cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Oxidation of Linoleyl Alcohol by Potato Tuber Lipoxygenase: Possible Mechanism and the Role of Carboxylic Group in Substrate Binding

We have studied the aerobic oxidation of linoleyl alcohol (LAL) by potato tuber lipoxygenase in the presence of 0.02% (w/v) non-ionic detergent Lubrol PX (and its analog C12E10) and 0.1 mM sodium dodecyl sulfate to investigate the role of carboxylic group in substrate binding. While the enzyme displayed a comparable affinity toward LA and LAL, the rate of LAL oxidation was approximately one-fourth of that of linoleic acid. The pH-profile of the reaction suggests that the rate of LAL oxidation is controlled by two ionizable groups with pKa values of 5.3 and 7.5, with optimal pH being 6.4+/-0.1. Since LAL is not ionizable at this pH, we conclude that the rate of the reaction is controlled by two ionogenic groups of the enzyme. The primary dioxygenation product(s) of LAL had a maximal absorbance at 233+/-1 nm. The products have been isolated, catalytically hydrogenated with H2 over Pd on carbon, and analyzed by GC-MS. Two major equimolar products were found to be 9- and 13-hydroxystearyl alcohols, indicating that 9- and 13-hydroperoxylinoleyl alcohols are the primary dioxygenation products. Based on these results we propose that the carboxyl group of polyunsaturated fatty acid may not be involved in substrate binding of potato tuber lipoxygenase.
A mobile remote data collection and graphics display station

A low cost graphic and data collection facility consisting of a storage tube display, plotter, digital multimeter, floppy disc, calculator and BCD instrumentation interface has been built into a single, mobile unit. Laboratory data may be collected automatically by recording the output of the low speed digital multimeter or medium speed BCD DMA interface in calculator memory and then buffering the data to either floppy disc or tape cassette. The data can be summarized and displayed immediately on the CRT or plotter by the calculator using programs available on a floppy disc resident library. Alternatively, the data can be routed to one of two timesharing computer systems at speeds up to 9600 baud where 2-D and 3-D software packages and large application libraries can be used to construct more sophisticated displays for presentation interactively on the CRT. Various applications appropriate to a university environment are discussed. A similar facility at the Sacramento offices of the Army Corps of Engineers used for flood information reporting is also described.
Mean square error tests for restrictions in singular linear models

Abstract Weak and strong mean square error tests of restrictions presented in Wallace (1972) are generalized to apply to singular linear models. The singularity necessitates a slight change in the strong m.s.e. criterion and the requirement that the restrictions be estimable, but otherwise the tests are applied in a fashion analogous to the non-singular case. Use of those tests implies that the solution for the linear model parameter vector is contingent on a test result. The risk behavior of these contingent solutions is discussed.
Plasma Epinephrine Disturbances in Diabetic Subjects during Standing and after Isometric Exercise

Effects of isometric exercise on plasma norepi-nephrine (NE), epinephrine (E), and related factors (mean ± SE) were studied in 10 healthy, insulin-dependent diabetic subjects and 10 matched control adults. Measurements were obtained after 30 min of bedrest and sequentially during 10 min of upright posture and 5 min of handgrip and after 15 min of rest while still upright. In control and diabetic groups, respectively, basal plasma NE (180 ± 22 vs. 169 ± 27 pg/ml) and E (24 ± 4 vs. 33 ± 8 pg/ml) as well as heart rate and mean blood pressure did not differ. However, E responses to standing and recovery from isometric exercise in diabetic subjects significantly exceeded control values 2-fold (P < 0.05) and were accompanied by exaggerated increases in heart rate (P < 0.05); whereas NE, mean blood pressure, plasma GH, and glucagon profiles during all periods were not significantly different. Exaggerated E responses in diabetic patients were associated with plasma glucose increments above resting values during g...
Spectrum Metrics and Spectrum Efficiency: Proposed Definitions

A spectrum metric-a unit of measure of spectrum-space use-is defined and used to define a measure of spectrum efficiency as the ratio of communications output to spectrum-space input. It is shown that this efficiency measure is easier to compute than another candidate, and gives the same relative result. Several examples of the application of this measure are given. Implications of a definition of spectrum efficiency are mentioned.
Effect of Polychlorinated Biphenyl Compounds on Survival and Reproduction of the Fathead Minnow and Flagfish

Abstract Two 9-month continuous-flow bioassays and several intermediate length continuous-flow tests were conducted to determine safe levels of Aroclor 1242, 1248, and 1254 for the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) and Aroclor 1248 for the flagfish, Jordanella floridae. Calculated 96-hr LC50 values for newly hatched fathead minnows were 7.7 μg/liter for Aroclor 1254 and 15 μg/liter for 1242. Three-month-old fatheads had a 96-hr LC50 of 300 μg/liter for 1242. Reproduction occurred at and below 1.8 μg/liter 1254 and at and below 5.4 μg/liter 1242. Newly hatched young were the most sensitive life stage. Growth of young fatheads was also affected above 2.2 μg/liter 1248, and none survived above 5.1 μg/liter after 30 days. Young flagfish did not survive at 1248 concentrations above 5.1 μg/liter and did not grow well above 2.2 μg/liter. Tissue residues in fathead minnows ranged from 0.7 μ/g 1248 in control fish to 1036 μ/g 1254 in fish held for 8 months in water containing 4.6 μg/liter 1254.
On the relation between CO and gamma-ray observations, cosmic rays, and the thickness of the galactic disk - A comment

On both theoretical and observational grounds molecular clouds are not dynamically decoupled from the rest of the interstellar medium. This removes the complications raised in the paper by Wentzel et al. Some theoretical difficulties with the stratified model of the interstellar medium are discussed, and observational evidence is cited against it. Finally, the suggestion by Wentzel et al. that the latitude distribution of $gamma$-rays implied by the stratified model is similar to that of H i is discussed. (AIP)
Intra-guild compensation regulates species richness in desert rodents: reply

Evidence from numerous studies suggests that species richness is an emergent property of local communities. The maintenance of species richness, despite changes in species composition and environmental conditions, requires compensatory colonization and extinction events with species coming from a regional pool. Using long-term data from a rodent community in the Chihuahuan Desert, we use randomization methods to test the null hypothesis that changes in species richness occur randomly. We find that the dynamics of species richness differ significantly from a random process, and that these nonrandom dynamics occur largely within the most speciose guild. Finally, we propose a general framework for assessing the importance of species compensation in maintaining biodiversity within local communities. Our results highlight the importance of niche complementarity and compensation in maintaining relatively constant species richness over time.
La(les) annonce(s) d’un cancer mammaire par le radiologue

Resume La mammographie est le prologue de tout ce qui va advenir : le radiologue intervient au premier acte. Il est celui qui decouvre une anomalie infraclinique, puis va effectuer les prelevements qui conduiront au diagnostic. Le radiologue peut assurer une des consultations d’annonce, en fonction de son implication en senologie, de son travail d’expertise personnelle, et de son integration dans un reseau de soins. Quelles qu’en soient les modalites, il n’existe pas d’annonce ideale car aucune ne peut faire l’economie de la mauvaise nouvelle. Des lignes-guides et des recommandations existent afin d’aider le radiologue a ameliorer sa technique de communication.
A solar radiation algorithm for ecosystem dynamic models

A general algorithm is described for estimating average monthly solar radiation in cal cm−2 day−1 received on mountain slopes that uses basic topographic and climatic information for input, i.e. latitude, elevation, slope aspect and orientation, and average monthly data for ambient temperature, relative humidity and total precipitation. The algorithm is an extension of the methodlogy developed by Lui and Jordan, Klein, and Bonan. We have tested our method against independent data from 69 meteorological stations throughout the northern hemisphere provided by Muller and Zeller. The stations were selected to represent different latitudes, climate zones and elevations. The test showed that the algorithm predicts quite accurately seasonal patterns of solar radiation from the subpolar region down to the tropics and thus can be used with ecological simulation models (e.g. gap-phase succession models or regional landscape models).
Enhanced dissociation of HLA-DR-bound peptides in the presence of HLA- DM

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DM is a critical participant in antigen presentation that catalyzes the release of class II-associated invariant chain-derived peptides (CLIP) from newly synthesized class II histocompatibility molecules, freeing the peptide-binding site for acquisition of antigenic peptides. The mechanism for the selective release of CLIP but not other peptides is unknown. DM was found to enhance the rate of peptide dissociation to an extent directly proportional to the intrinsic rate of peptide dissociation from HLA-DR, regardless of peptide sequence. Thus, CLIP is rapidly released in the presence of DM, because its intrinsic rate of dissociation is relatively high. In antigen presentation, DM has the potential to markedly enhance the rate of peptide exchange, favoring the presentation of peptides with slower intrinsic rates of dissociation.
Further Experimentation with an Imposed Southern Boundary for Large-Scale Numerical Weather Prediction

Abstract Experiments with a global, 2½° primitive equation model show that for periods of one week a wall placed at the equator does not appreciably affect the results of a forecast of large-scale mid-latitude atmospheric flows. The success of the hemispheric model depends on the lack of distortion of the mean and eddy quantities of the large-scale processes in the subtropical region.
Targeted disruption of hoxc-4 causes esophageal defects and vertebral transformations.

Abstract Mice carrying a nonfunctional allele ofhoxc-4have been generated by gene targeting. The phenotype of mice homozygous for this mutation is strikingly different from those reported in mice lacking the paralogous geneshoxa-4, hoxb-4,andhoxd-4.In contrast to the mutants of the paralogous family members,hoxc-4homozygotes do not manifest abnormalities in the cervical vertebrae, but instead show vertebral defects that extend from the second thoracic vertebra (t2) to t11. Therefore, defects do not correspond to the anterior limit of expression ofhoxc-4,but rather begin within the region of stronghoxc-4expression in the prevertebral anlagen (i.e., pv7–14). Whilehoxc-4mutant homozygotes that reach adulthood are fertile and appear outwardly normal, most die before weaning age. The high lethality appears to result from partial or complete blockage of the lumen of the esophagus over a large portion of its length, as well as disorganization of the esophageal musculature. Although theDrosophilahomolog ofhoxc-4, Deformed,is autoregulated, mutation of thehoxc-4gene does not affect transcription of its paralogous family members. However, inhoxc-4mutant embryos, transcription of both thehoxc-5andhoxc-6genes is altered. Employment of cis/trans analysis showed that thehoxc-4mutation acts in cis to affect the pattern ofhoxc-5expression. Therefore, this mutation is likely to cause a reduction ofhoxc-5function as well as complete loss ofhoxc-4function.
Do provider attitudes about electronic health records predict future electronic health record use

Abstract Introduction Prior research has shown that provider positive attitudes about EHRs are associated with their successful adoption. There is no evidence on whether comfort with technology and more positive attitudes about EHRs affect use of EHR functions once they are adopted. Methods We used data from a survey of providers in the Primary Care Information Project, a bureau of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and measures of use from their EHRs. The main predictor variables were scores on three indices: comfort with computers, positive attitudes about EHRs, and negative attitudes about EHRs. The main outcome measures were four measures of use of EHR functions. We used linear regression models to test the association between the three indices and measures of EHR use. Results The mean comfort with computers score was 2.37 (SD 0.53) on a scale of 1–3 with 3 being the most comfortable. The mean positive attitude score was 2.74 (SD 0.40) on a scale of 1–3 with 3 being more positive. The mean negative attitude score was 1.81 (SD 0.54) on a scale of 1–3 with 3 being more negative. Within the first twelve months of having the EHR, 59.5% of visits had allergy information entered into a structured field, 64.8% had medications reviewed, and 74.3% had blood pressured entered. Among visits with a prescription generated, 24.5% had prescriptions electronically prescribed. In multivariate regression analysis, we found no significant correlations between comfort with computers, positive attitudes about EHRs, or negative attitudes about EHRs and any of the measures of use. Discussion Comfort with computers and attitudes about EHRs did not predict future use of the EHR functions. Our findings suggest that meaningful use of the EHR may not be affected by providers׳ prior attitudes about EHRs.
Error probability bounds for systematic convolutional codes

Upper and lower bounds on error probability for systematic convolutional codes are obtained. These bounds show that the probability of error for a systematic convolutional code is larger than the probability of error for a nonsystematic convolutional code of the same encoder-shift-register length. Two different interpretations of these results are given.
Bézout SP-Domains

SP-domains were first introduced by Vaughan and Yeagy (1978) as generalizations of Dedekind domains. In particular, they showed that an SP-domain is an almost Dedekind domain. Later, Olberding (2005) gave a complete characterization of SP-domains within the class of almost Dedekind domains. This article characterizes Bezout SP-domains using the order structure of the group of divisibility of an integral domain. We use this information to construct a Bezout SP-domain with zero Jacobson radical.
Redirecting T-cell specificity by introducing a tumor-specific chimeric antigen receptor.

Infusions of antigen-specific T cells have yielded therapeutic responses in patients with pathogens and tumors. To broaden the clinical application of adoptive immunotherapy against malignancies, investigators have developed robust systems for the genetic modification and characterization of T cells expressing introduced chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) to redirect specificity. Human trials are under way in patients with aggressive malignancies to test the hypothesis that manipulating the recipient and reprogramming T cells before adoptive transfer may improve their therapeutic effect. These examples of personalized medicine infuse T cells designed to meet patients' needs by redirecting their specificity to target molecular determinants on the underlying malignancy. The generation of clinical grade CAR+ T cells is an example of bench-to-bedside translational science that has been accomplished using investigator-initiated trials operating largely without industry support. The next-generation trials will deliver designer T cells with improved homing, CAR-mediated signaling, and replicative potential, as investigators move from the bedside to the bench and back again.
MTT-S--The premier forum for microwave engineers [President's Message]

Our Society is the premier forum to promote the RF and microwave engineering profession by advancing and distributing knowledge and supporting professional development. We have signifi cant global impact. We are the fifth largest Society under the auspices of the IEEE, which is the largest professional technical association in the world. We are a volunteer Society that is driven to excellence by its leaders with active participation of all its members on a global scale. The MTT-S provides benefi ts by creating, supporting, and promoting technical excellence in a global community environment. The activities sponsored by the MTT-S include a broad spectrum of conferences, symposia, workshops, tutorials, technical committees, chapter meetings, publications, and professional education programs. Our principal publications and conferences are world class, peer reviewed, and recognized as top of the class.
Kondo effect in a Luttinger liquid.

We treat the Kondo effect in one-dimensional interacting systems. We find that for repulsive interaction and off half filling, the Kondo temperature ${\mathit{T}}_{\mathit{K}}$\ensuremath{\propto}(J${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\tau}}}_{0}$${)}^{2/\mathrm{\ensuremath{\eta}}}$, where \ensuremath{\eta} is the nonuniversal spin-density-wave exponent of the host system, J the Kondo coupling, and ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\tau}}}_{0}$ the short-time cutoff. We also show that the wave-function orthogonality theorem remains true in a Luttinger liquid except that interactions reduce the power with which the overlap vanishes in the thermodynamic limit.
Full Concreteness and the Re-Materialization of Matter

We have been going through a period in the philosophy of science in which it has been dominated by the theory of the dematerialization of matter. From Eddington in 1927 to Hanson in the present day, this theory in one formulation or another has been maintained. Its adherents suppose that matter upon examination can be resolved into mental constructs of every description, from organized sets of sense impressions to mathematical equations. The idealists are so dazzled by the conditions under which the mental recognition of the extra-mental world occurs that they end by doubting the genuineness of the extra-mental world. But there are reasons to suspect that the idealistic interpretation is not the correct one, and I shall try here to present (though not to prove) the counter position. The materialist considers the extra-mental world genuine, but, as we shall see, it is not simply the case of an old materialism confronted with new evidence by the idealists. There is evidence for a new materialism as well. Thus what we have perhaps is an ancient controversy under fresh guises, a new idealism confronted by a new materialism.
Theory of space-charge shift of ion cyclotron resonance frequencies

Abstract A theory of ion space-charge influence on the observed ion cyclotron resonance frequency in static field ion traps is presented. The dependence of this influence on ion density, ion cloud shape, and trapping geometry is investigated. Four trapping geometries are specifically analyzed: the Penning trap, the cubical ICR cell, the common rectangular ICR cell, and an elongated ICR cell. This treatment is readily extended to other geometries. The theory applies to common situations where the exciting or detecting antennae fields are not homogeneous, and individual particle motions are excited/detected as opposed to center-of-mass motions.
What Is a Hunter-Gatherer? Variation in the Archaeological Record of Eastern and Southern Africa

This article reviews the recent history of the archaeology of African hunter-gatherers, focusing on debates around the origins of modern humans and the destiny of hunter-gatherers with the advent of food production. African archaeologists are developing an increasing appreciation for the diversity of African hunter-gatherer societies. Understandings of hunter-gatherers based primarily on ethnography are being successfully challenged and extended.
Time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy and ultrasound backscatter microscopy for nondestructive evaluation of vascular grafts

Quantitative and qualitative evaluations of structure and composition are important in monitoring development of engineered vascular tissue both in vitro and in vivo. Destructive techniques are an obstacle for performing time-lapse analyses from a single sample or animal. This study demonstrates the ability of time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy (TRFS) and ultrasound backscatter microscopy (UBM), as nondestructive and synergistic techniques, for compositional and morphological analyses of tissue grafts, respectively. UBM images and integrated backscatter coefficients demonstrate the ability to visualize and quantify postimplantation changes in vascular graft biomaterials such as loss of the external elastic lamina and intimal/medial thickening over the grafted region as well as graft integration with the surrounding tissue. TRFS results show significant changes in spectra, average lifetime, and fluorescence decay parameters owing to changes in collagen, elastin, and cellular content between normal and grafted tissue regions. These results lay the foundation for the application of a catheter-based technique for in vivo evaluation of vascular grafts using TRFS and UBM.
Pavlovian appetitive discriminative conditioning inAplysia californica

Three experiments demonstrated Pavlovian appetitive discrimination learning in the marine mollusc,Aplysia californica. In each experiment, subjects were exposed to two conditioned stimuli; one stimulus (CS+) was paired with food presentations and the other stimulus (CS−) was never followed by food. In Experiments 1 and 3 different chemosensory stimuli were used, and in Experiment 2 different tactile stimuli were used. For both types of conditioned stimuli, bite responses occurred significantly more often to the CS+ than to the CS−. Experiment 2 also showed thatAplysia could learn a reversal of this discrimination. Experiment 3 showed that nonreinforced presentations of CS+ resulted in a decline in the frequency of conditioned biting. The implications of these results for neurobiological analyses of learning are discussed.
The photodynamic pigment of some species of Elsinoë and Sphaceloma.

Abstract The red fluorescent pigment produced by several species of the phytopathogenic genus Elsinoe and its conidial stage, Sphaceloma (Ascomycetes, Myriangiales) has been obtained in crystalline form; its absorption spectrum indicates a chemical relationship to the erythroaphins. The photodynamic action of the pigment upon gram-positive bacteria has been established.
Discussion – Interactions of Nutrition and Reproduction

As dairy cattle achieve higher milk production, we are becoming aware of closer relationships between nutrition and fertility. An increasing body of evidence indicates that excessive protein intake in early lactation may be detrimental to postpartum fertility. In addition, protein solubility and degradability are important. Energy restriction in high producing cows may be detrimental to fertility through its effect on hypothalamic and ovarian function. Dairy producers are susceptible to advertisements advocating the addition of specific vitamins and minerals to the rations of high producing cows since inadequate or excessive quantities may be detrimental to fertility. This is particularly true for minerals. However, high producing cows do not usually receive grossly inadequate or excessive dietary sources of vitamins and minerals. Rather, they may be presented with a borderline intake of several vitamins and minerals, which together may be detrimental to fertility. Finally, new methods must be developed to provide a more sensitive indication of fertility. These are some of the research and educational needs of the dairy industry if it is to continue successfully increased milk production. Predictions of herd averages of 16,000 kg milk and individual records exceeding 30,000 kg have been made for the yr 2000.
Activation of histone gene transcription by nonhistone chromosomal phosphoproteins

Hybridization analysis of RNA transcripts from HeLa S3 cell chromatin to histone complementary DNA indicates that a chromosomal phosphoprotein fraction activates transcription of histone messenger RNA sequences in vitro with chromatin from a phase in the cell cycle when histone genes are normally silent.
Admissions to a public residential facility for individuals with developmental disabilities: Change in neuroleptic drug use and tardive dyskinesia

Two studies were conducted to assess the change in neuroleptic medication dosages and prevalence of tardive dyskinesia (TD) in new admissions to three California Developmental Centers. The first study involved 636 admissions into Fairview, Porterville, and Sonoma Developmental Centers. Neuroleptic medication use was recorded at admission and one year later. Over that period of time, dose and prevalence of neuroleptic use was found to decrease dramatically. The second study investigated the existence of possible side effects associated with the withdrawal from neuroleptic medication. Persons with developmental disabilities (n=43) admitted to Fairview Developmental Center were examined at admission and every 8 weeks thereafter for the presence of TD. Daily neuroleptic dosages were recorded on five examination dates as well as at admission. Ten months after admission, subjects were grouped on the basis of neuroleptic medication status (withdrawn, reduced, no change). TD was manifested in 63% of the subjects in the completely withdrawn group, 29% of the subjects in the reduced group, and 10% of the subjects in the maintenance group. These studies indicate that new admissions to public residential facilities are likely to be receiving neuroleptic medication, that systematic evaluation will reslts in a majority being withdrawn from medication and that withdrawal TD will develop in most cases.
Sperm biology and control of reproduction in sturgeon: (II) sperm morphology, acrosome reaction, motility and cryopreservation

In the present review, sperm morphology, acrosome reaction, motility, short-term storage and cryopreservation are summarized and discussed in sturgeon (Chondrostei, Acipenseriformes). The elongated head of spermatozoon comprises an acrosome with 8–12 posterolateral projections. Usually three endonuclear canals are observed in the nucleus. Proximal and distal centrioles and 3–6 mitochondria are located in the midpiece region. The flagellum consists of an axoneme with a typical “9 + 2” structure of microtubules and presents a ribon-like structure due to two lateral membranous fins. Egg water, Ca2+ and Mg2+ can trigger acrosome reaction. Trypsin- and chymotrypsin-like activities are reported in sturgeon sperm. These physiological properties of sturgeon sperm are identified as serine activity with 33 kDa molecular mass and can be inhibited by their respective inhibitors. The K+ prevents sperm activation in seminal plasma, and hypo-osmolality or decrease of extracellular K+ triggers sperm activation. Extracellular Ca2+ is involved in flagellar beating pattern and sperm velocity. After activation, sperm motility, velocity, and flagellar beating frequency, wavelength and amplitude decrease, while number of waves and curvature increase. Sturgeon sperm can be stored for several days at 4 °C; however it is better to add K+ into the immobilizing medium because it prevents sperm activation during incubation. Regarding sperm cryopreservation, methanol is a better cryoprotectant than DMSO. Either short-term storage or cryopreservation of sperm generates damage to spermatozoa that lead to reduction of sperm motility performance. Some studies suggest using an activation medium containing Ca2+ for enhancing sperm motility performance of incubated or frozen-thawed sperm.
Do Retrieval Analysis and Blood Metal Measurements Contribute to Our Understanding of Adverse Local Tissue Reactions

Background Metal-on-metal (MoM) total hip arthroplasties (THAs) and the head-neck and neck-body junctions in modular THA are associated with a variety of local and systemic reactions to their related wear and corrosion products. Although laboratory testing is available, the relationship between laboratory values—including serum metal ion levels—and adverse local tissue reactions (ALTRs) remains controversial and incompletely characterized.
Arming Antibodies for Subtype-Selective Photo-Inhibition of Voltage Gated Potassium Channels

Establishing the molecular identity of native voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels has been a particularly challenging problem. Mammalian Kv channels arise from a family of more than 40 genes and few inhibitors are selective for any one Kv subunit type. The identification of channel types underlying native ionic currents has been greatly aided by the availability of subtype specific inhibitors, but drugs of great selectivity have not yet been discovered for most Kv subunits. There exist, however, extensively characterized monoclonal antibodies against extracellular S1-S2 linker epitopes that exhibit clear specificity for Kv4.2, Kv2.1 or Kv1.1. Unfortunately, none of these antibodies have been found to inhibit channel currents.A proven strategy for targeted inhibition of proteins is to label antibodies with chromophore “warheads” that induce oxidative damage to the target protein upon illumination. Photo-stimulation of certain chromophores leads to the generation of singlet oxygen, which has a 40 A half-maximal radius of oxidative damage, suitable to oxidize the protein target when conjugated to an antibody. Porphyrins are amongst the most efficient photo-induced generators of singlet oxygen known, having greater extinction coefficients, lower sensitivity to photobleaching, and higher quantum yields for singlet oxygen than compounds, such as fluorescein, classically used for targeted photo-inhibition of proteins. We have synthesized a series of porphyrin derivatives that irreversibly inhibit Kv4.2 or Kv2.1 currents upon illumination. Covalent attachment of porphyrin to an anti-Kv4.2 antibody has resulted in selective inhibition of Kv4.2 at a 10 nM concentration. By attaching warheads to subtype-selective antibodies, we aim to find a serial solution to the problematic dearth of subunit-specific Kv inhibitors.
Nucleation and growth of metal on nanoelectrodes

Three-dimensional nucleation and growth on active surface sites are fundamentally important initial stages of the electrodeposition of metals. Electrochemical studies of these processes are greatly complicated by the formation of multiple crystals interacting with each other. We investigated Ag electrodeposition on the surface of well-characterized, nanometer-sized Pt electrodes and measured the nucleation/growth kinetics of individual Ag crystals by a combination of nanoelectrochemistry and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Basic parameters, including the number of surface active sites, the kinetic time lag and the number of growing nuclei, were directly accessed from current transients and in situ AFM imaging. The existence of a single nucleation site on the surface of a 50 nm electrode persisting through several deposition/stripping cycles has been demonstrated.
Observed Dynamic Traffic Features on Freeway Section with Merges and Diverges

Traffic data measured on a four-lane freeway and its on-ramps (with metered flows) and off-ramps were studied for 4 days during the peak hour. Certain features were reproducible from day to day. A bottleneck arose on all 4 days because of traffic merging and diverging at a freeway location. During these times queuing arose in a freeway section with an auxiliary lane some distance downstream of the merge. Corresponding flow reductions were also measured at a downstream off-ramp. Queuing was apparently caused by drivers who had just entered the shoulder lane from the on-ramp and had slowed down to merge. The slowing of vehicles spread to both lanes and propagated upstream. The average discharge flows that accompanied the onset of queuing were 4% lower than flows measured just before the queue's formation. Upon bottleneck activation, flow reductions occurred sequentially in time and space marking the passage of the backward-moving shock. Mean shock velocities ranged from 20 to 24 mph (32 to 40 km/h). The ana...
Foodservice Executives Attitudes Toward Mature Employees with Respect to Size of Organization

Abstract The purpose of this study was to explore opinions of foodservice executives toward employees aged 55 and over (mature employees). Corporate size was used to group executives as representing small, medium, or large firms. The results suggest executives in this study have positive attitudes toward older employees and should be pursued for employment in their firms. This finding is contrary to the results reported in much of the literature. The study further suggests marketing strategies communicating job opportunities, retention programs, and training for mature employees should be developed to attract this viable employee resource.
Feasibility of Seasonal Forecasts Inferred from Multiple GCM Simulations

Abstract Assuming that SST provides the major lower boundary forcing for the atmosphere, observed SSTs are prescribed for an ensemble of atmospheric general circulation model (GCM) simulations. The ensemble consists of 9 “decadal” runs with different initial conditions chosen between 1 January 1979 and 1 January 1981 and integrated about 10 years. The main objective is to explore the feasibility of seasonal forecasts using GCMS. The extent to which the individual members of the ensemble reproduce the solutions of each other (i.e., reproducibility) may be taken as an indication of potential predictability. In addition, the ability of a particular GCM to produce realistic solutions, when compared with observation, must also be addressed as part of the predictability problem. A measure of reproducibility may be assessed from the spread among ensemble members. A normalized spread index, σn/σs, can be defined at any point in space and time, as the variability of the ensemble (σn) normalized by the climatologic...
Optimization of acetone-butanol production using response surface methodology

Abstract Acetone-butanol fermentation of sweet potato (SP) cultivar Hi-Dri W-190, supplemented with phosphate and nitrogen sources, was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM). The range of components examined as (g/100 g slurry, SPS): starch, 5.40 to 4.05; CaCO3, 0.3 to 0.1; (NH4)2SO4, 0.6 to 0.2; and KH2PO4, 0.03 to 0.01. SPS was inoculated with 24 h culture of Clostridium acetobutylicum P262 using 2% inoculum containing 1.3 x 108 cells ml−1 and incubated anaerobically at 34°C. Statistical analyses indicated that starch and calcium carbonate significantly affected yields and productivities, but phosphate and nitrogen did not. Response surface regression and consequent canonical analyses established the following optimal concentrations (g/100 g SPS): starch, 4.54; CaCo3, 0.24; (NH4)2SO4, 0.24; KH2PO4, 0.01 for maximal yield, and starch 5.15; CaCO3, 0.29; (NH4)2SO4, 0.14; KH2PO4, 0.009; for maximal productivity. Predicted yield and productivity at stationary points were 34.2% and 0.17g solvents I−1 h−1, respectively, but experimental yield and productivity were 33.2% and 0.18g solvents 1−1 h−1, when quantitative variables were kept at optimal concentrations.
The Influence of Self-Concept on Change in Client Behaviors: A Review

Social workers are constantly seeking useful data regarding methods of behavior change. Changes in self-concept can mediate changes in overt behavior. Self-concept has been reawakened as a focus of empirical research. Several literatures (self-perception theory, cognitive dissonance theory, and the availability heuristic literature) suggest ways of changing the self-concept. This article reviews existing literature and discusses the guidelines for changing self-concept that derive from empirical research in the previously mentioned literatures. The manner in which these guidelines explain the success of particular intervention techniques is delineated. Suggestions for new social work practice interventions are proffered, as are examples from the authors'practice experience.
Net optical gain in a low loss silicon-on-insulator waveguide by stimulated Raman scattering

We observe for the first time net optical gain in a low loss silicon waveguide in silicon-on-insulator (SOI) based on stimulated Raman scattering with a pulsed pump laser at 1.545 μm. We show that pulsed pumping with a pulse width narrower than the carrier recombination lifetime in SOI significantly reduces the free carrier generation rate due to two-photon absorption (TPA) in silicon. For a 4.8 cm long waveguide with an effective core area of ~1.57 μm2, we obtained a net gain of 2 dB with a pump pulse width of ~17 ns and a peak pump power of ~470 mW inside the waveguide.
Properties of Substances Inhibitory to Pseudomonas fragi Produced by Streptococcus citrovorus and Streptococcus diacetilactis

Abstract Evidence is presented that the inhibitory substances for Pseudomonas fragi produced by Streptococcus citrovorus and Streptococcus diacetilactis are not similar to nisin. The substances were stable to heat at an acid or basic pH. Trypsin and chymotrypsin had no effect on the inhibitory substances. A distillation procedure was used to separate a volatile inhibitor identified as acetic acid. R f values for inhibitors in the residue fraction from the distillation procedure were similar to some of the compounds in the Krebs cycle.
Volume self-diffusion of oxygen in biotite, muscovite, and phlogopite micas

The kinetics of oxygen self-diffusion have been measured in natural samples of biotite, muscovite, and phlogopite micas under hydrothermal conditions using both bulk exchange and profiling analyses. All experiments were run at 1000 bars (100 MPa) water pressure except those designed to measure water pressure dependence, which ranged from 200 to 2000 bars. The Arrhenius relations obtained for layer-parallel diffusive transport in the three micas by bulk exchange experiments, fit to an infinite cylinder model, are Mineral biotite muscovite phlogopite 34 ±2 39 ± 5 42 +- 3 9.1 × 10−6 7.7 × 10−5 1.4 × 10−4 T(°C) 500–800 512–700 600–900. The results of ion microprobe (SIMS) depth profiling perpendicular to the layers (parallel to c-axis) yield diffusion coefficients 3 to 4 orders of magnitude lower than for transport parallel to the layers. A single layer-parallel step profiling experiment yields a diffusion coefficient identical, within uncertainty, to those obtained from bulk exchange experiments. A slight dependence of diffusion rate on water pressure may obtain in phlogopite; however, the difference is approximately within the uncertainty of the measurement. Diffusion rates are similar, within about a half an order of magnitude, for a range of biotite composition from annite4 to annite63, as well as for muscovite. Comparison of oxygen diffusion rates in biotite from this study with Ar, K, and Rb diffusion from published data supports the idea that water is the oxygen-bearing species in hydrothermal diffusion experiments. The implication of these results for natural systems is that the micas, especially biotite, will continue to exchange oxygen isotopes via volume diffusion down to temperatures as low as 300 °C. The rapid diffusion kinetics may explain biotite oxygen isotope disequilibrium, which is commonly observed even in rocks where other mineral phases preserve equilibrium compositions. Full-size table Table options View in workspace Download as CSV
The role of Osteocel Plus as a fusion substrate in minimally invasive instrumented transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.

Abstract Background Instrumented lumbar fusion has become an accepted and effective surgical technique used to address a wide variety of conditions of the lumbar spine. Iliac crest autograft remains the gold standard with regards to bony fusion substrate. Unfortunately there are significant potential disadvantages associated with autograft harvest, including pain, infection, iatrogenic fracture and bleeding. Osteocel Plus (OC+) is an allograft cellular bone matrix containing mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and osteoprogenitor cells combined with DBM and cancellous bone. OC+ is designed to mimic the osteobiologic profile of human autograft bone, thereby eliminating the risks of autograft harvest. Methods A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify all patients who had undergone a MITLIF with OC+ for degenerative lumbar conditions. Patient demographics including age, sex, history of risk factors for nonunion including: osteoporosis documented on DEXA scanning, diabetes mellitus, smoking or steroid use were examined and recorded. Successful arthrodesis was judged based on post-operative X-ray imaging. Results 23 patients at 26 spinal levels underwent a MITLIF with OC+. Twenty-one patients (91.3%) and 24 levels (92.3%) went on to achieve radiographic evidence of solid bony arthrodesis by 12 months post-op. Six patients (26%) demonstrated clear evidence of early interbody bone growth within 6 months of surgery. Conclusion OC+ results in robust and reproducible lumbar interbody fusion, in both young and older patients.
Vibrational Spectroscopy of Water at Interfaces

Understanding liquid water’s behavior at the molecular level is essential to progress in fields as disparate as biology and atmospheric sciences. Moreover, the properties of water in bulk and water at interfaces can be very different, making the study of the hydrogen-bonding networks therein very important. With recent experimental advances in vibrational spectroscopy, such as ultrafast pulses and heterodyne detection, it is now possible to probe the structure and dynamics of bulk and interfacial water in unprecedented detail.We consider here three aqueous interfaces: the water liquid–vapor interface, the interface between water and the surfactant headgroups of reverse micelles, and the interface between water and the lipid headgroups of aligned multi-bilayers. In the first case, sum-frequency spectroscopy is used to probe the interface. In the second and third cases, the confined water pools are sufficiently small that techniques of bulk spectroscopy (such as FTIR, pump-probe, two-dimensional IR, and the...
Estimating reorder points and other management science applications by bootstrap procedure

Abstract The bootstrap procedure proposed by B. Efron is a resampling method which has nice estimation properties. We believe that the method has many useful applications to areas in OR and management science. In this paper, the bootstrap procedure is the demonstrated in the context of estimating the lead-time demand distribution and reorder points for an inventory control system. Numerical investigation shows that the procedure performs very well in comparison with the exact distribution and with other methods when the daily demands are either independent or autocorrelated. It also compares favorably with the ordinary simulation and has a smaller standard error for estimating the reorder points.
Energy-efficient computing using adaptive table lookup based on nonvolatile memories

Table lookup based function computation can significantly save energy consumption. However existing table lookup methods are mostly used in ASIC designs for some fixed functions. The goal of this paper is to enable table lookup computation in general-purpose processors, which requires adaptive lookup tables for different applications. We provide a complete design flow to support this requirement. We propose a novel approach to build the reconfigurable lookup tables based on emerging nonvolatile memories (NVMs), which takes full advantages of NVMs over conventional SRAMs and avoids the limitation of NVMs. We provide compiler support to optimize table resource allocation among functions within a program. We also develop a runtime table manager that can learn from history and improve its arbitration of the limited on-chip table resources among programs.
Coronary artery fistula: A case series with review of the literature

Coronary artery fistula (CAF) is an anomalous connection between a coronary artery and a major vessel or cardiac chamber. Most of the coronary fistulas are discovered incidentally during angiographic evaluation for coronary vascular disorder. The management of CAF is complicated and recommendations are based on anecdotal cases or very small retrospective series. We present three cases of CAF, two of which were symptomatic due to hemodynamically significant coronary steal phenomenon. They underwent successful transcatheter coil embolization, leading to resolution of their symptoms. Percutaneous closure offers a safe and effective way for the management of symptomatic patients. CAFs are rare cardiac anomalies but can give rise to a variety of symptoms because of their hemodynamic consequences or complications. They should be part of cardiac differential diagnosis particularly in patients without other risk factors. Correction of CAF is indicated if the patients are symptomatic or if other secondary complications develop.
Small molecule modifier screen for kit-dependent functions in zebrafish embryonic melanocytes.

Zebrafish is gaining popularity as a vertebrate model for screening small molecules that affect specific phenotypes or genetic pathways. In this study, we present a targeted drug screen to identify drug modifiers of the melanocyte migration defect of a temperature-sensitive allele of the Kit receptor tyrosine kinase, kitts. We first test two candidate drugs, the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase kinase inhibitor (LY294002) and the Erk/MAP kinase inhibitor (PD98059), for their effect on melanocyte migration and survival. We find that LY294002 enhances the migration defect of kitts, implicating the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase kinase pathway in promoting kit-dependent melanocyte migration, but not survival. We then used the kitts-sensitized genetic background to screen a panel of 1280 pharmacologically active drugs to identify drug enhancers and suppressors of the kitts melanocyte migration defect. We identified three drug enhancers of migration, two of which, Papaverine and Isoliquiritigenin, specifically enhance the kitts migration defect, while 8-DPAT affected both melanocyte migration and survival. These drugs now provide additional experimental tools for investigating the mechanisms of kit-promoted melanocyte migration and survival in the zebrafish embryo.
Neurotransmitter Receptor Dynamics Studied In Vivo by Reversible Photo-Unbinding of Fluorescent Ligands

We show that fluorescently tagged ligands with high affinity for their targets can be reversibly unbound by focused laser excitation. By sequential unbinding and relabeling with different colors of α-bungarotoxin, we selectively labeled adjacent pools of acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) at neuromuscular junctions of adult mice. Timelapse imaging in vivo revealed that synaptic AChRs completely intermingle over ∼4 days and many extrasynaptic AChRs are incorporated into the synapse each day. In mice that lacked α-dystrobrevin, a component of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex, rates of AChR turnover, and intermingling were increased ∼4- to 5-fold. These results demonstrate remarkable molecular dynamism underlying macroscopic stability of the postsynaptic membrane, and establish α-dystrobrevin as a key control point for regulation of mobility and turnover.