cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Accurate and efficient evaluation of transition probabilities at unavoided crossings in ab initio multiple spawning

Abstract Recently we introduced a norm-preserving wavefunction interpolation (NPI) method which allows the accurate and efficient integration of the time-dependent Schrodinger equation in regions of rapidly varying time-derivative coupling (TDC), e.g. near conical intersections (CIs) and effectively ( N -1)-dimensional trivial unavoided crossings (TUCs). Herein we report the implementation of the NPI scheme into the ab initio multiple spawning (AIMS) method and investigate its behavior in two test systems: one which exhibits a CI and another which exhibits a TUC. In the CI case, AIMS–NPI predicts transfer probabilities that agree to within 0.6% of simulations based on the analytical evaluation of the nonadiabatic couplings, without the need for computationally expensive adaptive integration. In the TUC case, AIMS–NPI results in less than 0.08% error in the population transfer probability when a 0.12 fs time step is used, while simulations based on the analytical approach exhibit catastrophic errors for all finite time steps.
The minor role of Gln 183 in the NADH reductive half-reaction of E. coli methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (769.10)

The flavoprotein methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) catalyzes the reduction of 5, 10-methylenetetrahydrofolate (CH2-H4folate) to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (CH3-H4folate) using FAD as a redo...
Using Genetic Programming to Obtain a Closed-Form Approximation to a Recursive Function

We demonstrate a fully automated method for obtaining a closedform approximation of a recursive function. This method resulted from a realworld problem in which we had a detector that monitors a time series and where we needed an indication of the total number of false positives expected over a fixed amount of time. The problem, because of the constraints on the available measurements on the detector, was formulated as a recursion, and conventional methods for solving the recursion failed to yield a closed form or a closed-form approximation. We demonstrate the use of genetic programming to rapidly obtain a high-accuracy approximation with minimal assumptions about the expected solution and without a need to specify problem-specific parameterizations. We analyze both the solution and the evolutionary process. This novel application shows a promising way of using genetic programming to solve recurrences in practical settings.
Some aspects of the metabolism of chondroitin sulfate-S35 in the rat.

The use of sulfate of exogenous origin in the synthesis of chondroitin sulfate was suggested (1) and then demonstrated by the isolation of chondroitin sulfate-W from the cartilage of rats given sulfate-V6 (2, 3). Confirmatory reports have supplemented the earlier observations (4, 5). Autoradiography has been particularly effective in showing that administered sulfate-S36 is concentrated to a greater extent in regions which have a high acid mucopolysaccharide concentration (6-21) than in regions in which the concentration of such polysaccharides is low or in which they are absent. Results of experiments in which tissue cultures (22) and cartilage slices (23, 24) were used strongly suggest that the incorporation of sulfate into chondroitin sulfate is enzymatically controlled. It is likely that the reverse reaction, namely, the hydrolytic cleavage of the sulfate group from chondroitin sulfate, is similarly affected. However, the presence in mammalian tissues of an enzyme to catalyze such a reaction has not been demonstrated. The following is a report of the fate of the sulfate group of chondroitin sulfate-W when the latter is administered to rats by stomach tube or by intraperitoneal injection.
Cell cycle proteins and the pathogenesis of HIV-1 encephalitis in the HAART era.

This chapter discusses the known mechanisms by which cell cycle proteins regulate viability, which of these mechanisms are at play in regulating neuronal viability, evidence that cell cycle regulators are stimulated in HIV encephalitis, the implications of these findings in the post-HAART era, and their potential for additional therapy. The three cell cycle proteins implicated in regulating cell viability are retinoblastoma (pRb), E2F1, and p53. pRb and p53 are the two key targets of signaling pathways that regulate cellular decisions to divide, differentiate, or die. Phosphorylation of pRb has been observed in several in vitro models of neuronal apoptosis including trophic factor withdrawal, DNA damage, low potassium levels, beta-amyloid treatment, and oxidative stress. Further investigation is necessary to determine if they are the ultimate targets for deciding between life and death in neurons for the subset of toxins associated with neurodegeneration in response to HIV encephalitis (HIVE). Investigation into cell cycle proteins in HIVE is still in its early days; however, research thus far indicates that mechanisms of neuronal response to the degenerative stimuli in HIVE are similar to those seen in other neurodegenerative diseases. By understanding the impact of macrophage-secreted factors such as cytokines, chemokines, neurotrophic factors (NTF), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) on modulation of cell cycle regulatory proteins in neurons, a greater insight into neurodegenerative processes in HIVE and neurodegeneration as a whole can be gained and hopefully potential therapeutic targets for treatment of these devastating diseases can be identified.
Proteomic analyses using an accurate mass and time tag strategy

An accurate mass and time (AMT) tag approach for proteomic analyses has been developed over the past several years to facilitate comprehensive high-throughput proteomic measurements. An AMT tag dat...
Plasma exchange therapy in sepsis

Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory syndrome in response to an infection. With the current resuscitation practice, up to 16% of children with severe sepsis and septic shock still progress to develop multiple organ failure (MOF), a condition that is associated with poor outcome. In this review, we focus on the thrombotic microangiopathic paradigm for the development of sepsis-induced MOF. We describe the clinical observations, emerging experimental and laboratory evidence supporting the concept that sepsis-induced MOF may be a secondary thrombotic microangiopathy, manifest as thrombocytopenia-associated MOF. Drawing the pathologic similarities such as a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin motifs-13 deficiency, impaired ultra-large von Willebrand factor multimers proteolysis, and von Willebrand factor-rich microthrombi and therapeutic success with plasma exchange in treating thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, a primary thrombotic microangiopathy, we propose a rationale for the role of plasma exchange therapy for sepsis and thrombocytopenia-associated multiple organ failure.
School-based sexuality education: the issues and challenges.

This commentary on the issues and challenges related to the provision of sex education in US schools opens by using a 1997 action of the Franklin County North Carolina school board as an example of the controversy. In this case the school board ordered the removal of chapters on sex behavior contraception AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases from its 9th grade health text book to comply with a new state law requiring public schools to teach sexual abstinence until marriage. While most US adults approve of sex education in schools the abstinence-only movement has orchestrated a highly organized successful campaign to remove information from schools and has garnered a $250 million commitment from the federal government to promote abstinence until marriage as part of welfare reform efforts. The commentary continues with a review of efforts to undermine sexuality education starting in the 1960s and sketches the current state of sex education efforts. The next section looks at the new strategy used by sex education opponents which led them to refocus efforts on local school boards and state legislatures instead of national policies. Remaining topics include the other tactics used by sex education opponents the heightened fear of teachers to discuss controversial subjects the lack of teacher training to discuss sexuality and the consequences of this situation in the classroom. Recommendations to redress this situation include improving professional training forming local advisory committees encouraging parental involvement and promoting the benefits of comprehensive programs.
A Review of “Towards multilingual education: Basque educational research from an international perspective”

In her book, Towards Multilingual Education, Jasone Cenoz provides a comprehensive overview of research conducted on language-in-education policies, educational outcomes and language attitudes in t...
Alcoholism and Family Interaction

This chapter reviews the family interaction literature concerned with families of alcoholics. The development of this area is traced from early reports that focused on individual family members to more recent approaches concerned with the family as an interacting unit. Theories that suggest that family processes reinforce patterns of abusive drinking are examined in light of existing empirical evidence. The interpretation of findings is limited by an insufficient number of studies, a lack of replication, and a lack of systematic programs of research. Recently, more rigorously controlled experiments have demonstrated that the interactions of families of alcoholics can be differentiated from those of nondistressed and other distressed families. Suggested future directions include exploration of family interactions with respect to female alcoholics and offspring outcome.
Glow discharge optical emission spectrometry elemental mapping with restrictive anode array masks

Large-area surface elemental mapping is highly beneficial for a multitude of applications in fields from materials science to biology. Current typical methods, however, suffer from long acquisition times. Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectrometry (GDOES), under pulsed-power and higher pressure operation, exhibits a great potential for ultrahigh throughput chemical imaging of large surface area samples. Up until now, various proof-of-principle studies of GDOES elemental mapping have only been applied to smaller surface area samples. Thus, there is a need for development of GDOES systems that allow for analysis of large area samples. Here, the design of different GD configurations for large area sample (10 cm diameter) analysis is investigated as a function of operating conditions such as pressure (133–4000 Pa), applied power (up to 5 kW), and pulsing. An open face electrode (OFE) design generated undesirable heterogeneous plasma at the higher pressures required for achieving spatial resolution. On the other hand, a restrictive anode array mask (RAAM) design provided notable homogeneity within the same pressure range and enabled the lateral resolution of 1 mm diameter silver inclusions embedded in copper. RAAMS were designed varying thickness (3 mm and 12 mm), aperture size (4, 6, 8 mm), geometry, and grounding. Also, as the section sputtered is restricted to the area covered by the apertures, the RAAM provides the opportunity for subsequent analysis of the unsputtered regions via alternative methods. In addition, the RAAM permits higher power densities to be achieved within the limitations of the power supply. These findings help to pave the way for exploiting the full potential of GDOES and its ultrahigh throughput elemental mapping of large surface area samples.
Wavelength selection and symmetry breaking in orbital wave ripples

Sand ripples formed by waves have a uniform wavelength while at equilibrium and develop defects while adjusting to changes in the flow. These patterns arise from the interaction of the flow with the bed topography, but the specific mechanisms have not been fully explained. We use numerical flow models and laboratory wave tank experiments to explore the origins of these patterns. The wavelength of “orbital” wave ripples (λ) is directly proportional to the oscillating flow's orbital diameter (d), with many experimental and field studies finding λ/d ≈ 0.65. We demonstrate a coupling that selects this ratio: the maximum length of the flow separation zone downstream of a ripple crest equals λ when λ/d ≈ 0.65. We show that this condition maximizes the growth rate of ripples. Ripples adjusting to changed flow conditions develop defects that break the bed's symmetry. When d is shortened sufficiently, two new incipient crests appear in every trough, but only one grows into a full-sized crest. Experiments have shown that the same side (right or left) wins in every trough. We find that this occurs because incipient secondary crests slow the flow and encourage the growth of crests on the next flank. Experiments have also shown that when d is lengthened, ripple crests become increasingly sinuous and eventually break up. We find that this occurs because crests migrate preferentially toward the nearest adjacent crest, amplifying any initial sinuosity. Our results reveal the mechanisms that form common wave ripple patterns and highlight interactions among unsteady flows, sediment transport, and bed topography.
Behavior of lactating rats in a dual-chambered maternity cage

Abstract Videotape sampling of behavior in a dual-chambered apparatus indicates that the continuous monitoring of the amount of time a mother spends in the cage with its litter can be taken as a valid reflection of maternal behavior. Nursing is the principal behavior of lactating females while in the compartment with their litters; lying still, consummatory behavior, and activity occur with greater frequency in the cage away from the litter. Both the time that mothers spend with their litters and nursing behavior displayed a 24-hr rhythm with crest values occurring during the period of light.
Corrigendum to ''Sleep and rest facilitate implicit memory in a visual search task" (Vision Res. 49 (21) (2009) 2557-2565)

Corrigendum to ‘‘Sleep and rest facilitate implicit memory in a visual search task” [Vision Res. 49 (21) (2009) 2557–2565] S.C. Mednick *, T. Makovski , D.J. Cai , Y.V. Jiang b Department of Psychiatry and Veterans Affairs, San Diego Healthcare System, University of California, San Diego, Research Service, La Jolla, CA 92161, United States Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, United States Department of Psychology, University of California, San Diego, United States
A robotic, compact, and extremely high resolution optical spectrograph for a close-in super-Earth survey

One of the most astonishing results from the HARPS and Kepler planet surveys is the recent discovery of close-in super-Earths orbiting more than half of FGKM dwarfs. This new population of exoplanets represents the most dominant class of planetary systems known to date, is totally unpredicted by the classical core-accretion disk planet formation model. High cadence and high precision Doppler spectroscopy is the key to characterize properties of this new population and constrain planet formation models. A new robotic, compact high resolution optical spectrograph, called TOU (formerly called EXPERT-III), was commissioned at the Automatic Spectroscopic Telescope (AST) at Fairborn Observatory in Arizona in July 2013 and has produced a spectral resolution of about 100,000 and simultaneous wavelength coverage of 0.38-0.9 μm with a 4kx4k back-illuminated Fairchild CCD detector. The instrument holds a very high vacuum of 1 micro torr and about 2 mK temperature stability over a month. The early on-sky RV measurements show that this instrument is approaching a Doppler precision of 1 m/s (rms) for bright reference stars (such as Tau Ceti) with 5 min exposures and better than 3 m/s (P-V, RMS~1 m/s) daily RV stability before calibration exposures are applied. A pilot survey of 20 V<9 FGK dwarfs, including known super-Earth systems and known RV stable stars, is being launched and every star will be observed ~100 times over ~300 days time window between this summer and next spring, following up with a full survey of ~150 V< 10 FGKM dwarfs in 2015-2017.
Boundary layer models of ocean floor spreading

The equations of conservations of momentum and energy scaled with the characteristic values of the mantle indicate the presence of the upper boundary layer to produce the estimated rate of the ocean floor spreading by convection and the importance of the frictional heating. The depth of the upper boundary layer can be estimated from the balance of the viscous force with the horizontal pressure gradient at the sea floor. It is of the orders of 100 km and becomes deeper for the Pacific than for the Atlantic Ocean and also with frictional heating than without it. The frictional heating increases the surface heat flow of the heat conduction by ten to twenty percent for the Pacific Ocean but only by a few percent for the Atlantic Ocean. The similarity solutions are determined for the temperature and horizontal velocity in the upper boundary layer. These solutions are expressed in power series of the variabley x−n, wherex, y, andn are horizontal and vertical coordinates and numerical constant, respectively. Both temperature and horizontal velocity within the boundary layer are higher for the Pacific than for the Atlantic Ocean. When a larger viscosity is applied, it causes the increase of horizontal velocity below the surface because of the surface boundary conditions of the finite velocity and of vanishment of the velocity shear. The higher horizontal velocity generates higher temperature because it advects hotter material from the mid-ocean ridge site. The direct effect of frictional heating on the temperature distribution of the similarity solution is almost negligible, since the shear zone is deep and near the lower boundary of the upper boundary layer. In the similarity solution, the surface heat flow which is increased by the frictional heating is given as the boundary value. The effect of the frictional heating is important below the mid-ocean ridge.
PARTITIONING 3D PHANTOMS INTO HOMOGENEOUS CUBOIDS

We analyze the heuristic proposed by Jung [3] to partition a 3D phantom into homogeneous cuboids. We show that the 2D version of this heuristic generates the minimum number of rectangles when partitioning 2D non-degenerate phantoms. However, this 2D version doesn't generate optimal partitions of degenerate 2D phantoms. In fact, the heuristic may generate more than 3 times as many rectangles as is necessary. The 3D heuristic of [3] doesn't generate optimal partitionings of 3D simple phantoms either. We show that slicing partitions of 3D simple phantoms are optimal. Our analysis suggests a new heuristic for 3D phantoms. This heuristic generated one-third as many cuboids when used to partition a 3D CT-scan phantom and about one-fourth as many cuboids on randomly generated 3D phantoms as produced by the heuristic of [3].
Computed tomography of invasive thymoma

We report a case of invasive thymoma invading and occluding the superior vena cava in which the diagnosis was only made by the computed tomography (CT) study. Correlation of CT and autopsy findings of invasive thymoma were made in order to emphasize the usefulness of CT study in the evaluation of thymoma and its relationship with vascular structures.
Ocular Lymphangiosarcoma in a Horse

An 18-year-old Percheron cross mare presented to the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University for evaluation of progressive corneal clouding and conjunctival swelling involving the right eye. Ophthalmic examination demonstrated widespread infiltrative opacification and vascularization of the right cornea, most extensive ventrally and extending dorsolaterally. The palpebral conjunctiva was hyperemic with moderate chemosis and demonstrated follicular proliferation ventrally. The bulbar and palpebral conjunctiva of the nictitating membrane appeared grossly thickened. A mild amount of fibrin was noted within the anterior chamber. The horse was placed under general anesthesia, and the right eye was enucleated using a transpalpebral approach. Light microscopic examination of the ocular tissues demonstrated a neoplasm consistent with lymphangiosarcoma, which was believed to have originated from the bulbar conjunctiva, with subsequent invasion into the neighboring cornea, sclera, and periocular muscles. Follow-up conversations with the owner and referring veterinarian revealed that the horse was doing well 9 months postoperatively. Lymphangiosarcoma is an extremely rare neoplasm that originates from the lymphatic endothelium. Lymphangiosarcoma is typically considered to be an aggressive, malignant tumor and is associated with high metastatic and mortality rates in both physician-based as well as veterinary medicine. This is the first case report of lymphangiosarcoma arising from the bulbar conjunctiva and subsequently affecting the cornea, sclera, and periocular muscles in any species. This case also describes a survival time longer than that reported for any equine with this neoplasm.
Reactions between peroxidizing lipids and histidyl residue analogues: Enhancement of lipid oxidation and browning by 4-methylimidazole

As a part of our study on the interactions between peroxidizing lipids and the histidyl imidazole side-chain in simple, low-moisture model systems, 4-methylimidazole (4MI) was reacted with methyl linoleate (ML). This analogue was chosen to avoid interference from other functional groups in histidine (free base) or in proteins. Changes in the concentrations of lipid hydroperoxides, carbonyls, 4MI, and brown pigments were followed over a period of 24 days. The results indicate that 4MI exhibits significant prooxidative activity by reducing the induction period as well as by enhancing the formation of brown pigments. These effects are more pronounced at high 4MI/MI molar ratios and under basic pH's. Upon interactions with peroxidizing ML, as much as 44% of initially present 4MI was destroyed by the sixth day of incubation.
The regulation of virtue: Cross-currents in professional ethics

This paper argues that more attention should be paid to the civic functions of ethical discourse about the professions and to the moral virtues inherent in their practice and traditions. The ability of professional ethics to articulate civic ideals and virtues is discussed in relation to three issues. First, should professional ethics aim to enlighten ethical understanding or to motivate ethical conduct? Second, how should professional ethics define the professional's moral responsibilities in the face of ethical dilemmas — should the professional attempt to resolve the dilemma ethically or to change the social conditions that create the dilemma in the first place? The third issue discussed in the paper is whether professional ethics should be based on the model of regulation and rational self-interest or on the model of virtue and a fundamental personal commitment to the ideal of a certain form of life? In order for work in professional ethics to attain intellectual credibility among a non-philosophical audience, it must develop a coherent and convincing position on each of these issues.
STRIPE: remote driving using limited image data

Driving a vehicle, either directly or remotely, is an inherently visual task. When heavy fog limits visibility, we reduce our car's speed to a slow crawl, even along very familiar roads. In teleoperation systems, an operator's view is limited to images provided by one or more cameras mounted on the remote vehicle. Traditional methods of vehicle teleoperation require that a real time stream of images is transmitted from the vehicle camera to the operator control station, and the operator steers the vehicle accordingly. For this type of teleoperation, the transmission link between the vehicle and operator workstation must be very high bandwidth (because of the high volume of images required) and very low latency (because delayed images can cause operators to steer incorrectly). In many situations, such a high-bandwidth, low-latency communication link is unavailable or even technically impossible to provide. Supervised TeleRobotics using Incremental Polyhedral Earth geometry, or STRIPE, is a teleoperation system for a robot vehicle that allows a human operator to accurately control the remote vehicle across very low bandwidth communication links, and communication links with large delays. In STRIPE, a single image from a camera mounted on the vehicle is transmitted to the operator workstation. The operator uses a mouse to pick a series of 'waypoints' in the image that define a path that the vehicle should follow. These 2D waypoints are then transmitted back to the vehicle, where they are used to compute the appropriate steering commands while the next image is being transmitted. STRIPE requires no advance knowledge of the terrain to be traversed, and can be used by novice operators with only minimal training. STRIPE is a unique combination of computer and human control. The computer must determine the 3D world path designated by the 2D waypoints and then accurately control the vehicle over rugged terrain. The human issues involve accurate path selection, and the prevention of disorientation, a common problem across all types of teleoperation systems. STRIPE is the only semi-autonomous teleoperation system that can accurately follow paths designated in monocular images on varying terrain. The thesis describes the STRIPE algorithm for tracking points using the incremental geometry model, insight into the design and redesign of the interface, an analysis of the effects of potential errors, details of the user studies, and hints on how to improve both the algorithm and interface for future designs.
Intergroup, Interpersonal, and Intercultural Nature of Patient–Provider Communication: A Comparison of IMG and USMG Physicians

Using communication accommodation theory as a framework, this study explores and compares communication patterns of international medical graduate (IMG) physicians and United States medical graduate (USMG) physicians in intergroup, interpersonal, and intercultural context. Given that every fourth doctor practicing medicine in the U.S. is an internationally trained physician (AMA-IMG, 2010) an examination of the influence on patient-provider communication involving IMG physician and comparison with USMG physician is warranted. In a national survey of IMG and USMG physicians, the participants self-reported their perceptions of communication behaviors they used during a medical interaction. Although no difference was found between IMG and USMG physicians use of communication accommodation strategies during medical interaction, IMG physicians reported practicing significantly more relational communication than their U.S. counterparts. USMG physicians reported greater difficulty in communication owing to diffe...
The solubility and isotopic fractionation of gases in dilute aqueous solution. IIa. solubilities of the noble gases

A method for the analysis of precise gas solubility data is presented and applied to new determinations of the Henry constant, k2, for He, Ne, Ar, Kr, and Xe. The values of k2 are fitted to the same sets of temperature functions which we have tried for oxygen. Our previously proposed power series in 1/T, ln(k2/P )=a0+a1/T+a2/T2 (Mark I), gives the best 3-term fit within the temperature range 0–60°C. For use over the full range to the critical temperature of water, we have discovered a new function given by (T*)2ln(k2/P )=A0(T*)2+A1(1-T*)1/3+A2(1-T*)2/3(Mark II), where T*≡T/T c1 . It fits our data from 0–60°C nearly as well as Mark I; it fits high temperature data from other sources; and at the critical temperature of water it satisfies theoretical requirements. Expansion of Mark II reveals the relationship between Mark II and Mark I and leads to a 4-term smoothing function, ln(k2/P )=a−2(T*)−2+a−1(T*)−1+a0+a1T* (Mark III), which we believe gives the best values only for the 0–60°C range. Mark III is used to calculate values for $$\Delta \bar G^\theta ,\Delta \bar H^\theta ,\Delta \bar S^\theta $$ , and $$\Delta \bar C^\theta $$ , 0–60°C, and a procedure is empolyed to estimate the errors. Agreement is excellent between these results and those obtained from precise microcalorimetric measurements made by others. With the inclusion of pressure correction terms, Mark II yields the four thermodynamic function changes for use at high temperatures. With increasing temperature, these changes suddenly turn upward toward plus infinity as T c1 is approached. Essentially direct determinations of $$\Delta \bar C^\theta $$ for argon by other workers are in excellent agreement with our results. The symmetrical activity coefficient at infinite dilution, γ 2 ° is examined and the hypothetical properties of k2 are explored below 0°C. Mark II can be expressed in the reduced form (T*)2ln(k 2 * )=A1(1-T*)1/3+A2(1-T*)2/3, where k 2 * ≋k 2/(p c1φ2c1). A2 is a very good linear fit to A1, which suggests a characteristic temperature for water at 287.3 K.
Reversible inhibition of mitochondrial complex I activity following chronic dopaminergic glutathione depletion in vitro: Implications for Parkinson's disease

The pathogenesis underlying the selective degeneration of nigral dopaminergic neurons in Parkinson's disease is not fully understood but several lines of evidence implicate the role of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Depletion in levels of the thiol reducing agent glutathione (GSH + GSSG) is the earliest reported biochemical event to occur in the Parkinsonian substantia nigra prior to selective loss of complex I (CI) activity associated with the disease believed to contribute to subsequent dopaminergic cell death. Recent studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that acute reduction in both cellular and mitochondrial glutathione levels results in increased oxidative stress and a decrease in mitochondrial function linked to a selective decrease in CI activity through an NO-mediated mechanism (Jha, N.; Jurma, O.; Lalli, G.; Liu, Y.; Pettus, E. H.; Greenamyre, J. T.; Liu, R. M.; Forman, H. J.; Andersen, J. K. Glutathione depletion in PC12 results in selective inhibition of mitochondrial complex I activity. Implications for Parkinson's disease J. Biol. Chem. 275: 26096-26101; 2000. Hsu, M.; Srinivas, B.; Kumar, J.; Subramanian, R.; Andersen, J. Glutathione depletion resulting in selective mitochondrial complex I inhibition in dopaminergic cells is via an NO-mediated pathway not involving peroxynitrite: implications for Parkinson's disease J. Neurochem. 92: 1091-1103.2005.). However, the effect of prolonged glutathione depletion on dopaminergic cells is not known. In this present study, using low concentrations of buthionine-S-sulfoximine, a chemical inhibitor of the de novo glutathione synthesizing enzyme glutamate cysteine ligase, we developed a chronic model in which glutathione depletion in dopaminergic N27 cells for a 7-day period was found to lead to inhibition of CI activity via a peroxynitrite-mediated event which is reversible by the thiol reducing agent, dithiothreitol, and coincides with increased S-nitrosation of mitochondrial proteins.
Stable and metastable phase equilibria in the Al-Mn system

The aim of the present investigation was resolution of certain obscure features of the Al-Mn phase diagram. The experimental approach was guided by assessment of the previous literature and modeling of the thermodynamics of the system. It has been shown that two phases of approximate stoichiometry “Al4Mn” (λ and μ) are present in stable equilibrium, λ forming by a peritectoid reaction at 693 ± 2 °C. The liquidus and stable equilibrium invariant reactions as proposed by Goedecke and Koester have been verified. A map has been made of the successive nonequilibrium phase transformations of as-splat-quenched alloys. Finally, the thermodynamic calculation of the phase diagram allows interpretation of complex reaction sequences during cooling in terms of a catalogue of all the metastable invariant reactions involving (Al), Al6Mn, λ, μ, ϕ, and Al11Mn4 phases.
Magnetophonon oscillations in the longitudinal thermoelectric power of n-type InAs☆

Abstract Measurements of the magnetophonon oscillations in the longitudinal thermoelectric power of n-type InAs have shown a maximum near 43 kG and have indicated the presence of additional maxima.
Molecular Mechanism and Energetics of Clamp Assembly inEscherichia coli: THE ROLE OF ATP HYDROLYSIS WHEN γ COMPLEX LOADS β ON DNA *

Abstract Escherichia coli DNA polymerase III holoenzyme is a multisubunit composite containing the β sliding clamp and clamp loading γ complex. The γ complex requires ATP to load β onto DNA. A two-color fluorescence spectroscopic approach was utilized to study this system, wherein both assembly (red fluorescence; X-rhodamine labeled DNA anisotropy assay) and ATP hydrolysis (green fluorescence; phosphate binding protein assay) were simultaneously measured with millisecond timing resolution. The two temporally correlated stopped-flow signals revealed that a preassembled β·γ complex composite rapidly binds primer/template DNA in an ATP hydrolysis independent step. Once bound, two molecules of ATP are rapidly hydrolyzed (∼34 s−1). Following hydrolysis, γ complex dissociates from the DNA (∼22 s−1). Once dissociated, the next cycle of loading is severely compromised, resulting in steady-state ATP hydrolysis rates with a maximum of only ∼3 s−1. Two single-site β dimer interface mutants were examined which had impaired steady-state rates of ATP hydrolysis. The pre-steady-state correlated kinetics of these mutants revealed a pattern essentially identical to wild type. The anisotropy data showed that these mutants decrease the steady-state rates of ATP hydrolysis by causing a buildup of “stuck” binary-ternary complexes on the primer/template DNA.
Political conditions and currency crises in emerging markets

Abstract This article demonstrates the impact of structural political conditions on the likelihood of currency crises in emerging markets. Controlling for a standard and parsimonious set of macroeconomic variables, I find that: right-wing government is less conducive to currency crises; ‘strong’ governments (those with larger legislative majorities and those which face more fragmented legislative opposition) are also less vulnerable. Democracy also reduced the likelihood of currency crises in emerging markets; yet, in contrast to previous studies, this article does not find a significant impact of elections on the likelihood of currency crises.
Molecular systematics and taxonomy of lake cress (Neobeckia aquatica; Brassicaceae), an imperiled aquatic mustard

Abstract The North American lake cress Neobeckia aquatica (eaton) Greene, is rare, aquatic member of the mustard family, Brassicaceae. The phylogenetic position and taxonomic status of this species have been uncertain due to the considerable overlap of morphological characters that exists among the five genera of aquatic cresses: Armoracia, Cardamine, Nasturtium, Neobeckia , and Rorippa . In this study, DNA sequence data from the chloroplast gene rbc L were compared for these aquatic cress genera and were used to construct a phylogenetic tree depicting their evolutionary interrelationships. Molecular data support a natural relationship of the aquatic cresses, but specifically indicate that Neobeckia is more closely related to Rorippa than it is to Armoracia . This analysis indicates that the incomplete fruit septa of Neobeckia and Armoracia are parallelisms which should not be used to justify the merger of these genera. DNA sequence data also indicate a close realtionship between Cardamine and Nasturtium , and their distinctness from the other aquatic cress genera. A relatively high level of DNA sequence divergence separates Neobeckia from all other aquatic cress genera. Neobeckia and Rorippa share similar vegetative and seed features, but differ by habit, petal color, and fruit characteristics. The taxonomic decision is made to retain Neobeckia as a monotypic genus rather than to merge it with Rorippa .
Hard real-time: C++ versus RTSJ

In the domain of hard real-time systems, which language is better: C++ or the Real-Time Specification for Java (RTSJ)? Although standard Java provides a more productive programming environment than C++ due to automatic memory management, that benefit does not apply to RTSJ when using NoHeapRealtimeThread and non-heap memory areas. As a result, RTSJ programmers must manage non-heap memory explicitly. Although that's a common practice in real-time applications, it's also a common source of programmer error, regardless of language. In an ironic role reversal, this paper shows that C++ is able to provide a safer programming environment than RTSJ (or C) for managing memory in a hard-real-time producer/consumer pattern. C++ accomplishes this via a reference-counting pointer. RTSJ (and C) cannot provide an equivalent mechanism because it lacks the necessary language features. Despite other attractive features of RTSJ, the relative simplicity and safety of the C++ programming model for this common pattern suggests that C++ will be a strong competitor to RTSJ in the domain of real-time mission-critical systems.
Competitive interactions among components of humic acids in granular activated carbon adsorption systems : Effects of solution chemistry

The adsorption by activated carbon of a humic acid extracted from Laurentian soil and polystyrene sulfonate, a synthetic polymer, was investigated. Size-exclusion chromatography was used to study competitive interactions among humic components by measuring the changes in molecular weight distributions of molecules remaining in solution after adsorption. The adsorption of humic substances was governed, in large part, by molecular size distribution in relation to adsorbent pore sizes. We demonstrate that the extent of adsorption increases with increasing ionic strength and calcium content. Increases in the extent of adsorption are due, in part, to a decrease in macromolecule size; our data suggest that these changes occur in solution prior to adsorption. The results of analyses employing size-exclusion chromatography demonstrate that low molecular weight fractions of humic material are preferentially removed from solution. Increases in the extent of adsorption correspond to shifts in the adsorbed molecular ...
The impact of frequency-selective matching on the capacity of compact MIMO systems

Mutual coupling among receive antennas can profoundly reduce the ergodic capacity of MIMO systems. Prior work has shown that these losses can often be mitigated by using multi-port antenna matching at the receiver; however, previous studies have focused exclusively on frequency-nonselective matching and rely on assumptions which are valid only for small bandwidths. In this paper, we revisit the ergodic capacity of a MIMO system with coupled receive antennas for a non-negligible bandwidth. In particular, we present upper and lower bounds on the best possible MIMO capacity that can be achieved by physically-realizable, frequency-selective (FS) multi-port and single-port matching networks. These results suggest that FS matching can significantly increase capacity in the presence of strong coupling, for both single-port and multi-port scenarios. Moreover, we show that these gains can be achieved for a 2 × 2 MIMO system by a simple class of matching networks that are easily realized in hardware.
Cholesterol modulates vascular reactivity to endothelin-1 by stimulating a pro-inflammatory pathway.

Abstract Hypercholesterolemia (HC) is associated with coronary endothelial dysfunction and increased circulating levels of endothelin-1. We show that pre-treatment of intact rat aortic rings with cholesterol synergistically enhances the vasoconstriction induced by endothelin-1 suggesting that elevated levels of cholesterol may predispose to hypertension by modulating the vascular reactivity to endogenous vasoconstrictors. Moreover, we report that SB202190, a selective inhibitor of p38 MAPK, and PD98059 an inhibitor of MEK1/2 are able to abolish the vasoactive properties of cholesterol. MK-886, an inhibitor of 5-lipoxygenase is inefficient at blocking the vasoactive properties of cholesterol whereas NS-398, a selective inhibitor of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) completely abolishes cholesterol-induced vasoconstriction. In intact rat aortae, cholesterol stimulates prostaglandin E 2 and prostaglandin F 2α production, an effect that can be completely prevented by inhibiting p38 MAPK, or COX-2. In vitro, cholesterol appears to stimulate a similar pro-inflammatory pathway in human cerebrovascular smooth muscle cells. Disruption of the MAPK/COX-2 pathway may represent a valuable therapy to block the hypertension associated with HC, as well as the development of atherosclerosis.
Mirtazapine-Induced Worsening of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) and Ropinirole-Induced Psychosis: Challenges in Management of Depression in RLS

No formal guidelines exist for the management of depression in restless legs syndrome (RLS) and very little is known about uncommon but potentially serious drug related adverse effects due to antidepressants and dopamine agonists in patients with comorbid depression and RLS. We present a case of an elderly man with a history of RLS who experienced a dramatic and debilitating sequence of events beginning with mild depression, continuing with antidepressant-aggravated RLS, and culminating in dopamine agonist-induced psychosis.
Uniform resource locator decay in dermatology journals: Author attitudes and preservation practices

Objectives To describe dermatology journal uniform resource locator (URL) use and persistence and to better understand the level of control and awareness of authors regarding the availability of the URLs they cite. Design Software was written to automatically access URLs in articles published between January 1, 1999, and September 30, 2004, in the 3 dermatology journals with the highest scientific impact. Authors of publications with unavailable URLs were surveyed regarding URL content, availability, and preservation. Main Outcome Measures Uniform resource locator use and persistence and author opinions and practices. Results The percentage of articles containing at least 1 URL increased from 2.3% in 1999 to 13.5% in 2004. Of the 1113 URLs, 81.7% were available (decreasing with time since publication from 89.1% of 2004 URLs to 65.4% of 1999 URLs) ( P The Journal of Investigative Dermatology (22.1%) and lowest in the Archives of Dermatology (14.8%) ( P =.03). Some content was partially recoverable via the Internet Archive for 120 of the 204 unavailable URLs. Most authors (55.2%) agreed that the unavailable URL content was important to the publication, but few controlled URL availability personally (5%) or with the help of others (employees, colleagues, and friends) (6.7%). Conclusions Uniform resource locators are increasingly used and lost in dermatology journals. Loss will continue until better preservation policies are adopted.
Mouse model for atherosclerotic plaque rupture.

Rupture of advanced human atherosclerotic plaques can precipitate coronary thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and sudden death, but insights into the causes and treatment of plaque rupture have been hampered by lack of a suitable animal model. Particularly desirable would be a model of plaque rupture that would take advantage of current and forthcoming mouse mutant alleles. It is therefore of considerable interest that the study by von der Thusen et al1 in this issue of Circulation reports the characterization of a model of induced plaque rupture in apolipoprotein E–deficient (ApoE−/−) mice secondary to cap thinning produced by overexpression of p53, a proapoptotic stimulus for plaque smooth muscle cells (SMCs). See p 2064 Erosion, ulceration, or rupture of the surface of atherosclerotic plaques exposes highly thrombogenic components in the interior of the lesion. SMC apoptosis, loss of extracellular matrix (ECM) integrity, and inflammatory cell accumulation in the fibrous cap are thought to be important pathogenic factors leading to plaque instability.2 Previous attempts to produce an animal model for plaque rupture have proved to be less than optimal. The ability to carry out genetic analyses in mice, together with existing mouse models for atherosclerosis, proves that a mouse model of plaque rupture would be extremely valuable. Unfortunately, atherosclerotic plaques in mice generally are regarded as resistant to plaque rupture. Johnson and Jackson3 reported that ApoE−/− mice fed a high-fat diet for ≥1 year exhibited occlusive thrombus formation in the brachiocephalic artery. Histological examination of these vessels showed thin caps, loss of plaque SMCs, and intraplaque hemorrhage. Curiously, the location of ruptured plaques was highly specific to the brachiocephalic trunk because aortic sinus lesions did not exhibit rupture and plaques elsewhere seemed to be stable. These findings are reminiscent of a previous report by Rosenfeld et al, …
Human-Specific Genes May Offer a Unique Window into Human Cell Signaling

The identification and characterization of human-specific genes and the cellular processes that the encoded proteins control have the potential to help us understand at the molecular level what makes humans different from other species. The sequencing of the human genome and the genomes of closely related primates has revealed the presence of a small number of human- or human-lineage–specific genes that have no orthologs in lower species. Human-specific and human-lineage–specific genes are likely to function as regulators of cell signaling events, and by fine-tuning pathways, the encoded proteins may contribute to human-specific characteristics and behaviors. In addition, human-specific genes may represent biomarkers for examining human-specific characteristics of various diseases. Investigation of the gene encoding TBC1D3 is one example of a search that may lead to understanding the evolution and the function of human-specific genes, because it is absent in lower species and present in high copy number in the human genome.
Determinants of species susceptibility to oxidative stress: A comparison of channel catfish and brown bullhead

Abstract Xenobiotic-mediated productions of reactive oxygen species, via enzymemediated redox cycling, have been implicated in a variety of toxicological phenomena including lipid peroxidation, enzyme inactivation and oxidative DNA damage leading to cancer. A comparison was undertaken of two benthic freshwater fish species that appear to differ markedly in their susceptibility to chemical carcinogenesis—the channel catfish ( Ictalurus punctatus ) and the more cancer-prone brown bullhead ( Ameriurus nebulosus )-in terms of basic biochemical characteristics related to oxidative stress. This has included analysis of microsomal redox cycling of model xenobiotics (e.g. menadione) as well as antioxidant and other detoxifying enzymes in hepatic tissue of the two species. In addition, endpoints of oxidative stress, such as altered glutathione status and oxidative DNA damage, were examined. These studies have revealed numerous qualitative and quantitative differences between the two species both in terms of basal enzyme activities and in species response to model prooxidants. For example, bullhead appear to possess a greater capacity for microsomal redox cycling of xenobiotics, but have glutathione-dependent defense systems less able to withstand oxidative challenge. These and other interspecific differences have allowed for an improved understanding of the basic mechanisms which may underly species susceptibility to oxidative stress and critical manifestations such as cancer.
Nuclear data sheets for A = 49*

Abstract Nuclear structure data available through December 1977 are compiled, and adopted level properties are given. The bulk of the data is presented pictorially for easy comparison. Experimental details, references, and additional comments, where required, are given in the text. All drawings, tables, and comments are reproduced from the computerized Evaluated Nuclear Structure Data File (ENSDF). Any additions or corrections desired by the users should be addressed to the evaluators for maintenance and updating of the computer file.