cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
How do elevated triglycerides and low HDL-cholesterol affect inflammation and atherothrombosis?

This review article summarizes recent research into the mechanisms as to how elevated levels of triglyceride (TG) and low levels of high- density- lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) contribute to inflammation and atherosclerosis. Evidence supports the role of TG-rich lipoproteins in signaling mechanisms via apolipoproteins C-III and free fatty acids leading to activation of NFKβ, VCAM-1 and other inflammatory mediators which lead to fatty streak formation and advanced atherosclerosis. Moreover, the cholesterol content in TG-rich lipoproteins has been shown to predict CAD risk better than LDL-C. In addition to reverse cholesterol transport, HDL has many other cardioprotective effects which include regulating immune function. The “functionality” of HDL appears more important than the level of HDL-C. Insulin resistance and central obesity underlie the pathophysiology of elevated TG and low HDL-C in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle recommendations including exercise and weight loss remain first line therapy in ameliorating insulin resistance and the adverse signaling processes from elevated levels of TG-rich lipoproteins and low HDL-C.
NMDA receptors mediate the behavioral effects of amphetamine infused into the nucleus accumbens.

Abstract The present experiments examined glutamate-dopamine interactions within the nucleus accumbens in rats. It has been hypothesized that dopaminergic nerve terminals exert a modulatory influence on glutamate-mediated signals from corticolimbic areas. In the present studies, the effect of the selective NMDA (n-methyl-d-aspartate) antagonist AP5 (2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid) on amphetamine-mediated behaviors was observed. In two behavioral paradigms, AP5 (0, 0.05, 0.5, 1.0 μg bilaterally) was microinjected immediately prior to amphetamine (5 μg bilaterally) in the nucleus accumbens. In the first experiment, the influence of AP5 on amphetamine-induced motor activity was examined. AP5 dose-dependently reduced the effectiveness of amphetamine in stimulating motor behavior. AP5 alone, paradoxically, tended to increase motor activity. In the second experiment, the effects of AP5 on amphetamine-potentiated responding (lever pressing) for conditioned reward (CR) were investigated. Normally, when amphetamine is infused into the nucleus accumbens, a marked potentiation of CR responding occurs. Prior infusion of AP5 also attenuated this behavioral effect of amphetamine. The results demonstrate that NMDA receptors within the nucleus accumbens mediate the behavioral consequences of increased dopamine release. They provide additional evidence for the involvement of limbic-striatal connections in the activating and reinforcing effects of psychostimulant drugs.
Colorimetric Analysis of Protein Sulfhydyl Groups in Milk: Applications and Processing Effects

Methods for protein sulfhydryl (SH) group analysis in food systems have been largely overlooked. Nevertheless, changes in SH group concentration affect both physical and nutritional characteristics of high protein foods and ingredients. Food scientists and technologists require improved understanding of protein SH chemistry in order to design processes that minimize loss of thiol groups. This article surveys colorimetric methods for food protein SH group analysis with applications to fluid milk and dried milk powder Most colorimetric assays (chloromeribenzoate, pyridine disulfide, Nitrobenzo-2-oxa-1,3-diazole, papain reactivation assay, etc.) were found to be inferior to the Ellman method based on the use of 5,5'dithio (bis-2 nitro benzoic acid). Techniques for SH group analysis in fluid milk and dried milk powder are described, along with typical results, their interpretations, and current research related to processing effects and the role of milk SH content on a wider range of technological issues, such as development of cooked flavors, fouling and cleaning of plate heat exchanges, protein-protein interactions, and the storage stability. Finally, a number of areas requiring further research are presented.
Our “miracle": self-supporting student microcomputer labs

During the 1987-88 school year, Western Illinois University began a successful experiment to create a self-supporting microcomputer lab. From conversations we've had at recent ACM conferences, we feel this experience is rare enough that reading about it will help other schools.Naturally, we credit our success to the dedication and excellence of the people involved, but beyond that, the success of the lab was also due to several key management decisions: Obtaining support from top administrators before startingPlanning and operating in cooperation with several departmentsKeeping lab funds in a separate account, used only by the lab.Knowing and carefully following the rules of the universityIsolating and meeting student needs: Providing ready help to lab usersStaying open throughout student study hoursThinking of ourselves as sales clerks, not bureaucratsStarting small and seeking maximum benefits from each dollar Using inexpensive computers and sharing printersUsing donated older versions of popular softwareThe results of these decisions speak for themselves: The lab is self-supportingIts financial records are in good order
Antimicrobial Activity and Spectrum Investigation of Eight Broad-Spectrum β-Lactam Drugs: A 1997 Surveillance Trial in 102 Medical Centers in the United States

Abstract Because antimicrobial agents become less effective after the emergence of resistance mechanisms in clinically prevalent pathogens, physicians must utilize local, regional, and national antimicrobial susceptibility surveillance data to assist in choices of appropriate agents. An investigation of the spectrum and potency of eight broad-spectrum β-lactam drugs (cefepime, cefotaxime, ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, imipenem, piperacillin with or without tazobactam, and ticarcillin/clavulanic acid) was performed using a common protocol and method (Etest; AB BIODISK, Solna, Sweden) in 102 clinical microbiology laboratories in the United States. A total of 9777 strains of Gram-negative bacilli were tested from late 1996 through April 1997. Quality assurance measures using three control strains observed quality control failures in 13 laboratories (usually ticarcillin/clavulanic acid or piperacillin), but only 2% of results required deletion. A total of 33.4% of Enterobacter spp. (1977 strains) were either resistant or intermediately susceptible to ceftazidime. Only imipenem (99.6% susceptible) and cefepime (99.1%) remained highly active against strains of Enterobacter , as well as Citrobacter freundii , indole-positive Proteae , and Serratia spp. Ceftazidime-resistant Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were detected at rates of 10.3% and 23.8%, respectively. Although these were participant-selected strains, only imipenem and cefepime had broad-spectrum coverage (≥97.1%) against these extended-spectrum β-lactamase phenotypes. A dominant number of these extended-spectrum β-lactamase phenotypes were reported from medical centers in the Northeast, but a nationwide distribution was observed. Among the nonenteric Gram-negative bacilli (4057 strains), the rank order of susceptibility (percent inhibited at published breakpoint concentrations) was: imipenem (86.1%) > piperacillin/tazobactam (80.1%) > cefepime (77.1%) > ceftazidime=piperacillin (74.9%) > ticarcillin/clavulanic acid (61.6%) > cefotaxime (18.2%) > ceftriaxone (12.9%). The cephalosporins, cefepime and ceftazidime, had rates of resistance for the 3005 Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates of 10.1% and 14.4%, respectively. For all Gram-negative strains tested, only two contemporary β-lactam antimicrobials exhibited >90% inhibition of strains, imipenem at 93.6% and cefepime at 90.2%. These drugs were superior to the other tested compounds (48.8–84.3%). Ticarcillin/clavulanic acid had the narrowest spectrum of activity (48.8% of isolates susceptible). These results indicate that carbapenems and a new fourth-generation cephalosporin, cefepime, possess usable in vitro potencies against current clinical strains of Gram-negative bacilli, many of which harbored resistance to other antimicrobial agents.
Evidence for long-lived RNA in mammalian tissues

Abstract The existence of long-lived RNA in mammals was investigated by turnover methods. Animals received multiple injections of [ 14 C]orotic acid over a five-day schedule after which they were sacrificed singly at regular intervals up to 90 days after the last injection. Patterns of label loss with time from total tissue RNA showed two or more exponential components in liver and kidney and a single exponential removal pattern in brain. The half-lives for the components resolved were 5.3 and 29.0 days for kidney, 5.4 and 20.2 days for liver, and 10.7 days for brain. The turnover rates of total cellular nucleotide pools were examined to check the possibility of reutilization. Analysis of the turnover patterns of these pools in liver and kidney was complicated by the presence of a small amount of slow turning over nucleotides. Further analysis indicated that this fraction did not contain appreciable amounts of labelled RNA precursors and suggested that, at least for slow turning over RNA, reutilization of label was probably not a complicating factor. In brain, although the total label in the nucleotide pool was never more than 10% of that in the total RNA pool, the removal rate was approximately the same as label in RNA. Thus in brain, reutilization may have occurred.
Serial Glomerular and Tubular Dynamics in Thyroidectomized Rats With Remnant Kidneys

Abstract Serial measurements were performed in Munich-Wistar rats with five-sixths nephrectomy that had undergone prior selective thyroidectomy (Tx group) or thyroidectomy with thyroxine replacement (TxT 4 group) to determine the effects of Tx on glomerular and tubular dynamics in relation to Tx attenuation of renal failure progression. At 1 week, inulin clearance rates (C In ) in TxT 4 and Tx rats were 0.367 ± 0.171 and 0.120 ± 0.036 mL/min, respectively, different at P A ), glomerular transcapillary hydraulic pressure (ΔP), and proximal tubular reabsorption (J v ) were all reduced in Tx compared with TxT 4 rats (P PROT ) was 151 ± 40 in TxT 4 rats, and 9 ± 5 mg/d in Tx animals. Glomerular mesangial matrix expansion and focal tubulointerstitial changes were more frequent in TxT 4 than Tx rats. By 4 weeks, C In , SNGFR, Q A , glomerular ultrafiltration coefficient (K 1 ) and J v were similar in Tx and TxT 4 . Only glomerular capillary pressure (P GC ) remained lower in Tx rats (35 ± 3 v 50 ± 3 mm Hg in TxT 4 , P PROT was 161 ± 24 in TxT 4 and 17 ± 12 mg/d in Tx rats. While 7% ± 4% of glomeruli showed focal sclerosis in TxT 4 rats, there was none in the Tx group. Maximal glomerular planar area increased between 1 and 4 weeks in the TxT 4 group, but not in the Tx group. However, this measurement was not significantly different between TxT 4 and Tx glomeruli at 1 or 4 weeks. Minimal focal tubulointerstitial changes were found in TxT 4 , but these were not progressive from those observed at 1 week. The reduced PGC at 1 week was the result of a disproportionately greater increase in afferent (R A ) than efferent arteriolar resistance (R E ) in Tx rats (P A and R E had decreased to values identical to those in TxT 4 animals and the lower P GC in Tx rats was the result of a reduced mean arterial pressure. In conclusion, a reduced P GC was the sole functional correlate of decreased proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis afforded by Tx in this partial nephrectomy model. Suppression of either nephrectomy-related hypertrophy or tubulointerstitial injury by Tx could not be excluded as at least partially protective factors.
MORP: Keeping track of meteorites

If one considers the level of significance frequently granted to observations of small portions of an individual meteorite sample, the question of sampling error arises. A project to answer this question has been underway in Canada for 9 years (1974–1983). The Meteorite Observation and Recovery Project, or, more simply MORP, is an observational network designed to evaluate the frequency of meteorite falls on the surface of the earth [see I. Halliday, A.T. Blackwell, and A.A. Griffin, J.R. Astron. Soc. Can., 72, 15, 1978]. Other major networks for observation have been operative in the United States and Central Europe. Halliday, Blackwell, and Griffin reported recently on MORP results: “…the total mass deposited on the ground is 142 kg year1 −l in 106 km2 …it is obvious that a very small portion of the potential harvest is ever located” [Science, 223, 1405–1407, 1984]. The actual numbers from the analysis are staggering. The normal recovery rate of meteorites per year in the world is no more than one or two dozen (excluding “fossil” meteorites recovered from the Antarctic glacial ice). The number of meteorite falls over the entire earth's surface is about 25,000 per year, according to the MORP analysis.
The Effect of Finiteness in the Saffman–Taylor Viscous Fingering Problem

We derive a family of exact time-evolving solutions for the the evolution of a finite blob of fluid confined to a channel in a Hele–Shaw cell. We show rigorously that, for large fluid volume, there are solutions for which one of the interfaces approaches the steady Saffman–Taylor finger solution of arbitrary width λ∈(0, 1). On the basis of this, we argue that the far-field effects of a displaced second interface do not provide a selection mechanism for the formation of a width-\( \frac{1}{2} \) finger when surface tension, or any other regularization, is ignored.
Use of superconducting cavities in the stabilization of tunnel diode oscillators

Abstract We describe the design criteria of tunnel diode oscillators stabilized by superconducting RF cavities and how these are applied to the construction of a cryogenic oscillator operating at 600MHz for gravitational wave research.
Pathogenic Role of Modified LDL Antibodies and Immune Complexes in Atherosclerosis

There is strong evidence supporting a key role of the adaptive immune response in atherosclerosis, given that both activated Th cells producing predominantly interferon-γ and oxidized LDL (oxLDL) and the corresponding antibodies have been isolated from atheromatous plaques. Studies carried out using immune complexes (IC) prepared with human LDL and rabbit antibodies have demonstrated proatherogenic and pro-inflammatory properties, mostly dependent on the engagement of Fcγ receptors Ⅰ and Ⅱ in macrophages and macrophage-like cell lines. Following the development of a methodology for isolating modified LDL (mLDL) antibodies from serum and isolated IC, it was confirmed that antibodies reacting with oxLDL and advanced glycation end product-modified LDL are predominantly IgG of subtypes 1 and 3 and that mLDL IC prepared with human reagents possesses pro-inflammatory and proatherogenic properties. In previous studies, LDL separated from isolated IC has been analyzed for its modifications, and the reactivity of antibodies isolated from the same IC with different LDL modifications has been tested. Recently, we obtained strong evidence suggesting that the effects of mLDL IC on phagocytic cells are modulated by the composition of the mLDL. Clinical studies have shown that the level of mLDL in circulating IC is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and, in diabetic patients, other significant complications, such as nephropathy and retinopathy. In conclusion, there is convincing ex vivo and clinical data supporting the hypothesis that, in humans, the humoral immune response to mLDL is pathogenic rather than protective.
Light- and Heavy-Solvent Impacts on Solvent-Aided-SAGD Process: A Low-Pressure Experimental Study

Coinjecting solvent with steam under steam-assisted gravity-drainage (SAGD) process to reduce the required steam amount for heavy-oil production has gained importance in recent years. The objective of this experimental study was to investigate the drainage mechanism of coinjecting light and heavy solvents to improve production performance. A 2D cross-sectional low-pressure scaled physical model was constructed. The model represented a half-symmetry cross section of a typical SAGD drainage in the Athabasca formation. Using an infrared camera, we visualized and recorded expansion of the steam chamber and temperature distribution. The fluid injection rate, pressure, and temperature, and produced-liquid volumes were also recorded. The results show that the relative condensation time of solvent and steam results in different production performances. Light solvent, delivered in the vapour phase to the entire fluid interface, reduces the bitumen viscosity along the whole vapour-chamber boundary, but it may build a thick gas blanket that may reduce the heat transfer from the high-temperature vapour chamber to the surrounding low-temperature bitumen. Coinjecting a suitable multicomponent-solvent mixture, including a heavy solvent, can enhance the production performance by altering the condensation dynamics of the light hydrocarbons. The conclusions from this study can be used to design suitable solvent mixtures and coinjection strategies to deliver a higher production rate, higher recovery factor with lower cumulative steam required/oil ratio (CSOR), and lower cumulative energy required for oil production (CEOR) from SAGD performance.
Ablepharon-macrostomia syndrome

We report three new cases of ablepharon-macrostomia syndrome (AMS) and give a 10-year follow-up on a newborn reported in an abstract. These four patients, as well as those previously reported, all had absent hair, brows, and lashes, absent or short eyelids, macrostomia, ear anomalies, redundant skin, and abnormal genitalia. Many have persistent visual problems, often related to early corneal exposure. Hearing loss, poor hair growth, finger contractures, and growth retardation were also chronic problems. Developmental impairment was present in two-thirds of patients but was usually mild. This report contributes to our knowledge regarding the natural history of AMS and includes the first report of an adult patient. It also adds further evidence that AMS is distinct from Barber-Say syndrome, which has similar features. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Alterations in catecholamine levels and turnover in discrete brain areas after food deprivation

The present study determined the levels and turnover of norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (EPI) and dopamine (DA) in discrete brain areas of rats after 48 hr food deprivation. The steady-state levels of NE, EPI and DA in saline-treated food-deprived rats, relative to satiated rats, remained basically unchanged. However, 48 hr deprivation caused a site-selective potentiation, specifically in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, in the depletion of NE after alpha-methyl-p-tyrosine injection (IP, 200 mg/kg), indicating an increase in NE turnover. While changes in EPI turnover could not be demonstrated, an apparent increase in DA turnover was detected in the perifornical lateral hypothalamus and anterior hypothalamic nucleus after deprivation, while decreased DA turnover was seen in the hypothalamic dorsomedial nucleus and caudate nucleus. These results may reflect specific functions of hypothalamic catecholamines in control of food intake.
David in Goliath’s citadel: Mobilizing the Security Council’s normative power for Palestine:

This article reviews the remarkable success of the Palestinian Liberation Organization in alliance with the Non-Aligned Movement in appropriating the Security Council’s normative power to transform the global understanding of the Israel–Arab conflict. We feature the alliance’s submission of multiple declaratory resolutions from late 1967 through 1980, which condemned Israel’s occupation policies, declared all of the territories conquered in the 1967 war as occupied, and endorsed a Palestinian state. Collectively, these resolutions, including the vetoed ones, legitimized a new consensus whereby Palestinian statehood became regarded as indispensable for a just resolution, while Israel’s continued control over the occupied territories became viewed as the primary obstacle, with full withdrawal expected. This consensus endures despite concerted Israeli–US efforts to undermine it. Besides its appeal to scholars of Israel–Palestine, the study contributes fresh insights into the Security Council’s normative authority and the influence of non-powerful, non-Western actors. We explain the dynamics by which these actors appropriate the Security Council’s normative influence, through its declaratory resolutions, to boost broader advocacy campaigns. Specifically, we highlight anti-colonial normative framing — featuring self-determination and territorial integrity — coalition building, and trapping. The first two dynamics generate powerful political and normative pressure, which, in turn, traps uncommitted states into supporting the cause so as to avoid isolation and the appearance of normative hypocrisy. By featuring the Non-Aligned Movement and the Palestinian Liberation Organization as the primary agents and anti-colonial values as the defining norms, we present a rarely examined counter-trajectory of norm dissemination in what is thought to be the least receptive international forum.
Neuroendocrine responses to fenfluramine challenge are influenced by exposure to chronic social stress in adult male cynomolgus macaques

This study was designed to investigate the effect of chronic social stress on central serotonergic responsivity in adult male cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis). The influences of social stress and dominance status (social rank) on adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) and cortisol responses to acute administration of an indirect serotonergic agonist (fenfluramine) were evaluated in 75 cynomolgus macaques that were housed in five-member social groups for 28 mo. These groups either remained stable in composition (No-Stress) or had their composition periodically reorganized in the first (Early-Stress) or second (Late-Stress) halves of the study. At the end of the 23rd month, a fenfluramine challenge was done. Animals in the Late-Stress condition had significantly higher ACTH responses compared to those in the No-Stress condition (p < .05) and significantly higher cortisol responses compared to those in the Early-Stress condition (p < .05). No differences between dominant and subordinate animals in ACTH or cortisol responses to challenge were identified. These data suggest that social stress produces a "state"-related augmentation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal responsivity to fenfluramine (serotonergic) challenge in cynomolgus macaques.
Interpretation of angle-resolved x-ray photoemission spectra

This paper presents several new considerations concerning angle-resolved x-ray photoemission. Phononassisted processes are explicitly considered; it is found that even when such processes dominate direct transitions, agreement between theoretical predictions and experiment is obtained only if the final states are treated as Bloch-like and highly mixed. The use of augmented-plane-wave final states and a proper statistical treatment of the x-ray photon field is outlined for copper and found to yield nearly quantitative agreement with experimental results. The relationship between this and older plane-wave model calculations is discussed in detail, as is the physical significance of the new results.
Relationship among esophageal dysfunction, diabetic gastroenteropathy, and peripheral neuropathy

Esophageal motor function was tested in 12 patients with a clinical diagnosis of diabetic gastroenteropathy by radionuclide transit (RT) studies. Other insulin-dependent diabetics with and without symptoms of peripheral neuropathy but with no symptoms of gastrointestinal disease were similarly studied. Eleven of the 12 patients with gastroenteropathy were found to have abnormal esophageal function, even though only five had esophageal symptoms. Half the diabetics with peripheral neuropathy symptoms, and a quarter of those with no symptoms had abnormal esophageal transit studies. No abnormalities were found in a group of asymptomatic volunteers studied in a similar manner. We conclude that esophageal dysfunction, often subclinical, is present in nearly all patients with suspected diabetic gastroenteropathy. Esophageal dysfunction correlates less well with peripheral neuropathy. This study implies that if a diabetic, presenting with diarrhea or nausea and vomiting, has normal esophageal transit, then a cause for these symptoms, other than diabetic gastroenteropathy, may exist.
Suppression of insect pest populations and damage to plants by vermicomposts.

The effects of commercial vermicomposts, produced from food waste, on infestations and damage by aphids, mealy bugs and cabbage white caterpillars were studied in the greenhouse. Vermicomposts were used at substitution rates into a soil-less plant growth medium, MetroMix 360 (MM360), at rates of 100% MM360 and 0% vermicompost, 80% MM360 and 20% vermicompost, and 60% MM360 and 40% vermicompost to grow peppers (Capsicum annuum L.), tomatoes (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) and cabbages (Brassica oleracea L.), in pots. Groups of 10 pots containing young plants were distributed randomly in nylon mesh cages (40 cm · 40 cm · 40 cm). Groups of 10 pepper seedlings in a single cage were infested with either 100 aphids (Myzus persicae Sulz.) or 50 mealy bugs (Pseudococcus spp.) per cage. Similar groups of tomato seedlings were infested with 50 mealy bugs per cage. Groups of four cabbage seedlings in pots in cages were infested with 16 cabbage white caterpillars (Pieris brassicae L.). Populations of aphids and mealy bugs were counted after 20 days and the shoot dry weights of peppers, tomatoes and cabbages were measured at harvest. Numbers of cabbage white caterpillars and loss in shoot weights were measured after 15 days. The substitution rates of 20% and 40% vermicomposts suppressed populations of both aphids and mealy bugs on peppers, and mealy bugs on tomatoes, significantly. Substitutions with vermicomposts into MM360 decreased losses of dry weights of peppers, in response to both aphid and mealy bug infestations, decreased losses in shoot dry weights of tomatoes after mealy bug infestations significantly. There were significantly decreased losses in leaf areas of cabbage seedlings in response to the cabbage white caterpillar infestations. � 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Inducible transcript expressed by reactive epithelial cells at sites of olfactory sensory neuron proliferation.

The continuous replacement of cells in the spiny lobster olfactory organ depends on proliferation of new cells at a specific site, the proximal proliferation zone (PPZ). Using representational difference analysis of cDNA, we identified transcripts enriched in the PPZ compared to the mature zone (MZ) of the organ. The 12 clones identified included four novel sequences, three exoskeletal proteins, a serine protease, two protease inhibitors, a putative growth factor, and a sequence named PET-15 that has similarity to antimicrobial proteins of the crustin type. PET-15 mRNA was only detected in epithelial cells. It was abundant in all epithelial cells of the PPZ, but was only detected in the MZ at sites of damage to the olfactory organ. PET-15 mRNA was increased by types of damage that are known to induce proliferation of new olfactory sensory neurons in the olfactory organ. It increased in the PPZ after partial ablation of the olfactory organ and in the MZ after shaving of aesthetasc sensilla. These ipsilateral effects were mirrored by smaller increases in the undamaged contralateral olfactory organ. These contralateral effects are most parsimoniously explained by the action of a diffusible signal. Because epithelial cells are the source of proliferating progenitors in the olfactory organ, the same diffusible signal may stimulate increases in both cellular proliferation and PET-15 mRNA. The uniformity of expression of PET-15 in the PPZ epithelium suggests that the epithelial cells that give rise to new olfactory sensory neurons are a subset of cells that express PET-15. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Neurobiol 58: 355–368, 2004
Hysteresis in human UDP-glucose dehydrogenase is due to a restrained hexameric structure that favors feedback inhibition.

Human UDP-α-d-glucose-6-dehydrogenase (hUGDH) displays hysteresis because of a slow isomerization from an inactive state (E*) to an active state (E). Here we show that the structure of E* constrains hUGDH in a conformation that favors feedback inhibition at physiological pH. The feedback inhibitor UDP-α-d-xylose (UDP-Xyl) competes with the substrate UDP-α-d-glucose for the active site. Upon binding, UDP-Xyl triggers an allosteric switch that changes the structure and affinity of the intersubunit interface to form a stable but inactive horseshoe-shaped hexamer. Using sedimentation velocity studies and a new crystal structure, we show that E* represents a stable conformational intermediate between the active and feedback-inhibited conformations. Because the allosteric switch occludes the cofactor and substrate binding sites in the inactive hexamer, the intermediate conformation observed in the crystal structure is consistent with the E* transient observed in relaxation studies. Steady-state analysis shows t...
Flat level set regularity of p-Laplace phase transitions

Introduction Modifications of the potential and of one-dimensional solutions Geometry of the touching points Measure theoretic results Estimates on the measure of the projection of the contact set Proof of Theorem 1.1 Proof of Theorem 1.2 Proof of Theorem 1.3 Proof of Theorem 1.4 Appendix A. Proof of the measure theoretic results Appendix B. Summary of elementary lemmata Bibliography.
Mourning the person one could have become: The existential transition for the psychotherapy clients experienced by abuse or neglect

Mourning the "Person One Could Have Become" (POCHB) is an existential transition for traumatized individuals. In order to survive, they tend to mystify their existence, hoping that one day they will eventually turn into POCHB. POCHB is conceptualized as personality and physical characteristics that could have emerged if an individual at the right time had received an appropriate quantity and quality of nurturing and developmental stimuli, which consequently would have enabled the person to make more mature choices. The process of mourning the POCHB is part of the group therapy. The role of the therapist in facilitating such mourning is discussed. Possible obstacles to the process of mourning are depicted. Theoretical assumptions are illustrated with cases of two clients.
Isotopic exchange between alkanes and deuterium on rhodium/silica gel catalysts

Abstract Isotopic exchange between deuterium and cyclopentane and between pentane and ethane on the Rh/SiO 2 catalysts of the preceeding paper has been investigated after several different pretreatments. Although a more restricted number of catalysts was examined, as with 2,2-dimethylbutane, increased percentage exposed ( D h ) appears to lead to increased turnover frequency ( N t ). After the standard pretreatment, H 2 ,300°; He,450°, the rates in alkane(g) ⇌ alkane(ads) increase only slowly as D h increases, but the rates in monoadsorbed alkane ⇌ diadsorbed alkane decline relatively rapidly. As with 2,2-dimethylbutane, the pretreatment H 2 ,450° leads to the largest values of N t . He,450° following H 2 , 450° removes surface hydrogen atoms and leads to reconstruction to a surface of much lower activity for exchange. Cyclopentane exchanges much faster than pentane on these catalysts. It appears that adsorption and desorption of cyclopentane involve single-step processes to and from diadsorbed cyclopentane + 2H∗. Adsorption is faster than that with pentane because cyclopentane is essentially in the eclipsed conformation needed for this process. The rate of monoadsorbed ⇌ diadsorbed cyclopentane is similarly augmented. Adsorbate-surface strain reduces the rate constant for adsorption of 2,2-dimethylbutane and increases that for desorption. When coverages by the unhindered hydrocarbon are large, the relative rate of exchange of the hindered hydrocarbon vs that of the unhindered hydrocarbon will be larger than one would conclude merely from the relative rate constants of adsorption.
Objective spatial coding by 6.5-month-old infants in a visual dishabituation task

Forty 6.5-month-old infants were tested in a visual dishabituation variation of Bremner and Bryant’s reaching task used to evaluate the spatial representations of infants. In the visual dishabituation version of this task, infants were habituated to a display in which an object held a constant position at a corner of the table. Following habituation, the object was either moved to the opposite table-corner or nothing on the table was changed. Also, the infant either remained in her starting position or she moved to the opposite side of the table. The results show that, following habituation to an object, infants dishabituated to a change in the actual location of an object and not to a change in the egocentric relationship between the infant and the object. We conclude that even in a landmark-free environment (1) 6.5-month-old infants are capable of representing space allocentrically, and (2) they have the ability to update their location during passive movement.
Beak morphology and song features covary in a population of Darwin’s finches (Geospiza fortis)

Animal mating signals evolve in part through indirect natural selection on anatomical traits that influence signal expression. In songbirds, for example, natural selection on beak form and function can influence the evolution of song features, because of the role of the beak in song production. In this study we characterize the relationship between beak morphology and song features within a bimodal population of Geospiza fortis on Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos. This is the only extant population of Darwin’s finches that is known to possess a bimodal distribution in beak size. We test the hypothesis that birds with larger beaks are constrained to produce songs with lower frequencies and decreased vocal performance. We find that birds with longer, deeper, and wider beaks produce songs with significantly lower minimum frequencies, maximum frequencies and frequency bandwidths. Results from the analysis of the relationship between beak morphology and trill rate are mixed. Measures of beak morphology correlated positively with ‘vocal deviation’, a composite index of vocal performance. Overall these results support a resonance model of vocal tract function, and suggest that beak morphology, a primary target of ecological selection in Darwin’s finches, affects the evolution of mating signals. We suggest that differences in song between the two modes of the distribution may influence mate recognition and perhaps facilitate assortative mating by beak size and population divergence. © 2006 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2006, 88, 489–498.
Impact of flight regulations on effective use of unmanned aircraft systems for natural resources applications

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) have great potential for rangeland assessment, monitoring, and numerous other applications in natural resources management. In order for UAS to become a dependable tool for public land management agencies in carrying out their government-mandated responsibilities, it is necessary to integrate UAS into the National Airspace System (NAS), which includes all aircraft, manned or unmanned. To achieve this, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations have to be followed to assure public safety. UAS operators need to know that FAA safety regulations, which incorporate line-of- sight restrictions, will only allow slow progress towards an operational system, and they must plan accordingly for the extra time necessary to prepare and complete flight missions. By following approved safety procedures, UAS operators can develop a UAS flight team that is capable of accomplishing missions anywhere in the United States while contributing to a totally integrated NAS comprised of all aircraft systems that can be used jointly for natural resources management. At the same time, it is hoped that FAA regulations will change in the future based on the capabilities and experience of the UAS flight team and on the locale in which operations take place, especially over large, remote, and sparsely populated areas.
Modified assay procedures for the phosphotransferase system in enteric bacteria.

Abstract Conditions for the assay of individual components of the bacterial phosphotransferase system (PTS) are presented wich offer two important improvements over earlier methods. First, a lactate dehydrogenase-coupled assay for phosphocarrier proteins (HPr, FPr, and Factor IIIGle) which permits their measurement in either pure or partially pure form was developed. Quantitation by this assay does not rely on the level of activity of the enzymes used. Second, conditions under which Enzyme I activity was proportional to enzyme concentration are given. With these methods levels of PTS components have been measured that are 2-to 20-fold higher than those previously reported. These levels can now account for various PTS functions measured in vivo. Further, we have shown that the phosphocarrier proteins HPr and Factor IIIGle are substrates for their respective enzymes which show typical Michaelis-Menten kineties. In addition, a method for the partial purification of Enzyme II-BGle essentially free of Enzyme IIMan activity is presented.
The role and expectancy participation model: An empirical assessement and extension

Four hypotheses were investigated. The results substantially support and extend the usefulness of Schuler's role and expectancy participation model (1980). Schuler's model posits that participation intervenes to attenuate the relationships between job objectives and role conflicts and ambiguity. Also, participation, role conflict and role ambiguity are assumed to intervene to attenuate the relationships between job objectives and job satisfaction. The four hypotheses were tested using a sample of 187 retail store managers. Results revealed that job objectives were related to the role variables and satisfaction. Participation significantly attenuated the job objectives, role conflict and job satisfaction relationships. Implications for the use of the attributes of job objectives approach to integrate other objective setting paradigms are discussed.
A Model for Extending Hands‐On Science to Be Inquiry Based

Many popular hands-on science activities, as traditionally implemented, fail to support inquiry-based science instruction, because the activities direct teachers to terminate lessons prematurely. This paper presents a model describing one approach for extending seemingly limited hands-on activities into full-inquiry science lessons. The strategy involves (a) discrepant events to engage students in direct inquiry; (b) teacher-supported brainstorming activities to facilitate students in planning investigations; (c) effective written job performance aids to provide structure and support; (d) requirements that students provide a product of their research, which usually includes a class presentation and a graph; and (e) class discussion and writing activities to facilitate students in reflecting on their activities and learning. The paper presents the model as a tool for facilitating science teachers' efforts to understand and implement the type of powerful, effective, and manageable inquiry-based science instruction called for in the National Science Education Standards.
Global patterns of mergers and acquisition activity in the financial service industry

This paper analyzes empirical evidence regarding mergers and acquisitions in the global financial services industry. It examines the global deal-flow during the eleven-year period 1985–95 and generates a global typology of intra- and intersectoral M&A transactions among and between banks, insurance companies and securities firms. From these data it identifies financial services as one of the most active industries involved in the global M&A deal-flow. It also identifies the areas of greatest M&A intensity within the world financial services industry. The paper then assesses the motivations for financial services M&A transactions in the context of changed regulatory and competitive factors and evolution in management objectives emphasizing the pursuit of greater operating efficiencies, enhanced economies of scale and scope and greater market power which executives and boards of directors believe has led (or will lead) to increased shareholder value and competitive performance.
Parallel resonant DC link circuit-a novel zero switching loss topology with minimum voltage stresses

A parallel-resonant DC link (PRDCL) circuit topology is presented as a way to realizing zero-switching-loss, DC-AC high switching frequency power conversion. The circuit is used as an interface between DC voltage supply and the voltage-source PWM (pulse-width-modulated) inverter. It provides a short zero-voltage period in the DC link of the inverter to allow zero-voltage switching to take place in the PWM inverter. The peak voltage stress on the PWM inverter switches is limited to the DC supply voltage. Another significant advantage of the proposed circuit is that the inverter can be controlled by the conventional PWM strategy. The circuit is systematically analyzed, and its operation principle is explained in detail. Design considerations and formulae are also presented. A complete zero-voltage-switching DC-AC converter system consisting of the proposed circuit and the PWM inverter is simulated on computer. >
Factors associated with the content of sex education in U.S. public secondary schools.

CONTEXT: While sex education is almost universal in U.S. schools, its content varies considerably. Topics such as abstinence, and basic information on HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are commonly taught; birth control and how to access STD and contraceptive services are taught less often. Factors potentially associated with these variations need to be examined. METHODS: Data on 1,657 respondents to a 1999 national survey of teachers providing sex education in grades 7‐12 were assessed for variation in topics covered. Logistic regression was used to ascertain factors associated with instruction on selected topics. RESULTS: The content of sex education varied by region and by instructors’ approach to teaching about abstinence and contraception. For example, teaching abstinence as the only means of pregnancy and STD prevention was more common in the South than in the Northeast (30% vs. 17%). Emphasizing the ineffectiveness of contraceptives was less common in the Northeast (17%) than in other regions (27‐32%). Instructors teaching that methods are ineffective and presenting abstinence as teenagers’ only option had significantly reduced odds of teaching various skills and topics (odds ratios, 0.1‐0.5). CONCLUSIONS: Instructors’ approach to teaching about methods is a very powerful indicator of the content of sex education. Given the well-documented relationship between what teenagers learn about safer sexual behavior and their use of methods when they initiate sexual activity, sex education in all U.S. high schools should include accurate information about condoms and other contraceptives. Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health, 35(6):261‐269
Intravenous recombinant soluble human thrombomodulin prevents venous thrombosis in a rat model.

Abstract Thrombomodulin is an endothelial surface thrombin receptor. Thrombin bound to thrombomodulin loses all procoagulant activity and instead activates the protein C anticoagulant pathway. We developed a recombinant thrombomodulin analog and compared the effects of recombinant thrombomodulin (100 μg/ea), saline (controls), recombinant hirudin (1.0 mg/kg), and heparin (100 units/kg) on thrombus formation, activated partial thromboplastin time, and tail transection bleeding time in a rat model of stasis-induced venous thrombosis. Results showed that thrombus was detected in the vena cava in six of the six rats treated with saline solution, in zero of the six rats treated with recombinant thrombomodulin ( p p p p p = 0.037). In all rats treated with recombinant hirudin or heparin, activated partial thromboplastin times were >120 seconds and bleeding times were >1200 seconds. We conclude that recombinant thrombomodulin inhibits venous thrombosis in a rat model with less prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time and bleeding time than heparin or hirudin.
Is there an association between ephedra and heart failure? a case series.

Abstract Background Ephedra is a sympathomimetic commonly used for the purposes of athletic performance enhancement and weight loss. It is known to be associated with gastrointestinal and psychiatric manifestations. We report here on 6 cases of dilated cardiomyopathy associated with ephedra use. Methods and results Over a period of 18 months, 6 patients attending our outpatient department with new onset heart failure were noted to have exposure to ephedra. The case record was reviewed and detailed clinical and echocardiographic data were extracted. All 6 patients (4 males) had left ventricular dysfunction at presentation (mean ejection fraction 20 ± 5%) and were treated with conventional heart failure pharmacotherapy. All patients discontinued ephedra use as advised. New York Heart Association class improved from class III in 5 patients (class II in 1 patient) to class I, within a median of 6 months (range 3–96). Ejection fraction improved to a mean of 47 ± 6%. Conclusions Ephedra may be associated with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Withdrawal of this agent, in conjunction with proven pharmacotherapy, results in a significant improvement in functional status and left ventricular ejection fraction. We recommend specific enquiry into the use of over-the-counter supplements, particularly ephedra and its derivatives, when being evaluated with heart failure symptoms. These cases illustrate the potential risk of ephedra and provide additional support for the recent decision to ban this supplement.