cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
How to achieve organizational trust within an accounting department

Purpose – To provide accounting department management and employees issues to consider when building trust within an accounting department.Design/methodology/approach – A range of published (1994‐2005) publications, which aim to show the importance of building trust within an organization, are reviewed to show management accountants the importance of accomplishing organizational trust within an accounting department.Findings – Accounting departmental employees need to trust accounting management. Accounting departmental employees need to feel comfortable communicating with accounting management. Employees will feel more comfortable communicating honestly and frankly if they feel their opinions and viewpoints are respected by accounting management. Accounting management should remember organizational trust is very important and a top priority in a well‐managed department.Value – This paper identifies the importance of accounting departmental management building organizational trust in their daily activitie...
Assuring clinical genetic services for newborns identified through U.S. newborn screening programs

Purpose: The study purpose was to determine whether U.S. newborn screening and/or genetics programs systematically document whether newborns and their families, identified with genetic disorders through newborn dried blood spot screening, receive clinical genetic services. Methods: Nineteen state genetic plans were reviewed and a 30-question survey was administered to 53 respondents, including state newborn screening program coordinators and state genetics program coordinators in 36 states and principal investigators of 5 Health Resources and Services Administration-designated regional genetic and newborn screening collaboratives. Results: Survey findings indicate that none of the state newborn screening and/or state genetics programs routinely tracked patient-level data on clinical genetic services for newborns identified with all of the genetic and congenital conditions for which their programs screened. Few programs could provide information systematically on whether patients were referred for, or received, genetic counseling. Conclusions: Systematic tracking of clinical genetic services for newborns identified by newborn screening programs is desirable and manageable. Recent national guidelines recommend tracking genetic counseling in newborn screening follow-up. The communications processes that state programs currently use to obtain follow-up reports from subspecialists could be augmented with clinical genetic service questions. Programs should be encouraged and supported in the efforts to track genetic services for the benefit of newborns and their families.
Nonlocal Means Denoising of ECG Signals

Patch-based methods have attracted significant attention in recent years within the field of image processing for a variety of problems including denoising, inpainting, and super-resolution interpolation. Despite their prevalence for processing 2-D signals, they have received little attention in the 1-D signal processing literature. In this letter, we explore application of one such method, the nonlocal means (NLM) approach, to the denoising of biomedical signals. Using ECG as an example, we demonstrate that a straightforward NLM-based denoising scheme provides signal-to-noise ratio improvements very similar to state of the art wavelet-based methods, while giving $\sim$ 3 $\times$ or greater reduction in metrics measuring distortion of the denoised waveform.
A burn induced Ly-2 suppressor T cell lowers resistance to bacterial infection

Abstract Suppressor T cell activity after major burn injury in a murine model has been well characterized. Suppressor cells have also been demonstrated in patients after major burn, and suppressor cell activity has been temporally correlated with septic episodes. A splenic Ly-2 T suppressor effector (Tse) cell appearing 7 days after a 30% full thickness burn has been identified in a murine model. A rat monoclonal antibody (14-8c3-12) directed against a factor produced by the Tse cell (Tsef) can enhance depressed in vitro mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) responses of Day 7 burn spleen cells without enhancing control spleen cell activity. Additionally, 14-8c3-12 can block the suppressive effect of these burn T cells on normal T cells. A cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model using a 25-gauge needle (LD 15 ) was used to assess the contribution of burn T cells to post-CLP mortality. Normal spleen cells injected into syngeneic recipients followed by CLP did not affect mortality (13%). Burn spleen cells injected into normal recipients enhanced mortality sixfold (90%) after CLP. The effect could be reversed by removing Ly-2 T cells (30% mortality) but not Ly-I T cells (100% mortality) prior to cell transfer. Simultaneous injection of 14-8c3-12 antibody with burn T cells reduced mortality after CLP significantly (20%). Injection of 14-8c3-12 did not improve survival after CLP in control animals not injected with burn T cells (20%). Ly-2 T suppressor effector cells found in the spleens of mice 7 days postburn enhance the lethality of a purely bacterial septic challenge. A monoclonal antibody to the Tsef can reverse this effect in vivo .
Internal carotid artery aneurysms in a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF-1) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by cafe au lait macules, neurofibromas, and iris hamartomas. Internal carotid artery aneurysms rarely affect patients with NF-1 but may be associated with rupture or neurologic complications. We report a 42-year-old female patient with NF-1 and a bilobed right internal carotid artery aneurysm extending to C2. The aneurysm was excised with high exposure of the carotid artery and reconstruction was performed using saphenous vein graft. We review the literature relevant to internal carotid aneurysms associated with NF-1.
The role of hormone therapy and calcium plus vitamin D for reduction of bone loss and risk for fractures: Lessons learned from the women’s health initiative

Osteoporosis, a major public health problem, is characterized by increased risk for fracture. To reduce the morbidity and excess loss of life associated with this common disease, we need to understand the efficacy of treatment strategies for fracture reduction. The Women’s Health Initiative Clinical Trials have extended our understanding of the effect of hormone therapy and calcium plus vitamin D supplements on risk for hip and total fractures. Although estrogen, with or without progestin, significantly decreases fracture risk at all skeletal sites—almost irrespective of underlying risk for osteoporosis—its risks outweigh its benefits, negating its general use for fracture reduction. For calcium-replete women, calcium plus vitamin D supplementation has a non-significant effect, hence the case for universal supplementation loses merit. But, that argument gains credibility for women over age 60—as a 21% reduction in hip fractures attests—showing that calcium plus vitamin D has a positive effect on bone health in older postmenopausal women.
OXYGEN AS A PRIMARY SPECIES IN RADIOLYSIS OF WATER.

Recent results are summarized of γ-radiolysis of dilute nitrate solutions at neutral pH in the presence of oxygen and hydrogen as radical scavengers. Complete analysis of the system leads to values of the primary yields showing a net deficit of oxidized products of ∼0.4. Analysis of results already available for the oxygen yield shows that oxygen originated from the radiolysis of water with a g value of ∼0.1 (g values are derived values for yields of primary species for 100 electron volts). This finding gives material balance and provides evidence of oxygen being a product of water radiolysis.
Mirror Inverse Operations in Linear Nearest Neighbors Using Dynamic Learning Algorithm

We propose a new method to implement mirror inverse gate operations in 1-D linear nearest neighbor (LNN) array coupled through diagonal interactions, using a dynamic learning algorithm. This is accomplished by training a quantum system using a backpropagation technique, to find the parameters of the system Hamiltonian that implement the mirror inverse operation. We show how the training algorithm can be used as a tool for finding the parameters for implementing mirror inverse operations in LNN systems with increasing number of qubits. The key feature of our scheme is that once we find the system parameters using the learning algorithm, mirror inversion (MI) is accomplished simply by tuning the system parameters to these values and allowing the system to evolve for a chosen time interval. To validate our scheme, we compare our results against known results for an LNN system coupled through $XY$ interactions. We also show how the scheme can be used to implement MI operations in the presence of unwanted couplings.
The equation of radiative transfer with scattering

Abstract The photon equation of transfer for an arbitrary scattering process and including the effects of induced scattering is examined in full geometric generality in the polarization-independent approximation. Several approximations are introduced which retain the essential physics of the situation but considerably simplify the mathematics. Most importantly, a two-term spherical harmonic angular expansion ( P -1 approximation is performed and, in the case of Compton scattering from a Maxwellian gas of electrons, a further expansion of the scattering operator is introduced. This latter approximation transforms the exact integral scattering operator into a second-order differential operator. The fundamental eigenfunction of this differential operator is identical to that of the exact integral operator, namely, a Planck distribution at the electron gas temperature. This simplified equation of transfer gives a physically more correct description of the softening of radiation by multiple Compton scattering than do previously published solutions to this problem.
Evolutionary biology: oceans of bacteria.

Cloning microbial genes from natural environments has revealed a surprising amount of diversity. In understanding how microorganisms function in ecosystems, how much of this diversity really matters?
Trout sperm swimming patterns and role of intracellular Ca

We investigated the swimming patterns of trout sperm using computer-assisted analyses of video microscopy. Under full activation conditions, in which 80–100% of sperm activate their motility, sperm swim in circular paths for 2–5 sec, followed by 30–60 sec of a more linear swimming, and, finally, cessation of movement, with a straightening of the flagella. Threshold activation, in which 50% of the sperm activate, is characterized by circular patterns of swimming for less than 20 sec, with straightened flagella upon cessation. Full activation and threshold activation are observed in low-K+ solution or in an Mg++ -supplemented K+ solution. Similarities in swimming patterns in low-K+ solution and in a Mg++ -supplemented K+ solution suggest a common underlying mechanism of activation. Initiation of movement in solutions with high Ca++ to K+ ratio is similar to activation in K+ -free solution. However, sperm in Ca++ -supplemented media resume circular swimming within 20–25 sec after activation, and, upon cessation of movement, the flagella are frequently cane shaped or bent. Differences in swimming patterns upon activation by high Ca++ concentration suggest additional effects of Ca++ on regulating swimming patterns. We used the fluorescent Ca++ indicator Fluo-3 to measure changes in intracellular Ca++ concentration upon activation. Intracellular Ca++ concentration transiently increases upon activation, with peak Ca++ concentration coinciding with the period of circular swimming. This transient increase in Ca++ concentration is seen in the absence of external Ca++, providing strong evidence for the released of Ca++ from intracellular stores upon activation.
Combined use of 1H-NMR and GC-MS for metabolite monitoring and in vivo 1H-NMR assignments

Thirty-three metabolites were observed in perchloric acid extracts of four different tissues by in vitro 1H-NMR, GC-MS and alcohol dehydrogenase assay, and the information was used to interpret an in vivo two-dimensional nuclear Overhauser effect 1H-NMR spectrum. The metabolite profiles of the different tissues indicate a number of potential tissue-specific markers: N-acetylaspartate and gamma-aminobutyric acid for rat brain, glutamine/glutamic acid ratio for dog heart, arginine and sucrose for carrot, and t-aconitate, sucrose, asparagine/aspartic acid concentration ratios for corn roots. gamma-Aminobutyric acid and malate can be regarded as metabolic indicators for stressed corn roots. Concentrations of threonine and valine in corn roots were constant under hypoxic and salt stress, and can serve as internal standards for both in vivo and in vitro NMR studies. The in vitro information was further used to identify 12 compounds from the in vivo 1H-NMR spectra (including the two-dimensional nuclear Overhauser effect spectrum) of a carrot cylinder by correlating the chemical shift and nuclear Overhauser effect information. Thus, our choice of methods with a capability for structural determination allows the characterization of complex tissue extracts with minimum sample preparation, and supports, as well as complements, in vivo 1H-NMR investigations of metabolism.
Thermal stability, pH dependence and inhibition of four murine kynurenine aminotransferases

Background: Kynurenine aminotransferase (KAT) catalyzes the transamination of kynunrenine to kynurenic acid (KYNA). KYNA is a neuroactive compound and functions as an antagonist of alpha7-nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and is the only known endogenous antagonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors. Four KAT enzymes, KAT I/glutamine transaminase K/cysteine conjugate beta-lyase 1, KAT II/aminoadipate aminotransferase, KAT III/cysteine conjugate beta-lyase 2, and KAT IV/glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase 2/mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase, have been reported in mammalian brains. Because of the substrate overlap of the four KAT enzymes, it is difficult to assay the specific activity of each KAT in animal brains. Results: This study concerns the functional expression and comparative characterization of KAT I, II, III, and IV from mice. At the applied test conditions, equimolar tryptophan with kynurenine significantly inhibited only mouse KAT I and IV, equimolar methionine inhibited only mouse KAT III and equimolar aspartate inhibited only mouse KAT IV. The activity of mouse KAT II was not significantly inhibited by any proteinogenic amino acids at equimolar concentrations. pH optima, temperature preferences of four KATs were also tested in this study. Midpoint temperatures of the protein melting, half life values at 65°C, and pKa values of mouse KAT I, II, III, and IV were 69.8, 65.9, 64.8 and 66.5°C; 69.7, 27.4, 3.9 and 6.5 min; pH 7.6, 5.7, 8.7 and 6.9, respectively. Conclusion: The characteristics reported here could be used to develop specific assay methods for each of the four murine KATs. These specific assays could be used to identify which KAT is affected in mouse models for research and to develop small molecule drugs for prevention and treatment of KAT-involved human diseases.
The Scientific Misconduct Questionnaire--Revised (SMQ-R): validation and psychometric testing.

Purpose: The overall purposes of this article are to report the development of a survey instrument, Scientific Misconduct Questionnaire-Revised (SMQ-R) that elicits the perceptions of research coordinators managing clinical trials about the various aspects of scientific misconduct and to present the psychometric analyses for the SMQ-R. Methods: A panel of five researchers and research coordinators reviewed the original SMQ (Rankin and Esteeves, 1997) and suggested an additional 42 items based on the review of the literature and their own experiences in research. The SMQ-Revised (SMQ-R) consists of 68 closed-choice items in six sections and one section with 12 open-ended questions. The SMQ-R was sent to 5302 persons who were members of the Association for Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) or subscribers to Research Practitioner, published by the Center for Clinical Research Practice (CCRP). Findings: Internal consistency of subscales was assessed with Cronbach's alpha and ranged from .83 to .84. Confi...
Hydrothermal synthesis of electrode materials pyrochlore tungsten trioxide film

Hydrothermal synthesis methods have been successfully used to prepare new transition-metal oxides for cathodes in electrochemical devices such as lithium batteries and electrochromic windows. The tungsten oxides were the first studied, but the method has been extended to the oxides of molybdenum, vanadium and manganese. Sodium tungsten oxide films with the pyrochlore structure have been prepared on gold/alumina and indium-doped tin oxide substrates. These films reversibly and rapidly intercalate lithium and hydrogen ions.
Electrostatic energy profiles at nanometer‐scale in group III nitride semiconductors using electron holography

Electron holography in the transmission electron microscope can provide energy band profiles with sub-nanometer spatial resolution. The phase of the electron beam is sensitive to the electrostatic potential, and a direct measurement of the latter can be achieved by making the electron beam signal that traverses the specimen interfere with a reference electron beam that travels through vacuum. This technique has been quite useful in probing the fields and charges at dislocations and at interfaces in semiconductors. This article presents a review of work done with the participation of the author in the past decade in the use of this technique to determine the piezoelectric effects in group III nitride semiconductor heterostructures.
The effect of cesarean delivery rates on the future incidence of placenta previa, placenta accreta, and maternal mortality

Objective. The overall annual incidence rate of caesarean delivery in the United Sates has been steadily rising since 1996, reaching 32.9% in 2009. Primary cesareans often lead to repeat cesareans,...
New style of photomultiplier tube voltage divider

Abstract An adjustable voltage divider chain has been developed for use with five-inch PM tubes in a neutron time-of-flight detector array. Best time response and pulse shape discrimination are obtained by maintaining high fixed gradients from the cathode to third dynode. Best saturation characteristics are obtained by maintaining high fixed gradient for the last several dynodes and the anode. Gain adjustments are made reducing the voltage gradients in the non-critical central dynodes while simultaneously reducing the total tube voltage such that all tubes in the array can be powered by a common supply.
A brief history of accounting for the translation of foreign currencies

Problems in accounting for the translation of foreign currencies are as old as money itself, as far back as the ancient Greeks. In the USA these problems have been of primary concern in the twentieth century. Interest in accounting for foreign currency translation seems to have varied directly with the instability of exchange. Of particular note is the interest created by the unsettling economic effects of the First World War, Second World War and the Vietnam War. The standard setting bodies of the accounting profession, including the Committee on Accounting Procedures of the 1930s, the Accounting Principles Board which followed, and particularly the current Financial Accounting Standards Board, have devoted significant efforts to the development of accounting principles in this area, culminating in the present FASB Statement No. 52.
Tritium distribution, enantiomer formation, and glycine production in L‐valine labeled by microwave discharge activation of tritium gas

The labeling of L-valine by microwave discharge activation of tritium gas was found to be general (i.e., all positions were labeled) but non-random in distribution. The α, β, and γ positions contained 7.1%, 32.7% and 60.2% respectively. On a per-hydrogen basis the β-position was favored by more than a factor of 3, whereas the chiral α-position was the least labeled. Net retention of the L-configuration was observed at the chiral center with only 1.56% D-valine being formed. Small amounts of glycine were found to be produced by fragmentation of the alkyl side chain of valine.
Remission of chronic fungal asthma in the absence of CCR8.

Background Experimental studies have generated conflicting data regarding the role of CCR8 in antigen-driven allergic airway disease models, thereby dampening enthusiasm for further exploration of the targeting of CCR8 in asthma. Objective Recent data show that the absence of CCR8 leads to a marked amplification of the innate immune response, and these data provided impetus for the current study, which addressed the role of this chemokine receptor in a model of fungal asthma. Methods Wild-type (CCR8 +/+ ) and CCR8-deficient (CCR8 −/− ) mice were sensitized to Aspergillus fumigatus antigens and challenged via intra-tracheal injection with live fungal conidia, and parameters of airway hyperresponsiveness, inflammation, and remodeling were examined. Results At day 7 after conidia challenge in wild-type (CCR8 +/+ ) and CCR8-deficient (CCR8 −/− ) mice sensitized to A fumigatus antigens, markedly less fungal material was present in the lungs of the CCR8 −/− group compared with the CCR8 +/+ group. At day 14 after conidia challenge, all characteristic airway physiology, inflammatory, and remodeling parameters of fungal asthma were significantly decreased or abolished in the CCR8 −/− group relative to the CCR8 +/+ group. Conclusion Together these data show that an enhanced innate immune response in the absence of CCR8 promotes the rapid clearance of fungal material from the lung, thereby facilitating the remission of fungal asthma. Clinical implications This study shows that the clearance of fungal material from the lung was enhanced in the absence of CCR8, which suggests that this receptor may be an attractive target in fungal-allergic asthma and other fungal-associated pulmonary diseases.
Joint spatio-spectral based edge detection for multispectral infrared imagery

Image segmentation is one of the most important and difficult tasks in digital image processing. It represents a key stage of automated image analysis and interpretation. Segmentation algorithms for gray-scale images utilize basic properties of intensity values such as discontinuity and similarity. However, it is possible to enhance edge-detection capability by means of using spectral information provided by multispectral (MS) or hyperspectral (HS) imagery. In this paper we consider image segmentation algorithms for multispectral images with particular emphasis on detection of multi-color or multispectral edges. More specifically, we report on an algorithm for joint spatio-spectral (JSS) edge detection. By joint we mean simultaneous utilization of spatial and spectral characteristics of a given MS or HS image. The JSSbased edge-detection approach, termed Spectral Ratio Contrast (SRC) edge-detection algorithm, utilizes the novel concept of matching edge signatures. The edge signature represents a combination of spectral ratios calculated using bands that enhance the spectral contrast between the two materials. In conjunction with a spatial mask, the edge signature give rise to a multispectral operator that can be viewed as a threedimensional extension of the mask. In the extended mask, the third (spectral) dimension of each hyper-pixel can be chosen independently. The SRC is verified using MS and HS imagery from a quantum-dot in a well infrared (IR) focal plane array, and the Airborne Hyperspectral Imager.
Negative affect smoking and smoking relapse

This study examined linkages between negative affect smoking and relapse. A sample of 669 smokers treated in smoking cessation clinics completed the Horn Motives for Smoking Scale at baseline and were followed at 3 and 12 months posttreatment. Negative affect (NA) smoking scores were unrelated to initial cessation or to maintenance at 3 months. Negative affect accounted for 8% of the variance in 12-month outcomes. The findings support the conceptual distinction between cessation and maintenance and suggest the need to distinguish stages within maintenance. The study also examined whether NA was associated with experiencing relapse crises in negative affect situations. Reports of relapse crises (situations leading to smoking or to the verge of smoking) were obtained from 572 subjects at the 3-month follow-up, Negative affect smokers were more likely to report that the crises were precipitated by negative affect. Although weak, this link between baseline smoking patterns and relapse situations suggests the possibility of individually tailored treatments.
Method and test system for evaluation of bioaerosol samplers

Abstract A method and test system have been developed for the laboratory evaluation of the performance of bioaerosol samplers. The method differentiates between the overall physical sampling efficiency (which reflects the inlet and collection efficiencies) and the biological sampling efficiency (which reflects the survival of the test microorganisms during the sampling process). The number concentrations of laboratory-generated bioaerosol particles are measured with an aerosol size spectrometer up- and downstream of the bioaerosol sampler being tested. In a bioaerosol impactor, which was specially designed for testing microbiological aspects of bioaerosol sampling, the inlet and collection efficiencies are differentiated by measuring downstream of the collection surface location with and without the collection surface in place. The number of recovered particles is counted as microcolonies with a microscope after sampling the bioaerosol particles into agar and culturing them. The total recovery of these bioaerosol particles is determined as a ratio of the number of viable microorganisms recovered to the number of bioaerosol particles present in the air sampling volume upstream from the sampler. This total recovery is a measure of the ratio of culturable to non-culturable bacteria present in the air. By measuring physical and microbiological aspects simultaneously, information is gained on aspects of bioaerosol sampling that cannot be determined by either of these branches of science alone. This is exemplified by tests on the influence of relative humidity and desiccation time on colony count. The newly-developed system can be used to test any bioaerosol sampler. A special single-stage impactor was designed, built and used to study how different sampling and analysis variables affect the total recovery of bioaerosol particles. The designed impactor was calibrated using PSL particles. Its inlet sampling efficiency was found to be within the range of 96–99.5%, depending on the sampling conditions and particle size, if the latter is less than 8 μm (this range represents single bacteria, bacterial agglomerates, and fungi). The collection efficiency was found to be about 100% when collecting PSL particles larger than 0.7 μm in diameter at 201 min−1 or higher air flows. The total recovery of microorganisms measured under these conditions is characterized only by the “survivability” of microorganisms during their sampling. It was found that relative humidity had a pronounced effect on total Pseudomonas fluorescens recovery. Experimental data also showed that the sampling time may be limited due to bacterial desiccation and subsequent loss in viability of collected microorganisms.
Wave motions associated with particle precipitation in the ionosphere

Abstract Some observational evidence for the existence of waves caused by particle precipitation in the auroral ionosphere is presented. The nature of these wave motions strongly suggests that the waves are a manifestation of instabilities in the ionospheric plasma. The observed characteristics of these waves and the theoretical aspects of the instability are discussed.
Electron-Beam-Induced-Current (EBIC) Imaging of Defects in Si1−xGeX Multilayer Structures

The electron-beam-induced-current (EBIC) technique has been used to image dislocations and other defects at strained Si: Sil−xGex epitaxial interfaces and in overlying epitaxial layers grown by Limited Reaction Processing. Depending upon the bias conditions and test structure, one can distinguish between interface defects and those in overlying films. We have found that for a low density of misfit dislocations, a high quality (defect-free) overlying epitaxial layer can be grown, but for a high density of dislocations certain line defects propagate upwards in the overlying layers.
Solar spectral irradiance measured from 11.58 km with a Leiss monochromator and a photoelectric filter radiometer

Solar spectral irradiance measured by airborne instruments, discussing construction, calibration, etc, of photoelectric filter radiometer and Leiss monochromator
A real-time platform for validating continuous wide-area control systems

This paper describes a real-time hardware-in-the-loop test platform designed and developed specifically for validation and testing of continuous wide-area control systems. This setup allows one to include all of the necessary hardware for control, measurement, communications, and protection. This paper focuses heavily on the inclusion of measurement and communications hardware, which are not considered in existing real-time test platforms with control hardware-in-the-loop. The system consists of a Real Time Digital Simulator (RTDS), multiple PMUs, a protocol gateway, and physical controllers. Particular attention is given to the protocol conversion necessary to provide remotely generated synchrophasor data to a controller requiring analog measurements. A case study demonstrating continuous wide-area controls using synchrophasor data is presented. Test results show that the inclusion of actual measurement and communications hardware can reveal the specifics of crucial implementation problems that might not be easily addressed simply using control hardware with assumed delays.
Sumoylation of the Yeast Gcn5 Protein

Sumoylation, the process by which the ubiquitin-related SUMO protein is covalently attached to lysine side chains in other proteins, is involved in numerous processes in the eukaryotic cell, including transcriptional repression. In this study, we identify Gcn5, the histone-modifying subunit of the transcriptional regulatory complex SAGA, as a sumoylation substrate in yeast. In vitro, multiple sumoylation of recombinant Gcn5 alone or as a trimer with its interacting proteins Ada2 and Ada3 did not affect Gcn5's histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activity, suggesting that modification of Gcn5 with yeast SUMO (Smt3) may not directly regulate its HAT function. Through site-directed mutagenesis, the primary in vivo sumoylation site was identified as lysine-25, although an unsumoylatable K-to-R mutation of this residue led to no obvious in vivo effects. However, fusion of SUMO to the N-terminus of Gcn5 to mimic constitutive sumoylation resulted in defective growth on 3-aminotriazole media and reduced basal and activated transcription of the SAGA-dependent gene TRP3. Taken together with recent identification of multiple additional subunits of SAGA as sumoylated proteins in vivo, these data suggest that Gcn5 sumoylation may have an inhibitory role in transcriptional regulation.
The effect of metacarpal shortening on digital flexion force

Metacarpal shaft fractures are common injuries that frequently unite with some shortening of the metacarpal. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of metacarpal shortening on digital flexion force. The index metacarpal of six cadaveric upper limbs was incrementally shortened. The flexion force produced at the end of the finger was recorded using a small load cell. At full extension, there was no significant change in flexion force produced regardless of the amount of shortening. However, at 50% aggregate flexion the loss of force became statistically significant at a shortening of 7.5 mm or more. At full digital flexion, the loss of force became statistically significant at shortening of 5 mm or more. At increasing amounts of finger flexion, progressive metacarpal shortening produces proportionally greater loss of fingertip flexion force. From this study it appears that metacarpal shortening of up to 5 mm should give minimal loss of finger flexion force.
Total Synthesis and Comparative Analysis of Orlistat, Valilactone, and a Transposed Orlistat Derivative: Inhibitors of Fatty Acid Synthase

Concise syntheses of orlistat (Xenical), a two-carbon transposed orlistat derivative, and valilactone are described that employ the tandem Mukaiyama aldol-lactonization (TMAL) process as a key step. This process allows facile modification of the alpha-side chain. Versatile strategies for modifying the delta-side chain are described, involving cuprate addition and olefin metathesis. Comparative antagonistic activity of these derivatives toward a recombinant form of the thioesterase domain of fatty acid synthase is reported along with comparative activity-based profiling.
Evaluation of the Susceptibility of the 3C Proteases of Hepatitis A Virus and Poliovirus to Degradation by the Ubiquitin-Mediated Proteolytic System☆

Abstract The picornavirus 3C proteases are required for the processing of viral polyproteins during infections of host cells. Here we report that the 3C protease of the hepatitis A virus, like that of the encephalomyocarditis virus, is a substrate for rapid, ubiquitin-mediated degradation in vitro. Ubiquitin was shown to stimulate the turnover of the hepatitis virus 3C protease, and labeled protease was found to become incorporated into a mixture of high molecular weight species, which is characteristic of conjugation with polyubiquitin chains. In the presence of methylated ubiquitin, a new 33 kDa species formed, consistent with the generation of a monoubiquitin-3C protease conjugate. The rate of degradation of the 3C protease was reduced by inhibitors of the 26S proteasome. A similar evaluation of the 3C protease of poliovirus revealed that it is stable protein and is not conjugated with ubiquitin. It was also determined that the hepatitis A and encephalomyocarditis virus 3C proteases compete with each other for conjugation with ubiquitin and for degradation. This suggests that the two 3C proteases are both recognized by the same ubiquitin system enzyme, or enzymes, responsible for selecting them as targets for destruction.
COCAINE AND PREGNANCY: MATERNAL AND INFANT OUTCOME

The number of infants born to women who abuse cocaine is rapidly increasing. Subjects of this study, conducted within a drug treatment program providing pre and postnatal services to drug dependent women(DDW), included 237 pregnant women: 91 cocaine using DDW, 83 non-cocaine using DDW, and 63 non-DDW. The groups were similar for maternal age, socioeconomic status, nicotine use and parity, but differed in race. Abruptio placentae occurred in 8% of the cocaine DDW, 4% of the non-cocaine DDW and in 2% of the non-DDW. Spontaneous abortions, emergency C-sections and meconium staining occurred more often in the cocaine DDW than in either of the other 2 groups. Birth weight and length, head circumference, gestational age, and 1 min. Apgar scores were significantly lower in the infants of cocaine DDW. No differences existed in the occurrence of congenital anomalities and intracranial hemorrhage. There were more premature deliveries in the cocaine (21%) than in the non-cocaine (11%) and comparison (4%) groups. Mean neonatal abstinence scores, which incorporated 21 physiological and behavioral parameters to quantify symptoms, were lower for the cocaine exposed infants. Differences were significant with respect to cry, disturbed tremors, increased muscle tone, excoriations, fever, mottling, and loose stools. The results of this study suggest that: 1)cocaine use in pregnancy adversely effects maternal and infant outcome, 2)exposure to cocaine in-utero does not appear to increase the incidence of neonatal abstinence symptomatology.
Direct measurement of the concentration- and time-dependent open probability of the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor channel

Using the outside-out patch clamp recording technique together with a rapid solution exchange system, we measured ionic currents through nicotinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptor channels from BC3H-1 cells in response to rapid applications of 0.3–1,000 microM ACh. We used nonstationary fluctuation analysis of ensembles of responses to deduce the number of channels in the patch, the maximum open channel probability as a function of ACh concentration and the time course of a fast desensitization process. We found that: (a) Excised patches from BC3H-1 cells typically contain between 50 and 150 functional ACh receptor ion channels. (b) The open channel probability is proportional to [ACh]1.95 at low concentrations of ACh, is half-maximal at 20 microM ACh and saturates above 100 microM ACh. (c) ACh is a very efficacious agonist; 100 microM ACh opens at least 90% of the available channels. This estimate of efficacy is model-independent. (d) The rate of decay of the agonist-induced current is concentration-dependent. In the presence of 100 microM ACh the current decays with a time constant of 50–100 ms. It decays more slowly in the presence of lower concentrations of agonist but is relatively insensitive to voltage.
The cells of origin of the spinothalamic tract of the rat: a quantitative reexamination

We quantitatively reinvestigated the cells of origin of the spinothalamic tract (STT) of the rat. Injections of Fluoro-Gold that filled the thalamus on one side labeled large numbers of neurons throughout the length of the spinal cord. In 3 cases, we estimated the total number of STT neurons by counting labeled neurons in 18 of the 34 total segments, applying correction factors to these counts, and estimating the numbers of labeled neurons in the 16 remaining unexamined segments. The accuracy of these estimates was tested in two animals in which labeled neurons were counted in all 34 spinal segments. In both cases, the estimated totals of STT neurons differed from the counted totals by less than 5%. In the most effective case, we estimated that more than 9500 STT neurons were labeled. This study indicates that the number of STT neurons in rats is larger than previously reported and suggests that the STT may play an important role in nociception in rats, as it does in primates including humans.
Probing the structure of the Neurospora crassa plasma membrane H(+)-ATPase.

The structure of the Neurospora crassa plasma membrane H+-ATPase has been investigated using a variety of chemical and physicochemical techniques. The transmembrane topography of the H+-ATPase has been elucidated by a direct, protein chemical approach. Reconstituted proteoliposomes containing purified H+-ATPase molecules oriented predominantly with their cytoplasmic surface facing outward were treated with trypsin, and the numerous peptides released were purified by HPLC and subjected to amino acid sequence analysis. In this way, seventeen released peptides were unequivocally identified as located on the cytoplasmic side of the membrane, and numerous intervening segments could be inferred to be cytoplasmically located by virtue of the fact that they are too short to cross the membrane and return between sequences established to be cytoplasmically located. Additionally, three large membrane-embedded segments of the H+-ATPase were isolated using our recently developed methods for purifying hydrophobic peptides, and identified by amino acid sequence analysis. This information established the topographical location of virtually all of the 919 residues in the H+-ATPase molecule, allowing the formulation of a reasonably detailed model for the transmembrane topography of the H+-ATPase polypeptide chain. Separate studies of the cysteine chemistry of the H+-ATPase have demonstrated the existence of a single disulfide bridge in the molecule, linking the NH2- and COON-terminal membrane-embedded domains. And, analyses of the circular dichroism and infrared spectra of the purified H+-ATPase have elucidated the secondary structure composition of the molecule. A first-generation model for the tertiary structure of the H+-ATPase based on this information and other considerations is presented.
Recoverability of intermediate production functions from disaggregated market data

Abstract This paper investigates the recoverability of intermediate production functions from disaggregated market data. Specifically, it is shown that the total differential equation for production technology, estimated from disaggregated factor input data, can always be reduced to a canonical form that is a function of composite products.
Creep Rate of Porcelain-bonding Alloys as a Function of Temperature

Representative high gold, gold-palladium, and palladium-silver alloys are shown to have different creep rates at temperatures up to the usual porcelain firing range. Dynamically measured creep rates are interpreted in terms of relative "sag" and margin "opening" tendencies of the alloys.
Our Mandate for the New Millennium: Evidence-Based Practice

The health care environment of the past quarter century went through numerous evolutionary processes that affected how occupational therapy services were provided. The last iterations of these processes included requests for the evidence that supported what we were doing. This year's Eleanor Clarke Slagle Lecture (a) examines the strength of the evidence associated with occupational therapy interventions--what we do and how we do it--(b) raises dilemmas we face with our ethical principles when some of our practices are based on limited evidence, and (c) proposes a framework of continued competency to advance the evidence base of occupational therapy practice in the new millennium.
Concerning resonance scattering of gamma rays and level widths in Hf177

Abstract Hamilton and Sood recently reported lifetimes of excited states in Hf 177 obtained by nuclear resonance scattering which disagree considerably with those obtained by other methods. It is shown that the formula for the ratio of the nuclear resonance to the Rayleigh cross section must be modified and the correct expressions are given. In consequence of this it is found that the 250 keV level was resonantly excited and not the 321 keV level as reported.
Spatial distribution of net surface accumulation on the Antarctic ice sheet

An isopleth map showing the spatial distribution of net mass accumulation at the surface on the Antarctic ice sheet, excluding Graham Land, the Larsen Ice Shelf and eastern Palmer Land, is produced based on field data from approximately 2000 sites. A database of accumulation values for 5365 gridpoint locations with 50 km spacing is interpolated from the isopleth map, giving a bulk accumulation of 2151 Gt a–1 and a mean of 159 kg m–2 a–1 for an area of 13.53 × 106 km2. Following the implementation of deflation and ablation adjustments applicable to sectors of the coastal zone, the accumulation values are reduced to 2020 Gt a–1 and 149 kg m–2 a–1. The new accumulation distribution is compared with another recent distribution, which was based on essentially the same field data using different analysis and interpolation criteria. Differences between the distributions are assessed using residuals for the 50 km gridpoint locations and by comparing average accumulation values for 24 drainage systems. The assessment based on residuals indicates that the two distributions show patterns of accumulation that are coherent at the continental scale, a shared attribute underscored by a small mean residual value of 6 kg m–2 a–1 (a difference of 22%) for six systems that collectively comprise approximately 4/10 of the ice-sheet area and 3/10 of the accumulation.
“GENRE MEANS …”: A CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF FOURTH GRADE TALK ABOUT GENRE

This action research study investigates how genre theory can be integrated into the practice of a writing enrichment program and how the frameworks of Critical Discourse Analysis and Multimodal Analysis can help assess and improve both student learning and teacher practice. A multilayered exploration of teacher-student discourse in an urban public elementary school in the Midwest United States discloses the various ways in which the concept of genre is both successfully and unsuccessfully constructed among fourth-grade students. Grounded in sociocultural and genre theory, I define and develop a three-way understanding of the word genre: genre as a literary term; genre referring to the analytical tool used in CDA as developed by Fairclough; and Genre, referring to pedagogical theories which suggest that social purpose is at the heart of all text making and must be considered and made explicit when teaching about genre.
Further Experiences with Blood Coagulation after Fat Meals and Carbohydrate Meals

There have been conflicting reports as to whether the ingestion of fat increases the tendency for the blood to clot, and hence, by implication, the risk of thromboembolic complications in man. In this study the effect of a single meal containing a large amount of fat was compared with that of a practically purely carbohydrate isocaloric meal. Under carefully controlled conditions the clotting time varied widely under fasting conditions, and after both fat and carbohydrate meals the clotting time became longer, shorter, or remain unchanged. The results were unpredictable and although a slight trend toward shortened clotting times was evidenced after the fat meals, the results did not reach accepted statistical standards of probability.
Influence of berry polyphenols on receptor signaling and cell-death pathways: Implications for breast cancer prevention

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. Many women have become more aware of the benefits of increasing fruit consumption, as part of a healthy lifestyle, for the prevention of cancer. The mechanisms by which fruits, including berries, prevent breast cancer can be partially explained by exploring their interactions with pathways known to influence cell proliferation and evasion of cell-death. Two receptor pathways, estrogen receptor (ER) and tyrosine kinase receptors, especially the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family, are drivers of cell proliferation and play a significant role in the development of both primary and recurrent breast cancer. There is strong evidence to show that several phytochemicals present in berries such as cyanidin, delphinidin, quercetin, kaempferol, ellagic acid, resveratrol, and pterostilbene interact with and alter the effects of these pathways. Furthermore, they also induce cell death (apoptosis and autophagy) via their influence on...
Commentary progress in the de novo design of structured peptoid protein mimics

Significant progress has been made in recent years toward creating interesting, unique, and in some cases, predictable oligopeptoid/polypeptoid secondary, tertiary, and in one case, quaternary structures. This article describes this progress, identifies a few of the many remaining challenges, and discusses potentially interesting or fruitful strategies for the peptoid biomimetics research community. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 96: 556–560, 2011.
Design lessons from deployment of on-demand video

Streaming video to the desktop is increasingly widespread. A key application is in training, making information available over the Internet or corporate intranets, in real time or as archived presentations. How should a presentation be redesigned for retrieval and viewing on demand? Detailed examination of usage logs of 6000 corporate on-demand video sessions provides suggestions.