclear disarma-ment: all states that have joined the Nu-clear Non-Proliferation Treaty (
Structures in diamond for optical manipulation of nitrogen-vacancy centers

We describe research on new optical structures in diamond for quantum information and sensing applications based on the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) center. Results include etching experiments that reveal the vertical distribution of NV centers produced by ion implantation and annealing, and gallium phosphide waveguides fabricated on diamond with evanescent coupling to NV centers close to the diamond surface.
Corporate E-Cruiting: The Construction of Work in Fortune 500 Recruiting Web Sites

Corporate recruitment efforts have evolved from traditional newspaper want ads to highly sophisticated, rhetorically powerful recruiting Web sites or “career sites.” This e-cruiting phenomenon offers a unique opportunity not only to examine organizations’ persuasive attempts to recruit potential applicants online, but also to uncover contemporary corporate representations of the meaning(s) of work. Using a random sample of recruitment Web sites of Fortune 500 companies, we employ content analysis and rhetorical criticism to catalogue content types, identify persuasive structure, and analyze rhetorical themes in representations of work. The investigation reveals that career sites are not merely places to post job openings, but reflect corporations’ attempt to sell a glorified image of work, one which positions workers as powerful actors and employers as kind benefactors. In view of current reports on working conditions, we argue these glorified representations reflect a rhetoric of idealization and discuss potential consequences of such a strategy.
Bmp inhibition is necessary for post-gastrulation patterning and morphogenesis of the zebrafish tailbud

Intricate interactions between the Wnt and Bmp signaling pathways pattern the gastrulating vertebrate embryo using a network of secreted protein ligands and inhibitors. While many of these proteins are expressed post-gastrula, their later roles have typically remained unclear, obscured by the effects of early perturbation. We find that Bmp signaling continues during somitogenesis in zebrafish embryos, with high activity in a small region of the mesodermal progenitor zone at the posterior end of the embryo. To test the hypothesis that Bmp inhibitors expressed just anterior to the tailbud are important to restrain Bmp signaling we produced a new zebrafish transgenic line, allowing temporal cell-autonomous activation of Bmp signaling and thereby bypassing the effects of the Bmp inhibitors. Ectopic activation of Bmp signaling during somitogenesis results in severe defects in the tailbud, including altered morphogenesis and gene expression. We show that these defects are due to non-autonomous effects on the tailbud, and present evidence that the tailbud defects are caused by alterations in Wnt signaling. We present a model in which the posteriorly expressed Bmp inhibitors function during somitogenesis to constrain Bmp signaling in the tailbud in order to allow normal expression of Wnt inhibitors in the presomitic mesoderm, which in turn constrain the levels of canonical and non-canonical Wnt signaling in the tailbud.
Optical, electronic, magnetic, and superconducting properties of quasiperiodic quantum dot arrays synthesized by a novel electrochemical technique

Conventional nanosynthesis involves film growth followed by direct-write nanolithography. The last step has two major shortcomings in that (a) it causes material damage to the nanostructures and (b) it is always serial in nature whereby each wafer has to be patterned one at a time. The latter makes it impractical for large-scale commercial applications. To overcome these drawbacks, we have developed a novel and `gentle' electrochemical process for fabricating quantum dot arrays that allows parallel processing of millions of wafers. It causes minimal damage, is much cheaper than conventional nanolithography, and yet has the spatial resolution (approximately 1 nm) of state-of-the-art techniques. Semiconductor quantum dot arrays produced by this process show strong signatures of quantum confinement in their photoluminescence spectra. Superconducting quantum dots show a significant transition- temperature shift arising from an interplay of superconductivity with quantum confinement, while ferromagnetic quantum dots give rise to a novel giant magnetoresistance effect caused by remote spin-dependent scattering of electrons. These structures have also been characterized by a variety of analytical techniques--all of which attest to their high quality.
The role of the anaesthesiologist in the management of severe systemic tetanus

An outline of the management of severe systemic tetanus has been presented. Special emphasis has been given to the control of reflex muscle spasm and to the maintenance of adequate pulmonary ventilation. A sedative-relaxant regimen consisting of secobarbital or pentobarbital, methocarbamol, and chlorpromazine administered intravenously has been advocated. The anaesthesiologist, with. his knowledge of the pharmacological application of drugs and of the physiological maintenance of pulmonary ventilation, can play a vital role in the management of severe systemip tetanus.
On systems containing Aristotle's thesis

“Apart from merits or defects of PA1, however, its existence demonstrates the feasibility of a new approach to the logic of propositions involving the principle of subjunctive contrariety. We thus have good reason to investigate the effect this principle, and a concept of conditionality compatible with it, might exert if introduced into standard quantification theory, into set theory, into modal logic and into epistemology and the philosophy of science.”
Knowledge of obesity and its impact on reproductive health outcomes among urban women.

This prospective survey study assessed the knowledge of reproductive outcomes that are affected by obesity among women in an urban community. A total of 207 women attending a community fair on the south side of Chicago participated in the study. A survey assessing knowledge of BMI and of the effects of obesity on general, cardiometabolic and reproductive health outcomes was administered. Subjects ranged in age from 18 to 70 years (mean ± SD, 48.6 ± 12.9 years) and ranged in BMI from 17.3 to 52.1 kg/m2 (mean ± SD, 31.2 ± 6.7 kg/m2). The following percentages of women were aware that obesity increases the risk of miscarriage (37.5 %), irregular periods (35.8 %), infertility (33.9 %), cesarean section (30.8 %), breast cancer (28.0 %), birth defects (23.7 %), stillbirth (14.1 %), and endometrial cancer (18.1 %). This study found that while women in an urban community are aware of the cardiometabolic risks associated with obesity, they demonstrate limited knowledge of the effects of obesity on reproductive outcomes. Public education is needed to increase knowledge and awareness of the reproductive consequences of obesity. Women of reproductive age may be uniquely responsive to obesity education and weight loss intervention.
Slow manifolds for dissipative dynamical systems

A class of infinite-dimensional dissipative dynamical systems is defined for which the slow invariant manifolds can be calculated. Large-time behavior of the evolution of such systems is studied.
Inhibition of breathing after stimulation of muscle is mediated by endogenous opiates and GABA

Abstract Stimulation of receptors in hindlimb muscles activates a supraspinal mechanism which causes a prolonged, post-stimulatory depression of breathing (Waldrop, T.G., F.L. Eldridge and D.E. Millhorn, 1982, Respir. Physiol. 50: 239–254). In the present study phrenic nerve responses to stimulation of hindlimb muscles were studied in anesthetized, paralyzed cats whose vagi and carotid sinus nerves had been cut. Body temperature and end-tidal P CO 2 were kept constant with servocontrollers. The post-stimulatory depression of breathing was greatly attenuated in cats pretreated with an opiate antagonist (naloxone) and did not occur in animals pretreated with a GABA antagonist (bicuculline). The response was not blocked by prior administration of either a serotonin antagonist (methysergide) or a dopamine and norepinephrine antagonist (α-methyltyrosine). We conclude that endogenous opiates and possibly GABA, but not serotonin, dopamine or norepinephrine, are involved in the neural mechanism responsible for the prolonged depression of breathing.
Anti-Human vWF Monoclonal Antibody, AJvW-2 Fab, Inhibits Repetitive Coronary Artery Thrombosis without Bleeding Time Prolongation in Dogs

Abstract The antithrombotic and antihaemostatic effects of the monoclonal antibody against human vWF (AJvW-2 Fab) were investigated in comparison with those of the monoclonal antibody against platelet GPIIb/IIIa (abciximab) in dogs. The ex vivo platelet aggregation and template bleeding time were measured before, 5, 90, 210 min and 24 h after injection of either AJvW-2 Fab or abciximab in anesthetized beagle dogs. Plasma concentration, vWF occupancy and plasma vWF antigen level were also measured by ELISA. In addition, the antithrombotic effect was evaluated in a canine model of repetitive coronary thrombosis (Folts model). AJvW-2 Fab significantly inhibited the ex vivo botrocetin-induced platelet aggregation at 0.18 mg/kg (53% plasma vWF occupancy) and also inhibited cyclic flow reductions (CFRs) at 0.06 mg/kg (31% occupancy). A significant prolongation of the bleeding time was observed at 1.8 mg/kg (95% occupancy), which was 30 times as high as the antithrombotic effective dose. Whereas, abciximab significantly inhibited both the ex vivo ADP-induced platelet aggregation and CFRs at 0.8 mg/kg, which was the minimally effective dose, also resulting in a significant prolongation of the bleeding time. These results suggest that blockade of the GPIb–vWF axis with AJvW-2 Fab leads to the inhibition of thrombus formation in the stenosed coronary arteries without less bleeding time prolongation than the GPIIb/IIIa blockade with abciximab.
On Characterizing Generalized Bayes Estimators for the Natural Parameter

Abstract Let X be a real-valued random variable with a family of possible densities (with respect to σ-finite μ) belonging to a one-parameter exponential family with the natural parameter θ ∈ Ω = natural parameter space. Let C(μ) = convex hull of the support of μ. Fix x 0> in the interior of C(μ), then δ is generalized Bayes for θ (with squared error loss) if and only if g(t) = exp { f 0 t δ(y + x 0)dy} (< ∞ for t + x 0 ∈ C(μ)) is a moment-generating function for a probability measure over Ω. The cases when Ω is a half line or finite interval are studied in detail.
Axenic Culture of Two Trichomycetes from Californian Mosquitoes

THE Trichomycetes are a group of primitive fungi which, with a few exceptions, live attached by holdfasts to the gut linings of arthropods. We have encountered two Trichomycetes, Rubetella culicis (Tuzet et Manier, 1947) and R. sp., inhabiting the rectums of mosquito larvae in California; both these fungi have been found infesting several species of mosquitoes.
Spatial Aspects of Demographic Change in the Arab World

There is great variety among the twenty-one countries of the Arab World in such aspects of population as distribution, increase, combination of birth rates and death rates, demographic transition, urbanization, dependency ratio, international migration and its effects, the physical quality of life index, and governmental policy regarding population growth. Facile generalizations and presumptions of pervasive homogeneity are suspect, because along the continuum of transition and development the countries of the Arab World are in significantly different stages in a variety of measures.
Investigation of Copper / Polyimide Interfacial Reactions

Currently, there is increased interest in the polyimide / copper interface. This arises from the use of polyimide as a dielectric media between copper interconnect layers in multichip modules. In this paper we report on studies of the processes/reactions occurring at the polyimide-copper interface using Auger depth profiling and FTIR spectroscopy. The samples were prepared by spin coating polyimide onto the deposited sputtered copper metal. Following this coating, the polyimide film was heat treated to promote imidization for curing. Examination of the interface showed considerable intermixing of copper ions in the polyimide layer, as revealed by Auger depth profiling and FTIR. This penetration prevents the polyimide films from complete curing during the heating process therefore limiting the long term reliability and causing failure of the interconnect. A possible failure mechanism involving copper carboxylate in polyimide film is proposed. Experimental results will be presented in details.
Accretion disk limit cycle mechanism in twin-degenerate interacting binaries

Accretion disk instability is studied as a possible mechanism causing large variations in the optical light curves of twin-degenerate interacting binary stars. The nonthermal equilibrium limit cycle behavior of the accretion disk expected for such a binary system is explored using a generalized time-dependent, nonthermal equilibrium accretion disk model developed for the study of dwarf novae. A series of bursts is computed for a wide range of values of the secondary mass transfer rate, and the results are presented and discussed.
Effects of different caps on model nanotube surface properties

Earlier work has shown that the most negative electrostatic potentials and the lowest local ionization energies on the surfaces of closed model nanotubes are on the outside of their caps. Conversely, the most positive electrostatic potentials and highest local ionization energies are on the insides. These regions should accordingly display enhanced reactivity, in both noncovalent and covalent interactions, the latter especially toward electrophiles on the outside and nucleophiles inside. We have now investigated in detail, for caps of three different structures, how these properties vary from one to another. Several types and compositions of tubes were considered: (5,5) and (6,0) carbon, (5,5) and (6,0) B"xN"x, and (6,0) C"2"xB"xN"x. We found that the structural features of the cap can have quite a significant effect upon the surface potential and local ionization energies; this is most pronounced for the carbon systems. An interesting observation was the remarkable change in the electrostatic potential of (6,0) C"5"2B"2"6N"2"6 when a boron atom on one cap and a nitrogen on the other were replaced by carbons, giving stoichiometries of C"6B"4 and C"6N"4 at the tips. This produced a strong potential gradient along the entire length of the tube, from positive at one end to negative at the other.
Study as a Course of Practice: The Work of North Studio at Wesleyan University

Abstract North Studio operates as a contemporary variation on the traditional Beaux-Arts atelier model of architectural practice and education initially introduced to the United States in the mid-nineteenth century. Focused on developing and producing research and conceptually driven projects with real-world clients, the Studio is at once a locus for undergraduate design education within the context of Wesleyan University's liberal arts curriculum and a collaborative committed to seeing work built. Working with sites as diverse as a former commercial cranberry bog, a two thousand-square-foot-exposed partiwall, and a twenty-four-car parking lot, each project the Studio pursues has at its core a charge to challenge conventional notions of the relationship between landscape and architecture.
Developing Argument Skills in Severely Disadvantaged Adolescent Males in a Residential Correctional Setting

We investigate whether the intervention designed by Kuhn and Udell (2003) to develop argument skills could be implemented productively among adolescent males in a residential juvenile detention facility—boys who were educationally disengaged and severely disadvantaged academically as well as socially. Compared to a control group from the same institution who did not participate, participants in the intervention exhibited superior argument skills following the intervention. In dialogic argumentation with a peer, they made more counterarguments against the opponent's claims, and they more often voiced rebuttals of the opponent's counterarguments of their own claims. Also, inindividual arguments in support of their own positions, they offered more and higher-quality reasons, relative to the control group. In addition to these cognitive skill gains, possible enhancements in cognitive engagement and mental self-management and self-control are discussed.
Dimeric Centromere Protein E (CENP-E) Promotes Microtubule-elongation At The Plus-ends Of Microtubules

Centromere protein CENP-E is a dimeric kinesin (Kinesin-7 family) with critical roles in mitosis including establishment of microtubule (MT)-chromosome linkage, processive movement of monooriented chromosomes on MTs for proper alignment at metaphase, and as a tension sensor at mitotic checkpoint to signal onset to anaphase. Fluorescence microscopy studies were performed to test the hypothesis that CENP-E promotes MT-elongation at the MT plus-ends. CENP-E constructs were engineered, expressed, and purified which yielded dimeric and monomeric motor proteins. The results show that dimeric CENP-E promotes plus-end directed MT gliding at 11 ± 0.005 nm/sec (n=173 MTs). Real-time microscopy assays were performed to image CENP-E promoted elongation of GMPcPP-stabilized polarity marked FITC MTs. The results revealed that out of the 270 polarity marked MTs examined, 164 MTs (60%) exhibited CENP-E promoted MT plus-end extension by GTP-tubulin (1.48 ± 0.37 μm/30 min; n=200 MTs) in the presence of MgATP. In contrast, dimeric Kinesin-1, dimeric Eg5, and CENP-E in the presence of AMPPNP did not show this pronounced MT elongation. These results suggest that CENP-E as part of its function for chromosome kinetochore attachment to MTs plays a direct role in kinetochore MT extension during congression. Supported by NIH GM54141 and NIH Career Development Award K02-AR47841 to SPG.
Transarterial Embolization of a Hepatic Arteriovenous Malformation in an Infant Using Onyx: A Case Report and Review of the Differential Diagnosis Imaging Findings

Hepatic arteriovenous malformations are rare congenital lesions associated with significant morbidity and mortality, most commonly from high output cardiac failure. Efficient diagnosis and treatment demands an interdisciplinary approach, and the interventional radiologist plays a pivotal role in both. Imaging is important for diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning, and transcatheter embolization has become an established primary therapy. We report the clinical and imaging findings of a rare hepatic arteriovenous malformation in an infant presenting with high-output cardiac failure and pulmonary artery hypertension that was successfully treated by transarterial embolization using Onyx.
Reading disability, linguistic access and short-term memory: Comments prompted by Jorm's review of developmental dyslexia

Jorm (1979a) summarized data demonstrating short-term memory(STM) impairment in reading-disabled children, and argued for STM deficit as the cause of developmental dyslexia. In this review it is suggested that evidence for impoverished conceptualization of surface features of language (weak “linguistic access”) among poor readers needs to be accounted for in any overall theory for dyslexia. The possibility that STM deficit is responsible for poor performance in measures of linguistic access is considered and found not to account for all of the data, for example, the finding that training in manipulation of phonemic structure can speed reading acquisition. It is argued that failure on the part of some children to recruit linguistic processes for purposes outside their adaptive specialization may account for both STM impairment and reading difficulties. The need for theory and experiment-based advances in clarifying the concept of linguistic access is noted.
Comments concerning the structures and reactions of C7H+8 ions

Toluene ions do not abstract NO2 from alkyl nitrates, as has been reported. Rather, solvated NO+2 ions formed in alkyl nitrates transfer NO+2 to aromatic compounds, accounting for the formation of the C7H8NO+2 product ions in toluene-alkyl nitrate mixtures. Information about the structures of fragment C7H+8 ions in butyl benzenes has been derived from the rates of their charge transfer reactions.
Photoacoustic calorimetry study of ligand photorelease from the Ru(II)bis(2,2′-bipyridine)(6,6′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine) complex in aqueous solution

Abstract The thermodynamics of ligand photorelease from Ru(II)bis(2,2′-bipyridine)(6,6′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine) ([Ru(bpy)2(dmbpy)]2+) complex in aqueous solution have been examined using photoacoustic calorimetry (PAC). Photolysis of the [Ru(bpy)2(dmbpy)]2+ complex with a ∼5 ns laser pulse (FWHM) results in enthalpy changes of 42 ± 4 kcal mol−1, with a corresponding volume change of 6 ± 1 mL mol−1. Density functional theory calculations also demonstrate that the positive enthalpy values arise from N σ-donation to the Ru ion. It is noted that the LUMO-Ligand Field gap fails to track with photoaquation quantum yield.
Isolation and characterization of a marine Anabaena sp. capable of rapid growth on molecular nitrogen

A marine filamentous cyanobacterium capable of rapid growth under N2-fixing conditions has been isolated from the Texas Gulf Coast. This organism appears to be an Anabaena sp. and has been given the strain designation CA. Cultures grown on mineral salts medium bubbled with 1% CO2-enriched air at 42°C show a growth rate of 5.6±0.1 generations per day with molecular nitrogen as the sole nitrogen source. This growth rate is higher than any other reported in the literature to date for heterocystous cyanobacteria growing on N2. Under similar growth conditions, 7.5 mM NH4Cl yields a growth rate of 6.6±0.1 generations per day while 7.5 mM KNO3 allows for a growth rate of 5.8±0.4 generations-day. Nitrogen-fixation rates, as measured by acetylene reduction, show maximum activity values in the range of 50–100 nmoles ethylene produced/minxmg protein. These values compare favorably with those obtained from heterotrophic bacteria and are much higher than values reported for other cyanobacteria. Growth experiments indicate that the organism requires relatively high levels of sodium and grows maximally at 42°C. Because of its high growth rate on N2, this newly isolated organism appears ideal for studying nitrogen metabolism and heterocyst development among the cyanobacteria.
Computation of the normal vector to a free surface by a finite element – finite volume mixed method

Abstract In volume tracking finite volume schemes for free surface flows, the reconstruction of the interface and the computation of surface tension effects require an accurate approximation of the normal vector to the interface. A numerical method for the computation of the normal vector is presented here, based on a finite element approach. We use projections to interpolate the volume fraction of liquid between the finite volume mesh and a nested finite element mesh. Error estimates are obtained and numerical results show the efficiency and flexibility of the approach discussed here. To cite this article: A. Caboussat et al., C. R. Acad. Sci. Paris, Ser. I 343 (2006).
The causes of autoimmune thyroid disease.

RESEARCH on the cause of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) has in the past focused on potentially unique and specific abnormalities that could provide a unitary explanation for these illnesses [Graves' disease (GD), Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT), and primary thyroid failure]. Evolving knowledge of the human immune system and results of studies on thyroid autoimmunity have suggested to us for many years (1) that the cause of autoimmunity is instead multifactorial. We believe that some level of self-reactivity is a normal—indeed, necessary—aspect of immune function. The development of autoimmune disease involves genetic and environmental influences that amplify normal self-reactivity and which evolve over a lifetime. The course is not always unidirectional, since activation of autoregulatory responses can apparently reverse it. In this article we first provide an abbreviated summary of immune function and then review contemporary research on autoimmunity as related to the thyroid gland, including studies tha...
The Constituency Motivations of Caucus Membership

The popularity of congressional caucuses is puzzling, given the dominance of political parties and rules that specifically limit caucuses’ resources. Yet modern caucuses offer legislators the unique advantage of complete discretion over their membership decisions, which allows legislators to tailor their memberships to their district. As a result, caucus membership is an important means of constituency representation. Using original data from the 108th Congress, this article examines the House caucus system and legislators’ membership in all 441caucuses. There is strong evidence that legislators’ decisions about caucus membership reflect their constituents even when controlling for party, committee, electoral security, and seniority. Legislators from heterogeneous districts belong to numerous caucuses, which allows them to represent the multiple interests in their constituency. In addition, legislators are more likely to belong to caucuses that address specific issues relevant to constituents.
Globin gene switching in primates

Abstract Evolutionary approaches to the identification of DNA sequences required for transcription of the genes of the β-globin cluster are reviewed. Sequence alignments of non-coding regions from widely divergent species revealed many conserved motifs (phylogenetic footprints) that were putative transcription factor binding sites and candidate binding proteins were identified. The differential timing of the prosimian and simian γ-globin genes was analyzed by identifying base changes in the vicinity of the phylogenetic footprints. These differential phylogenetic footprints were shown to bind different nuclear factors, and the behavior of constructs with human or galago γ-promoters in transgenic mice indicated that DNA motifs near the γ-globin genes are sufficient to determine the developmental stage of expression. Locus control region alignments have identified many conserved sequence differences outside of the hypersensitive sites. Globin protein and mRNA expression profiles during embryological development in a series of catarrhine (Old World monkeys and apes) and platyrrhine (New World monkeys) primates have been determined. While all catarrhines examined to date have globin expression patterns that are highly similar to the well-established human switching behavior, platyrrhines have inactivated their γ1 genes by a variety of mechanisms, and have an earlier γ–β switch.
Theoretical determination of the dipole moment of carbon monophosphide, CP(X 2Σ+)

Abstract Large multireference configuration interaction (MRCI) calculations employing atomic natural orbital (ANO) basis sets have been performed in order to obtain an accurate dipole moment for carbon monophosphide, CP, in its electronic ground state (X 2Σ+). The effects of basis set size, active space choice, configuration selection criteria, and dipole moment evaluation method have been examined. The best MRCI value for the dipole moment is 0.351 au ( 1 au=2.5418 D), with polarity C−P+, using a basis set containing multiple contracted d and f functions. The effect of g functions on the dipole moment is about 1%. Evaluation of the remaining sources of error in the calculation suggests a value of 0.34 ± 0.005 au for the dipole moment of CP.
Probability Bounds on the Size of Storage Areas

Through the use of generating functions upper and lower bounds are obtained for the probability that at least n units are in storage at any given time. The inputs to the storage area are assumed to be independent and of the Poisson type and the outputs are also independent and follow the negative exponential law. The storage area is assumed to be infinite. A numerical example is included.
Elders' attitudes toward extending the healthy life span

Abstract Despite continuing debate between anti-aging researchers seeking major life span extension and concerned gerontologists and bioethicists, elders' views have received little research attention. Study aimed to relate elders' attitudes toward strong life span extension to psychosocial and background factors. Participants were 109 American elders (65% women) aged 60–99 ( M = 77.08, SD = 9.05). Measures included attitudes toward living long and living forever, Desired Age, Death Acceptance, Goal Seeking, Internality, and background variables (age, gender, marital status, education, religion, health). Attitudes were more positive toward an extended life span than living forever ( p
An Advanced Patient Lift and Transfer Device for the Home

The home lift, position, and rehabilitation (HLPR) chair has a unique design and novel capabilities when compared with conventional powered wheelchairs. In addition to mobility, it provides lift and can transfer patients. Even though medical devices are developing at a rapid pace today, an aspect that is often overlooked in these developments is adherence to "rider safety standards. " The contributions of this paper are threefold: (i) novel design of a lift and transfer system, (ii) experiments and results toward improved stability test designs that include HLPR-type devices to meet rider safety standards, and (iii) autonomous navigation and control based on nonlinear system theory of dynamic feedback linearization. Stability experimental results show promise for multipurpose patient mobility, lift, and transfer devices such as HLPR. A method for autonomous maneuvers was tested in simulation and experiments. We also expect the autonomous or semi-autonomous mobility mode of the vehicle to be useful for riders who have potential neural and cognitive impairments.
On the Structure and Interpretation of the Infrared Absorption Spectra of Crystals

An experimental and theoretical investigation of the absorption spectrum of MgO in the near infrared is reported. Part A is devoted to the experimental results, which were obtained by use of a rocksalt spectrometer. They show that the fundamental absorption is accompanied by a great deal of secondary structure. In Part B an interpretation of the results of A is undertaken on the basis of a quantum-mechanical treatment of anharmonic potential forces. On this basis, it is shown that a cubic crystal of the MgO type should not possess but a single near infrared absorption as previous calculations had indicated, but should possess an extremely complicated secondary structure. In Part C the possibilities of obtaining a quantitative correlation between experiment and theory are discussed and it is concluded that the former must be made the object of additional refinements.
Lived Realities and the Construction of Social Problems: The Case of Wife Abuse

This article examines the official and subjective realities of one social problem, wife abuse, and it considers consequences of differences between these two types of reality. First, claims appearing in the professional literature are used to define the specific content of the official social problem. Then, characteristics of violence as experienced are compared with this official definition. Finally, data from a shelter for battered women are used to illustrate consequences of official definitions in organizations designed to ameliorate the individual troubles associated with social problems. The study demonstrates how the official definition of wife abuse acts and actors has reduced the recognizability of the phenomenon in lived experience and also set the stage for reality-definition contests in social services for abused wives. This illustrates the importance of examining sociologically the specific content of social problems claims and the necessity of attending to social problems in their full phenomenological realities. The distinctively sociological analysis of social problems is the study of claims-making activities of “groups or agencies that define some condition as a problem” (Kitsuse and Spector 1973, p. 415). This is a call to study claims-making process and inextricably tied to this process is the social problem definition. It is true only in the abstract that claims-makers advance “some condition” as a problem. Particular conditions are advanced in concrete instances and these definitions will influence the claims-making
Production ecology of Thuja occidentalis

Equations to predict branch and tree leaf area, foliar mass, and stemwood volume were developed from 25 destructively sampled northern white-cedar (Thuja occidentalis L.) trees, a species whose pro...
Orthogonal regression: a teaching perspective

A well-known approach to linear least squares regression is that which involves minimizing the sum of squared orthogonal projections of data points onto the best fit line. This form of regression is known as orthogonal regression, and the linear model that it yields is known as the major axis. A similar method, reduced major axis regression, is predicated on minimizing the total sum of triangular areas formed between data points and the best fit line. Either of these methods is appropriately applied when both x and y are measured, a typical case in the natural sciences. In comparison to classical linear regression, equation derivation for the slope of the major axis and reduced major axis lines is a nontrivial process. For this reason, derivations are presented herein drawing from previous literature with as few steps as possible to enable an easily accessible understanding. Application to eruption data for Old Faithful geyser, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming and Montana, USA enables a teaching opportu...
Flexural vibrations of ring-stiffened cylindrical shells

Abstract The free flexural vibration of cylindrical shells stiffened by equidistant ring frames is investigated by the use of finite difference calculus. The theory accounts for both the inplane flexural and the torsional vibration of the ring stiffeners. It is shown that for long shells and simply supported shells of finite length, vibration modes exist which involve a purely torsional motion without flexural motion of the rings.
HN-10200 causes endothelium-independent relaxations in isolated canine arteries.

HN-10200, a nonselective inhibitor of phosphodiesterase, has positive inotropic and vasodilator activity. The present study was designed to determine the role of endotheliumin in causing relaxation to HN-10200 in isolated canine femoral and basilar arteries. Rings with and without endothelium were suspended for isometric tension recording in Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate solution bubbled with 94% O2, 6% CO2 (t=37°C; pH=7.4). HN-10200 and another nonselective phosphodiesterase inhibitor, 3-isobutyl-1-methyl-xanthine (IBMX), caused similar concentration-dependent relaxations in femoral arteries with and without endothelium. In femoral arteries without endothelium, HN-10200 and IBMX significantly augmented relaxations to prostacyclin, but did not affect relaxations to a nitric oxide donor 3-morpholinosydnonimine (SIN-1) or endothelium-derived relaxing factor (EDRF) released by bradykinin. In basilar arteries, relaxations to HN-10200 were augmented by the removal of endothelium, whereas relaxations to IBMX were not affected. Relaxations to prostacyclin, SIN-1, and EDRF were not affected by the presence of phosphodiesterase inhibitors. The results of the present study suggest that HN-10200 causes endothelium-independent relaxations. In addition, it may augment relaxations to prostacyclin but does not affect relaxations to EDRF.
Experimentally Validated Model of a Membrane Strip with Multiple Actuators

This paper presents the modeling and experimental validation of a membrane strip actuated in bending and tension. This investigation is a prelude to the modeling of a circular membrane augmented with smart actuators around its outer rim. Two macrofiber composite bimorph actuators are attached near the ends of the membrane strip.Wetreat two configurations. In the first configuration, both bimorph actuators are excited in bending to change the shape of the membrane strip. In the second configuration, one bimorph acts in bending and the other bimorph acts in tension. The membrane strip is modeled as a nonuniform, nonhomogenous, Euler–Bernoulli beam under tension. The finite element method is used to facilitate the handling of the nonuniformities of the combined structure. Experimental results are used to validate the model developed. The prediction of the finite element model and the experimental results are in agreement
Electroabsorption modulation at 1.3 μm on GaAs substrates using a step-graded low temperature grown InAlAs buffer

We have achieved quantum confined Stark effects (QCSE) on In/sub 0.38/Ga/sub 0.62/As-In/sub 0.38/Al/sub 0.62/As multiple-quantum-well (MQW) structures, operating at 1.3 /spl mu/m grown on GaAs substrates. A quantum confined Stark shift of the exciton absorption peak of 47 meV was obtained with an applied electric field of 190 KV/cm, measured on surface normal PIN diodes. The structure is grown by MBE on a novel three-stage, compositionally step graded, In/sub x/Al/sub 1-x/As buffer, doped with Si to 5/spl middot/10/sup 17//cm/sup 3/, on an n-type GaAs substrate. The total thickness of the buffer is 0.3-0.6 mm, which is considerably smaller than that of linearly graded buffer layers. This structure can be used in both waveguide modulators and surface normal F-P type modulators on GaAs substrates.
Understanding Learner‐Centered Instruction from the PersDective of Multiple Intelligences

: This article describes a pilot study that investigated applications of the Theory of Multiple Intelligences (MI)to shape and inform teaching practices and instructional strategies. The purpose of the study was to identify, document, and promote effective real-world applications of MI theory in foreign and second language classrooms. Results indicated that teachers were profoundly affected by these approaches: They felt that their teaching experienced a shift in paradigm to a more learner-centered classroom; they were once again energized and enthusiastic about their pedagogy; and they felt that they were able to reach more students. Students demonstrated keen interest in MI concepts and showed positive responses to the increased variety of instructional strategies used in their foreign language/ESL classrooms. For the pilot study, student achievement data are inconclusive. Phase 11 of the MI study will attempt to collect more detailed data related to classroom performance and student achievement. An unanticipated outcome of this research project was the positive impact it had on student attitudes and motivation to learn.
Human detection range by active Doppler and passive ultrasonic methods

Human motion can be characterized as a periodic, temporal process of a mechanical system and can be detected by active and passive ultrasonic methods. The active method utilizes Doppler ultrasound to characterize the motion of individual body parts (torso, legs, arms, etc.). The friction forces of a footstep produce broadband sound signals that can be measured by passive ultrasonic sensors. Comparison of Doppler motion and the footstep signals reveals a strong correlation of features between the footstep friction and the maximum Doppler shift. This article presents test results from measurements of human motion and evaluates the detection range for the passive ultrasonic method.
Orientation of Lüders band fronts

Abstract The orientation of a slowly propagating Luders band front has been studied in mild steels. A two-surface trace analysis was used to determine the orientation of the propagating front. The experimental observations were used as the basis for a new model describing Luders band orientation. The most significant feature of the new model is the assumption that the stable orientation of the Luders front is one which maximizes the bending stress due to the shear-kink. This assumption is shown to give preferred orientation of the front in specimens having paralleologram cross-sections.
A subcarrier intensity modulated fiber optic sensor for structural vibration measurements

Abstract A speckle based fiber optic vibration sensor using subcarrier intensity modulation of the laser light source has been investigated. This system allows the normally low frequency vibrating modal components, such as those found in large structures, to be frequency upshifted thereby reducing the degradation effects caused by low frequency noise. A theoretical analysis of this scheme is presented along with experimental results.