cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Base-catalyzed Exchange of the Iron and Sulfide of Clostridial Ferredoxin

Abstract The iron and sulfide of clostridial ferredoxin exchange with added ferrous salts and sodium sulfide, respectively, in media at alkaline pH values under anaerobic conditions. These exchange reactions are base-catalyzed and exhibit typical exchange kinetics. The exchange reactions are about 100 times faster in the presence of 6 m urea than in its absence.
Mechanisms and Consequences of Drug–Drug Interactions

Medications used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections present a special challenge with respect to the management of potential and actual drug-drug interactions (DDIs). The HIV and HCV treatments may interact with each other, and also interact with drugs of abuse and/or with medications used to treat substance abuse. Possible mechanisms of these DDIs generally include induction or inhibition of activity/expression of human cytochromes P450, glucuronosyl transferases, or energy-dependent transport proteins. These DDIs can be complex and time-dependent in nature. Because time and resources available for new drug development are necessarily limited, not all potential DDIs can be evaluated via clinical pharmacokinetic studies in the course of development of HIV, HCV, and substance abuse treatments. Strategies are needed to refine existing in vitro models and screening techniques to allow more efficient targeting of resources to those clinical studies having the highest impact in terms of enhancing medication effectiveness and patient safety.
Dispersion of kangaroo rat mounds at multiple scales in New Mexico, USA

Burrowing mammals create disturbances that increase the ecological heterogeneity of landscapes. In desert systems, banner-tailed kangaroo rats (Dipodomys spectabilis) construct large mounds that greatly influence the spatial patterning of soils, plants, and animals. The overall effects of the patches generated by D. spectabilis depend on the dispersion patterns of the mounds; these patterns may be sensitive to scale and landscape position. We examined the distribution of D. spectabilis mounds across multiple scales in four 40-ha grassland plots in New Mexico, USA. We used Ripley's K-function for our point-pattern analysis. The dispersion patterns of mounds were generally scale-sensitive but depended somewhat on plot-level densities, which were related to topographic position and grazing history. Mound spacing was either regular or random at small scales (0–50 m), random or aggregated at intermediate scales (50–300 m), and aggregated at large scales (300–3000 m). This scale-dependency of pattern reflected spatial domains in which different biotic (territoriality, dispersal, grazing) and abiotic (soil texture and drainage) factors exerted strong influences. How other organisms perceive the spatial patterning of mounds will depend on the extent of their movements. Patches may appear regular to one species but aggregated to another. The dispersion of D. spectabilis mounds also has implications for the spatial structuring of desert rodent communities. D. spectabilis excludes smaller species of kangaroo rats from areas around their mounds; they create spatial heterogeneity in behavioral dominance that may influence the distribution of subordinate species at multiple scales.
Adenosine reduces the Ca2+ transients of isoproterenol-stimulated rat ventricular myocytes

Adenosine in the heart attenuates the contractile and metabolic effects of beta-adrenergic stimulation. The effect of adenosine on changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration [( Ca2+]i) elicited wi...
Formation of molecules in the gas phase

The gas phase reactions that produce polyatomic molecules in dense interstellar clouds are reviewed. The production of complex molecules and the extent of deuterium fractionation in dense clouds are discussed in the context of detailed models.
Current Views on Astrochemistry

Astrochemistry is the study of the formation and destruction of interstellar and circumstellar molecules. Such molecules have been a major field of astrophysical investigation for about 17 years. As of 1987 January, 66 species are identified, and the discovery rate is about three per year. The known species are listed in Table 1 along with the type of region in which they are found. Important areas of study are the distribution and abundances of molecules in external galaxies, the morphology and evolution of galactic molecular clouds and their relation to star formation, interstellar chemistry, and the distribution of isotopes throughout the galaxy and their implications for cosmology and the nucleosynthesis history of the galaxy. Here, we shall discuss the current status of interstellar (and circumstellar) chemistry. For this purpose, a brief summary of the physical conditions characterizing the several morphological regimes of the interstellar medium (ISM) is useful.
Identity of Plasma-activated Factor X Inhibitor with Antithrombin III and Heparin Cofactor

Abstract Antithrombin III activity cochromatographed with the activity of the inhibitor to activated Factor X during the purification of the inhibitor on Sephadex G-200, DEAE-Sephadex, and DEAE-cellulose columns. Both activities also comigrated on preparative polyacrylamide gel disc electrophoresis. When a fraction of activated Factor X inhibitor was incubated at 56°, at pH 7.5, a simultaneous loss of antithrombin III and activated Factor X inhibitor activities resulted. A complete neutralization of the antithrombin III activity of the activated Factor X inhibitor fraction with thrombin rendered the inhibitor incapable of subsequently inhibiting activated Factor X and vice versa. When the inhibitor was chromatographed on a Sephadex G-200 column, antithrombin III, heparin cofactor, and activated Factor X inhibitor activities cochromatographed with the 280 mµ absorbing material in the activated Factor X inhibitor sample applied. To demonstrate further the identity of these three anticoagulant activities, a series of gel filtration experiments on a single column of Sephadex G-200 was performed in which fractions of activated Factor X inhibitor alone, heparin alone, and heparin mixed with the inhibitor were separately chromatographed in the presence of 0.01 m, 0.10 m, 0.20 m,and 0.30 m NaCl in 0.02 m Tris-maleate, pH 7.2, at 26°. The relative elution volume, Ve/V0 of activated Factor X inhibitor alone in 0.01 m NaCl was 1.83, and in 0.10 m to 0.30m NaCl was 1.77. Heparin behaved as a heterogenous substance with molecular weights ranging from 40,000 to greater than 200,000, at the salt concentrations studied. When a mixture of activated Factor X inhibitor and heparin was chromatographed, the two components eluted as a complex. A single broad heparin cofactor peak cochromatographed with the activated Factor X inhibitor protein and the heparin when high ionic strength eluent was employed. The fractions demonstrated antithrombin III activity when the heparin in the heparin cofactor peak fractions was neutralized with protamine sulfate. The plasma-activated Factor X inhibitor was shown to be unrelated to a hepatic anticoagulant that had been claimed to be a specific inhibitor of activated Factor X. It is concluded, therefore, that the biological activities variously termed activated Factor X inhibitor, antithrombin III, and heparin cofactor activities all belong to a single blood proteinase inhibitor with broad specificity. Together with other data presented, it is suggested that the key function of activated Factor X inhibitor as a natural anticoagulant may be primarily concerned with regulating hemostatic balance through neutralization of activated Factor X, a reaction profoundly enhanced by traces of heparin. It is for these reasons we propose that this low molecular weight α2-globulin inhibitor be termed activated Factor X inhibitor.
High-power, microwave power combiner using a series-parallel array of diodes

Successful operation of a series-parallel array of varactor diodes used as a high-power, microwave source is reported. This power combiner used twelve varactor diodes in a flowing liquid-dielectric bath and delivered 100 watts CW at 57-percent efficiency when operating as a doubler from 0.5 to 1.0 GHz.
STRAIN MEASUREMENT IN THE MEDIAL COLLATERAL LIGAMENT OF THE HUMAN KNEE: AN AUTOPSY STUDY

A strain transducer was developed which employs a magnetic field sensing device to detect linear displacement. The transducer was attached to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) of human autopsy specimens, minimally influencing their physiologic behavior. A strain 'map' of the MCL as a function of knee flexion (full extension to 120 degrees) both with and without abduction force was obtained. Our investigation revealed consistent differences in the strain patterns between proximal, middle and distal segments of the anterior and posterior borders of the MCL. Anatomic variations in the pattern of collagen fibers within the MCL, interactions between posterior oblique capsular fibers and the MCL, and the skeletal configuration may account for these varied strain patterns.
Free energy perturbation calculations on models of active sites: applications to adenosine deaminase inhibitors

Free energy perturbation calculations were performed to determine the free energy of binding associated with the presence of perhaps an unusual hydroxyl group in the transition state analog of nebularine, an inhibitor of the enzyme adenosine deaminase. The presence of a single hydroxyl group in this inhibitor has been found to contribute −9.8 kcal/mol to the free energy of binding, with a 108-fold increase in the binding affinity by the enzyme. In this work, we calculate the difference in solvation free energy for the 1,6-dihydropurine complex versus that of the 6-hydroxyl-1,6-dihydropurine complex to determine if this marked increase in binding affinity is attributed to an unusually hydrophobic hydroxyl group. The calculated ΔG associated for the solvation free energy is −11.8 kcal/mol. This large change in the solvation free energy suggests that this hydroxyl is instead unusually hydrophilic and that the difference in free energy of interaction for the two inhibitors to the enzyme must be at least ca. 20 kcal/mol. Although the crystal structure for adenosine deaminase is currently not known, we attempt to mimic the nature of the active site by constructing models which simulate the enzyme-inhibitor complex. We present a first attempt at determining the change in free energy of binding for a system in which structural data for the enzyme is incomplete. To do this, we construct what we believe is a minimal model of the binding between adenosine deaminase and an inhibitor. The active site is simulated as a single charged carboxyl group which can form a hydrogen bond with the hydroxyl group of the analog. Two different carboxyl anion models are used. In the first model, the association is modeled between an acetic acid anion and the modified inhibitor. The second model consists of a hydrophobic amino acid pocket with an interior Glu residue in the active site. From these models we calculate the change in free energy of association and the overall change in free energy of binding. We calculate the free energies of interaction both in the absence and presence of water. We conclude from this that the presence of a single suitably placed-CO−2 group probably cannot explain the binding effect of the-OH group and that additional interactions will be found in the adenosine deaminase active site.
Reforming Retirement: Values and Self-Interest Drive Support for Policy Reform in Opposite Directions

Americans' attitudes about retirement policy reform are being pulled in two directions. Because of their worries about retirement security, individuals are likely to support greater government intervention. However, because of their belief in the value of self-reliance, individuals are likely to be concerned about government interventions in the economy. This paper explores the tension between self-interest and self-reliant values and examines how these factors affect attitudes about retirement policy, testing, with a unique private survey, the degree to which concern about retirement security leads self-interested Americans increasingly to support retirement policy reforms and those with self-reliant values to decrease support. The paper also attempts to tease out the conditions under which self-interest and self-reliant values exert greater or less influence on views about retirement policy. In doing so, the paper helps clarify the level of public support for retirement policy reform and indicates the t...
Skeletal muscle properties and performance in elite female track athletes.

Selected biochemical and physiological properties of skeletal muscle were studied in light of performance capabilities in 24 elite female track athletes. The feasibility of quantifying end point histochemistry and relating oxidative staining density (reduced nicotinomide adenine dinucleotide diaphorase: NADH-D) to whole body maximal oxygen consumption ( $$\dot VO_2 $$ max) was also investigated, while muscle fiber types, classified according to alkaline APTase stains, were studied and related to muscle oxidative capacity (succinate dehydrogenase: SDH), $$\dot VO_2 $$ max and “in vivo” torque-velocity properties. Muscle biopsies were taken from the vastus lateralis of each subject and maximal knee extensor torques were recorded at 30‡ from full extension at four selected velocities. While results confirm earlier reports on skeletal muscle properties and performance it was concluded that end point histochemistry could be reliably quantified and that an “oxidative” stain such as NADH-D correlates extremely well with $$\dot VO_2 $$ max (r=0.86,p<0.001) whereas correlations between %slow twitch fibres (alkaline ATPase stain) and $$\dot VO_2 $$ max were lower (r=0.44,p<0.05). Additionally, as knee extension velocity increased from 0–1.7 rad·s−1 angle specific extensor torque production did not decline as observed in vitro and pentathletes displayed significantly larger torques at all velocities when compared to the other athletes. These data confirm that while myofibrillar ATPase staining correlates with force-velocity properties of muscle, $$\dot VO_2 $$ max is better correlated with quantified oxidative staining.
Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-26 and tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-3 and -4 in endometrium throughout the normal menstrual cycle and alteration in users of levonorgestrel implants who experience irregular uterine bleeding.

Abstract Objective To determine the expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-26) and tissue inhibitor of MMP (TIMP) in the endometrium of women with normal menstrual cycles compared with users of levonorgestrel implants. Design Prospective observational study. Setting Academic research center. Patient(s) Fifty patients with normal menstrual cycles who requested permanent surgical sterilization (tubal ligation) and 35 users of levonorgestrel implants. Intervention(s) Endometrial biopsy. Main outcome measure(s) Expression of MMP-26, TIMP-3, and TIMP-4 by immunohistochemistry and semiquantitative analysis of staining intensity by using the H score. Result(s) Endometrium from women with a normal menstrual cycle and users of levonorgestrel implants expresses MMP-26, TIMP-3, and TIMP-4. These substances are present in various types of endometrial cells; expression is strongest in surface and glandular epithelial cells, followed by vascular endothelial and endometrial stromal cells. Inflammatory and immune-related cells also stained strongly for MMP-26 and TIMPs. Semiquantitative analysis of the staining intensity of endometrial epithelial and stromal cells indicated that expression of MMP-26, TIMP-3, and TIMP-4 peaks during the early to mid-luteal phase. Expression of MMP-26 is elevated in users of levonorgestrel implants who experienced irregular uterine bleeding. Conclusion Endometrial expression of MMP-26 and TIMP-4 is present throughout the menstrual cycle and is elevated during the early to mid-luteal phase in normally cycling women. Further elevations in MMP-26 are seen in users of levonorgestrel implants who experience irregular uterine bleeding. These substances thus seem to play a role in hormonal regulation and endometrial tissue remodeling.
Reactivity of “V” amylose towards hydrogen chloride

Abstract Gaseous hydrogen chloride catalyzes degradation both of “V” amylose hydrate and of a hydrated, amorphous amylose at 26° to give D -glucose and maltose. “V” Amylose dehydrate forms a molecular complex with gaseous hydrogen chloride at 48°/700 torr.
Using occurrence records to model historic distributions and estimate habitat losses for two psammophilic lizards

Estimating historic distributions of species is a critical step in evaluating current levels of habitat loss, evaluating sites for potential restoration and reintroductions, and for conservation planning at a landscape scale. However historic distributions can be difficult to estimate objectively because substantial habitat changes may have occurred prior to comprehensive surveys. As a means to address this question, we evaluated a novel approach by creating spatial niche models for two species of psammophilic lizards. Using a partitioned Mahalanobis D 2 analysis and abiotic variables that were independent of anthropogenic change, we created niche models for the federally threatened Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard (Uma inornata) and for the flat-tailed horned lizard (Phrynosoma mcallii). The niche models estimated that within the Coachella Valley there were originally 32,164 ha of potential habitat for the fringe-toed lizard and 33,502 ha of potential habitat for the horned lizard. After screening these estimates of historic habitat for current conditions that would render that potential habitat unsuitable, we calculated a 91‐95% loss of potential habitat for the fringe-toed lizard and an 83‐92% loss for the horned lizard. Unlike the fringe-toed lizard, the horned lizard also occurs outside the Coachella Valley. Conducting a similar analysis throughout its range would provide an objective estimate of the total habitat loss experienced by this species. This information could be used to address whether granting it federal or state protection is warranted. For species whose distributions can be modeled with abiotic variables such as soils, elevation, topography, and climate, this approach may have broad applications for resolving questions regarding their current levels of habitat loss and regional conservation planning.
Biodeterioration of Incralac used for the protection of bronze monuments

Abstract Outdoor bronze sculptures are highly susceptible to corrosion in many environments and organic coatings are widely used for their protection. The purpose of this study was to determine the susceptibility of the commonly used coating Incralac to biodeterioration by microorganisms. A yeast was isolated from a bronze statue treated with Incralac and its ability to degrade Incralac was determined using growth curves, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The organism grew slowly on Incralac in liquid culture, but SEM images demonstrated its ability to adhere to Incralac coated metal. Additionally, the yeast caused a rapid drop in the low frequency impedance of Incralac coated metal that was not observed under sterile conditions, indicating that the organism accelerated deterioration of the coating. The potential for microbial growth to accelerate deterioration of Incralac should be considered when developing a maintenance strategy for the protection of outdoor metal monuments.
Robust Fault Detection during the Synchronization Process of Nonlinear Lur'e Dynamical Networks

The present study focuses on the robust fault detection issue within the synchronization process of nonlinear Lur'e dynamical networks. Sufficient conditions in terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) are established to guarantee global robust synchronization of the network. Under such a synchronization scheme, the error dynamical system is globally asymptotically stable, the effect of external disturbances is suppressed, and at the same time, the network is sensitive to possible faults based on a mixedperformance.
Fragment Based Discovery of a Novel and Selective Pi3 Kinase Inhibitor.

We report the use of fragment screening and fragment based drug design to develop a PI3γ kinase fragment hit into a lead. Initial fragment hits were discovered by high concentration biochemical screening, followed by a round of virtual screening to identify additional ligand efficient fragments. These were developed into potent and ligand efficient lead compounds using structure guided fragment growing and merging strategies. This led to a potent, selective, and cell permeable PI3γ kinase inhibitor with good metabolic stability that was useful as a preclinical tool compound.
A Dialogue with (Un)Death: Horror Films as a Discursive Attempt to Construct a Relationship with the Dead

Death may be exiled from the living room as we no longer keep parlors as dedicated space for ritual goodbyes and communion with our shrouded dead, but banished death has reappeared with a vengeance in our books, kindled and original paper, and channeled through our home entertainment centers, allowing us to once more meet our nemesis on common ground. We suggest that death is a root metaphor in horror fiction, and we highlight how fictional works about the undead allow us to face death and relate to it, as they move us to look more closely at the alliance between living and dead, provide us with a tangible adversary at end-of-life, and enable us to approach death with dialogic intimacy, acknowledgment, courage, and acceptance.
Assessment of methods for extreme value analysis of non-Gaussian wind effects with short-term time history samples

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of various methods for extreme value analysis of non-Gaussian wind effects using short-term time history samples. The methods examined are peaks-over-threshold (POT) method, the average conditional exceedance rate (ACER) method, and the translation process method with various translation models. The long-term wind pressure coefficient data on a saddle-shaped large-span roof collected from wind tunnel test are used as the basis for comparison. These pressure coefficient data are featured by a variety of non-Gaussian characteristics, including mildly and strongly softening and hardening non-Gaussian processes with unique distributions. Some new developments of the methods are also presented to better predict the extreme value distribution taking into account the non-Gaussian characteristics. The declustering of process to extract independent peaks over a given threshold for POT method is discussed. The effectiveness of the ACER method is firstly examined as applied to non-Gaussian wind pressures. Regarding the translation process method, this study highlights the limitations of widely used moment-based method and the method based on three-parameter gamma distribution of the process. A mixture distribution model is introduced for better modeling the distribution tail and estimation of extreme value distribution. This mixture distribution method and the method based on curve-fitting of translation function derived from mapping of cumulative distribution functions are illustrated to be capable of capturing the upper tail of translation function, thus lead to satisfactory estimations of extreme statistics for a variety of non-Gaussian processes.
Toxic pulmonary effects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in a mouse model

A major limitation of PDT for Barrett's esophagus is the development of esophageal strictures. This report summarizes the effects of PDT delivered to mouse esophagus. Sixty-two C3H/Nsd mice were injected with Photofrin (2-10mg/Kg) intraperitoneally. Forty-eight hours later a 1 cm laser probe was passed orally to the mid-esophagus. Light energy (630nm) ranged from 0 to 400 Joules/cm (J). Animals were sacrificed if death was imminent, otherwise at 6 weeks and 3 months. Gross and microscopic exams were performed on paraffin embedded esophagus and lung specimens. Exposure to 400J as a single fraction, 125 X 3 or 150 X 3 fractions resulted in a lethal pulmonary injury in 90% of mice within 48 hours. There was no esophageal mucosal damage at this early time point. Lower doses caused minor pulmonary injury allowing long-term survival but no change in the esophageal endothelium and no stricture. In the mouse, this histopathologic study demonstrates that pulmonary toxicity is the limiting factor following esophageal PDT. At lower PDT doses, minimal pulmonary damage occurred but no effect was observed on the esophagus. We believe the 5 mm depth of PDT injury leads to lethal pulmonary damage preventing subsequent study of the effects on the esophagus.
Relation of oxygen uptake to work rate in normal men and men with circulatory disorders

The relation between the increase in oxygen uptake (VO2) and increase in work rate (WR) between unloaded pedaling and maximal work during incremental cycle ergometer exercise was studied in normal men, men with uncomplicated systemic hypertension and ambulatory men with various cardiovascular diseases. The postulation was that impaired peripheral oxygen delivery would reduce the ratio of the oxygen utilized relative to work performed. The ratio of increase in VO2 to increase in WR (delta VO2/delta WR) was relatively constant: 10.29 +/- 1.01 ml/min/W in normal men (n = 54) for exercise 6 to 14 minutes in duration with uniform work increments of 15, 20, 25 or 30 W/min, regardless of age. The value in men with uncomplicated systemic hypertension (n = 24) was not significantly different from that of normal men. However, more than half of the men with peripheral vascular disease (n = 7) or pulmonary vascular disease (n = 5) or men who had electrocardiographic abnormalities during exercise (n = 39) had a significantly lower delta VO2/delta WR, 8.29 +/- 1.17 ml/min/W (p less than 0.05) especially evident as maximal work rates were approached. Thus, delta VO2/delta WR during incremental exercise testing is predictable for normal men and a reduction in this ratio indicates cardiovascular dysfunction.
Human 3-methyladenine-DNA glycosylase: Demonstration of a stimulatory factor

Abstract Cultured human lymphoblasts contain a component that stimulates 3-methyladenine-DNA glycosylase, resulting in increased removal of 3-methyladenine from alkylated DNA. Increased release of other methylated bases was not detected by high-pressure liquid chromatography. Separation of the component and 3-methyladenine-DNA glycosylase during enzyme purification results in a loss of glycosylase activity. Stimulation of glycosylase activity can be demonstrated by recombination of the separated component with a partially purified lymphoblast enzyme fraction.
Chairman reappointments, presidential elections and policy actions of the federal reserve

A number of recent studies have analyzed whether there is a political influence on monetary policy, focusing primarily on whether monetary policy becomes “easier” just prior to elections. In addition to exploring whether there exists an election period cycle in monetary policy, this article explores the existence of another political influence on policy. Following up on some recent anecdotal evidence provided by John T. Woolley, this article explores whether incumbent FED chairmen have succeeded in influencing monetary policy in order to improve their reappointment chances. The analysis, which spans the administrations of seven U.S. presidents and four FED chairmen, finds no conclusive evidence that FED policy changes systematically either before elections or chairman reappointment dates. The analysis has implications for the issue of rules versus discretion in monetary policy.
Plc1p is required for proper chromatin structure and activity of the kinetochore in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by facilitating recruitment of the RSC complex

High-fidelity chromosome segregation during mitosis requires kinetochores, protein complexes that assemble on centromeric DNA and mediate chromosome attachment to spindle microtubules. In budding yeast, phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (Plc1p encoded by PLC1 gene) is important for function of kinetochores. Deletion of PLC1 results in alterations in chromatin structure of centromeres, reduced binding of microtubules to minichromosomes, and a higher frequency of chromosome loss. The mechanism of Plc1p’s involvement in kinetochore activity was not initially obvious; however, a testable hypothesis emerged with the discovery of the role of inositol polyphosphates (InsPs), produced by a Plc1p-dependent pathway, in the regulation of chromatin-remodeling complexes. In addition, the remodels structure of chromatin (RSC) chromatin-remodeling complex was found to associate with kinetochores and to affect centromeric chromatin structure. We report here that Plc1p and InsPs are required for recruitment of the RSC complex to kinetochores, which is important for establishing proper chromatin structure of centromeres and centromere proximal regions. Mutations in PLC1 and components of the RSC complex exhibit strong genetic interactions and display synthetic growth defect, altered nuclear morphology, and higher frequency of minichromosome loss. The results thus provide a mechanistic explanation for the previously elusive role of Plc1p and InsPs in kinetochore function.
Megenteron manteri n. sp. and Steringophorus sp. (Digenea: Fellodistomidae) from Monomitopus agassizzi (Ophidiidae) in the Gulf of Mexico.

During a study of digenean parasites of deep-sea fishes, 81% (17 of 21) of Monomitopus agassizzi (Ophidiidae) from the Gulf of Mexico were infected with Megenteron manteri n. sp. and 10% (2 of 21) were infected with what appears to be a new species of Steringophorus. M. manteri n. sp. differs from M. crassum in having a longer body (3,733–9,394 μm), shorter caeca and a uterus that extends posteriorly beyond the ends of the caeca. The species of Steringophorus differs from other species in the genus in having smaller eggs (19–23 μm long) and caeca that extend into the posterior half of the hindbody.
Utilization of blood recycling in nonelective surgery.

• Intraoperative infusion of autologous shed blood is efficacious in elective vascular, cardiac, and orthopedic surgery. Blood recycling has also been advocated for emergency and trauma surgery. We examined 33 candidates for autotransfusion during emergency surgery. Autologous blood accounted for only 11% of the total blood replaced. Only 25 of the patients survived long enough to permit reinfusion. Because of rapid hemostasis, nine of the remaining patients (36%) received less than the 2 units necessary to be cost-effective. No evidence was found for septicemia or coagulopathy caused by autotransfusion. We concluded that, as currently applied, recycling of shed blood during emergency surgery is of value in a limited group of patients. The collection and storage of heparinized shed blood during the preoperative and early intraoperative periods, with later processing and reinfusion in selected patients, may expand its applicability. (Arch Surg1983;118:626-630)
Submillimeter-wave spectroscopy of VN (X3Δr) and VO (X4Σ−): A study of the hyperfine interactions

Abstract The pure rotational spectra of VN (X 3 Δ r ) and VO (X 4 Σ − ) have been recorded in the frequency range 290–520 GHz using direct absorption spectroscopy. These radicals were synthesized in the gas-phase from the reaction of VCl 4 with either N 2 or H 2 O in an AC discharge. Seven rotational transitions were recorded for each molecule; in both sets of spectra, fine and hyperfine structures were resolved. The data sets for VN and VO were fit with Hund’s case (a) and case (b) Hamiltonians, respectively, and rotational, fine structure, and hyperfine constants determined. For VN, however, an additional hyperfine parameter, Δ a , was necessary for the analysis of the Ω = 2 sublevel to account for perturbations from a nearby 1 Δ state, in addition to the usual Frosch and Foley constants. Determination of Δ a suggests that the 1 Δ state lies ∼3000 cm −1 above the ground state. In VO, the hyperfine structure in the F 2 and F 3 components was found to become heavily mixed due to an avoided crossing, predicted by previous optical studies to be near the N = 15 level. The hyperfine constants established for these two molecules are consistent with the proposed σ 1 δ 1 and σ 1 δ 2 electron configurations.
Effect of changes in plasma bicarbonate level on CSF bicarbonate in respiratory acidosis

Abstract To assess the effects of selectively altering the plasma bicarbonate concentration in respiratory acidosis on the cerebrospinal fluid buffering, three groups of dogs in acute respiratory acidosis were studied, Measurements of arterial and cisternal CSF acid-base parameters were made during 4 hr of respiratory acidosis created by ventilating the anesthetized animals with 10% CO 2 in O 2 at constant e . The first group had acidosis only. The second group were made acidotic and in addition received a total of 223 meq of NaHCO 3 intravenously during the experiment. The third group underwent bilateral nephrectomy and then had respiratory acidosis induced. Dogs with respiratory acidosis alone showed a rise in blood and CSF bicarbonate levels with compensation being more complete in the CSF. Dogs with respiratory acidosis and bicarbonate infusion showed a greater increase in plasma bicarbonate, but similar CSF bicarbonate increase to those with acidosis alone. Nephrectomy just prior to induction of respiratory acidosis reduced the rise in plasma bicarbonate levels and caused a mild metabolic acidosis, but was without effect on CSF bicarbonate increase. These studies indicate the presence of a better buffer system in the CSF in vivo than in arterial blood in response to respiratory acidosis, and also that altering the rate of rise in plasma bicarbonate during respiratory acidosis is without significant effect on the CSF bicarbonate elevation.
Ice nucleus concentrations measured during the 1975 Florida Area Cumulus Experiment /FACE/

Ice nuclei measurements were made aboard a cloud-base aircraft during the 1975 Florida Area Cumulus Experiment. Two techniques were used to obtain the ice nuclei concentrations; membranes were collected and analyzed using the NCAR membrane development chamber and continuous ice nuclei concentrations were obtained using the NCAR acoustical counter. Results showed that the membrane technique failed to effectively detect ice nuclei in this maritime tropical area. However, the concentrations recorded by the acoustical counter showed natural afternoon diurnal increases which may have ramifications on cloud development and seeding potential within the particular study area.
Bem1p is a positive regulator of the homotypic fusion of yeast vacuoles.

Docked vacuoles are believed to undergo rapid lipid mixing during hemifusion and then a slow, rate-limiting completion of fusion and mixing of lumenal contents. Previous genomic analysis has suggested that Bem1p, a scaffold protein critical for cell polarity, may support vacuole fusion. We now report that bem1Δ strains have fragmented vacuoles (vps class B and C). During in vitro fusion reactions, vacuoles from bem1Δ strains showed a strong reduction in the rate of lipid mixing when compared with vacuoles from the BEM1 parent. The reduction in the overall rate of fusion with bem1Δ vacuoles was modest, consistent with lipid mixing as a non-rate-limiting step in the pathway. Although the fusion of either BEM1 (wild-type) or bem1Δ vacuoles is stimulated by recombinant Bem1p, the lipid mixing of docked bem1Δ vacuoles is highly dependent on rBem1p under certain reaction conditions. Bem1p-stimulated lipid mixing is blocked by well characterized fusion inhibitors including lipid ligands and antibodies to Ypt7p, Vps33p, and Vam3p. Although full-length Bem1p is required for maximal stimulation, a truncation mutant comprising the SH3 domains and the Phox homology (PX) domain retains modest stimulatory activity. In contrast to an earlier report (Han, B. K., Bogomolnaya, L. M., Totten, J. M., Blank, H. M., Dangott, L. J., and Polymenis, M. (2005) Genes Dev. 19, 2606–2618), we did not find phosphorylation of Bem1p at Ser-72 to be required for Bem1p-stimulated fusion. Taken together, Bem1p is a positive regulator of lipid mixing during vacuole hemifusion and fusion.
Topical Application of Isotretinoin Gel Improves Oral Lichen Planus: A Double-blind Study

• In a double-blind study, 20 patients with oral lichen planus were treated twice daily with 0.1% isotretinoin gel or the vehicle alone for two months. Subsequently, patients who used the placebo received the active preparation for another two months. Patients treated with the active medication displayed significantly greater improvement than patients receiving the placebo. Patients who were treated initially with the placebo showed statistically significant improvement after receiving the topical isotretinoin treatment for two months. Side effects from using the gel were primarily a transient burning sensation or irritation on initial application. ( Arch Dermatol 1986;122:534-536)
Natural killer T cells are not the predominant T cell in asthma and likely modulate, not cause, asthma.

Asthma is a multifactorial disease of the airways characterized by airway inflammation, mucus hypersecretion, and airway hyperresponsiveness. Conventional MHC class II–restricted CD4 + T cells are considered a key cell in asthma pathogenesis because they have a broad T-cell receptor repertoire, providing specificity and reactivity to diverse protein allergens. This notion was challenged when a study found that invariant Natural Killer (NK) T cells were the predominant T cells in the lung and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of all asthmatic subjects studied. This finding was provocative because invariant NKT cells have a very limited T-cell receptor repertoire and are specific for a restricted set of lipid antigens that bind to CD1d, a nonpolymorphic MHC-like molecule. However, multiple subsequent studies failed to replicate the initial study and instead found that invariant NKT cells are present as a small fraction of the total T cells in the asthmatic lung. Thus, we believe that although CD1d-restricted NKT cells might play a role in modulating the asthmatic phenotype, they are not the critical drivers of the asthmatic response, a role we believe is still held by conventional MHC class II–restricted CD4 + T cells.
Towards effective clustering techniques for the analysis of electric power grids

Clustering is an important data analysis technique with numerous applications in the analysis of electric power grids. Standard clustering techniques are oblivious to the rich structural and dynamic information available for power grids. Therefore, by exploiting the inherent topological and electrical structure in the power grid data, we propose new methods for clustering with applications to model reduction, locational marginal pricing, phasor measurement unit (PMU or synchrophasor) placement, and power system protection. We focus our attention on model reduction for analysis based on time-series information from synchrophasor measurement devices, and spectral techniques for clustering. By comparing different clustering techniques on two instances of realistic power grids we show that the solutions are related and therefore one could leverage that relationship for a computational advantage. Thus, by contrasting different clustering techniques we make a case for exploiting structure inherent in the data with implications for several domains including power systems.
Offering CS1 on-line reducing campus resource demand while improving the learning environment

Multimedia-rich Web interfaces offer an increasingly attractive option for teaching distance and large-scale courses. We explore our experience of publishing CS1 to over 200 students and the resulting student performance. Our approach included streaming QuickTime audio and video synchronized with animated PowerPoint slides; in addition, a "Frequently Asked Questions" (FAQ) list was compiled from previous students' questions and made available. We demonstrate that the on-line lecture material enhanced students' learning of those enrolled in the traditional, lecture-based sections and those enrolled in the on-line section. The process is cost-effective, scalable, and affords use in other disciplines beyond CS1. Our future research is also discussed.
Building interoperable digital library services: MARIAN, open archives, and the NDLTD

In this demonstration, we present interoperable and personalized search services for the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (NDLTD). Using standard protocols and software, including those specified by the Open Archives Initiative (OAI), distributed sites can share metadata easily. On top of these harvesting protocols, we implement a union collection of theses managed by the MARIAN digital library system. Our demonstration covers aspects of NDLTD, OAI, and MARIAN.
Intrarenal Formation of Angiotensin I

In 5 patients and 16 dogs the mean concentration of angiotensin I, but not II, was higher in the plasma of the renal vein than in the plasma of the renal artery. The fact that I was higher in the vein than in the artery supports the concept that I is formed in the renal vasculature. In the vein the mean concentration of I was 45 times higher than that of II. The probable formation of angiotensin I within the kidney and its high concentration in the renal vein suggest that if the renin angiotensin system plays a role in the regulation of intrarenal blood flow, then angiotensin I may be the major effector hormone in this process.
The Impact of a Change in an Attendance Control System on Absenteeism and Tardiness

This study examined the effectiveness of a change in an attendance control policy in reducing absenteeism and tardiness. The organization under investigation, a medium-sized manufacturing facility, had established a stricter disciplinary system than it had utilized previously, and then three months later implemented an incentive system consisting of cash awards contingent on attendance. A within group analysis of changes in the rcentages of absenteeism over a 204 week period. cuntrolling season and holidays and correcting for autocorrelation, showed that for a cohort group of 306 employees, absenteeism decreased once the incentive system was added.
Transplantation: Are calcineurin inhibitors safer than mTOR inhibitors?

Isakova et al. report that kidney transplant recipients on mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors do not have a lower risk of allograft failure but do have a higher risk of death than those on calcineurin inhibitors. Careful consideration is, therefore, required before converting to mTOR inhibitors to preserve renal function.
Respiration and sugar content of potato tubers as influenced by storage temperature

Tubers of Russet Burbank, Kennebec, Targhee, Pioneer, Norchip and Aberdeen selection A68678-1 were stored at 95% relative humidity and at 1.7, 4.4, 5.8, 7.2 or 10°C (35, 40, 42.5, 45 or 50°F). The rate of CO2 release by whole tubers was measured weekly November through May. For all varieties except Norchip, CO2 evolution during the first months of storage was generally lowest at 7.2°C (45°F) and higher at the other temperatures studied. At all temperatures at which sprouting occurred, CO2 evolution increased substantially following sprout initiation, again excepting Norchip. Neither total nor reducing sugars correlated with rates of whole tuber CO2 evolution.
A novel start system for an aircraft auxiliary power unit

This paper describes the design and the main technical characteristics of a new start system for an aircraft auxiliary power unit (APU). By using the latest improvements in power electronics and microelectronics, this system eliminates the conventional DC starter by driving the generator installed on the APU as a motor to achieve the start. The developed start system eliminates one battery, dedicated for APU starting, the DC starter and its clutch assembly, while providing a faster start, assisting the APU acceleration up to 8,400 rpm (vs. 6,000 rpm provided by the DC starter). This new system extends the APU life by maintaining lower engine temperatures during start. The battery voltage control feature, that maintains this voltage at 18/20 VDC during start and the option of using AC power for start, to save battery power is another advantage over the classical DC. This new start system is installed in over 650 commercial airplanes and the operation in revenue service has proved its high reliability. Presently its MTBF is 600% higher than the time between overhauls (TBO) for the DC starter, while assuring an increased performance and safety in operation.
Infantile thoracic dystrophy--a variant of Ellis-Van Creveld syndrome.

Infantile thoracic dystrophy, a generalized skeletal dystrophy with major manifestations in the thoracic cage, is unfamiliar to American pediatricians, although rather well known in Europe and among pediatric radiologists. This report includes 4 new cases (2 pairs of brothers) and summarizes the previously reported cases. Roentgenographic findings are described and differential diagnosis outlined. This entity appears to be a variant of the Ellis-Van Creveld syndrome.
Hydrogen production from renewable sources of energy

Abstract An integrated system consisting of several devices for harnessing renewable sources of energy is considered. The devices include helio-hydro-gravity, salt gradient solar pond, buoyant generator, solar desalination and solar bowl. The useful energy is recommended to be stored in hydrogen form. Methods of producing hydrogen such as thermochemical, electrolytic, magnetohydrolytic and photolytic are briefly described and suggested to be used in appropriate cases. The entire system is conceptually discussed with some proven examples.
A device-agnostic tool for precomputing legal placements in modular design flows

Recent research aiming to improve FPGA productivity has focused on modular design flows where modules can be compiled into a library of blocks that can be used to rapidly assemble designs. Rapid assembly is possible because compute intensive tasks, such as detailed local placement, are handled at module compile time. This paper presents a tool known as a preplacer that computes and stores all possible legal placements of a module at module compile time. The tool presented here distinguishes itself from previous efforts to solve the same problem by leveraging the open-source TORC device databases to support all modern Xilinx devices without manually extracting the RPM grid. Legal placements are calculated efficiently by first compressing the FPGA tile layout and then using a multi-step approach to eliminate illegal placements. The preplacer run-time is insignificant within the scope of module compilation times and quality of results are comparable to the previous architecture specific implementation.
Design and evaluation of xanthine based adenosine receptor antagonists: potential hypoxia targeted immunotherapies.

Molecular modeling techniques were applied to the design, synthesis and optimization of a new series of xanthine based adenosine A2A receptor antagonists. The optimized lead compound was converted to a PEG derivative and a functional in vitro bioassay used to confirm efficacy. Additionally, the PEGylated version showed enhanced aqueous solubility and was inert to photoisomerization, a known limitation of existing antagonists of this class.