cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of dicarboxylic anion transport by fluorescein isothocyanate in skeletal sarcoplasmic reticulum

It has been demonstrated previously that dicarboxylic anions are cotransported during ATP-dependent Ca2+ transport by skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) membranes, and that anion cotransport stimulates Ca2+ transport. In the current study, we present evidence that dicarboxylic anion cotransport and Ca2+ transport are kinetically distinct in SR, but both functions are mediated by the CaATPase protein. Preincubation of SR with 40 microM fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) (pH 7.0) inhibited essentially all of the Ca2+ ATPase activity, as well as active oxalate-supported and oxalate-independent 45Ca2+ accumulation. The addition of 1 mM beta, gamma-methyleneadenosine 5'-triphosphate (AMP-PCP) to the preincubation media fully protected the dicarboxylic anion-independent Ca2+ ATPase activity and the oxalate-independent active 45Ca2+ accumulation from the inhibitory effects of FITC; however, the ATP-associated [14C]oxalate accumulation, the oxalate-dependent 45Ca2+ accumulation, and the oxalate- and maleate-dependent stimulation of Ca2+ ATPase activity were not protected by AMP-PCP. Thus, the dicarboxylic anion accumulation and the stimulation of Ca2+ uptake by dicarboxylic anions could be functionally separated from the ATP-dependent, anion-independent Ca2+ translocation. FITC bound exclusively to the 100-kDa (CaATPase) and 92-kDa (phosphorylase) proteins in the SR membranes and to purified CaATPase in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; 1 mM AMP-PCP inhibited 50-55% of the FITC fluorescence on the 100-kDa protein, but did not significantly alter fluorescence on the 92-kDa protein. Two-dimensional gel analysis demonstrated a single 100-kDa protein in longitudinal SR membranes. FITC appears to inhibit ATP-dependent Ca2+ transport, and dicarboxylic anion translocation through interaction at separate domains of the CaATPase protein.
Big data challenges for large radio arrays

Future large radio astronomy arrays, particularly the Square Kilometre Array (SKA), will be able to generate data at rates far higher than can be analyzed or stored affordably with current practices. This is, by definition, a "big data" problem, and requires an end-to-end solution if future radio arrays are to reach their full scientific potential. Similar data processing, transport, storage, and management challenges face next-generation facilities in many other fields. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is developing technologies to address big data issues, with an emphasis in three areas: 1) Lower-power digital processing architectures to make highvolume data generation operationally affordable, 2) Date-adaptive machine learning algorithms for real-time analysis (or "data triage") of large data volumes, and 3) Scalable data archive systems that allow efficient data mining and remote user code to run locally where the data are stored.1
Structure and thermoelectric properties of spark plasma sintered ultrathin PbTe nanowires.

Solution-synthesized thermoelectric nanostructured materials have the potential to have lower cost and higher performance than materials synthesized by solid-state methods. Herein we present the synthesis of ultrathin PbTe nanowires, which are compressed by spark plasma sintering at various temperatures in the range of 405–500 °C. The resulting discs possess grains with sizes of 5–30 μm as well as grains with sizes on the order of the original 12 nm diameter PbTe nanowires. This micro- and nanostructure leads to a significantly reduced thermal conductivity compared to bulk PbTe. Careful electron transport analysis shows suppressed electrical conductivity due to increased short-range and ionized defect scatterings, while the Seebeck coefficient remains comparable to the bulk value. The PbTe nanowire samples are found unintentionally p-type doped to hole concentrations of 2.16–2.59 × 1018 cm–3. The maximum figure of merit achieved in the unintentionally doped spark plasma sintered PbTe nanowires is 0.33 at ...
European Union Enlargement and British Public Opinion: The Agenda-Setting Power of the Press

Abstract While the British government was strongly in favour of the 2004 European Union (EU) enlargement, British public opinion was predominantly against it. Being conducted under the theoretical umbrella of agenda-setting research, this article scrutinizes the print media coverage of EU enlargement between 2002 and 2004 to account for the gap between public opinion and official policy. It combines quantitative content analysis of coverage in a number of leading British newspapers with Eurobarometer public opinion data. After revealing strong evidence for the transfer of issue salience from media to public, it examines the role of the press in shaping public attitudes toward enlargement. The results not only provide an improved understanding of media effects in the British context but also have profound implications for the ‘democratic deficit’ debate in the EU.
Characterization of Nanometer-Scale Gap Formation

The capability of forming nanometer-scale gaps (nanogaps) in a controllable manner is needed for the manufacture of future nanoelectronic devices. In this paper, a method for characterizing the formation of nanogaps by lateral etching of a sacrificial layer is presented. This method is used to study the effect of gap size and postdeposition thermal annealing on the lateral etch rate of a SiO 2 layer sandwiched between a polycrystalline-silicon structural layer and a Si wafer substrate. Gaps smaller than ∼50 nm had a retarded etch rate, particularly if a buffered HF etchant was used. The lateral etch rate slowed after rapid thermal annealing at temperatures higher than 700°C. These dependencies must be taken into consideration when designing a fabrication process flow for nanoelectronic devices that require ultrasmall gaps.
Use of the 3-nitro-2-pyridine sulfenyl protecting group to introduce Nε-branching at lysine during solid-phase peptide synthesis I. Application to the synthesis of a peptide template containing two addressable sites

TASPs (template-assembled synthetic peptides) are generated by the covalent attachment of linear peptides to a common peptide backbone, thus generating larger synthetic peptides/proteins with prefolded structure. In this work we present a strategy for the synthesis of a heterotemplate-assembled synthetic peptide containing two addressable sites. This orthogonal protection strategy would allow the selective introduction of different peptide chains via the epsilon-amino functions of template lysines being protected by either fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl (Fmoc) or 3-nitro-2-pyridine sulfenyl (Npys) groups. The N alpha-Boc-N epsilon-Npys-L-lysine required for solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) is not readily available at a reasonable cost. To facilitate the more widespread use of this reagent we have compared the two published procedures for synthesizing this protected amino acid and evaluated the suitability of the products for SPPS. Two resin-bound peptides, a tripeptide Ac-G-K-Npys)-G-resin and an octapeptide template Ac-P1-K2-K3-L4-K5-K6-P7-G8-resin, were synthesized by SPPS. The epsilon-amino functions of lysines K2 & K6 and K3 & K5 of the octapeptide were protected by Fmoc and Npys groups, respectively. Secondly, these peptides were used to evaluate various reagents and reaction conditions for the deprotection of the epsilon-amino function of lysines bearing the N epsilon-Npys protecting group. A procedure for the optimized selective and quantitative deprotection of the Npys group from the epsilon-amino function of lysine in a resin-bound peptide using 2-mercaptopyridine-N-oxide is described.
Colonization of Phellinus weirii‐infested stumps by Trichoderma viride 1. Effect of isolate and inoculum base

Douglas-fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii(Mirb.) Franco] stumps infested with Phellinus weirii (Murr.) Gilb. were inoculated with the antagonist Trichoderma viride Pers.: Fr. Colonization of the stumps by Trichoderma spp. after one year was significantly higher in the upper 10-cm than in the middle or lower 10-cm section even though inoculum was present at all levels. A pellet inoculum made from fermented barley grains and spores proved to be superior inoculum to colonized dowels, but no difference was found among the three isolates of T. viride tested. Decayed wood was more readily colonized than stained wood and was much more readily colonized than sound wood.
A SINGLE-SUBJECT APPROACH TO EVALUATING VEHICLE SAFETY BELT REMINDERS: BACK TO BASICS

A single-subject ABA reversal design was applied to evaluate the effectiveness of a limited 8-s safety belt reminder system and two modified reminder systems (a delayed and second reminder) to increase the safety belt use of 13 drivers. The research was conducted with a specially equipped research vehicle that permitted the manipulation of different safety belt reminder stimuli and the unobtrusive recording of a driver's belt use. For 2 subjects, the limited 8-s reminder increased safety belt use. For another 2 subjects, the second reminder markedly increased belt use. Some subjects were uninfluenced by the reminder systems presented; others always buckled up during both baseline and intervention conditions. The approach and results are discussed with regard to the application of behavior analysis methodologies (e.g., cumulative records) and principles (e.g., schedules of reinforcement) to advance the utility and investigation of safety belt reminder systems.
A realistic approach to small aquaculture facilities

Abstract An economic analysis of aquaculture pond system development and operation is presented to show the cost comparison between various forms of temperate climate aquaculture facilities and the family-managed pond system.
1466 SERUM VITAMIN E LEVELS IN THE VERY LOW BIRTH WEIGHT INFANT DURING ROUTINE ORAL SUPPLEMENTATION

A prospective study was initiated to monitor serum tocopherol levels in all infants admitted to Indiana University Medical Center with birth weights 3.5 mg/dL. During the first 10 weeks of study, a total of 52 patients had 320 serum measurements. Of these, 132 levels (41%) were >3.5 mg/dL, and 42 (13%) were >5.5 mg/dL. Among 27 patients weighing 500-1000 grams, 87 of 197 levels (44%) were >3.5 mg/dL. Among 25 patients weighing 1001-1500 grams, 45 of 123 levels (37%) were 3.5 mg/dL. Serum tocopherol levels often: a) remained >3.5 mg/dL for several days after oral supplementation was discontinued, or b) again became >3.5 mg/dL on a reduced dosage of 25-50 mg/kg/day. These data indicate that infants weighing <1500 grams at birth who are receiving oral vitamin E supplementation at 100 mg/kg/day will have varied serum levels with a significant percentage exceeding 3.5 mg/dL.
X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy of the Zinc Site in tRNA-Guanine Transglycosylase from Escherichia coli†

A key step in the post-transcriptional modification of tRNA with queuine in Escherichia coli is the exchange of the queuine precursor, preQ{sub 1} into tRNA. This reaction is catalyzed by tRNA-guanine transglycosylase (TGT). We have previously shown that the E. coli TGT is a zinc metalloprotein. Site-directed mutagenesis studies indicated that cysteines 302, 304, 307 and histidine 317 constitute the four ligands to the zinc. The involvement of histidine 317 is somewhat confounded by the presence of histidine 316. We have examined the zinc site in TGT (wt) and TGT (H317C) by X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The TGT (wt) data are most consistent with a tetracoordinate zinc with one nitrogen and three sulfur ligands. Interestingly, the data for TGT (H317C) are also consistent with a tetracoordinate zinc with one nitrogen and three sulfur ligands. The outer shell imidazole scattering for TGT (H317C) appears to be somewhat more ordered than that for TGT (wt), consistent with our previous suggestion that the wild-type enyzme may exist in two conformations the predominant one involving histidine 317 liganding to the zinc and the minor conformer involving histidine 316 liganding to the zinc. The minor conformer, with histidine 316 coordinating the zinc, appears to have anmore » overall conformation that is subtly different from that of the wild-type enzyme. While TGT (H317C) has kinetic parameters very similar to the wild-type, it does not form the homotrimer quaternary structure of the wild-type. TGT (H317A) has previously been found to contain a significant amount of zinc, but is essentially inactive. This suggests that careful analysis of EXAFS data can reveal subtle conformational changes in metal binding sites that are not observed in more common probes of protein conformation such as CD spectroscopy. 28 refs., 3 figs., 3 tabs.« less
Predicting Elements of Early Maternal Elaborative Discourse from 12 to 18 Months of Age.

Abstract To date, much of the research investigating maternal–child discourse has focused on the preschool period of children's development, with little attention paid to how these styles develop. The current study aimed to assess whether maternal elaborative discourse elements seen in preschool are also evident during the toddler years, and whether the use of these elements is predicted by children's temperament, maternal mind mindedness, and attachment security. Results revealed that elaborative discourse elements are used by mothers during discourse with 12- and 18 month-old children, and that child temperament, attachment security, and maternal mind mindedness at 12 months predicted maternal use of these elements when children were 18 months old. These results provide evidence that elements of maternal discourse style begin forming prior to children's active involvement in discourse interactions and that child, maternal, and relationship characteristics assume important roles in shaping early discourse styles.
A Five-Factor Measure of Schizotypal Personality Traits

The current study provides convergent, discriminant, and incremental validity data for a new measure of schizotypy from the perspective of the five-factor model (FFM) of general personality structure. Nine schizotypy scales were constructed as maladaptive variants of respective facets of the FFM (e.g., Aberrant Ideas as a maladaptive variant of FFM Openness to Ideas). On the basis of data from 143 undergraduates, the convergent validity of these nine scales was tested with respect to seven established measures of schizotypy and the respective facets of the FFM. Discriminant validity was tested with respect to facets from other FFM domains and components of schizotypy. Incremental validity was tested with respect to the ability of the FFM schizotypy scales to account for variance in two established measures of schizotypy, after variance accounted for by respective FFM facets and other established measures of schizotypy were first removed. The findings support the validity of these new scales as measures of schizotypal traits and as maladaptive variants of the FFM.
NEURONAL DIVERSITY : TOO MANY CELL TYPES FOR COMFORT?

Recent studies indicate that there are many more different types of neuron in the brain than previously thought. This richness will complicate life for those aiming to understand how the brain works - particularly for the neural modellers.
A method for planning analysis and design simulation of CIM systems

Analytic models (AM) that combine a network of queues with resource reliability parameters are currently being applied to strategic planning analysis and design simulation of manufacturing systems. These models estimate the dynamic interaction between resources and production inventory in a manufacturing system computing the time each item being produced spends at each resource. These models predict the production rates and equipment utilization.Recent advances in modeling have resulted in models of factories that require a minimum amount of data input, give results quickly, and approximate real conditions. Often, such models are used to study a factory before its construction in order to select the most efficient alternative configurations for further consideration. In the application described here, an analytic model has been applied to a proposed printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing test cell to assist in making the strategic decisions required to design a manufacturing line for a new product. Lot size and process quality were studied and optimum conditions determined for each. The use of the model can help reduce the investment cost in expensive test equipment required to test products containing Very Large Scale Integrated (VLSI) circuits.
HCI and security systems

This workshop will seek to understand the roles and demands placed on users of security systems, and explore design solutions that can assist in making security systems usable and effective. In addition to examining end-users, this workshop will also examine the issues faced by security system developers and operators. The goal of the workshop is to build a network of interested people, share research activities and results, discuss high priority areas for research and development, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
The European Pine Marten Martes martes in the Balearic Islands, Spain

Between March and December 1990, a survey of Pine Marten Martes martes L. on the Balearic Islands of Minorca and Majorca was carried out. Pine Marten were found distributed over 55% of Minorca and occupied Aleppo Pine and Holm Oak forests, mediterranean shrublands and riparian/ cliff habitats. In Majorca, Pine Marten were found on 48% of the island and three broad physiographic areas, the Sierra de Tramuntana, Sierra de Levant and the Massif de Randa. Droppings were collected along four designated routes during five bimonthly intervals in Minorca to describe the Pine Marten's differential use of habitat types. The upland/open pine forest had the highest use index while the Holm Oak forest had the lowest. The number of Pine Marten faeces collected was greatest during the months of July-August. The Balearic Island Pine Marten populations were once on the verge of extinction; however, protection during the last 20 years has enabled the species to recover throughout most of the forested habitats on both islands. Resource managers must carefully monitor the Pine Marten populations to provide the species and its habitat with adequate protection and management in the future.
Attenuation of insulin secretion by insulin-like growth factor 1 is mediated through activation of phosphodiesterase 3B

Both insulin and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) are known to reduce glucose-dependent insulin secretion from the β cells of pancreatic islets. In this paper we show that the mechanism by which IGF-1 mediates this effect is in large part through activation of a specific cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase, phosphodiesterase 3B (PDE3B). More specifically, in both isolated pancreatic islets and insulin-secreting HIT-T15 cells, IGF-1 inhibits insulin secretion that has been increased by glucose and glucagonlike peptide 1 (GLP-1). Moreover, IGF-1 decreases cAMP levels in parallel to the reduction of insulin secretion. Insulin secretion stimulated by cAMP analogs that activate protein kinase A and also are substrates for PDE3B is also inhibited by IGF-1. However, IGF-1 does not inhibit insulin secretion stimulated by nonhydrolyzable cAMP analogs. In addition, selective inhibitors of PDE3B completely block the ability of IGF-1 to inhibit insulin secretion. Finally, PDE3B activity measured in vitro after immunoprecipitation from cells treated with IGF-1 is higher than the activity from control cells. Taken together with the fact that pancreatic β cells express little or no insulin receptor but large amounts of IGF-1 receptor, these data strongly suggest a new regulatory feedback loop model for the control of insulin secretion. In this model, increased insulin secretion in vivo will stimulate IGF-1 synthesis by the liver, and the secreted IGF-1 in turn feedback inhibits insulin secretion from the β cells through an IGF-1 receptor-mediated pathway. This pathway is likely to be particularly important when levels of both glucose and secretagogues such as GLP-1 are elevated.
Molecular Cloning and Expression of Lipid Transfer Inhibitor Protein Reveals Its Identity with Apolipoprotein F

Published studies demonstrate that lipid transfer inhibitor protein (LTIP) is an important regulator of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) activity. Although LTIP inhibits CETP activity among different lipoprotein classes, it preferentially suppresses transfer events involving low density lipoprotein (LDL), whereas transfers involving high density lipoprotein as donor are less affected. In this study, we report the purification of LTIP and the expression of its cDNA in cultured cells. Purification of LTIP, in contrast to other published protocols, took advantage of the tight association of this protein with LDL. Ultracentrifugally isolated LDL was further purified on anti-apoE and apoA-I affinity columns. Affinity purified LDL was delipidated by tetramethylurea, and the tetramethylurea-soluble proteins were separated by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The protein migrating at a molecular mass of approximately 33 kDa was excised from the gel and its N-terminal amino acid sequence determined. The 14-amino acid sequence obtained showed complete homology with the sequence deduced for apolipoprotein F (apoF) cDNA isolated from Hep G2 cells. On Western blots, peptide-specific antibodies raised against synthetic fragments of apoF reacted with the same 33-kDa protein in LTIP-containing fractions purified from LDL and from lipoprotein-deficient plasma. In contrast to that previously reported, apoF was shown to be associated almost exclusively with LDL, identical to the distribution of LTIP activity. The cDNA for apoF was cloned from a human liver cDNA library, ligated into a mammalian expression vector, and transiently transfected into COS-7 cells. Conditioned media containing secreted apoF demonstrated CETP inhibitor activity, whereas cells transfected with vector alone did not. This CETP inhibitor activity was efficiently removed from the media by nickel-Sepharose, consistent with the 6-His tag incorporated into recombinant apoF. By Western blot, the 6-His-tagged protein had a molecular weight slightly larger than native apoF. The CETP inhibitor activity of recombinant apoF possessed the same LDL specificity, oleate sensitivity, and dependence on lipoprotein concentration as previously noted for LTIP. We conclude that LTIP and apoF are identical.
NFATc is required for TGFβ-mediated transcriptional regulation of fibronectin

Abstract Calcineurin is an important regulator of extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation in the kidney but functions in a cell-specific manner. Previously, we identified a novel role for calcineurin in mesangial cells where calcineurin activity is required for TGFβ-mediated induction of fibronectin expression. In this study, we examined the role of the calcineurin substrate NFATc in transcriptional regulation of fibronectin. First, inhibition of calcineurin blocks TGFβ induction of the fibronectin promoter. Moreover, expression of constitutively active calcineurin in mesangial cells is sufficient to increase fibronectin transcription. Next, inhibition of the calcineurin substrate NFATc1 blocked TGFβ-mediated activation of the fibronectin promoter. Finally, stable expression of a dominant-negative NFATc protein reduced transcriptional activation of the promoter and inhibited TGFβ-mediated fibronectin expression. In conclusion, TGFβ activation of calcineurin in mesangial cells results in regulation of ECM accumulation at least in part by direct transcriptional activity of NFATc on the fibronectin promoter.
TCP Westwood(+) protocol implementation in ns-3

The poor performance of conventional TCP protocols in error prone channels is a well studied issue. Numerous optimizations to TCP to address this problem have been proposed. TCP Westwood is one such protocol engineered for use in wireless networks and employs a novel bandwidth estimation algorithm to determine the amount of data sent into the network in the presence of packet drops. In this paper, we present the implementation of the TCP Westwood and Westwood+ protocols in ns-3 and compare them against other existing ns-3 TCP implementations, TCP Tahoe, Reno, and NewReno. We validate our implementation by comparing performance of our implementation to the original work that introduced the Westwood protocols. In addition to validation, this paper also contributes as a performance evaluation of all existing ns-3 TCP protocols over selected network conditions.
Backscattering enhancement from a conducting surface with isotropic roughness

Abstract Measurements are presented of the angular distribution of scattered intensity associated with backscattering enhancement from a conducting surface with two-dimensional roughness. For a linearly polarized incident wave, the diffusely scattered intensity is found to be significantly polarization-dependent.
Reliability growth analysis tailored for continuous process plants

Traditional equipment-centric approach to conduct Reliability Growth Analysis (RGA) cannot be used in as-is condition in a continuous process plant. Part of this is owing to deficiencies in failure information. But mostly this is due to some special considerations typical of the operating environment of a continuous process plant. In this paper we have proposed and elaborated a practical, system-centric methodology that has taken into account all such considerations and ultimately factored them into the calculation process.
Thermal and mechanical properties and water absorption of guanidine hydrochloride-modified soy protein (11s)

Thermal and mechanical properties and water absorption of guanidine hydrochloride (GuHCl)-modified 11S soy protein and molded plastics made from it were studied using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), mechanical tests, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The DSC results showed that the denaturation temperature of GuHCl-modified 11S solutions was higher than that of the control sample and the high concentration GuHCl completely denatured 11S. Nonfreezing water of the modified 11S solution exhibited a minimum value at 0.9M GuHCl. Both DSC and DMA results showed that GuHCl was a plasticizer of 11S and the glass transition temperature of modified 11S plastics decreased with increasing GuHCl concentration. Both the stress and strain of modified 11S plastics reached their highest values at a 0.9 GuHCl concentration. The SEM observations supported these results. A water-absorption test showed an improvement in the water resistance of 11S plastics with GuHCl modification. The water absorption had a minimum value at 0.9M GuHCl. The interaction between GuHCl molecules and 11S protein was found to have important effects on the thermal and mechanical properties and the water absorption of 11S plastics. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 78: 1063–1070, 2000
Sexual Risk Behavior and Symptoms of Historical Loss in American Indian Men

Native Americans in the United States are not typically regarded as a most at-risk population for HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), despite emerging evidence which suggests otherwise. As a result, Native Americans lack access to key prevention services and programs. In planning prevention programs for this unique population, however, it is important to take into account the cultural factors that may be implicated in health risk behaviors. Historical Loss is a type of historical trauma that has been reported in Native Americans, and which may be related to health behaviors. We examined whether Historical Loss was associated with sexual risk behaviors in a sample of 120 American Indian men living in Fort Peck Reservation in northeastern Montana who completed questions regarding Historical Loss and sexual risk behaviors. Symptoms of Historical Loss that reflected Anxiety/Depression and Anger/Avoidance were associated with an increased likelihood of individuals’ having sex with multiple concurrent partners. Health interventions that aim to address HIV/STI prevention should take symptoms of Historical Loss into account, as Historical Loss could be a potential factor that will mitigate HIV, STI, and pregnancy prevention efforts in this population.
A VBM study demonstrating 'apparent' effects of a single dose of medication on T1-weighted MRIs

Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) studies have interpreted longitudinal medication- or behaviorally induced changes observed on T1-weighted magnetic resonance images (MRIs) as changes in neuronal structure. Although neurogenesis or atrophy certainly occurs, the use of T1-weighted scans to identify change in brain structure in vivo in humans has vulnerability: the T1 relaxation time for arterial blood and gray matter are not clearly distinguishable and therefore, apparent reported structural findings might be at least partially related to changes in blood flow or other physiological signals. To examine the hypothesis that apparent structural modifications may reflect changes introduced by additional mechanisms irrespective of potential neuronal growth/atrophy, we acquired a high-resolution T1-weighted structural scan and a 5-min perfusion fMRI scan (a measurement of blood flow), before and after administration of an acute pharmacological manipulation. In a within-subject design, 15 subjects were either un-medicated or were administered a 20 mg dose of baclofen (an FDA-approved anti-spastic) approximately 110 min before acquiring a T1-weighted scan and a pseudo continuous arterial spin labeled perfusion fMRI scan. Using diffeomorphic anatomical registration through exponentiated lie algebra within SPM7, we observed macroscopic, and therefore implausible, baclofen-induced decreases in VBM ‘gray matter’ signal in the dorsal rostral anterior cingulate (family wise error corrected at p < 0.04, T = 6.54, extent: 1,460 voxels) that overlapped with changes in blood flow. Given that gray matter reductions are unlikely following a single dose of medication these findings suggest that changes in blood flow are masquerading as reductions in gray matter on the T1-weighted scan irrespective of the temporal interval between baseline measures and longitudinal manipulations. These results underscore the crucial and immediate need to develop in vivo neuroimaging biomarkers for humans that can uniquely capture changes in neuronal structure dissociable from those related to blood flow or other physiological signals.
Diffusion-controlled reaction of water with glass

Abstract A model in which the diffusion of molecular water controls the rate of reaction of water with glass is considered. As a result of a number of questionable aspects of this model, it is concluded that the ion exchange mechanism is still the best one for the diffusion-controlled reaction of water with alkali silicate glasses.
Effect of dietary histidine on histidine-catabolizing enzymes in the chicken (Gallus domesticus)

Abstract Experiments were conducted to determine the influence of dietary histidine on histidine catabolism in the chick and to determine possible nutritional interrelationships between histidine and potassium salts of metabolizable organic anions. Supplemental histidine (5.5–6.0%) decreased weight gain and food consumption of chicks, increased liver size, and doubled the activities of liver histidase (EC 4.3.1.3) and histidine-pyruvate aminotransferase (EC 4.2.1.49). Histidine depressed plasma potassium concentration; no other interaction of potassium and histidine was observed.
Molecular characterization of an extended binding site for coagulation factor Va in the positive exosite of activated protein C.

The anticoagulant human plasma serine protease, activated protein C (APC), inhibits blood coagulation by specific inactivation of the coagulation cofactors factor Va (FVa) and factor VIIIa. Site-directed mutagenesis of residues in three surface loops of a positive exosite located on APC was used to identify residues that play a significant role in binding to FVa. Eighteen different residues were mutated to alanine singly, in pairs, or in triple mutation combinations. Mutant APC proteins were purified and characterized for their inactivation of FVa. Three APC residues were identified that provide major contributions to FVa interactions: Lys193, Arg229, and Arg230. In addition, four residues made significant minor contributions to FVa interactions: Lys191, Lys192, Asp214, and Glu215. All of these residues primarily contribute to APC cleavage at Arg506 in FVa and play a small role in the interaction of APC with the Arg306 cleavage site. In conjunction with previously published work, these results define an extensive FVa binding site in the positive exosite of APC that is primarily involved in binding and cleaving at Arg506 on FVa.
Estramustine and Estrone Analogs Rapidly and Reversibly Inhibit Deoxyribonucleic Acid Synthesis and Alter Morphology in Cultured Human Glioblastoma Cells

Estramustine is an estradiol-based agent that has been shown to accumulate in human glioma cells, resulting in a concentration-dependent alteration in cell size and shape within minutes and an inhibition of proliferation over 3 to 6 days. We evaluated human glioblastoma cultures with [3H]thymidine incorporation assays to determine estramustine's early effects on deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis in these tumors. Because estramustine shares a common structural motif with other antimicrotubule drugs, we synthesized four A-ring conjugates of estrone that contained a carbamate moiety but lacked nitrogen mustard. These analogs were examined by [3H]thymidine incorporation and compared with vinblastine. Greater than 70% inhibition of [3H]thymidine incorporation occurred within 1 hour of treatment with estramustine at 10(-5) mol/L, which increased to 80% inhibition at 4 hours. Ethyl carbamate JE208 was nearly as effective as estramustine in inhibiting deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis, and both were more effective than vinblastine. The inhibitory effects of estramustine and estrone analogs were reversible; vinblastine was not reversible. Although estramustine and JE208 induced similar antiproliferative and morphological changes in glioblastoma cells that persisted for at least 4 days, there was a modest recovery of morphology and thymidine incorporation with JE208 after prolonged treatment. The common findings with estramustine and JE208 suggest that these agents may have a similar mechanism of action and form the basis for the investigation of new agents that may rapidly and reversibly inhibit glioblastoma.
Mapping of Mars O2 1.27 μm dayglow at four seasonal points

Abstract The O2 dayglow at 1.27 μm is formed by high-altitude ozone on Mars and is a sensitive tracer of Mars photochemistry. Mapping of this dayglow using the IRTF/CSHELL long-slit spectrograph requires the extraction of weak emission lines against a strong continuum of the reflected solar light. Some new tools are suggested to improve the data processing. The observed O2 dayglow intensities at LS=67°, 112°, 148°, and 173° show a decrease from late spring (aphelion) to fall equinox by a factor of ≈5 at low latitudes (±30°). This decrease agrees with that predicted by a model of Clancy and Nair (1996, J. Geophys. Res. 101 (12) 12785–12790), although the dayglow intensities are weaker than those based on that model. The measured dayglow variations with latitude are rather low at LS=67°, 112°, and 148° and unexpectedly high at 173°. The dayglow intensity peaks near noon and is smaller at 9:00 and 16:30 LT by a factor of 2. Some data on the ozone profile near aphelion are obtained from a combination of the dayglow and ozone observations. It is hardly possible to detect the O2 night airglow at 1.27 μm on Mars using the existing ground-based and on-orbit instruments. The O2 dayglow intensity as a function of latitude and season from aphelion to fall equinox has been obtained. Our goal is to extend this distribution to the full martian year and get a database for Mars photochemistry to complement the MGS/TES observations of water vapor, atmospheric temperature, and dust and ice aerosol.
Uncovering the Laurasian roots of Eubranchipus

The species of the anostracan genus Eubranchipus Verrill, 1870 can be recognized as belonging to the same taxon and unambiguously distinguished from all other taxa in the family Chirocephalidae Daday, 1910 by the common morphology of their eversible penes. These reproductive structures are short, fat, and cylindrical with a single long, thin spine on the lateral margin at the tip of each penis. This ends the erroneous perception of Eubranchipus as a New World genus and recognizes it as an old taxon with members distributed across the modern continents that once comprised Laurasia.
A Revolute Joint With Linear Load-Displacement Response for Precision Deployable Structures

NASA Langley Research center is developing key structures and mechanisms technologies for micron-accuracy, in-space deployment of future space instruments. Achieving micron-accuracy deployment requires significant advancements in deployment mechanism design such as the revolute joint presented herein. The joint presented herein exhibits a load-cycling response that is essentially linear with less than two percent hysteresis, and the joint rotates with less than one in.-oz. of resistance. A prototype reflector metering truss incorporating the joint exhibits only a few microns of kinematic error under repeated deployment and impulse loading. No other mechanically deployable structure found in literature has been demonstrated to be this kinematically accurate.
Flame inhibition/suppression by water mist: Droplet size/surface area, flame structure, and flow residence time effects

Abstract The variation of optimal water droplet size on flame inhibition/suppression is investigated numerically by exploiting the distinct flow residence time of laminar methane–air premixed flames and counterflow non-premixed flames. For a gas inflow stream saturated with water vapor, it is shown that the relevant flow residence time of a premixed flame is governed by the droplet trajectory through the preheat region, while for a non-premixed flame, the relevant time scale is governed by the convective-diffusive layer relative to the saturated air-stream. Assuming no velocity lag between the gas and droplets at the inflow, a factor of four difference in droplet residence time is related to the predicted optimal droplet sizes of 6.5 μm for premixed flames and 20 μm for non-premixed flames. For droplets larger than the optimal size, the flame strength (defined as the square of the normalized burning velocity for premixed flames or normalized extinction strain rate for non-premixed flames) is shown to decrease linearly with increasing specific droplet surface area. As the water droplets approach the optimal size, the linear correlation stated above fails for both premixed and non-premixed flames; this failure can have major implications for the design of water-mist fire suppression systems. A comparison of present predictions and previously reported experimental data is also presented.
Collision-Broadening and -Shift of NO γ(0,0) Absorption Lines by H2O, O2, and NO at 295K

Abstract Isolated features within NO A ← X (0,0) near 225 nm were fully resolved in absorption across a static cell at room temperature (295 K) using the frequency-doubled output of a cw, rapid-tuning ring dye laser. These lines were perturbed by a single bath species, either O2, NO, or H2O, and were fit to Voigt profiles to extract values for the collision-width (2γ) and -shift (δ) coefficients. Both coefficients were essentially constants, independent of the ground state rotational energy, for any one perturber. For O2, NO, and H2O perturbers, 2γ was measured to be 0.53, 0.55, and 0.79 cm−1 atm−1, respectively. The companion measurements of δ were −0.16, −0.17, and −0.21 cm−1 atm−1. Inferred from the measurements of δ were upper bounds on the van der Waals energy constants for the NO A state. All perturbers induced slight asymmetries and narrowing of the lineshape.
Modulation of alarm pheromone perception in the honey bee: evidence for division of labor based on hormonall regulated response thresholds

Treatment of 1-day-old worker honey bees with the juvenile hormone analog methoprene prematurely reduced their behavioral threshold sensitivity to alarm pheromones. Electroantennogram assays indicated that peripheral perception was not affected; the effects apparently occurred in the central nervous system. These results support a model (Robinson 1987) of division of labor based on the hormonal regulation of response thresholds to task-associated stimuli. Coupled with other studies (Breed 1983; Robinson 1985), they also suggest that: 1) aggression in the honey bee is hormonally mediated and 2) a single hormone is involved in both the production and perception of an olfactory communication signal, the first report of this phenomenon in an invertebrate.
Neonatal stroke: description of patients and investigation into pathogenesis.

Abstract We report 15 patients with neonatal stroke reviewed retrospectively. Twelve patients had left middle cerebral artery involvement — the same ratio observed in 36 previously reported patients with strokes. We studied 20 normal neonates prospectively to determine whether a difference in flow velocity could be detected between the left and right middle cerebral arteries; pulsed Doppler ultrasound, which compared both velocities, demonstrated no significant difference.
Neurodegeneration: A Case of Arrested Development?

The neurodegenerative disease Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) is a polyglutamine expansion disorder characterized by the death of Purkinje neurons in the brain. In this issue, Serra et al. (2006) implicate the impaired function of the orphan nuclear receptor RORα in SCA1 pathogenesis. Their intriguing results suggest that derailing a transcription program during embryonic development may render adult neurons more susceptible to toxic insults.
The measurement of atmospheric hydrochloric acid in southern California

Abstract The denuder difference method (DDM) for HNO 3 , involving two nylon filter samplers, one of which is preceded by an acid-gas denuder, can also provide measurements of acidic, gaseous chloride, likely to be HCl, at ambient atmospheric concentrations. Sampling at a face velocity of 24 cm s −1 , nylon filters averaged 88% retention efficiency for up to 200 μg HCl. Nylon filters with a low and relatively constant Cl - blank are essential. Denuder tubes coated for 30 cm with MgO provided 94% removal efficiency for HCl and showed a very high capacity for this gaseous acid, at residence times similar to those used in atmospheric sampling. Concentrations of apparent HCl up to 4 μg m −3 (as Cl - ) were measured at Claremont, CA, with the DDM.
A moment-method design procedure for an array of EMC dipoles

A design procedure based on a moment-method analysis is given for an array of microstrip dipoles electromagnetically coupled (EMC) to microstrip transmission lines. One of the key features of the design procedure is that only one pair of EMC dipoles needs to be analyzed at a time in order to develop the necessary coupling coefficients. These coupling coefficients allow for the complete analysis or design of the array, accounting for interactions between all of the EMC line-dipole pairs. One of the useful properties of the present formulation is that EMC dipole arrays can easily be designed for which the length and offset of each dipole are the same, which simplifies the array construction. >
The potential of thermostatically controlled appliances for intra-hour energy storage applications

This paper investigates the potential of providing a variety of energy storage services by directly control the thermostatically controlled appliances (TCAs) from a centralized controller. Dispatch algorithms for the controller to arrange the turn-on and turn-off time and duration of individual TCAs are presented. The control goal is to operate each TCA within the customer-desired temperature range and maintain the TCA load diversity, and make the aggregated TCA load at the target load level. Methods to minimize the communication needs by reducing the monitoring and control data flows between the central controller and the end devices are also discussed. A thousand space heating units are modeled to demonstrate the control algorithms to provide load shifting and load balancing services for a period of 24 hours. The results demonstrate that the energy and ancillary services provided by the TCA loads meet the performance requirements and can become a major source of revenue for load-serving entities where the two-way communication smart grid infrastructure enables direct load control over the TCA loads.
Random-set approach to data fusion

This paper describes a fundamentally new theoretical approach to data fusion based on a novel type of random variable called the random finite set, and on a generalization of the familiar radon-nikodym derivative from the theory of the Lebesgue integral. We have shown how to directly generalize classical (i.e., single-sensor, single-target) parametric point estimation theory to the multi-sensor, multi-target, localization and classification realm. Using this theory we have shown that it is possible to construct data fusion algorithms in which detection, correlation, tracking and classification are unified into a single probabilistic procedure. We have also shown that a Cramer-Rao inequality holds for a general class of data fusion algorithms, apparently the first ever.
Authors' reply: Biopsy and personalized medicine

In their correspondence, Amalou and Wood rightly highlight the transition of advanced biopsy and imaging techniques from diagnostic to personalized prognostic tools.1 My Perspectives article2 used as its illustrative model the non-neoplastic disease of pancreatitis, in which determining susceptibility attributable to germ line variations in the DNA sequence is more informative than examining pancreatic tissue, whether from biopsy or on imaging. However, as Amalou and Wood point out, in the area of oncology, advanced imaging and biopsy techniques for next-generation 'omics' analyses will have a major role in the ultimate delivery of personalized medicine. For example, studies published in the past 2 years that examined the heterogeneity and evolution of somatic DNA changes in pancreatic3 and other cancers4 have revealed dynamic remodelling of the cancer genome. In this instance, further development and implementation of such imaging and biopsy techniques will support the development of predictive modelling that might help us to identify patients with pancreatic cancer early and to improve their treatment. I also agree that a focus on the tumour tissue itself will be essential for drug discovery and personalization in cancer care, although a parallel benefit does not exist in the chronic inflammatory conditions that served as the focus of my article.
Wetting Characteristics of Carbonate Melts under MCFC Operating Conditions

The wetting behavior of the Au electrode under molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC) operating conditions was investigated using a lab-scale cell with optical instrumentation. The general trends which were found were smaller contact angles, (i) under polarization than at open circuit, (ii) under an oxidizing atmosphere than under a reducing atmosphere, (iii) at high temperature rather than at lower temperature, and (iv) in Li-K carbonate than in Li-Na. Contact angles as a function of potential exhibit a dependence which resembles electrocapillary curves in aqueous solution, with the zero-charge (minimum wetting) potential and the open-circuit potential (OCP) being different, especially under a reducing atmosphere. The effect of electrolyte composition on the contact angle is interpreted in terms of activity and surface adsorption of oxides. The effect of polarization on wetting is analyzed from two different viewpoints, near OCP the electrocapillary theory is applied, while at high polarization the effect of migration is invoked. The inferior performance of Li/Na cells, compared to Li/K cells, at temperatures below 600°C, is analyzed from the viewpoint of capillary effects, and it is shown that these effects may explain the observed anode behavior and, at least in part, cathode behavior as well.