cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identification of candidate residues for interaction of protein S with C4b binding protein and activated protein C

Protein S is a plasma factor essential for prevention of thrombosis, partly due to its activity as a cofactor for the plasma anticoagulant protease-activated protein C. To expand knowledge about structure-function relationships in homologous protein S molecules, studies of protein S from different species have been performed. Protein S anti-coagulant activity in human, monkey, bovine, and porcine plasma has been inactivated by purified human C4b binding protein (C4BP) with dose-dependence, suggesting that each protein S can bind human C4BP and that only the free form of each is anti-coagulantly active. Purified porcine protein S has a 10-fold higher Kd for human C4BP than has human protein S. Protein S residues 420-434 provide an essential binding site for the negative regulator C4BP. cDNA sequences show that protein S residues 420-434 are highly conserved in all four species with the notable exception of Lys-429-Ile in porcine protein S. Differences between porcine and human protein S, e.g. Lys-429-Ile, Lys-43-Ala, Ser-197-Leu, Ser 199-Phe, Glu-463-Gly, Lys-571-Glu, Asn-602-Ile, Gln-607-Pro, may contribute to the decreased affinity of porcine protein S for human C4BP. Moreover, the species specificity of cofactor activities of various species of protein S is determined for human versus bovine-activated protein C, and these results, combined with sequence comparisons, agree with previous evidence that the thrombin-sensitive region and the first epidermal growth factor domain of protein S, i.e. residues 47-116, are responsible for recognition of activated protein C.
Antigen retrieval technique utilizing citrate buffer or urea solution for immunohistochemical demonstration of androgen receptor in formalin-fixed paraffin sections

We developed a staining protocol for demonstration of androgen receptor (AR) in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections. The method is based on the antigen retrieval microwave (MW) heating technique. Results are compared with different types of enzyme digestion pre-treatments. The strongest immunostaining signal and clearest background were obtained by MW heating of dewaxed paraffin sections in 5% urea or citrate buffer solution (pH 6); pure distilled water gave less consistent results. Enzymatic digestion with pepsin (0.05% in 2 N HCl) for 30 min at room temperature, or trypsin followed by pronase, or pronase digestion alone, also produced enhanced staining of AR in some cases, but there was more nonspecific background, and specific reactivity was less intense. The antigen retrieval MW method can be used to demonstrate AR epitope in prostate tissue after fixation in formalin for as long as 7 days. AR immunolocalization was also compared in frozen and paraffin sections processed from the same specimen of prostate carcinoma tissue and was found to be qualitatively and quantitatively similar. This study also provided new information concerning the basic principles of the antigen retrieval MW method that may be helpful in further development of this technique.
Rehabilitation Needs for Burbot in the Kootenai River, Idaho, USA, and British Columbia, Canada

Abstract We developed rehabilitation goals for burbot Lota lota in the Kootenai River, Idaho and British Columbia. After developing a catchability model for burbot in the Kootenai River, we used capture rates in two Alaskan rivers to develop surrogate rehabilitation targets for burbot in the Kootenai River. Then we used demographic statistics for burbot in the Kootenai River in a stochastic density-dependent population model to estimate recruitment rates for population rehabilitation. If recruitment failure continued, the population would decline to extinction by 2018. However, the population would reach the interim target abundance of 5,500 individuals (45 fish/km; 3.0 fish/ha) within 25 years if each adult produced 0.85 recruits per year, and it would reach the ultimate target abundance of 17,500 individuals (143 fish/km; 9.6 fish/ha) if each adult produced 1.1 recruits per year. After 25 years, 5,500 burbot would be present with 50% likelihood at a recruitment rate of 0.85 recruits per adult and 95% li...
The partitioning of copper among selected phases of geologic media of two porphyry copper districts, Puerto Rico

Abstract In experiments designed to determine the manner in which copper is partitioned among selected phases that constitute geologic media, we have applied the five-step sequential extraction procedure of Chao and Theobald to the analysis of drill core, soils, and stream sediments of the Rio Vivi and Rio Tanama porphyry copper districts of Puerto Rico. The extraction procedure affords a convenient means of determining the trace-metal content of the following fractions: (1) Mn oxides and “reactive” Fe oxides; (2) “amorphous” Fe oxides; (3) “crystalline” Fe oxides; (4) sulfides and magnetite; and (5) silicates. An additional extraction between steps (1) and (2) was performed to determine organic-related copper in stream sediments. The experimental results indicate that apportionment of copper among phases constituting geologic media is a function of geochemical environment. Distinctive partitioning patterns were derived from the analysis of drill core from each of three geochemical zones: (a) the supergene zone of oxidation; (b) the supergene zone of enrichment; and (c) the hypogene zone; and similarly, from the analysis of; (d) soils on a weakly leached capping; (e) soils on a strongly leached capping; and (f) active stream sediment. The experimental results also show that geochemical contrasts (anomaly-to-background ratios) vary widely among the five fractions of each sampling medium investigated, and that at least one fraction of each medium provides substantially stronger contrast than does the bulk medium. Fraction (1) provides optimal contrast for stream sediments of the district; fraction (2) provides optimal contrast for soils on a weakly leached capping; fraction (3) provides optimal contrast for soils on a strongly leached capping. Selective extraction procedures appear to have important applications to the orientation and interpretive stages of geochemical exploration. Further investigation and testing of a similar nature are recommended.
Effect of Receptor Dimerization on Membrane Lipid Raft Structure Continuously Quantified on Single Cells by Camera Based Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy

Membrane bound cell signaling is modulated by the membrane ultra-structure, which itself may be affected by signaling. However, measuring the interaction of membrane proteins with membrane structures in intact cells in real-time poses considerable challenges. In this paper we present a non-destructive fluorescence method that quantifies these interactions in single cells, and is able to monitor the same cell continuously to observe small changes. This approach combines total internal fluorescence microscopy with fluorescence correlation spectroscopy to measure the protein’s diffusion and molecular concentration in different sized areas simultaneously. It correctly differentiates proteins interacting with membrane fences from proteins interacting with cholesterol-stabilized domains, or lipid rafts. This method detects small perturbations of the membrane ultra-structure or of a protein’s tendency to dimerize. Through continuous monitoring of single cells, we demonstrate how dimerization of GPI-anchored proteins increases their association with the structural domains. Using a dual-color approach we study the effect of dimerization of one GPI-anchored protein on another type of GPI-anchored protein expressed in the same cell. Scans over the cell surface reveal a correlation between cholesterol stabilized domains and membrane cytoskeleton.
Effect of transportation infrastructure network size on its performance during disruptions

This paper focuses on the effect of the size of a transportation infrastructure system network on its level of performance when disrupted. The average shortest path distance forms the basic property by which this study is carried out, since it also constitutes the basic unit around which the adjacency matrix is developed. In this paper, the main system studied comprises critical infrastructures (namely the highways and bridges in Newcastle County, Delaware), which is then developed into a network using graph theory. Two case studies are analysed, each selected from two different regions of the county, under the effect of two node removal strategies representing the real-life disruptions of natural and intentional attacks. Based on Spearman's rank correlation and the calculated average shortest path distances, it was shown that the smaller the size of a network, the shorter the path lengths and the more efficient the system. The other considered properties include the network density, average vertex degree, clustering coefficient, node betweenness, link betweenness and network connectivity to determine whether they showed a direct relationship with efficiency. Only the average shortest path distances and betweenness centralities showed a direct relationship with network efficiency. However, this work investigates how the presence of short path distances in a system network affects its performance and develops working equations for computing efficiency using regression equations.
Selective behaviors altered in plasminogen-deficient mice are reconstituted with intracerebroventricular injection of plasminogen

In vitro studies demonstrate a role for the plasminogen (Plg) system in neurological function and recently in vivo studies show a role of the Plg system in neurodegeneration after the injection of an excitotoxic agent. Differences in the development of neurological function, however, have not been demonstrated in the Plg-deficient (Plg-/-) mice compared to wild-type (WT) mice. The role of Plg system in neurological function may relate to remodeling which occurs in response to various environmental challenges. In this study, behaviors (open field, grooming, hind-leg gait, water maze, and acoustic startle reflex) were tested in the Plg-deficient and WT mice at 6-8 weeks of age. Grooming, a response to the stress of an open field or fur moistening, was increased in the Plg-/--deficient mice compared to WT mice, and the acoustic startle reflex (ASR) was markedly decreased in the Plg-/- mice. The reduced ASR in Plg-/- mice occurred in mice with a mixed C57BL:129 background or in mice with a C57BL background. Plg was required for the ASR, since a deficiency of the Plg activators, urokinase (uPA) or tissue Plg activator (tPA), did not cause a reduction in the ASR compared to their WT control. Infusion of Plg directly into the brain was effective in restoring the ASR in the Plg-/- mice, but had no effect on the ASR of WT mice. Peripheral bolus injections of Plg or infusion into the jugular vein were ineffective in restoring the ASR in the Plg-/- mice. These results indicate that Plg is required for the appropriate response to the environmental challenge of a sudden loud sound, and that the response can be restored in Plg-/- mice by directly infusing Plg into the brain.
EEG spectral phenotypes: Heritability and association with marijuana and alcohol dependence in an American Indian community study

Native Americans have some of the highest rates of marijuana and alcohol use and abuse, yet neurobiological measures associated with dependence on these substances in this population remain unknown. The present investigation evaluated the heritability of spectral characteristics of the electroencephalogram (EEG) and their correlation with marijuana and alcohol dependence in an American Indian community. Participants (n = 626) were evaluated for marijuana (MJ) and alcohol (ALC) dependence, as well as other psychiatric disorders. EEGs were collected from six cortical sites and spectral power determined in five frequency bands (delta 1.0–4.0 Hz, theta 4.0–7.5 Hz, alpha 7.5–12.0 Hz, low beta 12.0–20.0 Hz and high beta/gamma 20–50 Hz). The estimated heritability (h2) of the EEG phenotypes was calculated using SOLAR, and ranged from 0.16 to 0.67. Stepwise linear regression was used to detect correlations between MJ and ALC dependence and the spectral characteristics of the EEG using a model that took into account: age, gender, Native American Heritage (NAH) and a lifetime diagnosis of antisocial personality and/or conduct disorder (ASPD/CD). Increases in spectral power in the delta frequency range, were significantly correlated with gender (p < 0.001) and marijuana dependence (p < 0.003). Gender, age, NAH and ASPD/CD were all significantly (p < 0.001) correlated with theta, alpha and beta band power, whereas alcohol dependence (p < 0.01), gender (p < 0.001), and ASPD/CD (p < 0.001) were all correlated with high beta/gamma band power. These data suggest that the traits of EEG delta and high beta/gamma activity are correlated with MJ dependence and alcohol dependence, respectively, in this community sample of Native Americans.
Routing and scheduling

This talk surveys recent work by Operations Researchers in the area of Routing and Scheduling and suggests that the problems of current interest have come more and more to resemble control problems.
The Stream of Consciousness: XIII. Bodily Self-Awareness and Aron Gurwitsch's Margin:

According to William James, bodily self-awareness (bodily feeling) is pervasive throughout the stream of consciousness; such awareness is included in each and every pulse of mentality that makes up the stream of consciousness. This installment of the present series of articles begins to consider the role that bodily self-awareness plays in the very structure of the basic durational components of James's stream. The focus here is on an account of this role that the prominent phenomenologist Aron Gurwitsch preferred. Gurwitsch held that pervasive bodily self-awareness belongs to the margin of consciousness; such bodily self-awareness occurs in the form of distinct acts of awareness possessing a separate content from that of the central thematic process which also characterizes every pulse of consciousness. The present article discusses Gurwitsch's account in order to set up a contrast, which will be drawn explicitly in the next installment, with James's more phenomeno-logically integrated conception of perv...
Accuracy of Temperature Measurements on Coil Surfaces

In this paper the authors show the relationship to be expected between observations of surface temperature rise by various methods of measurement. Predictions based on laboratory tests are shown to be borne out by practical tests on induction motors. The data presented provide a basis for comparing a number of methods of temperature measurement from the stand-point of repetitive accuracy and the degree to which they indicate the true surface temperature.
Patients' perceptions of safety if interpersonal continuity of care were to be disrupted.

Objective To determine if patients vary in perceptions of safety if interpersonal continuity were to be disrupted. If so, which characteristics are associated with feeling unsafe? Background The extent to which patients’ preference for continuity with a personal physician is due to perceptions of safety is unclear. Design Observational study (Wisconsin Longitudinal Study Graduate and Sibling Survey). Setting and participants A total of 6827 respondents (most aged 63–66 years) who completed the 2003–06 survey round. Main variables studied Age, gender, marital status, education, health insurance type, illnesses, medications, length of relationship with provider and place, personality type, decision-making preference and trust in physician deliberation. Main outcome measures Safety perception when visiting another doctor or clinic if own doctor were not available. Results Twelve percent of respondents felt unsafe. After adjustment, as compared to those who felt safe, those who felt unsafe were more likely to be women (Odds ratio = 1.65, 95% confidence interval = 1.35–2.01), have more chronic conditions (1.27, 1.08–1.50) and have a longer relationship with a usual provider: 5–9 years (1.53, 1.11–2.10) 10–14 years (1.41, 1.02–1.95) and 15 or more years (1.62, 1.20–2.17) compared to 0–4 years. Those who preferred active participation in decision making and had trust in their physician were less likely to feel safe (1.63, 1.10–2.41). Conclusions Certain older adults perceive being unsafe if not seeing their usual physician. Further research should investigate reasons for perceptions of safety if continuity were disrupted and any implications for care.
'Look at me when I am talking to you': evidence and assessment of social pragmatics interventions for children with autism and social communication disorders.

Purpose of reviewThis article provides an analysis of the effectiveness of commonly used interventions for social pragmatic interventions for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and social communication disorders.Recent findingsSeveral evidence-based social skills interventions are emerging
Self-consciousness and reactance

Abstract Two studies examined the effects of dispositional self-consciousness on reactance. In Experiment 1, men who were high in private self-consciousness displayed greater reactance responses to a coercive communication attempt (as reflected by attitude reversal) than did men lower in private self-consciousness. In contrast, the effect of public self-consciousness in this context was to inhibit the expression of reactance. In Experiment 2, women high in private self-consciousness exhibited greater reactance responses to a self-imposed threat to their freedom of choice (as reflected by equivocation over two choice alternatives) than did women lower in private self-consciousness. The effect of public self-consciousness in this context was negligible. These findings replicate and extend a previous self-awareness and reactance finding; they provide additional evidence that manipulated self-awareness and dispositional self-consciousness converge on the same psychological entity; and they provide additional evidence that there are important differences between the dimensions of private and public self-consciousness.
Impact of Psychosocial Factors on Health Outcomes in the Elderly A Prospective Study

One hundred and thirty-five initially healthy men and women older than 65 years of age were studied prospectively to identify factors associated with health outcomes. At study onset, measures of personality, social interaction, and health locus of control were obtained while participants were still healthy. A reliable health outcome measure was developed, based on the annual objective coding of morbidity. Correlations between variables showed significant associations between age, a less independent personality trait, and poor health outcomes. Anxiety and low levels of social interaction were associated with poor health after 8 years. Gender and health locus of control were not significantly related to health outcomes. A path analysis showed significant direct paths between age and trait anxiety and 8-year health outcomes, and indirect paths between anxiety and extroversion and 8-year health, by way of social interaction. There was no evidence that social interaction mediated the effects of either anxiety ...
Estimating seasonal drivers in childhood infectious diseases with continuous time and discrete-time models

Many important factors affect the spread of childhood infectious disease. To better understand the fundamental drivers of infectious disease spread, several researchers have estimated seasonal transmission coefficients in discrete-time models. In this paper, we build upon this previous work and also develop a framework for efficient estimation using continuous differential equation models. We introduce nonlinear programming formulations to efficiently estimate model parameters and seasonal transmission profiles from existing case count data for the childhood disease, measles. We compare results from discrete time and continuous time models and address several shortcomings of the discrete-time method, including removing the need for the data reporting interval to match the time between successive cases in the chain of transmission or serial interval of the disease. Using a simultaneous approach for optimization of differential equation systems, we demonstrate that seasonal transmission parameters can be effectively estimated using continuous time models instead of discrete-time models.
The use of student workers in computer lab management at the University of Scranton

The Computing Systems Department of the University of Scranton has been very successful in implementing a program utilizing student workers to staff its extensive lab facilities. This program was initiated in the early 1980's with a hand full of students staffing one lab, and has grown to the point where we now employ over 60 students to staff eleven labs with more coming on line every year. The fact of the matter is that student employees have become the backbone of our lab support systems.In the early days the department was small and the student workers were under the supervision of the director. As the department grew, and more students were employed, they were eventually assigned to the assistant director and later to other professional support staff. By 1985, running the labs had become involved enough to require establishment of the position of Computer Lab Coordinator (the current title for this position is Information Support Analyst - Labs) to oversee lab management and the growing number of student employees.
The incorporation of [3H]glucosamine, [3H]fucose and [14C]mannose into protein in the rat anterior pituitary incubated in vitro

Abstract Rat anterior hemipituitaries incubated in vitro rapidly take up and incorporate into protein D -[6-3H]-glucosamine · HCl, D -[1-14C]mannose and L -[G-3H]fucose. The newly labeled protein was only slowly released into a Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate incubation medium. Glucosamine- or mannose-labeled protein was barely detectable in the medium after a 30–60 min incubation whereas about 4% of all fucose-labeled protein had already been released into the incubation medium by 30 min. Puromycin · 2HCl (1 mM) inhibited incorporation of glucosamine or mannose into protein to 40% or less of control values within 30 min; fucose incorporation was not significantly inhibited before 45 min. Acid hydrolysis followed by amino acid analysis of glucosamine-labeled protein yielded significant amounts of label in glucosamine, galactosamine and apparent glucosamine-degradation products but no significant amount of label in any amino acid.
Synthetic musk fragrances in environmental Standard Reference Materials.

Synthetic musk fragrances have been measured in water, air, sediments, sewage sludge, and biota worldwide. As the study of the environmental fate and impacts of these compounds progresses, the need for Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) for these compounds to facilitate analytical method improvement and interlaboratory comparisons becomes increasingly important. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) issues environmental matrix SRMs with certified concentrations for a variety of persistent organic pollutants including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), chlorinated pesticides, and polychlorinated biphenyl congeners (PCBs). Until now synthetic musk fragrance concentrations have not been reported in NIST SRMs. The objective of this study was to provide reference values for several commonly detected synthetic musk fragrances in several NIST natural matrix SRMs. In this study five polycyclic musk fragrances [HHCB (1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethylcyclopenta-γ-2-benzopyran), AHTN (7-acetyl-1,1,3,4,4,6-hexamethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene), ADBI (4-acetyl-1,1-dimethyl-6-tert-butylindane), AHMI (6-acetyl-1,1,2,3,3,5-hexamethylindane), and ATII (5-acetyl-1,1,2,6-tetramethyl-3-isopropylindane] and two nitro musk fragrances [musk xylene (1-tert-butyl-3,5-dimethyl-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene) and musk ketone (4-tert-butyl-3,5-dinitro-2,6-dimethylacetophenone)] were measured in selected environmental SRMs. Gas chromatography–electron impact mass spectrometry (GC/EI-MS) was used for all analyses. HHCB was the most frequently detected synthetic musk fragrance and was detected in SRM 2585 Organic Contaminants in House Dust, SRM 2781 Domestic Sludge, SRM 1974b Organics in Mussel Tissue (Mytilus edulis), and SRM 1947 Lake Michigan Fish Tissue. It was not detected in SRM 1946 Lake Superior Fish Tissue or SRM 1945 Organics in Whale Blubber. Concentrations of HHCB in these SRMs ranged from 1.12 ng/g in SRM 1947 to 92,901 ng/g in SRM 2781. All of the polycyclic musk fragrances were detected in SRM 2781 and all of the target compounds were detected in SRM 2585.
Modeling nitrogen transport in the Newport Bay/San Diego Creek watershed of Southern California

Abstract The Newport Bay/San Diego Creek watershed has had a total maximum daily load (TMDL) established for the allowable loading of nitrogen into the bay. Baseline allocations for the TMDL indicate that 30% of the total nitrogen load is from agriculture; however, observations from a monitoring study and estimates from a conceptual model show that nitrogen from agriculture contributions is more likely between 2 and 8% of the total. An analysis using a nitrogen transport model indicates that agriculture contributes 2% of total N loading directly to surface waters, and an additional 6% from leaching to shallow groundwater and subsequent mixing with surface water. The time lag involved in groundwater mixing suggests that if all agricultural production in the watershed were ceased today, nitrate loading from fertilization would continue for 10–30 years. The greatest input of nitrogen to the surface-water system was found to be from urban development with 63% rather than the 21% estimated in the TMDL baseline allocations.
Temporal changes in the slope–scale spatial variability of the shear strength of buried surface hoar layers

Determining whether the snowpack is becoming more spatially variable or uniform is important for accurate avalanche forecasts. Greater variability increases uncertainty in extrapolation and prediction. Our results offer a look at the evolution of the spatial variability of shear strength of two buried surface hoar layers in southwestern Montana, USA, over time. We studied the layers from shortly after burial until they were no longer the weakest layer in the snowpack. We selected study sites with planar slopes, uniform ground cover, and wind-sheltered locations. This simplified the comparison of the plots by minimizing initial spatial differences so we could focus on temporal change. Within each site, we sampled four 14 m × 14 m plots with more than 70 shear frame tests in a layout optimized for spatial analysis. At both sites, the layers gained strength at a rate that slowed as the layers aged. Although there was little change in the relative variability, absolute variability increased through time. Temporal change was more pronounced when the layers were younger and were gaining strength more rapidly. Additional tests at one plot suggested a correlation length, or the distance at which test results are related, for shear strength of just a few meters. At the other plot, the surface hoar layer collapsed during the initial sample. An initial dramatic decrease in shear strength occurred after this collapse followed by strengthening during that day and into the following day. Though we measured increasing absolute variability through time, uncovering changes in our other measures of spatial variability proved elusive. Developing methods and techniques for adequately characterizing variability, and temporal changes in that variability, will continue to be challenging.
Precious metal magic: catalytic wizardry

Magic: “Influencing the course of events by using mysterious or supernatural forces.” Precious metals are alluring and magical because of their inactivity toward chemical reactions; they are extremely stable and hence are also termed “noble metals.” During the industrial revolution mankind realized that noble metals have the power to influence the course of chemical events – through catalysis. A catalyst is defined as a substance that facilitates a chemical transformation without itself being consumed in the process; this power has a mysterious, almost magic-wand character. In this review we explore precious metal catalysis through the wide-angle lens of historical development and the atomic scale microscope of recent discoveries. Fundamental understanding of underlying mechanisms for catalytic oxidation processes reveals the magic and transforms the use of noble metals from instruments of adornment, trade and Edisonian industrialization, to key players in a new era of catalysis by design with potential for environmentally benign chemical processing.
A comprehensive calibration and registration procedure for the Visual Haptic Workbench

We present a simple yet efficient calibration and registration procedure for improving the overall static display accuracy of the Visual Haptic Workbench. The procedure is used for precisely colocating the visual and haptic workspaces of the system and is divided into three stages. First, we calibrate and register the PHANToM to the display surface of the workbench. Second, we calibrate the tracking system by attaching a rigid extension between the tracker sensor and the PHANToM stylus. Third, we interactively find the remaining unknown display parameters including eye and hotspot offsets as well as a local reference frame. Initial evaluation of the approach indicates that it is possible to improve static display accuracy by at least an order of magnitude for this system.
Evaluation of reductive amperometric detection in the liquid chromatographic determination of antineoplastic platinum complexes

The usefulness of reductive electrochemical detection at mercury drop electrodes has been determined for platinum complexes separated by solvent-generated anion-exchange high-performance liquid chromatography. Both current-sampled dropping mercury and hanging mercury drop electrodes (DME and HMDE) provide significant advantages over UV absorbance and off-line non-flame atomic absorption detection. The effects of chromatographic and polarographic parameters on analytical system performance have been investigated. By raising the detector cell temperature, the detector response to cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) (DDP) can be shifted anodically to 0.0 V vs. Ag/AgCl, thereby increasing detector selectivity for this compound. The noise-limited minimum detectable quantities of DDP with DME and HMDE are 1.8 ng and 70 pg injected, respectively. DDP can be determined in untreated urine at levels below 100 ng/ml.
Cholesteric liquid crystals in oscillating magnetic fields

Abstract Using the hydrodynamical equations, it is shown that an oscillating magnetic field applied perpendicular to the helical axis of a cholesteric liquid crystal causes the helical structure to oscillate at even harmonics of the field frequency. The feasibility of doing light scattering from these driven modes is also discussed.
3,3'-Diindolylmethane downregulates pro-survival pathway in hormone independent prostate cancer

Epidemiological evidences suggest that the progression and promotion of prostate cancer (CaP) can be modulated by diet. Since all men die with prostate cancer rather than of the disease, it is of particular interest to prevent or delay the progression of the disease by chemopreventive strategies. We have been studying the anticancer properties of compounds present in cruciferous vegetables such as indole-3-carbinol (I3C). Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a dimer of I3C that is formed under acidic conditions and unlike I3C is more stable with higher anti-cancer effects. In the present report, we demonstrate that DIM is a potent anti-proliferative agent compared to I3C in the hormone independent DU 145 CaP cells. The anti-prostate cancer effect is mediated by the inhibition of the Akt signal transduction pathway as DIM, in sharp contrast to I3C, induces the downregulation of Akt, p-Akt, and PI3 kinase. DIM also induced a G1 arrest in DU 145 cells by flow cytometry and downstream concurrent inhibition of cell cycle parameters such as cyclin D1, cdk4, and cdk6. Our data suggest a need for further development of DIM, as a chemopreventive agent for CaP, which justifies epidemiological evidences and molecular targets that are determinants for CaP dissemination/progression. The ingestion of DIM may benefit CaP patients and reduce disease recurrence by eliminating micro-metastases that may be present in patients who undergo radical prostatectomy.
Corporate Social Performance and Firms' Financial Performance: An Alternative Perspective

Prior studies of the relationship between corporate social responsibility and firms' financial results have produced inconsistent results. This study reexamined the relationship using multiple measures of 110 firms' financial performance. The traditional measures of performance provide inconsistent results across different economic environmental contexts. An alternative performance measure based on stakeholders' response was tested. The results of testing this measure were consistent across the two contexts.
The static quadrupole moments of the first 2+ states of 74Ge and 76Ge

Abstract The reorientation effect in Coulomb excitation has been used to determine the static quadrupole moments of the first 2+ states of the nuclei 74Ge and 76Ge. Thin foils of enriched 74Ge and 76Ge were bombarded by 25 MeV 16O ions. The relative excitation probabilities of the first 2+ states were measured as a function of projectile scattering angle. Particle-γ coincidences were used to identify the inelastic events. The data were analyzed with the aid of the coupled-channel computer program of Winther and De Boer and excitation of the first 2+ state via the second 2+ state was included in the analysis. If the interference term due to excitation via the second 2+ level is positive, such that the excitation probability is increased, then the extracted values of the static quadrupole moment are Q 2 + = −0.25 ± 0.10 b for 74 Ge and Q 2 + = −0.15 ± 0.10 b for 76 Ge . If the interference term is negative then Q2+ = −0.17 ± 0.10 b for 24Ge and Q 2 + = −0.05 ± 0.10 b for 76 Ge .
A department of psychiatry faculty practice plan designed to reward educational and research productivity.

Objective The authors describe a faculty practice plan that assigns a monetary value to various educational and research activities.
Use of avidin-sepharose to lsolate and identify biotin polypeptides from crude extracts

Abstract A method of isolating and identifying biotin polypeptides from crude cellular extracts is described. Protein samples are run on small avidin-Sepharose columns. After washing away nonspecifically bound protein, the biotin enzymes are eluted using an SDS-urea solution. The inactive polypeptides are then electrophoresed on SDS-polyacrylamide gels. The biotin polypeptides in the gels are identified by using fluorescent avidin or by analyzing for radioactive biotin-labeled polypeptides. A sensitive method for assaying biotin using avidin-Sepharose is also described.
Anpassungen und Vielfalt im Pikoplankton

Als „Pikoplankton” werden die kleinsten photosynthetisch aktiven Bewohner der Meere bezeichnet. Erst vor gut zwanzig Jahren wurden diese enorm wichtigen Zwerge entdeckt, die den Anfang der Nahrungskette im Meer bilden. Die jetzt veroffentlichten vollstandigen Genomsequenzen von verschiedenen Vertretern dieser Bakterien zeigen eine erstaunliche genetische Anpassung der Winzlinge an die Lebensbedingungen in unterschiedlichen Wassertiefen durch Mutation, Genverdoppelung und sogar durch Transfer von genetischen Informationen zwischen verschiedenen Spezies.
On a conjecture by D. Ž. D̄okovic

Abstract It is shown that if AϵΩ n −{J n } satisfies nkσ k (A)⩾(n−k+1) 2 σ k−1 (A) (k=1,2,…,n) , where σ k ( A ) denotes the sum of all k th order subpermanent of A , then Per[ λJ n +(1− λ ) A ] is strictly decreasing in the interval 0 λ
Transcending and Attending to Difference in the Multicultural Classroom

In this paper, I hope to reconcile two conflicting moral ideals within the multicultural classroom. I argue that increased attention to cultural difference in both education and moral philosophy is vitally important, but that it should not undermine the value of generalised respect, which grounds formal equality. I argue that an intersubjective account of respect explicitly integrates the generalised and particular moral perspectives, and thus serves as an ideal for interactions in the multicultural classroom. Through the analysis of two examples, I show that both forms of respect are logically dependent on one another and have a mutually supportive place in the practice of teaching.
Cantor's Other Proofs that R Is Uncountable

SummaryThis expository note describes some of the history behind Georg Cantor's proof that the real numbers are uncountable. In fact, Cantor gave three different proofs of this important but initially controversial result. The first was published in 1874 and the famous diagonalization argument was not published until nearly two decades later. We explore the different ideas used in each of his three proofs.
DNA-protein crosslinks induced in a hamster tracheal epithelial cell line by benzo(a)pyrene

Abstract The formation of DNA crosslinks in a hamster tracheal epithelial cell line after benzo(a)pyrene treatment was studied using the technique of alkaline elution. DNA strand breaks were introduced with 450 rads of x-rays at 0°C in order to facilitate its elution. The effect of prior treatment with benzo(a)pyrene was to reduce the rate of elution compared to that observed with control irradiated cells. The crosslinking effect induced by benzo(a)pyrene was reversed by incubation of the cell lysates with proteinase K prior to alkaline elution, implying that the crosslinks were formed between DNA and protein. The crosslinking effect was shown to increase with time of exposure to benzo(a)pyrene. After 8 hours cells were postincubated in the absence of the carcinogen for periods of up to 48 hours. No diminution in the level of crosslinks was observed.
Religious importance and practices of patients with a life-threatening illness: implications for screening protocols.

Abstract Although providing spiritual support to patients has received growing attention in the nursing and medical literature, little has been written about how to screen new patients to determine whether a more in-depth spiritual assessment is in order. In many hospitals, newly admitted patients are simply asked whether they are affiliated with a specific religious denomination. This question alone provides little insight into potential spiritual needs that may require attention. Questions that inquire about patients' religious practices and the importance of religion in their lives may be more useful as screening questions to identify the need for a more detailed spiritual assessment. As a part of a longitudinal study on decision control preferences in terminal illness, data were collected on enrollment about religious practices and the importance of religion in a group of subjects recently diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. This study examines cross-sectionally the relationship between religious practices, importance of religion, and demographic variables. Recommendations are presented on how health professionals can use the responses to these questions to determine the need for further spiritual assessment and intervention.
Synthesis of N-hydroxysuccinimide esters of phosphatidylethanolamine and some properties of liposomes containing these derivatives

Abstract The N -hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) ester of N -suberyl-dimyristoylphosphatidylethanolamine (sub-DMPE) was synthesized by reaction of DMPE with disuccinimidyl suberate, and isolated by preparative plate chromatography. Liposomes, which contain NHS-sub-DMPE, can covalently bind compounds that possess a free amino group such as e-dinitrophenyl-lysine. The extent of DNP-lysine binding is influenced by the time and temperature of incubation, the amount of NHS-sub-DMPE incorporated into the liposomes, and the initial concentration of DNP-lysine. Binding occurs as a consequence of the formation of a new dinitrophenylated compound which has been characterized. Although NHS-sub-DMPE is stable to storage in organic solvents, preformed liposomes rapidly lose their ability to bind DNP-lysine due to hydrolysis of the N -hydroxysuccinimide ester bond. These findings bear on the future applicability of liposomes, containing N -hydroxysuccinimide esters of PE, as illustrated by the preparation of immunogenic liposomes.
Stimulation of DNA synthesis in CNS neurones by sustained depolarisation

IT has been proposed1, 2 that intracellular ionic concentration levels associated with the electrical transmembrane potential (Em) of somatic cells may be functionally involved in mitogenesis control, cells possessing a low Em level (−10 to −20 mV) being mitogenically active. This hypothesis has been supported by subsequent demonstrations that imposed intracellular ionic conditions simulating high Em levels effectively but reversibly block mitogenesis3, 4. As a corollary of this hypothesis, it was suggested2 that mitogenesis might be activated in highly polarised non-dividing cells (such as mature CNS neurones and muscle) by maintaining them in a sufficiently depolarised state. We have investigated this possibility for the case of chick spinal cord neurones depolarised with the cardiac glycoside ouabain.
Dimensions and Constructs: A Response to Dess and Rasheed

In their thoughtful critique, Professors Dess and Rasheed raise several important issues about the conceptualization and measurement of the organizational environment in general and our work in particular In this rejoinder, we discuss afundamental difference between their position and ours regarding the place of theoretical constructs and observable dimensions in conceptualizing and measuring the environment. We also take issue with several of Dess and Rasheed's specific criticisms of our work.
Imaging Nanoscale Patterns on Biologically Derived Microstructures

We have demonstrated a new approach for imaging nanoscale patterns on three-dimensional submicrometer structures using charged particles. Nanoparticle structures were assembled onto lipid tubules through the sequential adsorption of oppositely charged polymers and silica spheres. For tubules of the zwitterionic lipid DC8,11PC, this process leads to the formation of caps on the ends of the tubules, with 50−100 silica spheres in each cap. For tubules of DC8,11PC mixed with 2% of the charged lipid DC8,9PEOH, the sequential adsorption leads to both end caps and helices of nanoparticles winding around the interior of the tubules. These results give new insight into the pattern of charge in lipid tubules.
Novel Therapy to Treat Corneal Epithelial Defects: A Hypothesis with Growth Hormone

Impaired corneal wound healing that occurs with ocular surface disease, trauma, systemic disease, or surgical intervention can lead to persistent corneal epithelial defects (PCED), which result in corneal scarring, ulceration, opacification, corneal neovascularization, and, ultimately, visual compromise and vision loss. The current standard of care can include lubricants, ointments, bandage lenses, amniotic membranes, autologous serum eye drops, and corneal transplants. Various inherent problems exist with application and administration of these treatments, which often may not result in a completely healed surface. A topically applicable compound capable of promoting corneal epithelial cell proliferation and/or migration would be ideal to accelerate healing. We hypothesize that human growth hormone (HGH) is such a compound. In a recent study, HGH was shown to activate signal transducer and activators of transcription-5 (STAT5) signaling and promote corneal wound healing by enhancing corneal epithelial migration in a co-culture system of corneal epithelial cells and fibroblasts. These effects require an intact communication between corneal epithelia and fibroblasts. Further, HGH promotes corneal wound healing in a rabbit debridement model, thus demonstrating the effectiveness of HGH in vivo as well. In conclusion, HGH may represent an exciting and effective topical therapeutic to promote corneal wound healing.
Stability of matrix equations arising in electromagnetics

A method of calculating the sensitivity of the solution of Af = g due to errors in either the vector g or the matrix A is presented, The usefulness of this method is demonstrated with problems from antenna theory, scattering theory, and remote sensing.
A systematic review of psychological interventions for adult and pediatric patients with vocal cord dysfunction.

Background: Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD) or Paradoxical Vocal Fold Motion (PVFM) is a functional disorder of the vocal cords that requires multidisciplinary treatment. Besides relaxation techniques, the use of psychological interventions can help treat the underlying psychological co-morbidities. There is currently no literature that examines the effectiveness of psychological interventions for VCD/PVFM. Objectives: To review the evidence for psychological interventions used for the treatment of patients with VCD/PVFM. Data Sources: We searched electronic databases for English medical literature using Pubmed (Medline), PsycInfo, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cochrane Central Registry of Controlled Trials and Clinicaltrials.gov. The date range for our search is from July 1963 to July 2013. Study Eligibility Criteria, Participants and Interventions: We included studies that reported the use of psychological interventions in both adults and children diagnosed with VCD/PVFM. We included randomized controlled trials, case-control studies, retrospective chart reviews, prospective case series, and individual case reports. Results: Most reported studies are small case series or individual case reports that have described the use of interventions such as psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, use of anti-anxiety and anti-depressant medications, and hypnotherapy in conjunction with breathing exercises taught by speech therapists for symptomatic relief. Among the various psychological interventions that have been reported, there is no data regarding effectiveness and/or superiority of one approach over another in either adult or pediatric patients. Conclusions: Psychological interventions have a role to play in the management of adult and pediatric patients with VCD/PVFM. Future prospective studies using uniform approaches for treatment of associated psychopathology may help address this question. Systematic Review Registration Number: CRD42013004873 (PROSPERO)
Identification of the rate-limiting step in serine proteinases from the effect of temperature on steady-state kinetics

The effect of temperature on the steady-state kinetics of porcine pancreatic elastase can be used to determine whether acylation or deacylation is the rate-limiting step in catalysis. If acylation is rate-limiting, kcat and kcat/Km will show the same temperature dependence. If deacylation is rate-limiting, kcat will show a greater temperature dependence than kcat/Km. The temperature dependence of the steady-state kinetic parameters of t-Boc-Ala-Ala-Pro-Ala p-nitroanilide and N-acetyl-Ala-Ala-α-Aza-Ala p-nitrophenyl ester have been determined and are consistent with this prediction.
Trapping processes in amorphous selenium.

Theory of small signal current transients applied to study of electron trapping in amorphous selenium
Magnetic Equation of State of CrBr3Near the Critical Point

We present the results of analysis of our measurements of the magnetic properties of the insulating ferromagnet Cr${\mathrm{Br}}_{3}$ near its critical temperature. From this analysis we obtain a mathematical representation of an equation of state valid over the entire critical region.