cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
HUMAN HEADING JUDGMENTS IN THE PRESENCE OF MOVING OBJECTS

When moving toward a stationary scene, people judge their heading quite well from visual information alone. Much experimental and modeling work has been presented to analyze how people judge their heading for stationary scenes. However, in everyday life, we often move through scenes that contain moving objects. Most models have difficulty computing heading when moving objects are in the scene, and few studies have examined how well humans perform in the presence of moving objects. In this study, we tested how well people judge their heading in the presence of moving objects. We found that people perform remarkably well under a variety of conditions. The only condition that affects an observer’s ability to judge heading accurately consists of a large moving object crossing the observer’s path. In this case, the presence of the object causes a small bias in the heading judgments. For objects moving horizontally with respect to the observer, this bias is in the object’s direction of motion. These results present a challenge for computational models.
The Enterotoxicity of Clostridium Difficile Toxins

The major virulence factors of Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) are two large exotoxins A (TcdA) and B (TcdB). However, our understanding of the specific roles of these toxins in CDI is still evolving. It is now accepted that both toxins are enterotoxic and proinflammatory in the human intestine. Both purified TcdA and TcdB are capable of inducing the pathophysiology of CDI, although most studies have focused on TcdA. C. difficile toxins exert a wide array of biological activities by acting directly on intestinal epithelial cells. Alternatively, the toxins may target immune cells and neurons once the intestinal epithelial barrier is disrupted. The toxins may also act indirectly by stimulating cells to produce chemokines, proinflammatory cytokines, neuropeptides and other neuroimmune signals. This review considers the mechanisms of TcdA- and TcdB-induced enterotoxicity, and recent developments in this field.
High-affinity [3H]inositol uptake by dissociated brain cells and cultured fibroblasts from fetal mice.

The accumulation of [3H]inositol by mechanically dissociated brain cells and cultured skin fibroblasts from fetal mice was examined. Uptake by both tissues was strongly dependent on temperature and the presence of sodium ions. Brain and fibroblast uptake also responded similarly to inhibition by inositol isomers and phloridzin. At lower concentrations of inositol, both tissues exhibited high-affinity uptake kinetics with apparent Km values near 30 μM, similar to values observed previously in human fibroblasts and other cultured cells. The activity of brain high-affinity uptake was nearly an order of magnitude lower than that of fibroblasts, however, and was in part confounded by the presence of a low-affinity or simple diffusion system operating at inositol concentrations above 100μM. Brain preparation from adult mice also showed evidence of high-affinity, Na+ dependent uptake, but its activity was significantly diminished relative to that of fetal brain preparations. Our results demonstrate that a high-affinity inositol transport system closely resembling that found in cultured cells is expressed in the developing mouse brain.
Machine-vision systems for intelligent transportation systems

ITS can use machine vision to detect lane markings, vehicles, pedestrians, road signs, traffic conditions, traffic incidents, and even driver drowsiness. Challenges include making machine-vision systems less expensive, more compact, and more robust in various weather and traffic conditions.
Fidelity of Mutant HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptases: Interaction with the Single-Stranded Template Influences the Accuracy of DNA Synthesis†

We have used random sequence mutagenesis and complementation in a bacterial selection system to establish a large library of immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase (RT) mutants with amino acid substitutions in the beta3-beta4 region of the fingers subdomain [Kim, B., Hathaway, T. R., and Loeb, L. A. (1996) J. Biol. Chem. 271, 4872-4878]. We show here that one of these mutants, D76V, exhibits increased accuracy of copying both DNA and RNA templates in a primer extension assay with biased dNTP pools. More detailed analysis of DNA-dependent polymerization showed that the D76V mutation conferred an up to 14-fold increase in fidelity of nucleotide insertion and a 9-fold reduced mutation rate in an M13mp2 lacZalpha forward mutation assay. Substitution at D76 with positively charged (D76R) and nonpolar (D76V and D76I) residues increased replicational accuracy, while substitutions with negatively charged (D76E) and polar residues (D76S and D76C) had little effect on fidelity. We propose that D76 affects replicational accuracy by mediating interaction between the fingers subdomain and the single-stranded template. Our work shows that the Escherichia coli complementation system can yield HIV RT mutants with increased fidelity that have not been isolated from the natural host and that are valuable in understanding the molecular bases of replicational accuracy.
Solid-phase synthesis of an isoxazolinopyrrole library.

A four-step solid-phase synthesis of isoxazolinopyrroles 8 that employs an acid-labile 2-(4-formyl-3-methoxyphenoxy)ethyl polystyrene HL resin 1 is reported. Resin-bound vinyl sulfone 5 is obtained by DIC coupling with acid 4, which was in turn synthesized in solution phase by a regioselective nitrile oxide 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition. The resin-bound pyrrole 7 was synthesized on solid phase by pyrrole annulation with various isocyano derivatives and potassium t-butoxide in which the sulfone α-anion generated by Michael addition gives the desired pyrrole through internal condensation followed by a sigmatropic [1,5]-hydrogen shift. The resulting isoxazolinopyrroles 8 were released from resin 7 by 10% TFA in moderate to excellent overall yields from 2-(4-formyl-3-methoxyphenoxy)ethyl polystyrene HL resin 1.
Exergaming and Static Postural Control in Individuals With a History of Lower Limb Injury

Context: Therapeutic exercise programs that incorporate real-time feedback have been reported to enhance outcomes in patients with lower extremity joint injuries. The Wii Fit has been purported to improve balance, strength, flexibility, and fitness. Objective: To determine the effects of Wii Fit rehabilitation on postural control and self-reported function in patients with a history of lower limb injury. Design: Single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Setting: Laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Twenty-eight physically active participants with a history of lower limb injuries were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups (9 Wii Fit, 10 traditional, 9 control). Intervention(s): Intervention groups performed supervised rehabilitation 3 d/wk for a total of 12 sessions. Main Outcome Measure(s): Time to boundary (TTB) and the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) were conducted at baseline, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks. Self-reported function was measured at baseline and 4-week follow-up. Between-groups difference...
Two-phase elasto-plastic seismic response of earth dams: applications

Abstract The model presented in the companion paper is validated in both the linear and nonlinear cases under steady-state single frequency harmonic and transient ground motions. The crest acceleration responses of the Santa Felicia earth dam subjected to the 1971 San Fernando earthquake and of the Long Valley earth dam subjected to the strongest of the 1980 Mammoth Lake earthquakes are computed and compared with the motions recorded at the site. Acceleration time histories for the solid and fluid phases in both horizontal and vertical directions, as well as stress-strain and pore water pressure-strain time histories for points along the height of the dam are presented. The ability of the model to simulate the occurrence of liquefaction in a dam is also demonstrated.
Modulation of α-catenin Tyr phosphorylation by SHP2 positively effects cell transformation induced by the constitutively active FGFR3

The Src homology 2 phosphotyrosyl phosphatase (SHP2) is a nonreceptor-type phosphatase that acts as a positive transducer of receptor Tyr kinase (RTK) signaling, particularly the Ras-REK and PI3K-Akt pathways. Recently, we have demonstrated that SHP2 is required for cell transformation induced by the constitutively active fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (K/E-FR3) (Oncogene, 22, 6909-6918). In that study, we had detected a phosphotyrosyl protein of approximately 100 KDa (p100) in cells expressing dominant-negative SHP2 (R/E-SHP2), but its identity and relevance in SHP2-meditaed transformation was not known. Here, we report the identification of p100 as alpha-catenin, a vinculin-related protein involved in adherens junction-mediated intercellular adhesion. We show that alpha-catenin becomes Tyr phosphorylated in intercellular adhesion-dependent manner and this event is counteracted by SHP2. Substrate trapping in intact cells and immunocomplex phosphatse assays confirmed that alpha-catenin is in deed an SHP2 substrate. Tyr phosphorylation of alpha-catenin enhances its translocation to the plasma membrane and its interaction with beta-catenin, leading to enhanced actin polymerization and stabilization of adherens junction-mediated intercellular adhesion, a phenomenon commensurate with loss of the transformation phenotype. Site-directed mutagenesis studies also suggested that Tyr phosphorylation of alpha-catenin enhances its inhibitory role on cell transformation. Based on our previous work and the current report, we demonstrate that mediation of cell transformation by SHP2 is a complex process that involves modulation of the Ras-ERK and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, intercellular adhesion, focal adhesion and actin cytoskeletal reorganization. To our knowledge, this is the first report showing regulation of alpha-catenin function by Tyr phosphorylation and its inhibitory effect on cell transformation.
New tools for the ocean pollution data and information network

Over the past few years, NOAA's Ocean Pollution Data and Information Network, through the Central Coordination and Referral Office, has played an increasing role in disseminating marine pollution data and information from Federally-supported projects. Data and information systems and files adapted to personal computer technologies are being developed to meet in a cost-effective way the need for improved marine pollution products.These systems are based primarily on a set of parameters that have evolved as primary descriptors concerning marine pollution interests through the operation of a data base known as the National Marine Pollution Information System. Available and planned systems and the tools used to respond to Network requests are described, along with product examples that could result from a typical request.
MASS MEDIA; EFFECTIVENESS IN EDUCATING FOR DENTAL HEALTH

Just how effective are mass media in achieving dental health? Read this one for an estimate.
Vision correction for computer users based on image pre-compensation with changing pupil size

Many computer users suffer varying degrees of visual impairment, which hinder their interaction with computers. In contrast with available methods of vision correction (spectacles, contact lenses, LASIK, etc.), this paper proposes a vision correction method for computer users based on image pre-compensation. The blurring caused by visual aberration is counteracted through the pre-compensation performed on images displayed on the computer screen. The pre-compensation model used is based on the visual aberration of the user's eye, which can be measured by a wavefront analyzer. However, the aberration measured is associated with one specific pupil size. If the pupil has a different size during viewing of the pre-compensated images, the pre-compensation model should also be modified to sustain appropriate performance. In order to solve this problem, an adjustment of the wavefront function used for pre-compensation is implemented to match the viewing pupil size. The efficiency of these adjustments is evaluated with an “artificial eye” (high resolution camera). Results indicate that the adjustment used is successful and significantly improves the images perceived and recorded by the artificial eye.
Cylindrical solitary waves

Experiments on the radial propagation of axisymmetric free-surface solitary waves are reported and compared with theoretical and numerical solutions of the cylinderical Korteweg–de Vries (CKdV) equation. A new experimental technique to obtain a continuous amplitude signature on photographic paper is reported. These measurements show that an isolated disturbance evolves into a slowly varying solitary wave with amplitude decaying as , where r is the radius measured from the centre of the disturbance. A numerical study of the CKdV equation is made to interpret the transient development of these waves into the nonlinear asymptotic regime. It is further pointed out that the CKdV equation also describes weakly nonlinear axisymmetric internal waves, and a comparison of theory for this case with internal-wave trajectory measurements reported by Maxworthy (1980) exhibit good agreement.
Warmth of the subpolar north atlantic ocean during northern hemisphere ice-sheet growth.

Two 10,000-year periods of Northern Hemisphere continental ice-sheet growth stand out prominently within the last full interglacial-to-glacial cycle. During the first half of each rapid ice-growth phase, the subpolar North Atlantic from 40°N to 60°N maintained warm sea-surface temperatures comparable to those of today9s ocean. The juxtaposition at latitudes 50°N to 60°N of an "interglacial" ocean along-side a "glacial" land mass, particularly along eastern North America, is regarded as an optimal configuration for delivering moisture to the growing ice sheets.
Synthesis and UV Studies of A Small Library of 6-Aryl-4-hydroxy-2-pyrones. A Relevant Structural Feature for the Inhibitory Property of Arisugacin Against Acetylcholinesterase

Abstract 4-Hydroxypyrones belong to an important class of compounds not only because of their medicinal significance, but also because they represent a common structural feature among natural products that are biologically relevant. We describe here preparations of a small library of 6-aryl-4-hydroxy-pyrones which represent structural analogs of the DE-ring of arisugacin, a potent and selective inhibitor against acetylcholinesterasc. Given the structural significance of the DE-ring in the inhibitory activity of arisugacin chemical shifts of relevant protons on the pyrone ring are compared and distinct features in UV absorptions of these 6-aryl-4-hydroxy-pyrones are described.
The effect of relative humidity on dropwise condensation dynamics

Abstract Dropwise condensation of atmospheric water vapor is important in multiple practical engineering applications. The roles of environmental factors and surface morphology/chemistry on the condensation dynamics need to be better understood to enable efficient water-harvesting, dehumidification, and other psychrometric processes. Systems and surfaces that may promote faster condensation rates and self-shedding of condensate droplets could lead to improved mass transfer rates and higher water yields in harvesting applications. In the present study, experiments are performed in a facility that allows visualization of the condensation process on a vertically oriented, hydrophobic surface at a controlled relative humidity and surface subcooling temperature. The distribution and growth of water droplets are monitored across the surface at different relative humidities (45%, 50%, 55%, and 70%) at a constant surface subcooling temperature of 15 °C below the ambient temperature (20 °C). The droplet growth dynamics exhibits a strong dependency on relative humidity in the early stages during which there is a large population of small droplets on the surface and single droplet growth dominates over coalescence effects. At later stages, the dynamics of droplet growth is insensitive to relative humidity due to the dominance of coalescence effects. The overall volumetric rate of condensation on the surface is also assessed as a function of time and ambient relative humidity. Low relative humidity conditions not only slow the absolute rate of condensation, but also prolong an initial transient regime over which the condensation rate remains significantly below the steady-state value.
Dissociation of a visual discrimination task into incentive, location and response habits

Abstract Rats previously trained to run from a start box, through a choice chamber, approach and displace a white card rather than a black card and enter a goal box in order to avoid footshock sustained damage to either the medial thalamus, occipital cortex or rostral caudoputamen. The retention test disclosed that the avoidance response was abolished by thalamic lesions, the visual discrimination response was abolished by occipital lesions and the card displacement response was abolished by caudatal lesions. These data demonstrate that this visual discrimination task can be fractionated into at least three discrete habits: One is related to the initiation of the response leading to the reward (incentive habit), the second is related to the location of the correct pathway to the reward (location habit) and the third is related to the response necessary to gain access to the reward (response habit).
The effects of differential reinforcement on generalized imitation

Abstract The present study examines the transfer of imitative learning to other nonimitative performance conditions and compares imitative and nonimitative performance under contingencies of differential reinforcement for S0 behavior, differential reinforcement for nonimitative behavior, and extinction. Many authors have suggested that a child's continued imitative performance of rewarded SD and unrewarded SΔ behavior is a function of subtle social cues or experimental demand present in most generalized imitation procedures. The two experiments presented here support that conclusion but also provide evidence that conclusions drawn from such generalized imitation studies were generally accurate. Even though a child's trial-by-trial imitative performance appeared to be a function of procedural artifacts, the child's later performance in the role of a model indicated that a functionally interdependent generalized response class of imitative behavior had been learned while the child imitated. As such, these experiments generally supported Baer's secondary reinforcement hypothesis for imitative performance and suggest that future research employ nonimitative tasks such as reversed imitation as a measure of imitative learning.
The role of histidine 200 in MndD, the Mn(II)-dependent 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetate 2,3-dioxygenase from Arthrobacter globiformis CM-2, a site-directed mutagenesis study

The manganese-dependent 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetate 2,3-dioxygenase (MndD) from Arthrobacter globiformis CM-2 is an extradiol-cleaving catechol dioxygenase that catalyzes aromatic ring cleavage of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetate (DHPA). Based on the recent crystal structure of the MndD–DHPA complex, a series of site-directed mutations were made at a conserved second-sphere residue, histidine 200, to gain insight into and clarify the role this residue plays in the Mn(II)-dependent catalytic mechanism. In this study, we report the activities and spectroscopic data of these H200 variants and their DHPA and 4-nitrocatechol (4-NC) complexes. The data collected from wild-type and mutant MndDs are consistent with a role for H200 interacting with a manganese-bound dioxygen moiety and are inconsistent with other previously proposed roles involving proton transfer. Spectroscopic observations, including unique low-field EPR signals found when DHPA and 4-NC are bound to the Mn(II) center of MndD, are discussed and their relationship to dioxygen activation catalyzed in MndD is explored.
Effects of acute dieldrin exposure on neurotransmitters and global gene transcription in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) hypothalamus.

Abstract Exposure to dieldrin induces neurotoxic effects in the vertebrate CNS and disrupts reproductive processes in teleost fish. Reproductive impairment observed in fish by dieldrin is likely the result of multiple effects along the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, but the molecular signaling cascades are not well characterized. To better elucidate the mode of action of dieldrin in the hypothalamus, this study measured neurotransmitter levels and examined the transcriptomic response in female largemouth bass (LMB) to an acute treatment of dieldrin. Male and female LMB were injected with either vehicle or 10 mg dieldrin/kg and sacrificed after 7 days. There were no significant changes in dopamine or DOPAC concentrations in the neuroendocrine brain of males and females after treatment but GABA levels in females were moderately increased 20–30% in the hypothalamus and cerebellum. In the female hypothalamus, there were 227 transcripts (p
Nonlethal suppression: from basic science to operationally relevant experimentation

ABSTRACT Use of force justification, second nature to law enforcement personnel, is increasingly considered by military personnel especially in military operations on urban terrain (MOUT) scenarios. In these situations, military and civilian law enforcement objectives are similar: exert control over individuals and groups with minimum force. Although the list of potential devices and systems grow, empirical demonstrations of effectiveness are lacking. Here, a position is presented regarding approaches to experimental analysis of nonlethal (a.k.a., less-than-lethal and less lethal) technologies and solutions. Appreciation of the concepts of suppression and its attendant behavioral variables will advance the development of nonlethal weapons and systems (NLWS suppression is the operational tactic of choice. Suppression will be operationally defined in terms of physical, behavioral and psychophysiological constructs. The critical factor that determines the utility of any construct is the degree of suppression, that is, the quantification of the lack of ability. Two time variables are also critical: the latency to onset and the duration of effect. One aspect of suppression will not be elaborated here, that is, alteration of environment or technical equipment. While such means may be effective, behavioral interactions are minimal and experimental verification is both straightforward and not controversial. In contrast, neurobehavioral aspects of suppression require elaboration. At its most fundamental level, suppression can be achieved by disrupting physiological processes, or by triggering physiological processes that interfere with the completion of focused, pro-mission behaviors. Examples include seizures, nerve impulse disruption (as with electromuscular disruption devices), nausea, nystagmus or eye spasms, hypotension and faintness, fever, profuse production of tears and mucous (as with riot control agents), hyperventilation, migraines, hallucinations, fatigue, sleepiness, and acute irritation of the nose, eyes, or skin. More pleasant examples might include tickling or orgasms -- if novel methods of triggering these responses were available! In either case, aversive or pleasant, effects of candidate systems and technologies may be empirically verified. At the other end of the spectrum, impacting cognitive functions can lead to suppression. Cognitive functions can be simple or complex, and while they are often difficult to measure directly, they are recognizable by most individuals. Examples include disorientation, confusion, feeling addled, be ing repeatedly distracted, mental fatigue, vertigo, inability
Neuroprotective effect of chronic infusion of basic fibroblast growth factor on seizure-associated hippocampal damage.

Abstract Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has been shown to have neuroprotective effects in animal models of ischemia. To determine whether bFGF is protective against seizure-induced brain damage, we administered bFGF through osmotic pumps prior to, and after treatment with kainic acid (KA). Recombinant bFGF, CS23, a modified human bFGF, was infused into the lateral ventricles in rats for 2 days before and 5 days after the injection of KA. Control rats received equal volumes of phosphated saline over the same period of time. Infusion of 5 μg/ml of bFGF (0.5 μ1/h) did not modify the latency and duration of seizures induced by intraperitoneal injections of KA. However, bFGF prevented cell loss in the hippocampus in 80% of the rats. In control rats, cell loss in the hippocampus was found in all rats. These results indicate that bFGF has a substantial neuropropective effect.
Inhibition of fludarabine metabolism by arabinosylcytosine during therapy.

The active 5′-triphosphate of arabinosyl-2-fluoroadenine (F-ara-ATP) increases the anabolism of arabinosylcytosine (ara-C), whereas ara-C 5′-triphosphate inhibits the phosphorylation of arabinosyl-2-fluoroadenine (F-ara-A) in human leukemia cells in vitro. These interactions have a potential impact on drug scheduling. Clinical trials of relapsed leukemia in which fludarabine (F-ara-A 5′-monophosphate) and ara-C were given in sequence provided the opportunity to evaluate the effects of ara-C infusion on two sequelae: the pharmacokinetics of F-ara-A in plasma and that of F-ara-ATP in leukemia cells. First, F-ara-A pharmacokinetics were altered by ara-C infusion. This was visualized as a transient increase in F-ara-A plasma levels during the ara-C infusion that was given 4 h after fludarabine. The perturbation in F-ara-A plasma levels was dependent on the dose of ara-C. Second, peak F-ara-ATP concentrations were lower in leukemia cells of patients who received ara-C in addition to fludarabine as compared with those who received fludarabine alone. The terminal half-life of F-ara-A in plasma and the half-life of intracellular F-ara-ATP were reduced after the ara-C infusion in a concentration-dependent manner. Studies using purified deoxycytidine kinase support the conclusion that the increase in plasma levels of F-ara-A is in part the result of an effective competition by ara-C for phosphorylation by this enzyme, leading to a perturbation of the pharmacokinetics of intracellular F-ara-ATP.
Use of superparamagnetic contrast media to suppress signal from flowing spins: Preliminary experience

The authors describe their preliminary experience with the use of superparamagnetic magnetic resonance (MR) imaging contrast media for suppression of signal from flowing blood. The goal of this work was to determine if a superparamagnetic contrast agent could successfully eliminate blood signal during cardiac-gated MR imaging, thereby eliminating or reducing flow artifacts associated with the complex and variable hemodynamics within the heart chambers. Imaging and data analysis were performed in 17 dogs subjected to experimental myocardial infarction as part of a parallel project. Six doses (0.2, 1, 2, 3.5, 4, 5, and 10 mg/kg) of AMI-25, an experimental contrast agent, were used in the study. Spin-echo imaging was performed immediately before and every 5 minutes (for an average of 25 minutes) after bolus injection of the contrast agent. Variations in the image signal-to-noise ratio relative to a baseline (before injection of contrast agent) image were assessed as a function of dose and time. Preliminary results suggest that a considerable reduction in blood flow artifacts and, hence, increases in image signal-to-noise ratio can be achieved at doses greater than or equal to 3.5 mg/kg, for approximately 20 minutes after injection. Doses equal to or less than 2 mg/kg and images obtained more than 20 minutes after injection (regardless of dose) did not reliably show hemodynamic artifact suppression.
Sensitive, microliter PCR with consensus degenerate primers for Epstein Barr virus amplification

Sensitive identification of the etiology of viral diseases is key to implementing appropriate prevention and treatment. The gold standard for virus identification is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a technique that allows for highly specific and sensitive detection of pathogens by exponentially amplifying a specific region of DNA from as little as a single copy through thermocycling a biochemical cocktail. Today, molecular biology laboratories use commercial instruments that operate in 0.5–2 h/analysis using reaction volumes of 5–50 μL contained within polymer tubes or chambers. Towards reducing this volume and maintaining performance, we present a semi-quantitative, systematic experimental study of how PCR yield is affected by tube/chamber substrate, surface-area-to-volume ratio (SA:V), and passivation methods. We perform PCR experiments using traditional PCR tubes as well as using disposable polymer microchips with 1 μL reaction volumes thermocycled using water baths. We report the first oil encapsulation microfluidic PCR method without fluid flow and its application to the first microfluidic amplification of Epstein Barr virus using consensus degenerate primers, a powerful and broad PCR method to screen for both known and novel members of a viral family. The limit of detection is measured as 140 starting copies of DNA from a starting concentration of 3 × 105 copies/mL, regarded as an accepted sensitivity threshold for diagnostic purposes, and reaction specificity was improved as compared to conventional methods. Also notable, these experiments were conducted with conventional reagent concentrations, rather than commonly spiked enzyme and/or template mixtures. This experimental study of the effects of substrate, SA:V, and passivation, together with sensitive and specific microfluidic PCR with consensus degenerate primers represent advances towards lower cost and higher throughput pathogen screening.
The Public-Choice Approach to Dismantling Big Government

Public-choice analysis of the growth of government suggests that the size of the state could be reduced in the same way thai it has swollen: political coalitions on specific policies to overcome other vested interests. Fred L. Smith Jr of the Competitive Enterprise Institute in Washington, describes irs work to illustrate how it implements the ideas produced by academic orientated institutes.
Effect of guanine nucleotides on striatal dopamine receptors

GUANINE NUCLEOTIDES have been shown to regulate the sensitivity of adenylate cyclase to hormones in several systems1–5, including the dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase in the caudate nucleus2,4. It has also been reported that in the presence of GTP the affinities of glucagon receptors6, β-adrenergic receptors7,8, prostaglandin E1 receptors9 and opiate receptors10 for agonists are decreased. For β-adrenergic receptors this effect of GTP has been described as ‘agonist-specific’, as it is seen with agonists but not with antagonists7,8. We report here a similar effect of GTP on the ability of dopamine-receptor agonists to compete for 3H-spiroperidol binding sites on rat striatal membranes. The presence of 0.3 mM GTP led to a four-to-fivefold increase in the Kd values for the inhibition of 3H-spiroperidol binding by dopamine-receptor agonists. No changes in Kd values were observed for antagonists. Dopamine-receptor agonists and antagonists have been defined by the stimulation or inhibition of dopamine-sensitive adenylate cyclase in the neostriatum11,12 or by their effects on the canine renal artery13. Controversy exists, however, as to whether binding studies using labelled neuroleptics such as spiroperidol actually measure dopamine receptors. Our finding of an agonist-specific effect of GTP supports the conclusion that 3H-spiroperidol is binding to functional dopamine receptors in the caudate nucleus.
Covert Categories and Folk Taxonomies

Much of the recent work in ethnoscience has been concerned with the nature of folk taxonomies, an often stated definition of which requires that all folk taxa be monolexemically labeled. This paper offers evidence that unlabeled categories may also be of crucial taxonomic significance, and we feel that it is inappropriate to treat such categories apart from the named taxonomic entities of the system. More importantly, evidence presented indicates that by recognizing unnamed taxa one may gain an understanding of the structure of a particular semantic domain that is actually obscured if one focuses solely on lexically labeled units.
Minimally invasive technique for iliac revascularization after large-bore sheath traumatic avulsion.

Percutaneous treatments of cardiac valvular and thoracic aortic diseases are rapidly progressing. To maintain an indispensable part of their treatment, cardiothoracic surgeons must evolve to be abl...
Organically modified silicate films for stable pH sensors

Abstract Organically modified silicate films prepared from tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and either methyltrimethoxysilane, phenyltrimethoxysilane or isobutyltrimethoxysilane have been investigated as pH sensors. The hybrid sol, prepared by hydrolyzing and co-condensing TEOS with the organosilicon monomer, was doped with the pH indicator dyes, bromocresol green or cresol red, and spin cast on a glass cover slip to form a thin film. The pH sensing range, rate of response, stability, and long-term leaching was evaluated as a function of the amount and type of organosilicon precursor introduced into the sol. Films prepared with a 1:1 or 2:1 TEOS:organosilane mole ratio were found to be the best in terms of transparency, uniformity, stability, and response. Response times to solutions of varying pH were less than 60 s. The pH vs. absorbance response curve for both gel-immobilized bromocresol green or cresol red were broad and the mid-point shifted by approximately 2–3 pH units more basic than their reported p K a 's in water. When the dye-doped hybrid films were soaked in pH 7.0, 0.1 M phosphate buffer for extended periods of time (1–2 weeks), no significant leaching of the dye was observed. The improved stability of the immobilized dye can be attributed to the organosilicon functional group incorporated into the film.
Invariance of long-term visual priming to scale, reflection, translation, and hemisphere

The representation of shape mediating visual object priming was investigated. In two blocks of trials, subjects named images of common objects presented for 185 ms that were bandpass filtered, either at high (10 cpd) or at low (2 cpd) center frequency with a 1.5 octave bandwidth, and positioned either 5° right or left of fixation. The second presentation of an image of a given object type could be filtered at the same or different band, be shown at the same or translated (and mirror reflected) position, and be the same exemplar as that in the first block or a same-name different-shaped exemplar (e.g. a different kind of chair). Second block reaction times (RTs) and error rates were markedly lower than they were on the first block, which, in the context of prior results, was indicative of strong priming. A change of exemplar in the second block resulted in a significant cost in RTs and error rates, indicating that a portion of the priming was visual and not just verbal or basic-level conceptual. However, a change in the spatial frequency (SF) content of the image had no effect on priming despite the dramatic difference it made in appearance of the objects. This invariance to SF changes was also preserved with centrally presented images in a second experiment. Priming was also invariant to a change in left‐right position (and mirror orientation) of the image. The invariance over translation of such a large magnitude suggests that the locus of the representation mediating the priming is beyond an area that would be homologous to posterior TEO in the monkey. We conclude that this representation is insensitive to low level image variations (e.g. SF, precise position or orientation of features) that do not alter the basic part-structure of the object. Finally, recognition performance was unaffected by whether low or high bandpassed images were presented either in the left or right visual field, giving no support to the hypothesis of hemispheric differences in processing low and high spatial frequencies. © 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Adsorption Isotherms for Methyl Tert -Butyl Ether and Other Fuel Oxygenates on Two Bituminous-Coal Activated Carbons

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) is frequently used as a gasoline additive to reduce carbon monoxide emissions from vehicles. Alternative fuel oxygenates are also used separately or in conjunction with MTBE including ethyl tert-butyl ether (ETBE), tert-amyl methyl ether (TAME), diisopropyl ether (DIPE), tert-butyl alcohol (TBA), and ethanol (EtOH). Granular activated carbon (GAC) sorption is a proven technology for the removal of the ether oxygenates while the alcohols are not well adsorbed. In this research, Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms coefficients were developed based on linearized forms of the models for MTBE, ETBE, TAME, and DIPE ( R2 >0.97) on two common bituminous coal GACs:Calgon F400 and F600. No significant adsorption of either TBA or EtOH was observed on these carbons. The relative capacities on both Calgon F400 and F600 were DIPE>TAME>ETBE>MTBE>TBA , EtOH.
Evaluation of Iron Release Models for Water Distribution Systems

Recent efforts have led to the development of a number of models that predict the occurrence of iron release and subsequent red water formation in water distribution systems. The authors analyze these recently developed iron release models. The factors influencing iron release are derived from water chemistry, biological processes, composition of pipe scale, and hydraulic flow characteristics within the pipe. Although a variety of factors lead to iron release, there is no consensus as to the quantitative extent that each factor contributes. This lack of consensus is made evident when comparing each of the iron release models. Although each model may be beneficial for simulating certain mechanisms of iron release, no single model has been developed that provides a comprehensive portrayal of iron release phenomena.
Tests for Neutral Currents in Neutrino Reactions

Neutral currents predicted by weak-interaction models of the type discussed by Weinberg may be detected in neutrino reactions. Limits on the ratio $R$ of $\ensuremath{\sigma}(\ensuremath{\nu}+N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\nu}+X)$ to $\ensuremath{\sigma}(\ensuremath{\nu}+N\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{\ensuremath{\mu}}^{\ensuremath{-}}+X)$ are obtained independent of any dynamical assumption. For the total cross section for high-energy neutrinos, we find $R\ensuremath{\ge}0.18$, provided the Weinberg mixing angle satisfies ${{sin}^{2}\ensuremath{\theta}}_{W}\ensuremath{\le}0.33$. For the production of a single ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{0}$ we find ${R}^{\ensuremath{'}}\ensuremath{\ge}0.50$ contrasted with the experimental result ${R}^{\ensuremath{'}}\ensuremath{\le}0.14$ using only the assumption of (3,3)-resonance dominance. Applications are also given to antineutrino reactions.
The H5N1 Influenza Virus NS Genes Selected after 1998 Enhance Virus Replication in Mammalian Cells

The NS1A proteins of human influenza A viruses bind CPSF30, a cellular factor required for the processing of cellular pre-mRNAs, thereby inhibiting the production of all cellular mRNAs, including beta interferon mRNA. Here we show that the NS1A protein of the pathogenic H5N1 influenza A/Hong Kong/483/97 (HK97) virus isolated from humans has an intrinsic defect in CPSF30 binding. It does not bind CPSF30 in vitro and causes high beta interferon mRNA production and reduced virus replication in MDCK cells when expressed in a recombinant virus in which the other viral proteins are encoded by influenza A/Udorn/72. We traced this defect to the identities of amino acids 103 and 106 in the HK97 NS1A protein, which differ from the consensus amino acids, F and M, respectively, found in the NS1A proteins of almost all human influenza A virus strains. X-ray crystallography has shown that F103 and M106, which are not part of the CPSF30 binding pocket of the NS1A protein, stabilize the NS1A-CPSF30 complex. In contrast to the HK97 NS1A protein, the NS1A proteins of H5N1 viruses isolated from humans after 1998 contain F103 and M106 and hence bind CPSF30 in vitro and do not attenuate virus replication. The HK97 NS1A protein is less attenuating when expressed in a virus that also encodes the other internal HK97 proteins and under these conditions binds to CPSF30 to a substantial extent in vivo. Consequently, these internal HK97 proteins largely compensate for the absence of F103 and M106, presumably by stabilizing the NS1A-CPSF30 complex.
Continuous spinal anesthesia for cesarean section in a parturient with severe preeclampsia

Epidural anesthesia is a widely accepted technique for cesarean section in the preeclamptic patient with normal coagulation. Regional anesthetic techniques avoid the hazards associated with tracheal intubation in the preeclamptic or eclamptic patient. To date, continuous spinal anesthesia in the preeclamptic parturient has not been described. We present a case in which continuous spinal anesthesia was administered for cesarean section in a morbidly obese parturient with severe preeclampsia. Continuous spinal anesthesia was successfully administered without significant hemodynamic consequences or maternal or fetal morbidity. This case suggests that continuous spinal anesthesia may be a viable alternative anesthetic technique for operative delivery in the preeclamptic parturient when epidural anesthesia cannot be established.
AAEM case report #24: electrodiagnosis in posttraumatic syringomyelia.

An adult male with C-7 quadriplegia developed neck pain. Axillary F central latencies were prolonged, and MRI showed a syrinx extending to C-1. After shunting, F latencies normalized. At subsequent follow-up, a rostral syrinx persisted by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); motor evoked potential (MEP) latencies were prolonged but F latencies were normal. Later, the syrinx was less distended by MRI, MEPs normalized, and strength improved. We discuss the electrophysiologic methods available for diagnosing and monitoring posttraumatic syringomyelia. © 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Endothelin-1 contributes to increased NFATc3 activation by chronic hypoxia in pulmonary arteries

Chronic hypoxia (CH) activates the Ca(2+)-dependent transcription factor nuclear factor of activated T cells isoform c3 (NFATc3) in mouse pulmonary arteries. However, the mechanism of this response has not been explored. Since we have demonstrated that NFATc3 is required for CH-induced pulmonary arterial remodeling, establishing how CH activates NFATc3 is physiologically significant. The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that endothelin-1 (ET-1) contributes to CH-induced NFATc3 activation. We propose that this mechanism requires increased pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) intracellular Ca(2+) concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) and stimulation of RhoA/Rho kinase (ROK), leading to calcineurin activation and actin cytoskeleton polymerization, respectively. We found that: 1) CH increases pulmonary arterial pre-pro-ET-1 mRNA expression and lung RhoA activity; 2) inhibition of ET receptors, calcineurin, L-type Ca(2+) channels, and ROK blunts CH-induced NFATc3 activation in isolated intrapulmonary arteries from NFAT-luciferase reporter mice; and 3) both ET-1-induced NFATc3 activation in isolated mouse pulmonary arteries ex vivo and ET-1-induced NFATc3-green fluorescence protein nuclear import in human PASMC depend on ROK and actin polymerization. This study suggests that CH increases ET-1 expression, thereby elevating PASMC [Ca(2+)](i) and RhoA/ROK activity. As previously demonstrated, elevated [Ca(2+)](i) is required to activate calcineurin, which dephosphorylates NFATc3, allowing its nuclear import. Here, we demonstrate that ROK increases actin polymerization, thus providing structural support for NFATc3 nuclear transport.
Characterization of Novel Synthesized Small Molecular Compounds Against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Background With the exception of surgery, the standard platinum-based chemotherapeutic agents are the preferred treatment for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); however little improvement (5-year survival) has been made. Therefore it is highly desirable to develop innovative therapeutic agents for NSCLC treatment. Methods Highly enantioselective synthetic methods were developed and a broad compound library was established. Cell toxicity, cell sensitivity, cell proliferation, cell invasion, and three-dimensional colony formation assays were used to assess the anticancer potential of these compounds in non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines. Results We found that the S-form of compound PL54 (PL54S, 5-20 μM) exhibited strong anticancer activity in 5 tested NSCLC cell lines. We further synthesized a highly pure R-form enantiomer of PL54 (PL54R) and its racemate (PL54Rac) and characterized their anticancer activities. The results showed that PL54S is more potent than PL54R and PL54Rac against the tested cell lines. Furthermore, less cellular toxicity was observed in the normal human lung fibroblasts. Similarly, PL54S displayed greater anti–colony formation activity compared with PL54R and PL54Rac. The cellular sensitivity assay revealed that PL54S and PL54Rac significantly suppressed cologenic formation compared with PL54R and dimethyl sulfoxide controls ( p (p 0.01). A soft agar colony formation assay revealed that PL54S and PL54Rac (10 mM), but not PL54R, significantly inhibited colony formation of tested NSCLC cells (p 0.01). Conclusions The stereospecific compounds may prove to be a novel technique for the treatment of NSCLC.
Transcriptional Regulation of ROS Controls Transition from Proliferation to Differentiation in the Root

The balance between cellular proliferation and differentiation is a key aspect of development in multicellular organisms. Using high-resolution expression data from the Arabidopsis root, we identified a transcription factor, UPBEAT1 (UPB1), that regulates this balance. Genomewide expression profiling coupled with ChIP-chip analysis revealed that UPB1 directly regulates the expression of a set of peroxidases that modulate the balance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) between the zones of cell proliferation and the zone of cell elongation where differentiation begins. Disruption of UPB1 activity alters this ROS balance, leading to a delay in the onset of differentiation. Modulation of either ROS balance or peroxidase activity through chemical reagents affects the onset of differentiation in a manner consistent with the postulated UPB1 function. This pathway functions independently of auxin and cytokinin plant hormonal signaling. Comparison to ROS-regulated growth control in animals suggests that a similar mechanism is used in plants and animals.
Relax frame independence assumption for standard hmms by state dependent auto-regressive feature models

We propose a new type of frame-based hidden Markov models (HMMs), in which a sequence of observations are generated using state-dependent autoregressive feature models. Based on this correlation model, it can be proved that expressing the probability of a sequence of observations as a product of probabilities of decorrelated individual observations does not require the assumption of frame independence. Under the maximum likelihood (ML) criteria, we also derived re-estimation formulae for the parameters (mean vectors, covariance matrix, and diagonal regression matrix) of the new HMMs using an expectation maximization (EM) algorithm. From the formulae, it is interesting to see that the new HMMs have extended the standard HMMs by relaxing the frame independence limitation. The initial experiment conducted on WSJ20K task shows an encouraging performance improvement with only 117 additional parameters in all.