cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of pentamethylenetetrazol on structure and enzyme activity of yeast. I. Changes in mitochondria and in sterol levels.

Abstract Inclusion of the convulsant pentamethylenetetrazol (Metrazol) in growth media cuased aerated yeast to behave as if it were grown under decreased O2 tension. The amount of subcellular particles of mitochondrial size was depressed and particles which were present exhibited properties different from those of aerated control yeast and similar to those of yeast grown under N2. The level of cytochrome c was also depressed by Metrazol, but the rate of growth of yeast was not affected. Yeast cells grown under aerobic conditions and without Metrazol contained 2.6% sterols whereas yeast cells grown under N2 contained only 0.6% sterols and yeast cells grown aerobically but in the presence of Metrazol contained 0.5% sterols. In all cases ergosterol formed over 95% of the sterol fraction. The sterol levels were inversely proportional to the concentration of Metrazol in the growth media. After removal of Metrazol rapid synthesis of sterols took place in cells which were grown in its presence. The effect was similar to that caused by aeration of anaerobically grown yeast.
Urinary excretion of conjugate forms of 1-(3-pyridyl)ethanol after administration of 3-acetylpyridine.

Abstract Oral administration of 3-acetylpyridine to the dog led to the excretion of 1-(3-pyridyl)ethanol in two acidic conjugate forms which were fractionated with the aid of ion exchange resins. The more acidic of the conjugate forms had the properties of a sulfate ester in comparison with synthetic material. Acidic hydrolysis of the sulfate ester fraction led to the release of (-)-1-(3-pyridyl)ethanol. Acidic hydrolysis of the other conjugate form, which had properties of a glucuronide, led to the release of 1-(3-pyridyl)ethanol which after chromatographic purification was approximately 95% pure on the basis of extinction coefficient and which was approximately 60% in the levorotatory form on the basis of optical rotation. The pyridylethanol separated after the hydrolysis of the glucuronide contained, in addition, two other Koenig-positive materials. By the chromatographic behavior of some of the latter and by analogy to the metabolism of phenyl-1,2-ethanediol, the formation of a glucuronide of (3-pyridyl)-1,2-ethanediol is suggested.
Status in World Politics: Status Dilemmas and Interstate Conflict

I develop the concept of a "status dilemma," and conduct initial case studies that examine how it might help explain patterns of conflict. The process of signaling and recognizing status claims is at least as subject to uncertainty and complex strategic incentives as are the security politics with which scholars of international politics are familiar. Hence, just as the security dilemma may create or amplify conflict among states that seek only security, so might a status dilemma create or amplify conflict among states that are satisfied with their relative position. Case studies ranging from the 19th century to the latter Cold War highlight the differences between security dilemmas, status dilemmas, and status competition. They raise the possibility that the status dilemma fosters strategic behavior commonly attributed to the security dilemma.
Lack of inhibition by L-tryptophan or quinolinate of gluconeogenesis in diabetic rats.

Abstract Administration of l-tryptophan to normal fed rats inhibits hepatic gluconeogenesis at the level of P-enolpyruvate formation but nonetheless causes a paradoxical increase in the assayable specific activity of P-enolpyruvate carboxykinase. Similar results obtain if livers isolated from normal rats are perfused with tryptophan, 3-hydroxyanthranilate or quinolinate. However, we find that no such inhibition of gluconeogenesis occurs in intact, fed, alloxan- or streptozotocin-diabetic rats following treatment with tryptophan or 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid, nor is there any increase in the already elevated assayable specific activity of P-enolpyruvate carboxykinase. Furthermore, perfusion of livers isolated from alloxan- or streptozotocin-diabetic rats with tryptophan, 3-hydroxyanthranilate or quinolinate does not produce a metabolite crossover between P-enolpyruvate and its precursors nor is there any significant enhancement of assayable specific activity of P-enolpyruvate carboxykinase. Additionally, perfusion of diabetic livers with tryptophan or quinolinate does not inhibit the conversion of radioactive lactate to glucose although such inhibition does occur in livers from normal rats. The results suggest that tryptophan and certain of its metabolites, including quinolinate, are unable to inhibit gluconeogenesis in diabetic rats under conditions known to cause such inhibition in normal rats.
Kinematic Clues to the Origin and Evolution of Low Mass Contact Binaries

We present new results concerning the rather old age (8 – 10 Gyr) of the majority of the low mass contact binaries known as W UMa systems inferred from their space motions, velocity dispersions, and memberships in old clusters such as NGC 188. The great age and expected relatively short lifetimes of the W UMa binaries imply that they have evolved into the contact state from detached or semi-detached progenitors with orbital periods of a few days. Angular momentum loss may be provided by magnetic torques in a stellar wind, the same mechanism that brakes the rotation of single, cool dwarf stars during their main sequence lifetimes. According to Webbink, W UMa binaries ultimately coalesce into single stars. We speculate that a significant number of presently single stars evolved from the coalescence of short period binaries.
Resolution of translation start site for the human Kell glycoprotein.

Background The human Kell blood group system currently contains 35 antigens determined by allelic polymorphisms in the Kell glycoprotein, a single-pass Type II transmembrane protein. The Kell glycoprotein was initially cloned through screening of a cDNA library; however, direct amino acid sequencing of most of the Kell glycoprotein has not been reported. The N-terminus of the Kell glycoprotein contains two potential translational start sites, which result in differences in the cytoplasmic tail. Study Design and Methods Protein extracts were isolated from human red blood cell membranes and were digested with trypsin. The resulting peptides were subjected to liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, allowing resolution of peptides from the N-terminus of the Kell glycoprotein. Results Peptides were isolated and sequenced that correspond to the upstream methionine start site predicted by the full cDNA sequence. No evidence of internal translation initiation at Methionine 20 was detected. Conclusions These findings identify the translational start site and define the full cytoplasmic tail of the human Kell glycoprotein.
Antenna transmit diversity for wireless OFDM systems

We investigate several transmit-diversity techniques for wireless OFDM systems employing multiple antennas. We concentrate our investigation on methods that can be applied with few modifications to existing standards. Existing methods such as delay diversity, clustering and antenna interleaving are investigated and compared. A new approach that yields better results, consisting in applying different phase shifts on each subcarrier and on each antenna is also presented. Some practical implementation issues are also addressed.
Bioethics and Armed Conflict: Moral Dilemmas of Medicine and War

In his book Bioethics and Armed Conflict: Moral Dilemmas of Medicine and War, Michael Gross confronts two attitudes that create tension for the medical community during armed conflict: “medical ethics in the times of armed conflict is identical to medical treatment in times of peace” and that a physician’s ethical obligations “transcend the self-interest exigency and social, political, and economic forces.” Gross rejects traditional ideas of military medicine and argues that bioethics in war would better be addressed by realistic and flexible approaches allowing physicians to recognize their interests to nations, purposes of military medicine, and loyalty to one’s country.Gross provides many provocative and controversial arguments to support his propositions, including the main principle of the book that “salvage” should be the only real goal of battlefield medicine. Outside of this goal, according to Gross, soldiers have no more rights to medical treatment than any other citizen. This article reviews the main principles and ideas of the book and its author, provides insight to the source and reasoning of such arguments, and assesses the value of such arguments in bioethics in military medicine.
Antibodies to neural proteins in organophosphorus-induced delayed neuropathy (OPIDN) and its amelioration

The development of OPIDN and the efficacy of experimental intervention using the calcium-channel blocker verapamil were used as a model to test the serial time-measurements of serum autoantibodies against neuronal cytoskeletal proteins [e.g., neurofilament triplet (NF)] and glial proteins [myelin-basic protein (MBP) and glial fibrillary-acidic protein (GFAP)] as biomarkers of neurotoxicity and its amelioration. Ten White Leghorn hens (>7 months, 1.2-1.8 kg) were administered phenyl-saligenin phosphate (PSP; 2.5 mg/kg; im), a dose reported to induce a 70% decrease in neurotoxic esterase (NTE) activity. Five of the hens were administered verapamil (7 mg/kg; im) for 4 days starting one day before PSP administration. Serum was isolated from blood collected by serial brachial venepuncture before PSP (day 0) administration and on days 3, 7 and 21 after PSP administration, each hen acting as its own control. Serum antibodies (IgG) to NF-L, NF-M, NF-H, MBP, and GFAP were assayed using an ELISA. There were no detectable levels of antibodies on days 0 and 3. IgG against all neural proteins were detected on days 7 and 21, with titer levels being significantly (p< or =0.05) higher in sera of hens receiving PSP only. Anti-NF-L titers were highest compared to those against NF-M, NF-H or MBP at 21 days. Titers of anti-NF-L and anti-MBP significantly (p< or =0.01) correlated with clinical scores at days 7 and 21. Detection of anti-NF and anti-MBP antibodies confirms the neuroaxonal degeneration accompanied by myelin loss reported in this model of OPIDN and the amelioration of neuropathy using verapamil. The detection of anti-GFAP antibodies suggests CNS involvement in OPIDN, since astrocytes are only found therein. This study demonstrates that detection of neuroantibodies can be used as biomarkers of neuropathy development and to monitor the amelioration resulting from therapeutic intervention. Together with biomarkers of exposure neuroantibodies can be used to monitor neuropathogenesis due to environmental or occupational exposures.
Electrogenerated chemiluminescence. 67. Dependence of light emission of the tris(2,2')bipyridylruthenium(II)/tripropylamine system on electrode surface hydrophobicity

We describe the effect of electrode surface hydrophobicity on the electrochemical behavior and electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL) of Ru(bpy)3(2+) (bpy = 2,2'-bipyridyl)/tripropylamine (TPrA) system. Gold and platinum electrodes were modified with different thiol monolayers. The hydrophobicity of the electrode surfaces changed with different terminal groups of the thiol molecules. The oxidation rate of TPrA was found to be much larger at the modified electrode with a more hydrophobic surface. The adsorption of neutral TPrA species on this kind of surface was assumed to contribute to the faster anodic kinetics. Due to the rapid generation of the highly reducing radical, TPrA., ECL intensity increased significantly at more hydrophobic electrodes. This electrode surface effect in the ECL analytical system allows one to improve the detection sensitivity at low concentrations of Ru(bpy)3(2+). The surfactant effect on the ECL process was also examined and discussed based on the change of electrode hydrophobicity by the adsorption of surfactant species.
Regional Variation in Mobility Levels and Timing in the United States

The age patterns of U.S. internal migration, while examined extensively at the national level, have not been fully explored at the regional scale. This study examines, using 1985 - 1990 census data, the state-level variations in two aspects of lifecycle mobility: the mobility level, or the average number of moves made over the lifecycle, and the mobility timing, or the age at which half the lifetime moves are completed. It further delineates typologies of states based upon their age structure of mobility. The study found that regional patterns in the mobility level showed some evidence of the Snowbelt-Sunbelt patterns that characterized economic restructuring in the 1980s. Geographic patterns of mobility timing were less clear; however states in the West and the South showed somewhat more young distributions than the other regions. Further, there was a statistically significant relationship between mobility levels and timing: states with higher mobility levels also exhibited older mobility profiles, as a ...
The Far Infrared Spectrum of the NO Dimer

The far-infrared spectrum of the NO dimer in the gas phase has been observed for the first time using a long-path (180 m) cooled (99 K) absorption cell and a Bomem Fourier transform spectrometer. Four weak vibration-rotation bands were detected in the 120-450 cm-1 region and assigned to intermolecular vibrations of the cis-planar ON-NO complex. The strongest is a type b band at 239.36 cm-1, which is assigned as the nu2 (symmetric bending) fundamental. A second type b band at 134.50 cm-1, partly obscured by 2Pi3/2 <-- 2Pi1/2 transitions of the NO monomer, is assigned as the nu3 (intermolecular stretch) fundamental. A third type b band at 351.38 cm-1 can then be assigned as the nu2 + nu3 combination band. Finally, a very weak type a band at 429.14 cm-1 is assigned as the nu6 (antisymmetric bending) fundamental. We report here detailed analyses of the nu2 and nu2 + nu3 bands, which yielded upper state rotational parameters, centrifugal distortion parameters, and band origins. Somewhat less extensive analyses for nu3 and nu6 give their rotational parameters and band origins. These results resolve the mystery of the true values of the intermolecular vibrational frequencies of the NO dimer, which turn out to be rather different from previous determinations based on condensed phase spectra. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.
Nursery role of seagrass beds: enhanced growth of juvenile blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus Rathbun)

Abstract The role of submerged aquatic vegetation in supporting enhanced growth of Callinectes sapidus was investigated through field and laboratory experiments. In predator-free enclosures (1 m 2 ) in the lower York River, Virginia, juvenile blue crabs within Zostera marina (L.) beds grew faster than crabs in enclosures deployed outside the beds. First stage crabs were introduced into vegetated or un vegetated enclosures at either 10 or 50 crabs m −2 . After the 6 wk experimental period, both survival and growth were significantly higher in vegetated treatments (growth was estimated by change in “volume,” the product of carapace width, length and depth). In fiberglass mesocosms (2.67 m × 1.33 m × 0.67 m) divided into vegetated and unvegetated halves, juvenile blue crabs grew faster in the vegetation, consistent with field findings. Where differences existed between density treatments in field enclosures, juvenile crabs grew faster in high density than in low density treatments. Aggregate crab growth (summed “volumes” of all recaptured individuals) for vegetated enclosures was greater than for unvegetated enclosures. Potential contribution of cannibalism was sufficient to explain some within-habitat density effects, but was not sufficient to account for the entire aggregate differences, suggesting that food may not be limiting within the seagrass beds even at 50 crabs m −2 . These results show that early stage blue crabs receive a substantial growth advantage, in addition to the refuge function shown in other studies, from their association with seagrass beds. This trophic advantage may be experienced by juveniles of other species that utilize vegetated nursery areas and may help explain the ontogenetic habitat shifts that characterize many life histories.
Durability of Functional Tricuspid Valve Repair

Current tricuspid repair techniques have variable and disappointing durability. The authors of several studies have shown the superiority of ring (rather than suture or pericardial) annuloplasties; however, others suggest equal or superior results with suture or pericardial repair techniques. Indeed, recurrent significant tricuspid regurgitation has been reported consistently after repair; it is therefore unclear which technique provides the best long-term outcomes and in which patients. In this study, we evaluated the outcomes of different tricuspid repairs regarding durability and analyzed the risk factors for repair failure. We also presented our current approach to surgical management of functional tricuspid regurgitation on the basis of recent studies and our experience treating patients with heart failure.
Properties of an ATP-binding protein isolated from membranes of nerve endings

Sonicated membranes derived from isolated nerve-ending particles of rat brain are able to adsorb ATP and other triphosphate nucleotides but not diphosphates or monophosphates. The interaction of ATP was determined by measuring the adsorption of [14C]ATP to a surface film of the sonicated material and by surface-potential changes. The material responsible for adsorption is a protein, and although adsorption is facilitated by lipids, they are not directly involved. From pH and other studies it appears that the ATP is electrostatically bound to the amino groups of such amino acids as glutamine and glutamate. Divalent cations are not involved, and the adsorption does not appear to be directly related to ATPase or other ATP-linked enzymic activity.
π-Donor Substituent Effects on Calculated Structures, Spin Properties, and Vibrations of Radical Anions of p-Chloranil, p-Fluoranil, and p-Benzoquinone

Vibrational and electronic properties of p-benzosemiquinone radical anions are important indicators of charge transfer in ion pairs, charge-transfer salts, and electron-transfer reactions. To provide missing data for radical anions of p-chloranil, p-fluoranil, and p-benzoquinone, and to test the capabilities of various computational methods, calculated structures, spin properties, and harmonic vibrational frequencies and mode assignments are reported based on molecular orbital, density functional, and hybrid Hartree−Fock/density functional computations. Qualitative structural changes upon reducing the neutral quinones to their semiquinone radical anions are predictable from the nodal structure of p-benzoquinone's LUMO. Furthermore, trends in calculated CO and CC bond distance changes for the three molecules follow a pattern expected from the π-bonding abilities of the substituents. The most accurate calculated spin densities and isotropic hyperfine coupling constants show qualitative agreement with experi...
A Field Study to Assess the Long-Term Sampling Feasibility of Evacuated Canisters and the Development of a Mathematical Model to Analyze Potential Sampling Bias

Small, evacuated canisters (300 mL) equipped with a unique capillary flow controller were used to evaluate airborne concentrations of Stoddard solvent. The physical characteristics of the flow controller permitted the collection of air samples for a time period of 40 hours (5 consecutive work days). Long-term sampling (greater than 8 hours) is rarely performed in industrial hygiene due to limitations in current air sampling technology but may provide valuable information in characterizing worker cumulative exposures for some processes. A field study was performed to evaluate the feasibility of collecting a 40-hour area sample using the small canisters. Six canister samplers were used as area monitors to evaluate a cleaning operation for an entire workweek. For comparison, 30 diffusive badges (6 per day) were simultaneously used to monitor the same process. No statistical difference was found between the time-weighted average for the two sampling methods (p > 0.05). In addition, the canister samples integr...
A randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled comparison of droperidol, ondansetron, and metoclopramide for the prevention of vomiting following outpatient strabismus surgery in children

Abstract Study Objective: To compare the efficacy of ondansetron, droperidol, or metoclopramide with placebo in preventing postoperative vomiting following strabismus surgery. Study Design: Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Setting: University outpatient surgery center. Patients: 160 ASA physical status I and II children ages 1 to 12 years who were scheduled for strabismus surgery. Interventions: Administration of either ondansetron 100 mcg/kg, metoclopramide 250 mcg/kg, droperidol 75 mcg/kg, or placebo intravenously after induction of anesthesia. Measurements and Main Results: Both ondansetron and droperidol were superior to metoclopramide and placebo in preventing predischarge vomiting, with incidences of 5%, 5%, 32%, and 25%, respectively. However, there was no difference in the incidence of postdischarge vomiting among the groups (ondansetron 25 %, droperidol 25 %, metoclopramide 20%, and placebo 25%). Conclusions: While both ondansetron and droperidol are more effective than metoclopramide when compared with placebo in decreasing the incidence of predischarge vomiting, none of these drugs was more effective than placebo in decreasing the incidence of postdischarge vomiting. Recovery from anesthesia was not significantly different among the groups as assessed by time to awakening, initial Steward score, and time to discharge.
Lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase blockade by BW755C does not prevent the secondary phase of septic pulmonary hypertension

Abstract The infusion of Group B β hemolytic streptococci (GBS) in newborn animals generates a dual phase pulmonary hypertensive response. The initial, acute phase responds to cyclooxygenase or thromboxane inhibition, and appears to be thromboxane mediated. The second phase is characterized by a more moderate rise in pulmonary vascular resistance, accompanied by an increase in microvascular permeability. It has been speculated that this phase may be leukotriene mediated. In an attempt to clarify this, we have studied and compared the effects of the thromboxane synthetase inhibitor, Dazmegrel (DAZ), and the combined cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase inhibitor, BW755C, on the cardiopulmonary hemodynamics of the secondary phase of GBS induced pulmonary hypertension in newborn piglets. Ten piglets were infused with GBS, and all animals developed a significant increase in pulmonary artery pressure (to 39 ± 5 and 36 ± 5 mmHg for DAZ and BW755C animals respectively). After one hour of GBS, either DAZ or BW755C was administered. Data were collected for another two hours following drug administration. GBS infusion was continued throughout. Both DAZ and BW755C were associated with transient, acute reductions in pulmonary artery pressure (to 22 ± 5 and 22 ± 8 mmHg, respectively). However, after 60 minutes, PAP again began to rise in both groups (PAP 30 ± 5 and 30 ± 11 mmHg respectively by 240 minutes). There were no differences between the groups at any time. These data do not support a significant role for lipoxygenase products in mediating the secondary phase of septic pulmonary hypertension.
CONFESSIONS OF A NOVICE RATIONAL-EMOTIVE THERAPIST

Many therapists who subscribe to RET are converts from other approaches. Few master’s or doctoral training programs exclusively teach RET and many do not place any emphasis on it at all. Thus, many otherwise experienced therapists are novices when it comes to integrating RET techniques into their professional repertoire of interventions. And as novices, they experience many of the doubts and obstacles in trying something new. I am such a novice. My formal training in RET consists solely of a Five Day Intensive Practicum (Weinrach, 1977) conducted by Ellis and his staff in 1976 since neither my master’s nor doctoral programs paid much attention to this approach. It has taken me 4 years to feel secure enough to call myself a Rational Therapist. My reluctance was not a philosophical one. Philosophically, I’ve been there for a long time. But I have found it difficult to integrate various RET interventions into my counseling style and feel comfortable at the same time. The discomfort I experienced is similar to what my counselor-trainees experience during their first few years after training with me and my colleagues. It takes a while for a therapist to develop an internally consistent style apart from the role models experienced while in training. Many of the obstacles that I have encountered are probably rather common and especially so for those whose training has been limited to a Five Day Intensive Practicum in RET or less. Those with more formal training have probably dealt with these and similar issues within
Effects of conditioning regimens and T-cell depletion in hematopoietic cell transplantation for primary immune deficiency

This study analyzes the hematopoietic cell transplantation experience in patients with immune deficiency at a single institution. The objective is to comprehensively evaluate the short-term and long-term outcomes with various preparative regimens, donor grafts, and ex vivo manipulations to identify transplantation approaches that most likely favor early donor immune competency without generating excessive toxicity. Clinical outcomes were evaluated in 52 consecutive patients with immune deficiencies. Thirty-seven of the 52 patients (71%) survived with attenuation of their underlying disease. The use of a melphalan-based reduced-intensity conditioning preparative regimen and immunomagnetic CD3+ T cell depletion techniques (when T cell depletion was indicated) were associated with improved event-free survival. Survivors who received a preparative regimen other than a melphalan-based reduced-intensity regimen suffered from therapy-related morbidities or chronic/recurrent infections. Our findings indicate that melphalan-based reduced-intensity conditioning regimens and immunomagnetic CD3+ T cell depletion limit therapy-related toxicity, and demonstrate promising results for the early establishment of donor immune competency.
Root-MSE geolocation performance using angle-of-arrival measurements

In this paper, we describe a procedure for evaluating the fundamental root-mean-square-error (root-MSE) accuracy of a single moving sensor system collecting angle-of-arrival (AOA) measurements of a single stationary emitter in two dimensions. The procedure assumes a known probability density function (p.d.f.) for a set of AOA measurements of azimuthal angle that are statistically-independent from each other. We construct the closed-form p.d.f. of the emitter position from these measurements based on the motion of the sensor, from which the root-MSE is numerically evaluated. The procedure has a number of useful capabilities, including (i) assessing the performance capabilities of a chosen AOA-based geolocation algorithm, (ii) determining the effect of the trajectory speed, direction, and AOA collection rate on overall geolocation performance, and (iii) judging the benefits and drawbacks of various data processing strategies.
Classroom presentation of memory usage with constants, variables, and subprograms in Pascal

An essential part of the CS 1 course based on Pascal is the idea of random access memory usage when structured programs are executed. A survey of several texts reveals that the view of both variables and constants as memory locations for data is in many cases not systematically carried over and developed further when procedures and functions are presented. This paper presents a systematic method for understanding memory usage when dealing with subprograms in Pascal and presents a survey of current approaches.
Teaching software engineering in a workstation environment

A description is given of an undergraduate software-engineering course at Dartmouth College that uses an interactive, graphical, networked workstation environment (implemented on Apple Macintoshes). The student's projects use all the features of this environment, including graphics, windows, fonts, mice, networks, and sound generators. The course covers the technical aspects of building a large system. Class topics include refining the system architecture, evaluating data structures, measuring system performance, selecting a user interface, specifying modules, and comparing programming methodologies. The environment can be implemented on almost any computer, from micros to mainframes. >
Quantum communication and computing with atomic ensembles using a light-shift-imbalance-induced blockade

Recently, we have shown that for conditions under which the so-called light-shift imbalance induced blockade occurs, the collective excitation of an ensemble of a multilevel atom can be treated as a closed two-level system. In this paper, we describe how such a system can be used as a quantum bit (qubit) for quantum communication and quantum computing. Specifically, we show how to realize a controlled-NOT gate using the collective qubit and an easily accessible ring cavity, via an extension of the so-called Pellizzari scheme. We also describe how multiple, small-scale quantum computers realized using these qubits can be linked effectively for implementing a quantum internet. We describe the details of the energy levels and transitions in an $^{87}\mathrm{Rb}$ atom that could be used for implementing these schemes.
Evidence for the Transition of a K 0 into a K ¯ 0 Meson

Author(s): Crawford, Frank S.; Cresti, Marcello; Good, Myron L.; Gottstein, Klaus.; Lyman, Ernest M.; Solmitz, Frank T.; Stevenson, M. Lynn; Ticho, Harold.
High resolution paleoceanography of the Guaymas Basin, Gulf of California, during the past 15 000 years

Abstract Deep Sea Drilling Project Site 480 (27°54.10′N, 111°39.34′W; 655 m water depth) contains a high resolution record of paleoceanographic change of the past 15 000 years for the Guaymas Basin, a region of very high diatom productivity within the central Gulf of California. Analyses of diatoms and silicoflagellates were completed on samples spaced every 40–50 yr, whereas ICP–AES geochemical analyses were completed on alternate samples (sample spacing 80–100 yr). The Bolling–Allerod interval (14.6–12.9 ka) (note, ka refers to 1000 calendar years BP throughout this report) is characterized by an increase in biogenic silica and a decline in calcium carbonate relative to surrounding intervals, suggesting conditions somewhat similar to those of today. The Younger Dryas event (12.9–11.6 ka) is marked by a major drop in biogenic silica and an increase in calcium carbonate. Increasing relative percentage contributions of Azpeitia nodulifera and Dictyocha perlaevis (a tropical diatom and silicoflagellate, respectively) and reduced numbers of the silicoflagellate Octactis pulchra are supportive of reduced upwelling of nutrient-rich waters. Between 10.6 and 10.0 ka, calcium carbonate and A. nodulifera abruptly decline at DSDP 480, while Roperia tesselata, a diatom indicative of winter upwelling in the modern-day Gulf, increases sharply in numbers. A nearly coincident increase in the silicoflagellate Dictyocha stapedia suggests that waters above DSDP 480 were more similar to the cooler and slightly more saline waters of the northern Gulf during much of the early and middle parts of the Holocene (∼10 to 3.2 ka). At about 6.2 ka a stepwise increase in biogenic silica and the reappearance of the tropical diatom A. nodulifera marks a major change in oceanographic conditions in the Gulf. A winter shift to more northwesterly winds may have occurred at this time along with the onset of periodic northward excursions (El Nino-driven?) of the North Equatorial Countercurrent during the summer. Beginning between 2.8 and 2.4 ka, the amplitude of biogenic silica and wt% Fe, Al, and Ti (proxies of terrigenous input) increase, possibly reflecting intensification of ENSO cycles and the establishment of modern oceanographic conditions in the Gulf. Increased numbers of O. pulchra after 2.8 ka suggest enhanced spring upwelling.
Thermodynamic properties of non-stoichiometric vanadium monoxide

Abstract The difference in the oxygen partial free energy between VO rich in oxygen (in equilibrium with V2O3) and VO rich in vanadium (in equilibrium with V2O) was measured between 1100 and 1500°K by studying the cell V2O, VO/0·8 ZrO20·2 CaO/VO, V2O3. From the e.m.f. measurements, the expected vacancy interaction energy was calculated. The presence of large concentration of vacancies in TiO and VO is explained by the formation of a 3d conduction band.
The U.S. Clean Air Act: dynamics of development

This exploratory study of the US Clean Air Act development finds that regulatory policy shifts have taken place since 1970s. The focus of this paper is section 109 of the Act which gives the agency discretion to determine standards for nonthreshold pollutants irrespective of compliance costs. On the positive side, the EPA is delegated the power to use its expertise for environmental rulemaking, on the negative side, however, the delegation generates influence activities by interest groups. To mitigate the negative impact, the study recommends changing the text of section 109 to include Congress' intent on the relevance of costs.
Regulation of Amniotic Fluid Volume: Mathematical Model Based on Intramembranous Transport Mechanisms

Experimentation in late-gestation fetal sheep has suggested that regulation of amniotic fluid (AF) volume occurs primarily by modulating the rate of intramembranous transport of water and solutes a...
Plastic Changes in Hand Proprioception Following Force-Field Motor Learning

Motor neurophysiologists are placing greater emphasis on sensory feedback processing than ever before. In line with this shift, a recent article by Ostry and colleagues provided timely new evidence that force-field motor learning influences not only motor output, but also proprioceptive sense. In this Neuro Forum, the merits and limitations of Ostry and colleagues are explored in the context of recent work on proprioceptive function, including several recent studies from this journal.
Behavioral and biochemical evidence for a nonessential 5-HT2A component of the ibogaine-induced discriminative stimulus.

In the present investigation, the ability of two known hallucinogens, lysergic acid dimethylamide (LSD) and (-)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-methyl-amphetamine (DOM), to substitute for the ibogaine-induced discriminative stimulus (10 mg/kg I.P., 60 min presession) was assessed in Fischer-344 rats. In these subjects, intermediate levels of generalization were observed to both agents (LSD, 63%; DOM, 66.4%). This intermediate generalization was completely blocked by pretreatment with the 5-HT2A antagonist pirenpirone, suggesting that the ibogaine-like effects of these agents are mediated by the 5-HT2A receptor. However, pirenpirone did not antagonize ibogaine itself, nor did it antagonize the ibogaine-like effects of harmaline and 12-hydroxyibogamine (noribogaine). To further evaluate the serotonergic properties of ibogaine, in vivo protection assays and in vitro binding assays were employed. Micromolar 5-HT2A affinity was observed with ibogaine (92.5 microM), 12-hydroxyibogamine (34.5 microM), and harmaline (42.5 microM). Despite the apparently low affinity of these agents, both ibogaine and harmaline, but not 12-hydroxyibogamine, produced significant protection from receptor alkylation by N-ethoxycarbonyl-2-ethoxy-1,2-dihydroquinoline (EEDQ) when given 60 min prior to this alkylating agent. The results of these studies suggest that although ibogaine may produce some of its effects via interactions with 5-HT2A receptors, these do not appear to be essential to the ibogaine-induced discriminative stimulus.
Pathfix: An algorithm for computing traffic equilibria

A new algorithm for the calculation of traffic flows in the equilibrium model is proposed. The algorithm uses techniques developed for the approximation of fixed points.
Cardiovascular risk after bariatric surgery for obesity

Obese patients have an increased prevalence of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, which improve with bariatric surgery, but whether bariatric surgery reduces long-term CV events remains ill defined. A systematic review of published research was conducted, and CV risk models were applied in a validation cohort previously published. A standardized MEDLINE search using terms associated with obesity, bariatric surgery, and CV risk factors identified 6 test studies. The validation cohort consisted of a population-based, historical cohort of 197 patients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and 163 control patients, identified through the Rochester Epidemiology Project. Framingham and Prospective Cardiovascular Munster Heart Study (PROCAM) risk scores were applied to calculate 10-year CV risk. In the validation cohort, absolute 10-year Framingham risk score for CV events was lower at follow-up in the bariatric surgery group (7.0% to 3.5%, p <0.001) compared with controls (7.1% to 6.5%, p = 0.13), with an intergroup absolute difference in risk reduction of 3% (p <0.001). PROCAM risk in the bariatric surgery group decreased from 4.1% to 2.0% (p <0.001), whereas the control group exhibited only a modest decrease (4.4% to 3.8%, p = 0.08). Using mean data from the validation study, the trend and directionality in risk was similar in the Roux-en-Y group. The test studies confirmed the directionality of CV risk, with estimated relative risk reductions for bariatric surgery patients ranging from 18% to 79% using the Framingham risk score compared with 8% to 62% using the PROCAM risk score. In conclusion, bariatric surgery predicts long-term decreases in CV risk in obese patients.
The Community College: Educating Students at the Margin Between College and Work

The authors provide background on the history and development of community colleges in the United States in the last half century and survey available evidence on the impacts of community colleges on educational attainment and earnings. They also weigh the evidence on the impact of public subsidies on enrollment at community colleges and explore some weaknesses in the current higher-education financing structure. Finally, the authors reflect on how students who have been responding to the rise in payoff to education are to be absorbed by our postsecondary training institutions.
Outcomes after prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support in children with cardiac disease—Extracorporeal Life Support Organization registry study

Objective Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation remains the mainstay of mechanical circulatory support initiation and maintenance in children with cardiac insufficiency. However, the outcomes after prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for cardiac insufficiency in children remain ill defined. Methods We reviewed the International Extracorporeal Life Support Organization data from January 1, 2000, through December 31, 2011. We defined prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as uninterrupted support for ≥14 days. Results A total of 777 children aged Conclusions The attrition is high after prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support for cardiac insufficiency in children. Cardiac transplantation in this cohort was rarely achieved and was associated with high mortality compared with benchmarks for cardiac transplantation survival. Earlier redirection of care or conversion to other modes of mechanical support as a bridge to transplantation should be considered.
Bridging Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Recovery in Schizophrenia: A Life's Work

For many years, schizophrenia was thought of as a lifelong deteriorating illness with little hope of improvement. However, recent naturalistic studies demonstrate that the course of the disorder is more positive than had been previously thought. With the advent of more effective pharmacological and psychosocial interventions for those with the disorder who continue to experience impairment and disabilities, the potential of recovery in schizophrenia has become increasingly acknowledged. This paper presents a brief history of the development of psychosocial interventions for schizophrenia and the role Robert Paul Liberman played in advancing psychiatric rehabilitation as an effective strategy for helping individuals with serious psychiatric illnesses live richer lives in the community. The core tenets of Liberman's work—community-based care, designing interventions to bolster (re)hablitation of life skills critical to successful functional adjustment, promoting widespread availability of effective interven...
New perspectives on the biology of fragile X syndrome

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a trinucleotide repeat disorder caused by a CGG repeat expansion in FMR1, and loss of its protein product FMRP. Recent studies have provided increased support for the role of FMRP in translational repression via ribosomal stalling and the microRNA pathway. In neurons, particular focus has been placed on identifying the signaling pathways such as PI3K and mTOR downstream of group 1 metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR1/5) that regulate FMRP. New evidence also suggests that loss of FMRP causes presynaptic dysfunction and abnormal adult neurogenesis. In addition, studies on FXS stem cells especially induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells and new sequencing efforts hold out promise for deeper understanding of the silencing process and mutation spectrum of FMR1.
Religious Influence on Wisconsin Voting, 1928–1960

The extent of religious influence on the closely contested presidential election of 1960 has been much debated. Many have claimed that the Wisconsin primary revealed a religious split which then became one of the main issues of the campaign. This paper reports the results of an analysis of religious influence on voting in that state for several elections since the campaign of 1928, when Alfred E. Smith was the first major-party presidential candidate of the Roman Catholic faith. The thesis which will be defended is that religious influences on voting in Wisconsin, although much reduced from 1928, were still considerable enough to have been critical in an election as close as that of 1960. Several independent types of evidence from voting returns will be presented to bolster this argument.
How Will 401(k) Pension Plans Affect Retirement Income

Two decades ago, most workers with pensions had a defined benefit (DB) plan. The employer made necessary contributions and investments to meet promised pension benefit payments when the employee retired. By 1993, the tide had turned; more than half of covered employees participated primarily in defined contribution (DC) pensions such as 401(k) plans [Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI), 1997]. This dramatic shift was associated as well with growing concerns about the emerging 401(k) plans. Some viewed 401(k) plans as a crisis waiting to happen when current generations, having made minimal (or no) contributions to their DC plan, retired with inadequate pension asset balances (Karen Ferguson and Kate Blackwell, 1995; Anne Willette, 1995). Another concern was that workers switching jobs would use the lump-sum distributions for houses, boats, or other purchases rather than reinvesting them in another retirement account [Ellen E. Schultz, 1995; U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL), 1998a]. In a similar vein, newly retired workers may not roll over the assets into an annuity and therefore risk "spending down" their retirement wealth too early (e.g., Jeffrey R. Brown and Mark J. Warshawsky, 2001). The most serious charge against 401 (k) plans,
Confocal microscopy of excised human skin using acetic acid and crossed polarization: rapid detection of nonmelanoma skin cancers

Moh's micrographic surgery for basal- and squamous-cell cancers (BCCs, SCCs) involves precise excision of the tumor with minimal damage to the surrounding normal skin. Precise excision is guided by histopathologic examination for tumor margins; typically, 2 - 4 slices of skin are excised, and there is a waiting time of 15 - 45 minutes for the surgeon and patient while each slice is being processed for histopathology. We can avoid the processing by using a confocal reflectance microscope; confocal detection of BCCs and SCCs is possible after staining the nuclei in the excised skin with 5% acetic acid, and imaging in crossed polarization. The cancerous nuclei appear bright against the dark surrounding normal dermis. The contrast is due to increased back-scattering as well as increased depolarization from the intra-nuclear structure relative to that from the surrounding normal dermis. As in conventional histopathology, the tumors are first detected at low resolution (section thickness 20 micrometer) in a wide field (1-2 mm); nuclear morphology is then viewed at high resolution (section thickness 2 micrometer) in a small field (0.25 - 0.50 mm). Mosaics of images are assembled to produce confocal maps of the BCCs or SCCs within large excised tissue. Rapid detection (within minutes) is possible.
Vanadate-Induced Changes in Myosin Subfragment-1 from Cardiac Muscle−

Abstract The interaction between myosin subfragment-1 from bovine cardiac muscle (CS1) and 1, N 6 -ethenoadenosine diphosphate (ϵADP) was studied using steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence methods. The binding constant was found to be 1.52 × 10 6 M −1 at pH 7.5 and 5°C. The intensity decay of ϵADP bound to CS1 was resolved into two components over a narrow range of temperatures. The long component was about 22 ns and the short component was between 5 and 7 ns, with fractional amplitudes of about 0.6-0.7 for the long component and 0.3-0.4 for the short component. These data suggest a two-state temperature-sensitive transition of the CS1·ϵADP complex. In the presence of orthovanadate (Vi) at 5°C, the decay time of the long component was little affected, whereas the short decay time increased by over 3 ns and the fractional amplitude of the long component decreasing by a factor of 2 to about 0.3 and that of the short component increasing to 0.7. The anisotropy decay of bound ϵADP was monoexponential regardless of whether vanadate was present. The recovered single rotational correlation time was 110 ns in the absence of vanadate and 79 ns in the presence of vanadate. The decrease in correlation time suggests an increase in molecular symmetry of the CS1·ϵADP·Vi complex. The results are in agreement with previous results obtained from skeletal S1 and indicate that S1 from both isoforms of myosin experiences similar vanadate-induced changes in its hydrodynamic shape. Since the ternary vanadate complex is a stable analogue of the S1·ADP·Pi state, the ligand-induced change in hydrodynamic shape of S1 may be related to the conformational change which myosin head experiences during the ATPase cycle and this change in myosin could be a structural basis for force generation in striated muscle.
Stability of solids-coated liquid layers between bubbles

In principle, liquid layers between bubbles can be stabilized by a coating of fine solid particles even in the absence of surface-active agents in the liquid. Theoretical modeling of a two-dimensional liquid layer between bubbles containing one row of solid particles suggests that in three dimensions such a layer would be unstable unless the solids all touch. This hints at a possible mechanism for bubble stabilization and subsequent rupture in the waste stored in underground tanks at the Hanford nuclear reservation.