cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Escherichia coli SecA helicase activity is not required in vivo for efficient protein translocation or autogenous regulation.

SecA is an essential ATP-driven motor protein that binds to preproteins and the translocon to promote protein translocation across the eubacterial plasma membrane. Escherichia coli SecA contains seven conserved motifs characteristic of superfamily II of DNA and RNA helicases, and it has been shown previously to possess RNA helicase activity. SecA has also been shown to be an autogenous repressor that binds to its translation initiation region on secM-secA mRNA, thereby blocking and dissociating 30 S ribosomal subunits. Here we show that SecA is an ATP-dependent helicase that unwinds a mimic of the repressor helix of secM-secA mRNA. Mutational analysis of the seven conserved helicase motifs in SecA allowed us to identify mutants that uncouple SecA-dependent protein translocation activity from its helicase activity. Helicase-defectivesecA mutants displayed normal protein translocation activity and autogenous repression of secA in vivo. Our studies indicate that SecA helicase activity is nonessential and does not appear to be necessary for efficient protein secretion andsecA autoregulation.
Arachidonic acid is preferentially metabolized by cyclooxygenase-2 to prostacyclin and prostaglandin E2

The two cyclooxygenase isoforms, cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2, both metabolize arachidonic acid to prostaglandin H2, which is subsequently processed by downstream enzymes to the various prostanoids. In the present study, we asked if the two isoforms differ in the profile of prostanoids that ultimately arise from their action on arachidonic acid. Resident peritoneal macrophages contained only cyclooxygenase-1 and synthesized (from either endogenous or exogenous arachidonic acid) a balance of four major prostanoids: prostacyclin, thromboxane A2, prostaglandin D2, and 12-hydroxyheptadecatrienoic acid. Prostaglandin E2 was a minor fifth product, although these cells efficiently converted exogenous prostaglandin H2 to prostaglandin E2. By contrast, induction of cyclooxygenase-2 with lipopol- ysaccharide resulted in the preferential production of prostacyclin and prostaglandin E2. This shift in product profile was accentuated if cyclooxygenase-1 was permanently inactivated with aspirin before cyclooxygenase-2 induction. The conversion of exogenous prostaglandin H2 to prostaglandin E2 was only modestly increased by lipopolysaccharide treatment. Thus, cyclooxygenase-2 induction leads to a shift in arachidonic acid metabolism from the production of several prostanoids with diverse effects as mediated by cyclooxygenase-1 to the preferential synthesis of two prostanoids, prostacyclin and prostaglandin E2, which evoke common effects at the cellular level.
High power InGaAsP-based laser diodes

A growth technique adopted from the semiconductor industry combined with a new mixture of materials has made lifetimes in excess of 100 years possible for high-power near-infrared semiconductor lasers. This remarkable reliability and other attractive features may not only bring down the cost but also open up new dimensions in the laser markets and applications in human life, industry, and science.
Growth and morphology of Pb on Si(111)

Abstract Tunneling microscopy, thermal desorption, Rutherford backscattering, and low-energy electron diffraction are used to study the structures and coverages of the phases of Pb on the Si(111)7 × 7 surface. For room-temperature deposition at low coverage on the 7 × 7 surface, Pb atoms occupy sites above the rest atoms and between the Si adatoms (with a preference for the faulted half of the unit cell). At 0.6 ML, the Pb forms an ordered overlayer based on the 7 × 7 unit cell. The Pb grows epitaxially up to 3 ML at which point Pb crystals start to form. On annealed samples at low coverage, Pb atoms occupy Si(111)7 × 7 adatom sites. At 1 6 ML, a new √3 × √3 mosaic phase consisting of alternating chains of Pb and Si adatoms with a high melting point is produced. At 1 3 ML the standard √3 × √3 phase is observed. Between 1 3 and 1 ML, a 1 × 1 Pb overlayer is found on annealed samples, while above 1 ML, a rotated incommensurate phase is observed. As more Pb is added above 1 ML, the 2D Pb density is increased, and the incommensuration is reduced, until island formation begins. We link our discussion of the atomic structure of the interface to the variations in Schottky barrier heights observed for Pb/Si(111) diodes.
Some properties of a three-part learning set task

In a three-part learning set task, human Ss exhibited pronounced learning-to-learn effects, but rarely mastered a dependency that related Part 3 to Parts 1 and 2. Correlations with reference measures of ability and achievement were small.
Aeolian saltation threshold: the effect of density ratio

Saltation threshold data from three wind tunnels and from hydraulic flumes are presented to show that the dimensionless threshold friction speed for small particles is a continuous function of particle-to-fluid-density ratio. In addition, the dimensionless threshold speed is a function of the grain-friction Reynolds number and an interparticle force term. The variation with density ratio seems to be due to the relative energy with which particles impact other particles to initiate saltation.
Defective utilization of cholesterol esters from low-density lipoprotein in a human acute lymphoblastic leukemia T cell line

The glucocorticoid sensitive CEM-C7 T cell line was derived from human acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells by Norman and Thompson (Cancer Res. 37 (1977) 3875). Madden et al. (Cancer Res 46 (1986) 617) have demonstrated that the growth inhibitory effect of glucocorticoids on these cells is due in part to an inhibition of cholesterol synthesis even in the presence of low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-containing serum. To delineate further the role of cholesterol in this growth inhibition, we have examined the ability of LDL-bound [3H]cholesterol linoleate to reverse the growth inhibitory effect of 1 microM dexamethasone on the CEM-C7 cells. LDL-bound cholesterol linoleate did not reverse the dexamethasone-mediated growth inhibition. Although incorporation of [14C]acetate into free cholesterol was inhibited only 20% by incubation with LDL, the presence of dexamethasone further inhibited acetate incorporation into free cholesterol in the LDL-treated cells. Dexamethasone had no effect on the uptake or utilization of LDL-bound cholesterol linoleate. Under all conditions, more than 99% of the acetate incorporated into cholesterol was present as free cholesterol, while over 80% of the LDL-derived cholesterol linoleate remained in the ester compartment. In contrast, in normal lymphocytes, over half the LDL-derived cholesterol was converted to free cholesterol. Direct analysis of the acid cholesterol ester hydrolase, the enzyme primarily responsible for processing LDL-bound cholesterol esters, revealed over 60-times the activity of this enzyme in the normal lymphocytes as compared to the activity present in the C7 cells. This finding cautions against the assumption that the presence of lipoprotein-containing serum provides an adequate, usable source of cholesterol for all cells.
The H+D2 reaction: “prompt” hd distributions at high collision energies

Abstract Probe-laser-induced (“prompt”) reaction of H + D 2 was observed in a mixture of HI and D 2 using (2 + 1 ) REMPI detection of the HD product. Rotational distributions for HD (ν= 0–3 ) of the prompt reaction are reported here, corresponding to center-of-mass collision energies of 1.20–1.65 eV and 1.95–2.40 eV. The measurements of the HD(ν= 3, J ) product probe a previously inaccessible region of the potential energy surface for the title reaction. At these energies, the total reaction cross sections have been both measured and calculated, but quantum state specific theoretical predictions are not yet available.
Anticoagulation for noncardiac indications in neurologic patients: comparative use of non-vitamin k oral anticoagulants, low-molecular-weight heparins, and warfarin.

Patients with neurologic disorders may develop a wide variety of thromboembolic events, both as a primary manifestation and as a consequence of their underlying neurologic condition. There are many available options for anticoagulation, ranging from warfarin to the parenteral subcutaneously administered anticoagulants to the non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants (NOACs). Warfarin is orally available, well-studied, and easily reversible in the setting of bleeding, but has a prolonged onset of action, measured in days, and equally slow offset; requires frequent monitoring for dose titration; and has multiple drug-drug and food-drug interactions. Parenteral heparin-based anticoagulants are well-studied and have more predictable pharmacokinetics but are often more expensive, only partially reversible, and require daily injections, which can be difficult for patients to tolerate over long periods of time. The NOACs are easy to administer and have predictable pharmacokinetics but are expensive, not easily reversible, and are not as extensively studied. Specific agents are preferable in some defined neurologic conditions. For acute ischemic stroke, we do not recommend immediate anticoagulation with any agent. For patients with intracranial malignancy (either primary or metastatic), we recommend a low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) rather than warfarin or a NOAC. For thromboembolic disease in the setting of spinal cord injury, warfarin, LMWH, or the NOACs are reasonable options. In the setting of VTE or stroke related to antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS), we recommend long-term warfarin anticoagulation with an INR goal of 2–3, pending the results of ongoing research involving the NOACs. For cerebral venous sinus thrombosis not related to malignancy or APS, we recommend the use of LMWH in the acute setting, followed by at least three months of warfarin. In this article, we discuss the pharmacology, pathophysiology, and comparative research that served as a basis for our recommendations.
A new species of Paloue (Leguminosae: Caesalpinioideae: Detarieae) from Guyana, South America

Paloue sandwithii is described and illustrated from Kaieteur region, Guyana, South America. Characters that distinguish it from the other species of Paloue are the presence of five subequal petals and large coriaceous leaves with prominent venation on the underside of the lamina.
RAS design for the IBM eServer z900

The IBM eServer zSeries™ Model 900, or z900, has been designed with major enhancements for hardware reliability, availability, and serviceability (RAS) in support of the zSeries RAS strategy, the eServer self-management technologies, and the z900 design objective of continuous reliable operation. The eServer self-management technologies enable the server to protect itself, to detect and recover from errors, to change and configure itself, and to optimize itself, in the presence of problems and changes, for maximum performance with minimum outside intervention. From the RAS perspective, the longstanding RAS strategy for the IBM S/390® and now the zSeries has provided an excellent foundation for self management. This paper describes the z900 RAS enhancements and how they strengthen the RAS strategy building blocks and provide a basis for autonomic computing.
Cooperativity of hydrophillic and hydrophobic effects in the aqueous hydration of polyfunctional solutes

Abstract Liquid state computer simulation is reported on a dilute aqueous solution of formamide at 25°C. Analysis of the results reveals essential characteristics of hydrophilic and hydrophobic hydration in the first shell of the hydration complex. A novel cooperativity between the hydrophilic hydration of the carbonyl group and the hydrophobic hydration of the methyne group is observed.
Disgust and the Politics of Sex: Exposure to a Disgusting Odorant Increases Politically Conservative Views on Sex and Decreases Support for Gay Marriage

Disgust has been implicated as a potential causal agent underlying socio-political attitudes and behaviors. Several recent studies have suggested that pathogen disgust may be a causal mechanism underlying social conservatism. However, the specificity of this effect is still in question. The present study tested the effects of disgust on a range of policy preferences to clarify whether disgust is generally implicated in political conservatism across public policy attitudes or is uniquely related to specific content domains. Self-reported socio-political attitudes were compared between participants in two experimental conditions: 1) an odorless control condition, and 2) a disgusting odor condition. In keeping with previous research, the present study showed that exposure to a disgusting odor increased endorsement of socially conservative attitudes related to sexuality. In particular, there was a strong and consistent link between induced disgust and less support for gay marriage.
Biochemical mapping of somatostatinergic systems in rat brain: Effects of periventricular hypothalamic and medial basal amygdaloid lesions on somatostatin-like immunoreactivity in discrete brain nuclei

Immunohistochemical studies have demonstrated the presence of somatostatin (growth hormone release-inhibiting factor)-positive cell bodies in the periventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and in the medial-basal amygdala. In order to map biochemically the projections of these cell groups, electrolytic lesions were made in these structures and somatostatin was measured by radioimmunoassay in microdissected brain nuclei. Bilateral destruction of the periventricular nucleus significantly decreased somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI) in the median eminence, and in the rostral periventricular, medial preoptic and arcuate nuclei. Bilateral lesions placed in the medial-basal amygdala significantly decreased SLI in the median eminence and suprachiasmatic nucleus. Similar depletions were observed following lesions of the stria terminalis. These results suggest that both the periventricular and amygdaloid somatostatin systems may participate in the regulation of growth hormone secretion via their projections to the median eminence and other hypothalamic nuclei.
Developing an Affordable Laboratory Kit for Undergraduate Controls Education

The aim of this research is to expand the possibilities of multi-disciplinary controls education at the undergraduate and graduate levels with an affordable laboratory kit. A kit was assembled for around $130 while replicating the educational functionality of a typical laboratory station in a university controls laboratory. This kit could also replace expensive equipment with an affordable alternative that can be easily shipped anywhere in the world and used by students with any computer. This greatly enhances the accessibility of the laboratory experience to students in budget-strapped campus laboratories and those participating in distance education. The kit design consists of a Raspberry Pi, a DC motor, and various components required for the lab exercises. The first two kits allow students to complete labs that include DC motor system identification, DC motor control, inverted pendulum control, and any other project a student might want to create with a Raspberry Pi, DC motor, and a 3-D printer.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
ASTAMIDS minefield detection performance at Aberdeen Proving Ground test site

The airborne standoff minefield detection systems (ASTAMIDS) is an airborne imaging system designed for deployment as a modular mission payload on an unmanned aerial vehicle and capable of detecting surface and buried anti-tank mines under all-weather, day/night conditions. Its primary mission is to support a forward maneuver unit with real time intelligence regarding the existence and extent of minefields in their operational area. The ASTAMIDS development effort currently consists of two parallel technical approaches, passive thermal IR sensor technology in one case and an active multi-channel sensor utilizing passive thermal IR coregistered with a near IR laser polarization data for the other case. The minefield detection capability of this system is a result of signal processing of image data. Due to the large quantities of data generated by an imaging sensor even at modest speeds of an unmanned aerial vehicle, manual exploitation of this data is not feasible in a real time tactical environment and therefore computer aided target feature extraction is a necessity to provide detection cues. Our development efforts over the past several years have concentrated on mine and minefield detection algorithms, the hardware necessary to execute these algorithms in real time, and the tools with which to measure detection performance.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Computer‐mediated communication in instructional settings: A research agenda

Computer‐mediated communication (CMC) is being used increasingly in education, often as a means to provide discussion forums for university classes. The growth of the use of CMC provides an opportunity to study its impact in instructional communication. Content analysis can provide answers about the types of messaging content and the longitudinal evolution of specialized codes in instructional CMC. The Uses and Gratifications approach can provide a perspective to ask questions about user motivations in instructional contexts, as well as the perceived consequences of CMC use in instructional contexts.
Cultivation in vitro of cells derived from a human rhabdomyosarcoma.

Two cell lines were derived from an embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. Cells of both lines grew as monolayers in liquid medium and formed colonies in agar medium. Each line consisted of 2 cytologic types resembling those of the original tumor—spindle cells and large multinucleated cells. No myofibrils could be demonstrated in the cells by light or by electron microscopy nor were virus particles detected. Cells of both lines probably contained myosin-ATPase and cells of line #2 contained myoglobin. Chromosome studies of cell line #1 revealed a stem-line of 51 chromosomes with a consistent karyotype. Three passages of cell line #2 were studied, and no evidence of a stem-line was noted. Chromosome counts ranged from 45 to 170, and consistent marker chromosomes in most cells were present in the form of large metacentrics in the C group.
Lost in translation: a critical analysis of actors, artifacts, agendas, and arenas in participatory design

As computer technologies start to permeate the everyday activities of a continuously growing population, social and technical as well as political and legal issues will surface. Participatory design is asked to take a more critical view of participation, design, technology, and the arenas in which the network of actors and artifacts dialectically construct the social orders. This paper has a much more modest aim of that to contribute the discussion of participation and design in part by a more indepth understanding of the translation problem among different actors who directly participate in participatory design activities. This problem takes place when different actors come to participate in the design activities and when they are to decide whether to adopt and use a designed artifact. By analyzing a multi-year-long effort to understand and provide social and technical means for the use of educational computer technologies in special education, this paper aims to shed new light on the understanding of this problem. The arenas of participation framework is employed to frame the different social orders in which actors act, carry out their work practices, participate in design processes, and ultimately make use of this artifact. While fundamental to the democratization of the design of sociotechnical solutions, participatory design may not be sufficient to reveal all sociopolitical issues of work practices that surface in its adoption and use. It is necessary to take into account the different arenas in which their design and use are carried out.
Why do Puerto Rican injection drug users inject so often

Abstract Consistently, substance use research finds that Puerto Rican injection drug users (IDUs), both in Puerto Rico and on the US mainland, have rates of drug injection that are significantly higher than other drug injectors. These patterns put Puerto Rican drug injectors at very high risk for blood‐borne and other diseases including HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, tetanus, and endocarditis. Despite the life‐threatening consequences of the distinctive pattern of drug injection among Puerto Rican drug users, no satisfying explanation of this behavior has been developed. Data on injection patterns and sociodemographic characteristics from two National Institute on Drug Abuse funded national studies, the National AIDS Demonstration Research project and the Cooperative Agreement for AIDS Community‐based Outreach/Intervention Research Program, both of which had large samples of Puerto Rican drug injectors, are analyzed in this paper. These quantitative databases are supplemented by ethnographic research among Puerto R...
A Novel Adapter Protein Employs a Phosphotyrosine Binding Domain and Exceptionally Basic N-terminal Domains to Capture and Localize an Atypical Protein Kinase C: CHARACTERIZATION OF CAENORHABDITIS ELEGANSC KINASE ADAPTER 1, A PROTEIN THAT AVIDLY BINDS PROTEIN KINASE C3

Abstract Atypical protein kinase C isoforms (aPKCs) transmit regulatory signals to effector proteins located in the cytoplasm, nucleus, cytoskeleton, and membranes. Mechanisms by which aPKCs encounter and control effector proteins in various microenvironments are poorly understood. By using a protein interaction screen, we discovered two novel proteins that adapt aCaenorhabditis elegans aPKC (PKC3) for specialized (localized) functions; protein kinase C adapter 1 (CKA1, 593 amino acids) and CKA1S (549 amino acids) are derived from a unique mRNA by alternative utilization of two translation initiation codons. CKA1S and CKA1 are routed to the cell periphery by exceptionally basic N-terminal regions that include classical phosphorylation site domains (PSDs). Tethering of PKC3 is mediated by a segment of CKA1 that constitutes a phosphotyrosine binding (PTB) domain. Two aromatic amino acids (Phe175 and Phe221) are indispensable for creation of a PKC3-binding surface and/or stabilization of CKA1·aPKC complexes. Patterns of CKA1 gene promoter activity and CKA1/CKA1S protein localization in vivo overlap with patterns established for PKC3 expression and distribution. Transfection experiments demonstrated that CKA1/CKA1S sequesters PKC3 in intact cells. Structural information in CKA1/CKA1S enables delivery of adapters to the lateral plasma membrane surface (near tight junctions) in polarized epithelial cells. Thus, a PTB domain and PSDs collaborate in a novel fashion in CKA1/CKA1S to enable tethering and targeting of PKC3. Avid ligation of a PKC isoform is a previously unappreciated function for a PTB module.
Does adherence make a difference? Results from a community-based aquatic exercise program

Background Evidence exists demonstrating the benefits of exercise for people with osteoarthritis, but little is known about whether exercise programs are effective, that is, whether the benefits of exercise can be seen in "real life" programs for "normal" people under nonlaboratory conditions. Objective To identify characteristics of and outcomes for participants who adhere to a community-based aquatic exercise program. Method Two hundred and forty-nine adults with osteoarthritis were recruited from Washington State for randomization to a 20-week Arthritis Foundation aquatic exercise program (n = 125) or a wait-list control group (n = 124). Adherers were defined as those attending at least two classes per week for 16 of 20 weeks. Measures included: Quality of Well Being Scale, Health Assessment Questionnaire, Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale, and a single arthritis quality of life rating-item. Results Baseline to postintervention change scores revealed that treatment-group adherers (N = 35) reported improved quality of well-being, physical function, and change in arthritis quality of life compared to controls (N = 124). When comparing treatment-group adherers (N = 35) to treatment-group nonadherers (N = 67), quality of well-being and depressed mood improved for adherers, but not for nonadherers. Conclusion When analyzed for level of participation, exercise benefits adults with osteoarthritis. Consistent participation in exercise programs results in better outcomes. Improved methods are needed to enhance adherence, with increased attention to the role of intrinsic factors such as self-efficacy and belief systems.
The residual stress of magnet wire and crazing

It is well known that crazing occurs sometimes when a magnet wire is immersed in an impregnating varnish after coiling. A quantitative study between residual stress of a magnet wire film and crazing is presented in this paper by using a magnet wire having poor adhesive strength between the film and the conductor. The residual stress of a magnet wire was found to be maximum in the range of 3–5% elongation. A morphological study of crazing which occurred in crosslinked and linear polymers is also described in this paper.
Signal Transduction Pathways Involving Protein Phosphorylation in Prokaryotes

Bacteria are capable of sensing a wide variety of environmental signals, including changes in chemical concentrations, the presence of a host organism, or variation in physical parameters such as temperature, osmolarity, viscosity, or light. One response to changing conditions is to move to a more "favorable" locale; changes in locomotive behavior can be observed less than one second after a change in chemical composition of the medium. Another possible course of action is to adapt the cell to the new environment, either by changing enzyme activity or by altering expression of specific genes or groups of genes. The bacterium may use the modified enzymes or new gene products to adjust to its surroundings temporarily, or to establish a new long-term state (e.g. the sporulation response to starvation).
Improving computer-mediated information alignment in production organizations

This paper describes a developing project to describe and quantify concepts of information alignment between computerized information systems and other aspects of information sharing in a production facility. Major elements of this project were components of the first author's experience in an operational production organization, including the work to transform industrial practice into opportunities for new research. A critical aspect of information alignment, as developed in this framework, is the recognition that computer-based information systems must be implemented with an eye to effective integration with other forms of information exchange and production knowledge in the organization.
Detailed Hydration Maps of Benzene and Cyclohexane Reveal Distinct Water Structures

The hydration structures of the hydrophobic solutes benzene and cyclohexane were investigated using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of a single solute in water. Detailed, spatially resolved, three-dimensional maps of the density of the water O and H atoms surrounding either benzene or cyclohexane were generated from the simulation data. MD simulations were computed for each solute using either the ENCAD or GROMACS program package and one of five distinct water models: F3C, TIP3P, TIP4P, SPC, or SPC/E. For each solute, five 100 ns data sets, each representing a unique simulation condition, were analyzed. The water structure maps generated from the five data sets for each solute are remarkably similar. Our results show that water molecules in the first hydration shell around cyclohexane bind weakly. In contrast, water molecules bind more strongly and in a hydrogen-bonding orientation to the faces of the benzene ring. The high-resolution maps of the water structure surrounding benzene and cyclohexane presented in this paper reveal details of the positional preferences of water not resolved by other methods. They also show that the hydration structure at this level of detail is remarkably insensitive to the potential energy functions and simulation methods used.
The Effect of Molybdenum on Chick and Poult Growth

Summary1) The results of 2 studies with chicks and one study using Broad Breasted Bronze turkey poults have indicated that addition of molybdenum to purified basal diets resulted in a growth advantage of 13.5-19.1% over the unsupplemented group. 2) The feeding of a reconstituted ash mixture which simulated the ash of distillers dried solubles resulted in significant increases in growth rate of both chicks and poults. 3) From the data presented it appears that under conditions of these studies a nutritional requirement for molybdenum by chick and poult may be demonstrated.
Cochlear implantation and meningitis

Objective: Study clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment of cochlear implant patients diagnosed with bacterial meningitis. Background: Cochlear implantation in children is necessary for the optimal development of speech in the developing child diagnosed with profound sensorineural hearing loss. Approximately 60,000 devices have been inserted in adults and children worldwide to date. Setting: The Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology of a tertiary care children’s hospital. Methods: All patients undergoing cochlear implantation from April 1997 were identified. Patients diagnosed with bacterial meningitis after implantation were selected for study. Results: Of 30 children, two developed bacterial meningitis after cochlear implantation. One patient developed Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis. One patient developed nontypable Haemophilus influenzae bacterial meningitis. Both patients made a complete recovery. Conclusions: Prompt diagnosis and treatment of meningitis is essential to optimize outcome.
Preservation of the structure of enzymatically-degraded bovine vitreous using synthetic proteoglycan mimics.

PURPOSE. Vitreous liquefaction and subsequent posterior vitreous detachment can lead to several sight-threatening diseases, including retinal detachment, macular hole and macular traction syndrome, nuclear cataracts, and possibly, open-angle glaucoma. In this study, we tested the ability of three novel synthetic chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan mimics to preserve the structure and physical properties of enzymatically-degraded bovine vitreous. METHODS. Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan mimics, designed to bind to type II collagen, hyaluronic acid, or both, were applied to trypsin- or collagenase-treated bovine vitreous in situ and in vitro. Rheology and liquefaction tests were performed to determine the physical properties of the vitreous, while Western blots were used to detect the presence and degradation of soluble collagen II (a1). Deep-etch electron microscopy (DEEM) identified the ultrastructure of mimic-treated and untreated enzyme-degraded bovine vitreous. RESULTS. Proteoglycan mimics preserved the physical properties of trypsin-degraded bovine vitreous and protected against vitreous liquefaction. Although the collagen-binding mimic maintained the physical properties of collagenase-treated vitreous, liquefaction still occurred. Western blots indicated that the mimic provided only marginal protective ability against soluble collagen degradation. Deep-etch electron microscopy, however, showed increased density and isotropy of microstructural components in mimic-treated vitreous, supporting the initial result that vitreous structure was preserved.
Solar and terrestrial neutrino results from borexino

Abstract Borexino is a low background liquid scintillation detector currently acquiring solar and terrestrial neutrino data at the LNGS underground laboratory in Italy. In the three years since the start of operations in 2007, Borexino has produced measurements of 7 Be and 8 B solar neutrinos, as well as measurements of terrestrial and long-baseline reactor anti-neutrinos. The measurements of sub-MeV neutrinos were possible owing to a breakthrough in low background methods. Current results and prospects for future measurements with lower background and higher accuracy are discussed in the context of exploring the transition from vacuum to matter enhanced neutrino oscillations.
Influence of landscape position and transient water table on soil development and carbon distribution in a steep, headwater catchment

Abstract Upland headwater catchments, such as those in the Appalachian Mountain region, are typified by coarse textured soils, flashy hydrologic response, and low baseflow of streams, suggesting well drained soils and minimal groundwater storage. Model formulations of soil genesis, nutrient cycling, critical loads and rainfall/runoff response are typically based on vertical percolation, development of soil horizons parallel to the land surface, mineral weathering inputs limited to the rooting zone and drainage from lumped catchment reservoirs (e.g., the subsoil) as the dominant source of stream flow. However, detailed study of the hydrologic reference catchment at Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest, NH, USA shows striking spatial patterns of soil development that reflect the influence of transient water tables within the solum in nearly all landscape positions. Shallow bedrock and variably low hydraulic conductivity in the subsoil promote lateral flow and development of soil horizons along hillslope flowpaths rather than in vertical profiles. We distinguished several morphologic units based on the presence of diagnostic horizons indicative of differing patterns of podzolization and carbon storage. The distribution of soils appears to be highly dependent on local drainability and frequency and duration of transient saturation within the solum. As such, monitoring of hydropedologic groups and transient water table fluctuations may prove to be a sentinel for the effects of climate change on spatial distribution of soils and retention/release of solutes from upland catchments.
Induction of a Nerve Growth Factor-Sensitive Kinase that Phosphorylates the DNA-Binding Domain of the Orphan Nuclear Receptor NGFI-B

Nerve growth factor (NGF) induces the synthesis and the phosphorylation of the orphan nuclear receptor NGFI-B in PC12 cells. Previous work has shown that phosphorylation, by protein kinase A, of a specific serine in the DNA-binding domain inhibits its binding to the NGFI-B response element. Also, cytoplasmic extracts from PC12 cells phosphorylate this serine, and phosphorylation is greater in extracts from cells treated with NGF. The present work describes the induction, identification, and partial purification of a kinase (termed NGFI-B kinase I) from PC12 cell extracts that catalyzes this phosphorylation. Phosphorylation of the DNA-binding domain with this purified preparation inhibits its binding to the NGFI-B response element. The kinase is rapidly activated by treatment of the cells with NGF, and the activation lasts for at least several hours. It also is activated by fibroblast growth factor and epidermal growth factor (EGF), but the activation by EGF is quite transient. The kinase requires Mg2+ but will use Mn2+. The molecular mass of the kinase is 95-100 kDa, and it is different from protein kinase A, Fos kinase, or pp90rsk. Comparison with a partially purified preparation of cyclic AMP response element-binding protein kinase, however, indicates that the two are either very similar or identical.
Structural and Thermodynamic Analysis of a Conformationally Strained Circular Permutant of Barnase

Circular permutation of a protein covalently links its original termini and creates new ends at another location. To maintain the stability of the permuted structure, the termini are typically bridged by a peptide long enough to span the original distance between them. Here, we take the opposite approach and employ a very short linker to introduce conformational strain into a protein by forcing its termini together. We join the N- and C-termini of the small ribonuclease barnase (normally 27.2 A distant) with a single Cys residue and introduce new termini at a surface loop, to create pBn. Compared to a similar variant permuted with an 18-residue linker, permutation with a single amino acid dramatically destabilizes barnase. Surprisingly, pBn is folded at 10 °C and possesses near wild-type ribonuclease activity. The 2.25 A X-ray crystal structure of pBn reveals how the barnase fold is able to adapt to permutation, partially defuse conformational strain, and preserve enzymatic function. We demonstrate that strain in pBn can be relieved by cleaving the linker with a chemical reagent. Catalytic activity of both uncleaved (strained) pBn and cleaved (relaxed) pBn is proportional to their thermodynamic stabilities, i.e., the fraction of folded molecules. The stability and activity of cleaved pBn are dependent on protein concentration. At concentrations above ∼2 μM, cleaving pBn is predicted to increase the fraction of folded molecules and thus enhance ribonuclease activity at 37 °C. This study suggests that introducing conformational strain by permutation, and releasing strain by cleavage, is a potential mechanism for engineering an artificial zymogen.
Dislocation behavior in silicon crystal induced by laser shock peening: A multiscale simulation approach

Abstract This paper presents a modified laser shock peening (LSP) technique to generate plastic deformation in silicon crystal. The induced dislocation activity in silicon crystal is studied by integrated shock dynamics and multiscale dislocation dynamics plasticity simulations. This LSP process can also be applied to other brittle materials to generate plastic deformation.
Comments on everyday science

In his introduction to this special section, Giyoo Hatano has done an admirable job of motivating the need for cross-fertilization between two approaches to cognitive development: the first begins from an analysis of everyday, culturally organized activities that are then modelled in experimental procedures; the second tradition focuses on domains of knowledge that seem to represent universal natural kinds, whose structures and implications for cognition are interrogated through interview or experiment.
Laser-assisted machining of compacted graphite iron

Compacted graphite iron (CGI) is a material currently under study for the new generation of engines, including blocks, cylinder liners, and cylinder heads. Its unique graphite structure yields desirable high strength, but makes it difficult to machine, thus resulting in a machining cost. Laser-assisted machining (LAM) is adopted to improve its machinability and hence machining economics. The machinability of CGI is studied by varying depth of cut, feed, and material removal temperature and then evaluating resultant cutting forces, specific cutting energy, surface roughness, and tool wear. At a material removal temperature of 400 °C and a feed of 0.150 mm/rev at a cutting speed of 1.7 m/s, it is shown that tool life is 60% greater than conventional conditions at a feed of 0.100 mm/rev. Surface roughness is improved 5% as compared to conventional machining at a feed of 0.150 mm/rev. CGI microstructure evaluated post machining by sectioning and polishing shows no change. An economic analysis shows that LAM can offer an approximately 20% cost savings for the machining of an engine cylinder liner.
Transforming Activity-Centric Business Process Models into Information-Centric Models for SOA Solutions

Much of the prior work in business process modeling is activity-centric. Recently, an information-centric approach has emerged, where a business process is modeled as the interacting lifecycles of business entities. The benefits of this approach are documented in a number of case studies. In this paper, the authors formalize the information-centric approach and derive the relationships between the two approaches. The authors formally define the notion of a business entity, provide an algorithm to transform an activity-centric model into an information-centric process model, and demonstrate the equivalence between these two models. Further, they show the value of transforming from the activity-centric paradigm to the information-centric paradigm in business process componentization and Service-Oriented Architecture design and also provide an empirical evaluation.
Waxes enhance Plutella xylostella oviposition in response to sinigrin and cabbage homogenates

Oviposition by the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), on substrates treated with host stimuli (cabbage homogenate or sinigrin) and/or waxes (paraffin or a mixture of 10 single chain n-alkanes) was quantified using continuous observations and endpoint bioassays. Paraffin or an n-alkane mixture applied over cabbage homogenate or sinigrin caused an increase in oviposition compared to that on any single stimulus in choice tests. Sinigrin alone at 10 -5 M to 10 -2 M is an ovipositional stimulant; addition of alkane over sinigrin made all sinigrin concentrations (10 -6 M to 10 -2 M) significantly more stimulatory than controls. Waxes alone do not stimulate oviposition. In choice tests, insect movement between sinigrin/alkane treatment combinations was random, however, once encountered, visit duration was significantly longer on sinigrin with alkane than on sites treated with either stimulus alone. Given the ubiquity of waxes on plant surfaces and the interaction between waxes and host-specific chemical stimuli, waxes should be included when considering factors that significantly influence herbivore host acceptance.
Fracture Strength of Single-Crystal Silicon Carbide Microspecimens at 24 $^{\circ}\hbox{C}$ and 1000 $^{\circ}\hbox{C}$

Three shapes of silicon carbide tensile specimens were tested - curved with a low stress-concentration factor and straight with a circular hole or an elliptical hole. The nominal thickness was 125 mum with a net section that is 100-mum wide; the overall length of these microspecimens was 3.1 mm. They were fabricated by an improved version of deep reactive ion etching, which produced specimens with smooth sidewalls and cross sections having a slightly trapezoidal shape that was exaggerated inside the holes. The novel test setup used a vertical load train extending into a resistance furnace. The specimens had wedge-shaped ends which fit into ceramic grips. The fixed grip was mounted on a ceramic post, and the movable grip was connected to a load cell and actuator outside the furnace with a ceramic-encased nichrome wire. The same arrangement was used for tests at 24degC and at 1000degC. The strengths of the curved specimens for two batches of material (made with slightly different processes) were 0.66plusmn0.12 and 0.45plusmn0.20 GPa, respectively, at 24degC with identical values at 1000degC. The fracture strengths of the circular-hole and elliptical-hole specimens (computed from the stress-concentration factors and measured loads at failure) were approximately 1.2 GPa with slight decreases at the higher temperature. Fractographic examinations showed failures initiating on the surface - primarily at corners. Weibull predictions of fracture strengths for the hole specimens based on the properties of the curved specimens were reasonably effective for the circular holes but not for the elliptical holes.
Sverre Petterssen and the contentious (and momentous) weather forecasts for D-Day

Abstract The beginning of the end of World War Two in Europe depended on what were arguably the three most critical weather forecasts in history – two successful ones by the Allies and one failure by the Germans. On the Allied side, six meteorologists working in three different teams were responsible for the D-Day forecasts. The team comprised of Americans used an analogue method that compared current weather with past conditions. Their forecast was overly optimistic and would have resulted in disaster had the invasion commenced as they recommended on 5 June 1944. The British Admiralty and the British Meteorological Office urged delay. They were aided by the brilliant Norwegian theoretician Sverre Petterssen – a giant in the field of weather analysis and forecasting, and an international leader in meteorology during the mid-20th century.
Provitamin A activity of a structural isomer of cryptoxanthin and its methyl ether.

Abstract Synthetic isocryptoxanthin (4-hydroxy-β-carotene) and its methyl ether show provitamin A effects in the rat which are practically identical with those produced by naturally occurring cryptoxanthin (3-hydroxyβ-carotene), and hence corresponding to one-half of the β-carotene effect.
Mobilization of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in vivo augments bone healing in a mouse model of segmental bone defect

Although the number of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in the bone marrow is sufficient to maintain skeletal homeostasis, in osteopenic pathology, aggravated osteoclast activity or insufficient osteoblast numbers ensue, affecting normal bone remodeling. Most of the currently available therapies are anti-resorptive with limited osteogenic potential. Since mobilization of stem/progenitors from the BM is a prerequisite for their participation in tissue repair, amplification of endogenous stem cells may provide an alternative approach in these conditions. The present study determined the potential of MSC mobilization in vivo, using combinations of different growth factors with the CXCR4 antagonist, AMD3100, in a mouse model of segmental bone defect. Results indicated that among several factors tested IGF1 had maximum proliferative ability of MSC in vitro. Results of the in vivo studies indicated that the combination of IGF1 and AMD3100 provided significant augmentation of bone growth as determined by DXA, micro-CT and histomorphometry in mice bearing segmental fractures. Further, characterization of MSC isolated from mice treated with IGF1 and AMD3100 indicated Akt/PI3K, MEK1/2-Erk1/2 and smad2/3 as key signaling pathways mediating this effect. These data indicate the potential of in vivo stem cell mobilization as a novel alternative for bone healing.
I131-labeling of proteins at high activity level with I131Cl produced by oxidation of total iodine in NaI131 preparations☆

Abstract A procedure is described for oxidizing the total iodine in “carrier-free” NaI131 preparations to ICl under conditions such that the resulting solution can be used directly for production of I131-labeled proteins of high specific activity and a low degree of iodination. When I131Cl is formed for this purpose by an exchange reaction between inactive ICl and NaI131, the ratio of total iodine in a very radioactive NaI131 preparation to that in the ICl may be so high that only a small percentage of the radioactivity is introduced into the protein. This inefficient utilization of I131 is avoided in the described procedure. The efficiency of incorporation of radioactivity in the protein is comparable to that which is achieved when inactive ICl is used in the presence of a tracer quantity of NaI131 to iodinate the protein.