cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Elevated Levels of Beta Chemokine RANTES in the Sera of Perinatally HIV-Exposed but Not-Infected Children <36 Months ♦ 859

The CD8 T cell derived suppressive factors which were initially described to block the infection of M-tropic strains of HIV have now been identified asβ chemokines RANTES, MIP-α and MIP-β. Recent studies have shown that blocking the interaction between HIV and CCR5 (the β chemokine receptor) with endogenously produced high levels of β chemokines results in resistance to HIV infection. In this study, we sought to determine if higher endogenous levels of RANTES were present in children natally exposed but not HIV-infected as compared to age matched cohort of perinatally HIV-infected children. RANTES levels were measured by ELISA (Biosource, Camarillo, CA) from 3 groups of children all less than 3 years of age: group A(healthy controls), group B (perinatally HIV infected), group C (HIV exposed but not infected) from sera collected at times of routine examination. Viral load (Roche Amplicor HIV RNA PCR) and T cell subsets (CD4%, CD8% by FACS) were compared to RANTES levels in group B subjects by linear regression analysis. CD8% correlated with RANTES levels in HIV-infected children (r=.75, p<.05). No correlations were observed between viral load or CD4% with RANTES levels. Serum levels of RANTES were significantly higher in perinatally exposed but HIV-uninfected children than levels in HIV-infected or not exposed children. Endogenous response may be a contributing factor in interrupting perinatal transmission of HIV. Furthermore, pronounced RANTES response in HIV infected infants may be associated with better outcome as reflected by higher CD8%. The role of β chemokines in perinatal HIV infection should be studied further. Table
The impact of widespread deployment of fuel cell vehicles on platinum demand and price

Abstract Current automotive fuel cells rely on platinum catalysts. At today’s platinum loading and price, a 50-kW fuel cell contains approximately 46 g of platinum costing $2200. Analysts expect that with further development of fuel cell technology, the platinum loading per car will decline perhaps by an order of magnitude, which will tend to reduce platinum costs per car. However, cost reductions from a decline in platinum loading might be partially offset by an increase in the price of platinum. Historically, platinum prices have been sensitive to changes in demand, and the widespread substitution of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) for internal-combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) might significantly drive up platinum demand and hence platinum prices. The possible impact of rising platinum prices has been raised as a potential barrier to the commercialization of FCVs. In this paper, we estimate the total cost of platinum in future FCVs considering the impact of worldwide introduction of hydrogen FCVs on platinum loading, platinum demand and price. The total platinum cost per FCV is the product of the platinum per FCV and the price of platinum. Using historical data and a scenario for platinum recycling, we estimate the price of platinum as a function of demand, which in turn is a function of the amount of platinum per FCV and the total number of FCVs. For a scenario where FCVs reach 40% of light-duty vehicle (LDV) sales globally by 2050, we find that the average platinum price increases by around 70%, but that the average platinum loading declines by about 90%, so that the overall the cost per FCV declines by almost 80%, from current values of about $2200 to about $500 in 2045 and beyond. In 2045, platinum cost accounts for about 12.6% of the fuel cell system cost and about 4% of the vehicle cost.
The size-distance relation and intrinsic geometry of visual space: Implications for processing

Abstract When a perceived frontal size is matched to a perceived egocentric distance with only primary cues available, the corresponding physical size-distance ratio is about 0.5. Perceived visual angle exceeds physical angle by much less. It follows that under these conditions the visual space is not Euclidean. This phenomenon is demonstrated in two experiments. It may be the basic phenomenon responsible for the non-Euclidean character of visual space. It is, however, inconsistent with the assumption of homogeneity of the Luneburg-Blank theory. When additional cues to distance are introduced, the physical ratio is set much closer to the perceived ratio with no corresponding change in the perceived magnitude of visual angles. The results are interpreted as disconfirming the hypothesis that perceived size is inferred from visual angle and perceived distance. Rather they suggest two independent modes of spatial information processing.
Regularity of ground state solutions of dispersion managed nonlinear schrödinger equations

Abstract We consider the dispersion managed nonlinear Schrodinger equation (DMNLS) in the case of zero residual dispersion. Using dispersive properties of the equation and estimates in Bourgain spaces we show that the ground state solutions of DMNLS are smooth. The existence of smooth solutions in this case matches the well-known smoothness of the solutions in the case of nonzero residual dispersion. In the case x ∈ R 2 we prove that the corresponding minimization problem with zero residual dispersion has no solution.
Phenylphosphonic acid functionalized poly[aryloxyphosphazenes]

A method for the synthesis of phenylphosphonic acid functionalized poly[aryloxyphosphazenes] is described. Diphenyl chlorophosphate was used as the phosphonating agent and was allowed to react with lithio-functionalized aryloxyphosphazenes, followed by treatment with aqueous sodium hydroxide. Subsequent acidification with aqueous hydrochloric acid yielded phenylphosphonic acid functionalized poly[aryloxyphosphazenes]. These polymers are candidates for use as proton-conducting membranes in fuel cells.
Ovarian granulosa cell-derived insulin-like growth factor (IGF) binding proteins: release of low molecular weight, high-affinity IGF-selective species.

Abstract The ovarian granulosa cell has previously been shown to be a site of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) I production, reception, and action. It is the objective of this study to characterize in greater detail the soluble IGF binding activity released by this cell type. To this end, use was made of granulosa cells from immature diethylstilbestrol-treated rats. Serum-free media conditioned for 72 h by cultured untreated cells acquired polyethylene glycol (PEG)-precipitable [125I]IGF-I binding activity. The latter proved cell density-dependent, displaying a minimal inoculum requirement of ⩽ 3 × 105 cells/culture. The daily elaboration of IGF-I binding activity appeared constant throughout the 72 h experimental period, the overall time-dependent accumulation of binding activity (over the same time period) proving virtually additive. Scatchard analysis of detailed competition studies with IGF-I suggests that the latter ligand binds to granulosa cell-derived IGF binding protein(s) (IGFBPs) with an ap0parent affinity of 3 × 10-10 M. Qualitatively similar results were obtained when using [125I]IGF-II suggesting that the IGFBPs in question are not IGF-I-selective. In fact, specificity studies using either [125I]IGF-I or [125I]GF-II revealed a rank order of competitive potencies compatible with that observed in other tissues so studied (IGF-II > IGF-I ⪢ insulsin). The proteinacious nature of the acid-stable IGF binding activity under study was indicated by its sensitivity to relatively low concentrations of cycloheximide, its apparent deactivation following repeated cycles of freezing and thawing, and its virtual elimination when subjected to boiling or trypsin treatment. Cycloheximide-induced blockade of protein biosynthesis also revealed that the IGF binding activity is subject to measurable turnover thereby suggesting that its accumulation represents the balance struck between synthetic and degradative processes. Western ligand blotting of sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis-fractionated media revealed a non-glycosylated major band doublet of 28–29 kDa. A single minor IGFBP species represented by a 23 kDa band was also appreciated in some but not all experiments. Taken together, these findings document the ability of ovarian granulosa cells to secrete a heterogenous mix of low molecular weight, high-affinity IGF-selective binding species. As such, these observations are in keeping with the concept of a complete intraovarian IGF system replete with ligands, receptors, and soluble binding activity.
Trust, self-confidence, and operators' adaptation to automation

The increasing use of automation to supplant human intervention in controlling complex systems changes the operators' role from active controllers (directly involved with the system) to supervisory controllers (managing the use of different degrees of automatic and manual control). This paper examines the relationship between trust in automatic controllers, self-confidence in manual control abilities, and the use of automatic controllers in operating a simulated semi-automatic pasteurization plant. Trust, combined with self-confidence, predicted the operators' allocation strategy. A Multitrait-multimethod matrix and logit functions showed how trust and self-confidence relate to the use of automation. An ARMAV time series model of the dynamic interaction of trust and self-confidence, combined with individual biases, accounted for 60.9-86.5% of the variance in the use of the three automatic controllers. In general, automation is used when trust exceeds self-confidence, and manual control when the opposite is true. Since trust and self-confidence are two factors that guide operators' interactions with automation, the design of supervisory control systems should include provisions to ensure that operators' trust reflects the capabilities of the automation and operators' self-confidence reflects their abilities to control the system manually.
Wolbachia and the evolution of reproductive isolation between Drosophila recens and Drosophila subquinaria

Endosymbiotic bacteria of the genus Wolbachia are widespread among insects and in many cases cause cytoplasmic incompatibility in crosses between infected males and uninfected females. Such findings have been used to argue that Wolbachia have played an important role in insect speciation. Theoretical models, however, indicate that Wolbachia alone are unlikely to lead to stable reproductive isolation between two formerly nonspecific populations. Here we analyze the components of reproductive isolation between Drosophila recens, which is infected with Wolbachia, and its uninfected sister species Drosophila subquinaria. Laboratory pairings demonstrated that gene flow via matings between D. recens females and D. subquinaria males is hindered by behavioral isolation. Matings readily occurred in the reciprocal cross (D. quinaria females X D. recens males), but very few viable progeny were produced. The production of viable hybrids via this route was restored by antibiotic curing of D. recens of their Wolbachia symbionts, indicating that hybrid offspring production is greatly reduced by cytoplasmic incompatibility in the crosses involving infected D. recens males. Thus, behavioral isolation and Wolbachia-induced cytoplasmic incompatibility act as com- plementary asymmetrical isolating mechanisms between these two species. In accordance with Haldane's rule, hybrid females were fertile, whereas hybrid males invariably were sterile. Levels of mtDNA variation in D. recens are much lower than in either D. subquinaria or D. falleni, neither of which is infected with Wolbachia. The low haplotype diversity in D. recens is likely due to an mtDNA sweep associated with the spread of Wolbachia. Nevertheless, the existence of several mtDNA haplotypes in this species indicates that Wolbachia have been present as a potential isolating mechanism for a substantial period of evolutionary time. Finally, we argue that although Wolbachia by themselves are unlikely to bring about speciation, they can increase the rate of speciation in insects.
Teaching track faculty in CS (abstract only)

Many computer science departments have chosen to hire faculty to teach in a teaching-track position that parallels the standard tenure-track position. These teaching-track positions include the possibility for promotion, longer-term contracts and greater pay as demonstrated by excellence in teaching, educational material development, and service. Since this type of position is relatively new in CS departments, the expectations and responsibilities for such faculty varies from one university to another, but they certainly differ from the traditional tenure-track positions. This birds-of-a-feather is designed to gather educators who are currently in such a position to share their experiences as members of the faculty of their departments and schools, and to provide opportunities for schools considering such positions to gather information. In past sessions, we have laid the groundwork for keeping this community together through online discussions and consolidating information about teaching-track positions at various universities together into an online database.
A Portable Instrument for Measuring Apparent Directional Reflectance

A portable battery-powered spectroradiometer has been constructed for the measurement of the apparent directional reflectance of natural targets. A silicon detector that is tripod mounted and positioned to monitor a horizontally oriented reference panel determines the target irradiance. A second detector for measurement of target radiance is mounted on the tripod swivel head. Electronic switching provides alter-nate detector references for the determination of apparent directional reflectance. Snap-on interference filters allow measurement in desired spectral bands. Equipment calibration procedures are discussed and typical experimental radiation data are given.
Birth cohort changes in extraversion: a cross-temporal meta-analysis, 1966–1993

Abstract This paper examines change over time in American college students’ scores on the extraversion scales of the Eysenck Personality Inventory and the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire. The meta-analysis aims to investigate birth cohort as a proxy for the larger sociocultural environment, a previously unexamined influence on personality beyond genetics and family environment. Data collection strategies yielded 59 studies reporting data on 16,846 students. Correlations between extraversion scores and year of data collection were positive and strong (≥0.65) for both men and women and across both measures, suggesting that extraversion has increased over time. The increase is large, between 0.79 and 0.97 standard deviations (SDs) over 20–25 years, explaining between 14 and 19% of the variance in personality over this time.
The Economic Development of India under the East India Company 1814–58: A Selection of Contemporary Writings

Note on Indian currency and weights Introduction and statistical appendix 1. George Alexander Prinsep, remarks on the external commerce and exchanges of Bengal, with appendix of accounts and estimates (1823) 2. Thomas Tooke, a history of prices, and of the State of the circulation during the nine years (1848-56), volume VI (1857), appendix XXIII 3. John Horsley Palmer, minutes of evidence taken before the Select Committee on the affairs of the East India Company, 16 March 1832 4. John Crawfurd, a sketch of the commercial resources and monetary and mercantile system of British India, with suggestions for their improvement, by means of banking establishments (1837) Index.
Energy transfer in Eu3+-Yb3+ and Tb3+-Yb3+ system in glasses

Abstract The behavior of the phonon-assisted energy transfer between trivalent rare-earth ions in glasses was investigated. The ions Eu3+ and Tb3+ as energy donors and Yb3+ as acceptor were selected. The energy gap between the levels of the donor and acceptor was estimated on the basis of the energy diagram of each ion determined from absorption and emission spectra. The probability for the transfers of (Eu, 5D0-7F6): (Yb, 2 F 7 2 - 2 F 5 2 ) and (Tb, 5D4-7F0): (Yb, 2 F 7 2 - 2 F 5 2 ) in silicate, borosilicate, phosphate and germanate glasses was measured in the temperature range of liquid-nitrogen temperature - 650K. The probability of transfer was the smallest in phosphate glass and B2O3 had the effect of increasing it. In germanate glass the dependence of the probability of the energy gap was relatively weak. These results were correlated to the difference in the phonon energy and the strength of the electron-lattice coupling in each glass.
Hurricanes could increase over western Europe

Damaging hurricanes are familiar along the North American East Coast but are relatively rare in western Europe. That could change as Earth's climate warms over the next century, according to a new study. Western European coastal areas do occasionally experience hurricane force storms in the current climate, but these occur mainly in winter and are formed not as tropical cyclones but by the midlatitude atmospheric baroclinic instability, which is driven by the north-south atmospheric temperature gradient.
Networked unknown input observer analysis and design for time-delay systems

The insertion of communication networks in the feedback loops of control systems is a defining feature of modern control systems. These systems are often subject to unknown inputs in a form of disturbances, perturbations, or attacks. The objective of this paper is to analyze and design an observer for networked systems with unknown disturbances and inputs. The network effect can be viewed as either a perturbation or time-delay to the exchanged signals. In this paper, we focus on the time-delay representation of the network. First, we review an Unknown Input Observer (UIO) design for non-networked system from the UIO literature. Second, we derive the dynamics of the UIO-based NCS, also referred to as Networked Unknown Input Observer (NetUIO). Third, we design the NetUIO such that the effect of higher delay order terms are nullified, assuring that the effect of the unknown inputs on the plant state estimation is minimized. Fourth, we derive a bound on the maximum allowable timedelay for the NetUIO. Finally, a numerical example is shown to illustrate the usefulness of the proposed model. Keywords—Networked Control Systems, Unknown Input Observers, NetUIO, Time-Delay Systems.
Data exchange strategy for manufacturing simulation of shop floor information systems

Manufacturing provides one of the most important applications of simulation. Standard interfaces could make information sharing effective, and hence promote the utilisation of simulators. An information model, which represents machine shop data and facilitates data sharing among machine shop's manufacturing execution system, scheduling system, and simulation system, has been developed at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. This paper discusses information exchange, using the information model, between different representations, presents an algorithm to exchange data between a database system and an eXtensible Markup Language (XML) document, and describes interfaces for XML schema's validation, structured query, and data transfer.
Isolation of an inhibitor protein of E. coli RNA polymerase from T7 phage infected cell.

BACTERIOPHAGE T7 gene expression is under a unique transcriptional control. The ‘early to late’ switch in T7 development involves a switch from the host Escherichia coli RNA polymerase to the T7-coded enzyme (T7-specific RNA polymerase1), transcribing early mRNA and late mRNA, respectively, from two different regions of the T7 genome2. In addition to the gene 1 coding for T7-specific RNA polymerase, this early–late switch requires the function of another early gene of T7, gene 0.7 or the ‘host shut-off’ gene2,3, to shut off the synthesis of host RNA and T7 early mRNA. This shut-off function is assumed to be an inactivation of the host RNA polymerase, although this has not been proven4,5. Furthermore, we have previously shown that T7 early mRNAs are functionally unstable, although they remain chemically stable late in T7 infection6,7. Thus, it seems that a complete switch of T7 gene expression from early to late involves at least three different control mechanisms. It has been shown that a T7-coded translational repressor may also play a role in the elimination of host functions8.
Numerical Simulation of Light Transmission through Optical Fibers: Linear and Nonlinear

We have produced a variety of triangular-mesh finite difference codes for studying the light propagation properties of complex optical fibers in both the linear and nonlinear regimes.
NOTE ON THE ATTITUDE TOWARD HYPNOSIS OF VOLUNTEERS AND NONVOLUNTEERS FOR AN HYPNOSIS EXPERIMENT

Individuals who volunteer as Ss for hypnosis experiments frequently are thought to have particular personality characteristics which may bias experiments in which they participate (cf. Sweetland, 1955 ). However, a recent study by Martin and Marcuse (1958) suggests that volunteers and nonvolunteers for an hypnosis experiment do not differ widely. Nor do the volunteers appear much different from volunteers for other types of psychological experiments. The present report casts some further light on the contention. It concerns attitude toward hypnosis of volunteers and nonvolunteers for an hypnotic experiment. The technique employed Card 12M of the TAT which frequently evokes themes involving hypnosis and which White (1937) has used to measure susceptibility to hypnosis. TAT cards, including 12M, were administered to 78 student nurses in a group, using slides. They were then asked to participate as paid volunteers in a study in which they would be hypnotized. Thirty-three volunteered. Seven of these, and 9 of the nonvolunteers, had given a hypnosis theme to Card 12M. The proportions are almost identical (21% and 20%) and a corrected x2 comparison is zero. The 16 hypnosis themes were then rated blindly for positive, negative, or neutral attitude toward hypnosis by two psychologists, and agreement was obtained on each theme by a conference technique. Of the 9 nonvolunteers, 6 gave positively-toned themes, while of the 7 volunteers, only 3 did so. The P value of the difference is .15, but the difference itself is opposite from the expected direction if it is hypothesized that positive attitude influenced participation. Insofar as one is willing to accept the evoking of an hypnotic theme by Card 12M and its affective tone as indices of attitude toward hypnosis, our data do not show differences between the attitudes of volunteers and nonvolunteers for an hypnotic experiment.
Microfiltration in recycling of Marcellus Shale flowback water: Solids removal and potential fouling of polymeric microfiltration membranes

Abstract Flowback water generated during unconventional gas extraction is of great concern due to its high total dissolved solids (TDS), radioactive elements and organic matter. Abandoned mine drainage (AMD) is a water source that is often located in the vicinity of gas wells and can be mixed with flowback water to reduce fresh water usage for hydraulic fracturing. The feasibility of microfiltration to separate solids created by mixing actual flowback water and AMD was evaluated using a bench-scale setup. Hydrophilic polyvinyldiene fluoride (PVDF) membrane with a pore size of 0.22 μm was as a model polymeric microfiltration membrane. Severe membrane fouling occurred during the first 5 min of filtration with one flowback/AMD mixture while no significant fouling was observed for a different mixture. It was found that the flowback water that caused membrane fouling contained stable iron-based colloids with an average particles size of 0.2 μm, especially in the samples collected early in the flowback period. These colloids were not formed by mixing flowback water containing high barium concentration with AMD rich in sulfate but were originally present in the flowback water. Stability of these sub-micron colloidal particles at high ionic strength of the flowback water is attributed to organic coating on the particle surface.
The log normal model of asset prices

This paper returns to the theme of investment engineering, i.e., the application of system models and mathematical analysis to the task of accumulating financial wealth. A system-level block diagram of a financial asset management account (FAMA) was presented.
Intracranial complications of pediatric frontal rhinosinusitis.

BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to review the presentation and management of children admitted for intracranial complications arising from frontal rhinosinusitis. We performed a retrospective case series review at two academic tertiary care children's hospitals. METHODS This study consisted of children < 18 years old who presented with intracranial complications from frontal rhinosinusitis between January 1, 1990 and December 31, 2002. Relevant literature was reviewed with the assistance of Medline. Presentation, type of intracranial complication, radiographic evaluations, response to treatment, and prognosis were evaluated. RESULTS Sixteen patients were identified with intracranial complications due to frontal rhinosinusitis. Patients were usually older (mean age, 14 years and 3 months), of male gender (M/F, 4.3:1.0), and African American (AA/W, 3.0:1.0). Headache, nasal congestion, and visual changes were the most common early symptoms and neurological findings indicated advanced disease. Subdural (56%), epidural (44%), and cerebral abscesses (19%) were the most common complications. Meningitis alone was identified in 13% and was associated with another intracranial complication in 6%. Multiple intracranial complications were noted in 31%. Polymicrobial cultures were obtained in 50% of patients. Although CT was excellent in identifying orbital pathology, MRI was superior for characterization of intracranial disease. CONCLUSION Intracranial complications of frontal rhinosinusitis are rare in children. Early symptoms often are nonspecific, with neurological findings more commonly seen in advanced disease. Adolescent African American male patients were found to be at highest risk for intracranial complications from frontal rhinosinusitis. Headache and orbital complaints associated with rhinosinusitis in older children failing to respond to initial therapy should prompt an aggressive evaluation including MRI.
Comparison of Predicted and Measured Helium Production in U.S. BWR Reactors

Helium production in reactor steel is calculated as the summation of all neutron reactions that produce helium either with thermal or fast neutrons. Thermal helium production is due to elements or impurities that are known to have a thermal neutron cross section for helium production, including 10B and 59Ni. Fast neutrons produce helium in all materials due to the threshold (n,?) reactions as well as other reactions that include helium as one of the reaction products. A generalized equation is given for helium production in all reactor materials and comparisons are given for helium measurements in steel and inconel samples. The helium production calculated using the generalized equation is in good agreement with helium measurements in samples from BWR reactors. Simplified equations are given with numerical values and generic parameters to facilitate calculations. However, it is important to use the actual boron content when known to obtain reliable estimates of the helium production.
Testosterone and Prostate Cancer: An Historical Perspective on a Modern Myth

Abstract Objectives To review the historical origins and current evidence for the belief that testosterone (T) causes prostate cancer (pCA) growth. Methods Review of the historical literature regarding T administration and pCA, as well as more recent studies investigating the relationship of T and pCA. Results In 1941 Huggins and Hodges reported that marked reductions in T by castration or estrogen treatment caused metastatic pCA to regress, and administration of exogenous T caused pCA to grow. Remarkably, this latter conclusion was based on results from only one patient. Multiple subsequent reports revealed no pCA progression with T administration, and some men even experienced subjective improvement, such as resolution of bone pain. More recent data have shown no apparent increase in pCA rates in clinical trials of T supplementation in normal men or men at increased risk for pCA, no relationship of pCA risk with serum T levels in multiple longitudinal studies, and no reduced risk of pCA in men with low T. The apparent paradox in which castration causes pCA to regress yet higher T fails to cause pCA to grow is resolved by a saturation model, in which maximal stimulation of pCA is reached at relatively low levels of T. Conclusions This historical perspective reveals that there is not now—nor has there ever been—a scientific basis for the belief that T causes pCA to grow. Discarding this modern myth will allow exploration of alternative hypotheses regarding the relationship of T and pCA that may be clinically and scientifically rewarding.
A Multi-agent System for Complex Vehicle Fault Diagnostics and Health Monitoring

This paper presents a multi-agent system(MAS_VFD&HM) developed for complex vehicle fault diagnosis and health monitoring. The MAS_VFD&HM consists of signal diagnostic agents, special case agents, and a vehicle diagnostic/monitoring agent. A signal agent is responsible for the fault diagnosis or monitoring of one particular signal using either a single signal or multiple signals depending on the complexity of signal faults. Special case agents are those trained to detect specific component faults. All these agents are autonomous and report their results to the Vehicle System Agent. A computational framework is presented for agent learning and agent operation. The proposed MAS_VFD&HM is scalable, versatile, and has the capability of dealing complex problems such as multiple faults in a vehicle system. Although our focus was on the automotive diagnostics, the proposed MAS_VFD&HM is applicable to complex engineering diagnostic problems beyond vehicles.
The impact of alcohol use severity on anxiety treatment outcomes in a large effectiveness trial in primary care.

Objective The presence of anxiety disorders is associated with poorer alcohol use disorder treatment outcomes, but little is known about the impact of alcohol use problems on anxiety disorder treatment outcomes despite their high comorbidity. The current study examined the impact of alcohol use symptom severity on anxiety disorder treatment outcomes in a multi-site primary care effectiveness study of anxiety disorder treatment.
Impact of macromolecular crowding on DNA replication.

Enzymatic activities in vivo occur in a crowded environment composed of many macromolecules. This environment influences DNA replication by increasing the concentration of the constituents, desolvation, decreasing the degrees of freedom for diffusion and hopping of proteins onto DNA, and enhancing binding equilibria and catalysis. However, the effect of macromolecular crowding on protein structure is poorly understood. Here we examine macromolecular crowding using the replication system of bacteriophage T7 and we show that it affects several aspects of DNA replication; the activity of DNA helicase increases and the sensitivity of DNA polymerase to salt is reduced. We also demonstrate, using SAXS analysis, that the complex between DNA helicase and DNA polymerase/trx is far more compact in a crowded environment. The highest enzymatic activity corresponds to the most compact structure. Better knowledge of the effect of crowding on structure and activity will enhance mechanistic insight beyond information obtained from NMR and X-ray structures.
Modulation of quaternary structure of S100 proteins by calcium ions

It is well established that calcium binding leads to conformational changes in S100 proteins. These conformational changes are thought to activate the protein and render a protein conformation that is capable of binding other proteins. The basic quaternary structural motif of S100 proteins is a homodimer, however there is little information if higher order non-covalent oligomers are also formed and whether these oligomers are of functional relevance. To this end we performed equilibrium analytical ultracentrifugation experiments for 16 S100 proteins (S100A1, S100A2, S100A3, S100A4, S100A5, S100A6, S100A7, S100A8, S100A9, S100A10, S100A11, S100A12, S100A13, S100B, S100P, and S100Z) under reducing conditions in the absence and presence of calcium ions. We show that the addition of calcium promotes the formation of tetrameric structures which could be further enhanced under in vivo conditions where there is an additional effect of molecular crowding.
A Geometric Approach to Head/Eye Control

In this paper, we study control problems that can be directly applied to controlling the rotational motion of eye and head. We model eye and head as a sphere, or ellipsoid, rotating about its center, or about its south pole, where the axes of rotation are physiologically constrained, as was proposed originally by Listing and Donders. The Donders' constraint is either derived from Fick gimbals or from observed rotation data of adult human head. The movement dynamics is derived on SO(3) or on a suitable submanifold of SO(3) after describing a Lagrangian. Using two forms of parametrization, the axis-angle and Tait-Bryan, the motion dynamics is described as an Euler-Lagrange's equation, which is written together with an externally applied control torque. Using the control system, so obtained, we propose a class of optimal control problem that minimizes the norm of the applied external torque vector. Our control objective is to point the eye or head, toward a stationary point target, also called the regulation problem. The optimal control problem has also been analyzed by writing the dynamical system as a Newton-Euler's equation using angular velocity as part of the state variables. In this approach, explicit parametrization of SO(3) is not required. Finally, in the appendix, we describe a recently introduced potential control problem to address the regulation problem.
Effect of Electron Transfer on the Electron Spin Resonance Spectrum of the Fluoranil Semiquinone

THE electron spin resonance spectrum of the fluoranil semiquinone has been reported by Anderson, Frank and Gutowsky1. We have obtained various spectra of this semiquinone in the course of research concerning organic oxidation-reduction reactions.
Novel COL4A3 mutations in African American siblings with autosomal recessive Alport syndrome.

We describe a novel mutational study in 2 African American siblings with autosomal recessive Alport syndrome. Both siblings were compound heterozygotes for 2 abnormal DNA sequences in exon 49 of the COL4A3 gene, p.Arg1496X (CGA→TGA) and p.Arg1516X (CGA→TGA). These are nonsense mutations in the noncollagenous domain resulting in premature termination codons and have not been previously reported. In an African American population in which autosomal recessive Alport syndrome is rarely seen, complete sequencing of the COL4A3 and COL4A4 genes may be necessary to identify the underlying mutation and confirm the diagnosis.
Photoacoustic imaging of gelatin phantoms using matched-field processing

Matched Field Processing (MFP) has been used in the ocean acoustics community to localize acoustic sources by correlating experimental data with a modelled field based on a solution to the acoustic wave equation. Here we attempt to adapt the method of MFP to localize an acoustic source in a tissue phantom made from an acrylamide gel. An acrylamide gel in a cylindrical geometry was formed with a small optically absorbing sphere embedded within it. A Q-switched, frequency- doubled Nd:YAG laser operating at 532 nm coupled to an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) tuned to 726 nm was used to irradiate the absorbing sphere. The pulse duration was 4.75 ns and the absorption coefficient of the absorbing sphere was 15 cm-1. The stress confined laser energy resulted in an acoustic pulse radiating from the absorbing sphere. A piezoelectric transducer was used to detect the pulses at various locations on the gel. By vertically translating the transducer a virtual hydrophone array was constructed. The acoustic field was modeled using normal mode methods. A simulation was performed using the normal mode model as virtual data which was then correlated with the normal mode model itself. Finally, the experimental acoustic array data was correlated to the normal mode model.
Effects of Heme Ligand Mutations Including a Pathogenic Variant, H65R, on the Properties of Human Cystathionine β-Synthase†

Human cystathionine β-synthase is a hemeprotein that catalyzes a pyridoxal phosphate (PLP)-dependent condensation of serine and homocysteine into cystathionine. Biophysical characterization of this enzyme has led to the assignment of the heme ligands as histidine and cysteinate, respectively, which has recently been confirmed by crystal structure determination of the catalytic core of the protein. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we confirm that C52 and H65 represent the thiolate and histidine ligands to the heme. Conversion of C52 to alanine or serine results in spectral properties of the resulting hemeprotein that are consistent with the loss of a thiolate ligand. Thus, the Soret peak blue-shifts from 428 to 415 and 417 nm in the ferric forms of the C52S and C52A mutants, respectively, and from 450 to 423 nm in the ferrous states of both mutants. Addition of CO to the dithionite-reduced ferrous C52 mutants results in spectra with Soret peaks at 420 nm. EPR spectroscopy of the ferric C52 variants reveals...
The free swimming Pipa larvae, with a review of pipid larvae and pipid phylogeny (Anura: Pipidae).

This paper describes the morphology of the free swimming Pipa larvae, compares them with Xenopus, Hymenochirus, and to some extent, Rhinophrynus larvae, and presents a morphological diagnosis of pipid larvae. Pipa and Xenopus have very similar chondrocrania. Hymenochirus is superficially different but has the same diagnostic features. The differences appear related to its small size and predatory habitus. Other aspects of anatomy, especially the filter apparatus are very different in each genus. The filter apparatus of Pipa is somewhat reduced and seems modified for the retention of relatively large (20+microns) particles. Similar adaptations may have been annectant to predations in Hymenochirus, which lacks a filter apparatus. However, varying states of seven character complexes, which cut across the varying ecology, show that there are two basic pipid lineages, each currently confined to Africa or South America, respectively. Recent finds of fossil South American Xenopus indicate that these two lineages separated before the continents did. This does not warrant the recognition of two subfamilies because Xenopus and Hymenochirus are too different. Pseudhymenochirus is not an intermediate between them; it is a primitive Hymenochirus. Eight character states separate pipid and rhynophrynid larvae.
Glucuronidation of digitalis glycosides by rat liver microsomes: Stimulation by spironolactone and pregnenolone-16α-carbonitrile

Abstract In the present studies, glucuronidation of [ 3 H]digoxigenin monodigitoxoside and [ 3 H]digitoxigenin monodigitoxoside has been investigated in vitro using rat liver microsomes. During a 40-min incubation period, the conjugation of digitoxigenin monodigitoxoside was five times greater than of digoxigenin monodigitoxoside at a substrate concentration of 5 μm and three times greater at a 20 μM substrate concentration. No difference in conjugation rates was observed between male and female rats, with either substrate. Pretreatment with spironolactone (100 mg/kg/day for 3 days) stimulated the conjugation of both substrates in females, but no significant changes were observed in males with either substrate. Pretreatment (75 mg/kg/day) with pregnenolone-16α-carbonitrile (PCN) caused enhanced glucuronidation of both substrates in both sexes. The conjugation rates in the PCN-pretreated rats were approximately twice those of the spironolactone-pretreated rats. The possible role of this increased conjugation in the protective effect of spironolactone and PCN against digitalis toxicity is discussed.
Carcinoma of the breast arising in fibroadenomas, with emphasis on lobular carcinoma: A clinicopathologic study

This paper deals with the clinicopathologic features exhibited in 7 cases of carcinoma of the breast arising in fibroadenomas. The average age of the patients was 44, a figure similar to that reported in the only other comparable study, approximately 20 years older than the peak incidence of fibroadenomas in the general female population. Lesions were uniformly asymptomatic and varied in known duration from 10 days to 10 years. Clinical and gross pathologic examinations were characteristic of fibroadenoma. The predominant pathologic expression of the carcinoma developing within a fibroadenoma appears to be lobular rather than ductal and is primarily one of lobular carcinoma in situ, an occurrence which supports the concept that a portion of the mammary epithelium within some fibroadenomas is of terminal duct and lobular derivation. The clinical and pathologic features of lobular carcinoma are reviewed, and recommendations for appropriate management of both lobular and ductal neoplasms are offered.
An Exemplar for Combining the Collection, Analysis, and Interpretations of Verbal and Nonverbal Data in Qualitative Research

Denham and Onwuegbuzie (2013) provided evidence that relatively few qualitative researchers include any mention of nonverbal communication in their empirical articles. Of those who do include this information, the vast majority of qualitative researchers devote as little as one sentence to nonverbal communication data in their published articles. However, this lack of reporting of nonverbal communication data likely stems from the scant guidance in this area given by authors of qualitative research textbooks. Thus, the purpose of the present article is to provide a framework for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting nonverbal communication behavior. This framework yields guidelines for students to collect, to analyze, to interpret, and to report nonverbal communication data. Underlying this framework is a 13-step nonverbal communication process that serves as a conceptual framework that we use in our qualitative research methodology courses to help students develop a nonverbal communication way of thinking. This 13-step nonverbal communication process occurs at the following three stages: the Conceptualization Stage, the Planning Stage, and the Implementation Phase. Rather than representing a linear process, the nonverbal communication methodological steps within each stage and across stages are interactive and recursive. After providing this framework, we present an exemplar for reporting nonverbal communication data.
The Transformative Power of Social Media on Emergency and Crisis Management

There is a wind of transformation blowing across the world today. It is changing the face of emergency management and every field of human endeavor. It is called “social media”. These days, social media is redefining crisis preparedness through the increasing participation of the masses in the creation and distribution of content in ways that surpass the capacity of the mass media and public authorities. Public-generated content has been found to be useful in all phases of preparedness. Unfortunately, most public safety authorities are still suspicious of using social media in engaging and disseminating information. This article examines this new area of transformation that is having significant consequences on public safety and public life. As the scenario unfolds, emergency managers have a tough time choosing between the mass media and social media. Metaphorically, it is a race between a ‘hippo’ (mass media) and cheetah (social media). DOI: 10.4018/jiscrm.2010120401 2 International Journal of Information Systems for Crisis Response Management, 2(1), 1-10, January-March 2010 Copyright © 2010, IGI Global. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global is prohibited. refusal to adopt the pipe-borne water projects reminded me of their hesitation to adopt the plastic containers. For many years, they lived in denial of the effectiveness of pipe-borne water, totally ignoring the health risk of doing otherwise. They insisted that they did not want to see water pipes running through their homes. They also argued that there was no way tiny pipes could carry more water than the big sturdy plastic containers; which they had managed to adopt after so many years. Today, when emergency managers and public safety authorities oppose the adoption of the social media, I am reminded of the old water battles in my village. I am also reminded that human beings will resist change, regardless of the facts. Every generation has some “water battles” to confront. Whether public safety authorities will eventually adopt social media, it remains to be seen. One thing is clear, social media battle is akin to the pipe versus plastic battles.
Tumor necrosis factor-α mediates polymethylmethacrylate particle-induced NF-κB activation in osteoclast precursor cells

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) is a potent osteoclastogenic cytokine that has a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of implant particle-induced osteolysis. The nuclear transcription factor NF-kappaB mediates TNF signaling and this transcription complex is necessary for osteoclastogenesis. Because polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) particles cause osteolysis, we reasoned the PMMA would induce NF-kappaB activation. In fact, we find that exposure of osteoclast precursors, in the form of colony stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) dependent murine bone marrow macrophages, to PMMA particles prompts nuclear translocation and activation of NF-kappaB. Supershift assays confirm the presence of the p50 and p65 NF-kappaB subunits in the activated transcription factor. Particle-induced NF-kappaB activation is equal in both wild type and LPS- hyporesponsive cells indicating that the phenomenon does not represent endotoxin contamination. A soluble, competitive inhibitor of TNF (huTNFr:Fc) dampens particle-directed NF-kappaB activation and this response is also abrogated in TNF-/- osteoclast precursors. Thus, PMMA particle activation of NF-kappaB is a secondary event resulting from enhanced TNF expression and is independent of LPS contamination.
Chemical Alteration of Poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (TFE) Teflon Induced by Exposure to Hyperthermal Atomic Oxygen

In this study, the erosion of poly(tetrafluoroethylene) TFE Teflon by hyperthermal atomic oxygen (AO) has been examined using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The initial F/C atom ratio of 1.66 decreases to 1.15 after a 2 h exposure to a flux of 2 × 1015 atoms/cm2 s AO with an average kinetic energy ∼5 eV. The F/C atom ratio is further reduced to a value of 0.90 after a 25 h exposure. The high-resolution XPS C 1s data indicate that new chemical states of carbon form as the F is removed, and that the relative amounts of these states depend on the F content of the near-surface region. The states are most likely due to C bonded only to one F atom and C bonded only to other C atoms. Exposures of the AO-damaged surface to research-grade O2 results in chemisorption of a very small amount of O (∼0.8 at. %); this indicates that large quantities of reactive sites are not formed during the chemical erosion by AO. Further exposure to AO removes this chemisorbed oxygen. After exposing the AO-exposed surface to...