cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Proton transfer at helium temperatures during dioxygen activation by heme monooxygenases.

In the first measurement of enzymatic proton transfer at liquid helium temperatures, we examine protonation of the peroxo-ferriheme state of heme oxygenase (HO) produced by in situ radiolytic cryoreduction of oxy-HO in H2O and D2O solvents at ca. 4 K and above, and compare these findings with analogous measurements for oxy-P450cam and for oxy-Mb. Proton transfer in HO occurs at helium temperatures in both solvents; it occurs in P450cam at ∼50 K and higher; in Mb it does not occur until T > 170 K. For Mb, this transfer at 180 K is biphasic, and the majority phase shows a solvent kinetic isotope effect of 3.8. We discuss these results in the context of the picture of environmentally coupled tunneling, which links proton transfer to two classes of protein motions: environmental reorganization (λ in Marcus-like equations) and protein fluctuations (“active dynamics”; gating) which modulate the distance of proton transfer.
Synthesis of a C-1 epi taxinine intermediate using the type 2 intramolecular Diels-Alder approach

Abstract A highly functionalized type 2 intramolecular Diels-Alder precursor, suited for use in the synthesis of taxane natural products, has been prepared. Its stereoselective preparation and cyclization to an epi-tricyclic taxane intermediate are described.
Antagonism between high pressure and anesthetics in the thermal phase-transition of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine bilayer

The antagonizing action of hydrostatic pressure against anesthesia is well known. The present study was undertaken to quantitate the effects of hydrostatic pressure and anesthetics upon the phase-transition temperature of dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine vesicles. The drugs used to anesthetize the phospholipid vesicles included an inhalation anesthetic, halothane, a dissociable local anesthetic, lidocaine and an undissociable local anesthetic, benzyl alcohol. All anesthetics decreased the phase-transition temperature dose-dependently. In the case of lidocaine, the depression was pH dependent and only uncharged molecules were effective. The application of hydrostatic pressure increased the phase-transition temperature both in the presence and the absence of anesthetics. The temperature-pressure relationship was linear over the entire pressure range studied up to 340 bars. Through the use of Clapeyron-Clausius equation, the volume change accompanying the phase-transition of the membrane was calculated to be 27.0 cm3/mol. Although the anesthetics decreased the phase-transition temperature, the molar volume change accompanying the phase-transition was not altered. The anesthetics displaced the temperature-pressure lines parallel to each other. The mole fraction of the anesthetics in the liquid crystalline membrane, calculated from the van't Hoff equation, was independent of pressure. This implies that pressure does not displace the anesthetics from the liquid membrane, and the partition of these agents remains constant. The volume change of the anesthetized phospholipid membranes is entirely dependent upon the phase-transition and not on the space occupied by the anesthetics.
Utilization of Preventive Measures for Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis among Veterans with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Purpose. We examined current osteoporosis prevention practices in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on chronic steroid using the 2003 American Gastroenterological Association guidelines as standard of care. Methods. We identified all IBD patients followed at the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center from January 2003 to December 2010, who had been on daily oral steroids (prednisone ≥5 mg or budesonide ≥6 mg) for ≥3 consecutive months. Associations of calcium and vitamin D (vitD) prescribing and bone mineral density (BMD) testing with patient characteristics were examined by logistic regression. Results. Sixty-three of 384 consecutive patients met inclusion criteria. Among 86 steroid courses, calcium and vitD were concurrently prescribed in 46%, and BMD was tested in 30%. There was no association of demographic and clinical characteristics with calcium/vitD prescribing and BMD testing. By multivariate analysis, steroid initiation after 2006, compared to before 2006, was associated with a significant increase in calcium (OR = 3.17 and ) and vitD (OR = 2.96 and ) prescribing and BMD testing (OR = 4.63 and ). Conclusions. We observed a low, yet increasing, adherence to osteoporosis prevention guidelines in IBD since 2003, which highlights the need for continued physician education to enhance guideline awareness and implementation.
An Interval Recorder for Analysis of Spectra

A device is described which automatically combs a list of wave numbers punched on a paper tape for pairs of lines having constant differences within a given tolerance, and records the wave numbers of these pairs on motion picture film. It supplements the spectrum interval sorter previously described, which makes use of the same punched tape and automatically places all similar intervals in juxtaposition so that frequently recurring intervals can be detected. The interval recorder is set successively for the various intervals which the interval sorter chart shows to be important. When a light beam passes simultaneously through holes in both upper and lower sections of a looped portion of the tape, a detecting photo-cell flashes an argon lamp which momentarily illuminates two wave number dials turning in synchronism with the motion of the tape, and records their readings. By means of a calibrated differential the two dials and the tape can be set for any desired wave number difference. By controlling the width of the scanning beam the tolerance for recording can be set equal to the interval variation which it is desired to include. With the aid of this machine and the interval sorter some 2000 lines in the spectrum of Ce II have been classified in a quadratic array by Albertson and the writer. The average difference between observed and calculated intervals, with wave-length measurements made on the automatic computing comparator described by the writer, is slightly over 0.01 cm−1.
Ultrastructural pathological features of cerebrovascular malformations: a preliminary report.

Objective Although cerebrovascular malformations have been characterized histologically, a systematic examination of such lesions by transmission electron microscopy has not been previously published. In this preliminary study, we describe the ultrastructural pathological features of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) and cavernous malformations (CMs). Methods Using transmission electron microscopy, we examined three CMs and three AVMs microsurgically harvested from patients, for conventional indications. Normal control cerebral tissue was obtained from two patients undergoing surgery for epilepsy. Specific attention was directed at components of the vascular wall, endothelial cell (EC) morphology, intercellular tight junctions, and the subendothelial layer. Results In embolized AVM vessels, ECs were disrupted, with preservation of the underlying subendothelial vessel wall. Nidal vessel walls of AVMs showed disorganized collagen bundles. In CM specimens, ECs lined attenuated cavern walls that were composed of an amorphous material lacking organized collagen. Peripheral to the CMs, capillaries were often surrounded by rings of hemosiderin. Tight junctions between ECs were present in AVMs and control specimens, but substantial inter-EC gaps were found in CMs. Subendothelial smooth muscle cells were present in AVM and control specimens, but they were sparse or poorly characterized in CMs. Conclusion Surgically resected vascular malformations demonstrate abnormal ultrastructural pathological features. The preoperative embolization of AVMs results in EC denudation, with preservation of vessel wall structural integrity. The thin walls of CMs, lacking significant subendothelial support, along with the rarity of intact tight junctions between ECs, may contribute to the known propensity of CMs for recurrent microhemorrhage.
Phase problem in crystallography

Phase recovery from unphased data is the central problem in the interpretation of crystal diffraction data. There are a number of experimental methods for determining phases, and for small molecules computational methods work very well. The problem of developing robust computational methods for large molecules is not yet solved. Most of the approaches for large molecules are variants of the Grechburg–Saxton algorithm [ Optik35, 237– 246 ( 1972)]; with sufficiently good initial phase estimates these converge, but in general they fail with phase stagnation similar to that seen in image processing [ DaintyJ. C.FienupJ. R., in Image Recovery: Theory and Application, StarkH., ed. ( Academic, Orlando, Fla., 1987); FienupJ. R.WackermanC. C., J. Opt. Soc. Am. A3, 1897– 1907 ( 1986)].
Plasma resonance at low magnetic fields as a probe of vortex line meandering in layered superconductors

We consider the magnetic-field dependence of the plasma resonance frequency in pristine and in irradiated ${\mathrm{Bi}}_{2}{\mathrm{Sr}}_{2}{\mathrm{CaCu}}_{2}{\mathrm{O}}_{8}$ crystals near ${T}_{c}.$ At low magnetic fields we relate linear in field corrections to the plasma frequency to the average distance between the pancake vortices in the neighboring layers (wandering length). We calculate the wandering length in the case of thermal wiggling of vortex lines, taking into account both Josephson and magnetic interlayer coupling of pancakes. Analyzing experimental data, we found that (i) the wandering length becomes comparable with the London penetration depth near ${T}_{c}$ and (ii) at small melting fields $(l20\mathrm{G})$the wandering length does not change much at the melting transition. This shows existence of the line liquid phase in this field range. We also found that pinning by columnar defects affects weakly the field dependence of the plasma resonance frequency near ${T}_{c}.$
Phosducin‐like protein acts as a molecular chaperone for G protein βγ dimer assembly

Phosducin-like protein (PhLP) is a widely expressed binding partner of the G protein βγ subunit dimer (Gβγ). However, its physiological role is poorly understood. To investigate PhLP function, its cellular expression was blocked using RNA interference, resulting in inhibition of Gβγ expression and G protein signaling. This inhibition was caused by an inability of nascent Gβγ to form dimers. Phosphorylation of PhLP at serines 18–20 by protein kinase CK2 was required for Gβγ formation, while a high-affinity interaction of PhLP with the cytosolic chaperonin complex appeared unnecessary. PhLP bound nascent Gβ in the absence of Gγ, and S18–20 phosphorylation was required for Gγ to associate with the PhLP-Gβ complex. Once Gγ bound, PhLP was released. These results suggest a mechanism for Gβγ assembly in which PhLP stabilizes the nascent Gβ polypeptide until Gγ can associate, resulting in membrane binding of Gβγ and release of PhLP to catalyze another round of assembly.
Early Childhood Assessment in Schools: Its Needs and Strengths

In the early childhood years, testing is now commonplace in schools. With a focus on the need to achieve meaningful and humanistic assessments of young children, many issues and problems are presented in this article. Methods of implementing an effective screening-instruction-evaluation system are offered, with particular attention to how the system might respond to the needs of all participants.
Automatic Sampling System Employing a Nebulizer for Solid-Surface Room-Temperature Phosphorescence Analysis

A new experimental system for the automation of Solid-Surface Room Temperature Phosphorescence (SSRTP) has been constructed. Samples were sprayed onto a moving filter paper by means of a conventional atomic absorption nebulizer. A new sample holder, which permits measurements of a previously optimized position for a maximum phosphorescent signal, has been designed and adapted to the cell compartment of the spectrofluorimeter. The results show that a considerable step has been taken towards the automation of SSRTP and, therefore, to its application in areas where numerous samples are handled routinely.
A review of Holocene avulsions of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers and possible effects on the evolution of civilizations in lower Mesopotamia

The role of avulsion in the evolution of civilization in lower Mesopotamia is widely recognized. Ancient settlements are closely associated with abandoned courses of the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers. This paper discusses avulsion history, controls of avulsions, their effects on civilization evolution from 7000 to 1000 yr B.P., and interactions between human activity and channel-network evolution based on previous archaeological and geomorphological surveys, analysis of cuneiform texts, maps, satellite photos, and limited geological data. Settlement distribution in ancient Mesopotamia is modeled in relation to avulsion styles, as well as channel and sedimentation patterns. Avulsion belts are suggested as places where urban settlements emerged and were sustained. Multiple channel networks and avulsion belts created large, naturally irrigated areas, fostering the efficient agriculture needed to sustain dense rural and urban settlements. After channel networks were abandoned during delta evolution, largescale canal construction was required to sustain settlements but still could not prevent their decline. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Insulin Immunoassay After 50 Years: A Reassessment

In 1960 Berson and Yalow published a method for the radioimmunoassay (RIA) of plasma insulin based on the concept that the extent to which unlabeled insulin displaces labeled insulin from anti-insulin antibody is proportional to the concentration of unlabeled insulin. The RIA for insulin has greatly increased knowledge of the physiology of glucose homeostasis and of the diverse causes of diabetes mellitus. Beyond this, the insight on which the RIA-or, more broadly, the competitive protein-binding assay-is based has provided the means to measure nanomolar or picomolar concentrations of a vast array of compounds in plasma and tissues. Directly or indirectly, the RIA has profoundly affected every branch of medicine. This essay reviews the ideas that were current in the medical research community when Berson and Yalow began their work and the observations and reasoning process that led them to their seminal discovery.
Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Feral Cats in Seoul, Korea

Abstract The present study assessed the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in feral cat populations in Seoul using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A total of 456 feral cats from 17 wards in Seoul was surveyed. The overall prevalence of T. gondii infection was 15.8% (69/456) by ELISA and 17.5% (80/456) by PCR; by gender, 17% (44/259) by ELISA and 16.2% (42/259) by PCR in males and 14.3% (28/196) by ELISA and 19.4% (38/196) by PCR in females. On a baseline of the Han River, prevalence was 15.1% (29/192) by ELISA and 15.6% (30/192) by PCR in the upper region and 16.4% (43/264) by ELISA and 18.9% (50/264) by PCR in the lower area. This suggested that toxoplasmosis is widespread throughout Seoul's feral cat population and it is critical that the city institute policies for the control of the feral cat population to reduce the risk of toxoplasmosis transmission to animals, including humans.
Specific Differentially Methylated Domain Sequences Direct the Maintenance of Methylation at Imprinted Genes

Landmark features of imprinted genes are differentially methylated domains (DMDs), in which one parental allele is methylated on CpG dinucleotides and the opposite allele is unmethylated. Genetic experiments in the mouse have shown that DMDs are required for the parent-specific expression of linked clusters of imprinted genes. To understand the mechanism whereby the differential methylation is established and maintained, we analyzed a series of transgenes containing DMD sequences and showed that imperfect tandem repeats from DMDs associated with the Snurf/Snrpn, Kcnq1, and Igf2r gene clusters govern transgene imprinting. For the Igf2r DMD the minimal imprinting signal is two unit copies of the tandem repeat. This imprinted transgene behaves identically to endogenous imprinted genes in Dnmt1o and Dnmt3L mutant mouse backgrounds. The primary function of the imprinting signal within the transgene DMD is to maintain, during embryogenesis and a critical period of genomic reprogramming, parent-specific DNA methylation states established in the germ line. This work advances our understanding of the imprinting mechanism by defining a genomic signal that dependably perpetuates an epigenetic state during postzygotic development.
A Key Management Scheme Using Deployment Knowledge for Wireless Sensor Networks

Wireless sensor networks pose new security and privacy challenges. One of the important challenges is how to bootstrap secure communications among nodes. Several key management schemes have been proposed. However, they either cannot offer strong resilience against node capture attacks, or require too much memory for achieving the desired connectivity. In this paper, we propose a novel key management scheme using deployment knowledge. In our scheme, a target field is divided into a number of hexagon grids and sensor nodes are divided into the same number of groups as that of grids, where each group is deployed into a unique grid. By using deployment knowledge, we drastically reduce the number of potential groups from which a node's neighbors may come. Thus, a pairwise key can be generated efficiently for any two neighbor nodes. Compared with existing schemes, our scheme achieves higher connectivity with a much lower memory requirement and shorter transmission range. It also outperforms others in terms of resilience against node capture attacks.
Self-stabilization of the optical frequencies and pulse repetition rate in a coupled optoelectronic oscillator

A self-stabilized coupled optoelectronic oscillator is described where a single intracavity etalon is used for optical supermode selection, optical frequency stabilization and repetition rate determination and stabilization.
Control of the boll weevil (Coleoptera: curculionidae) with naturalis-L : a mycoinsecticide

Naturalis-L, which contains conidia of an insect-specific fungus, Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (ATCC 74040, ARSEF 3097, FCI 7744), was evaluated in field trials for activity against boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis grandis Boheman. Effectiveness was evaluated against overwintered adults in the spring and throughout the cotton production season for control of adults in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas. In 1991, Naturalis-L was as effective as azinphosmethyl in protection of the cotton crop; lint production was 247.2 and 223.1 kg/0.4ha, respectively. In 1992, lint production in cotton protected by Naturalis-L was 373.1 kg compared with 469.5 kg lint production in cotton protected by a combination of bifenthrin and acephate. In 1991 and 1992, the integration of Naturalis-L for early-season boll weevil protection and insecticides for boll weevil infestations occurring after bloom provided the best protection and lint yields (302.1 and 469.5 kg/0.4hal, respectively.
Inverse of Single Trait Additive Genetic Covariance Matrix with Unequal Variances Across Additive Genetic Groups

Abstract Recursive procedures are presented to compute the additive genetic covariance matrix and its inverse for a single trait when additive genetic variances differ across genetic groups. They are extensions of well-known recursive methods that assume equal additive variances for all genetic groups in a population. These procedures facilitate animal evaluation with mixed model analysis when animals being evaluated belong to different subpopulations within a breed or to different breeds and crossbred groups, especially when animals belonging to different genetic groups are related. Models should include additive and nonadditive fixed (group) and random effects depending on the trait being evaluated.
Not seeing the ocean for the islands: the mediating influence of matrix-based processes on forest fragmentation effects.

The pervasive influence of island biogeography theory on forest fragmentation research has often led to a misleading conceptualization of landscapes as areas of forest/habitat and ‘non-forest/non-habitat’ and an overriding focus on processes within forest remnants at the expense of research in the human-modified matrix. The matrix, however, may be neither uniformly unsuitable as habitat nor serve as a fully‐absorbing barrier to the dispersal of forest taxa. In this paper, we present a conceptual model that addresses how forest habitat loss and fragmentation affect biodiversity through reduction of the resource base, subdivision of populations, alterations of species interactions and disturbance regimes, modifications of microclimate and increases in the presence of invasive species and human pressures on remnants. While we acknowledge the importance of changes associated with the forest remnants themselves (e.g. decreased forest area and increased isolation of forest patches), we stress that the extent, intensity and permanence of alterations to the matrix will have an overriding influence on area and isolation effects and emphasize the potential roles of the matrix as not only a barrier but also as habitat, source and conduit. Our intention is to argue for shifting the examination of forest fragmentation effects away from a patch-based perspective focused on factors such as patch area and distance metrics to a landscape mosaic perspective that recognizes the importance of gradients in habitat conditions.
Geographic data propagation in location-unaware wireless sensor networks: a two-dimensional random walk analysis

For wireless sensor networks with many location-unaware nodes, which can be modeled as a planar Poisson point process, we investigate a protocol, dubbed BeSpoken, which steers data transmissions along a straight path called a spoke. BeSpoken implements a simple, spatially recursive process, where a basic set of control packets and a data packet are exchanged repeatedly among daisy-chained relays that constitute the spoke. Hence, a data packet originated by the first relay makes a forward progress in the direction of the spoke. Despite the simplicity of the protocol engine, modeling the spoke process is a significant challenge. Bespoken directs data transmissions by randomly selecting relays to retransmit data packets from crescent-shaped areas along the spoke axis. The resulting random walk of the spoke hop sequence may be modeled as a two dimensional Markov process. Based on this model, we propose design rules for protocol parameters that minimize energy consumption while ensuring that spokes propagate far enough and have a limited wobble with respect to the spoke axis. The energy efficiency is demonstrated through simulations of the BeSpoken-based data search, and a comparison with the energy consumption of a search based on directed diffusion.
Local Legislative Professionalism

Although research on professionalism in state legislatures has been substantial, professionalism research has ignored legislative bodies in local government, such as city councils and school boards. Using detailed school district-level data and an original survey of school board members in 210 school districts in California, we develop measures of professionalism in the local government context. We then use these measures to examine which characteristics of school districts are associated with greater professionalization. Consistent with findings in the state politics literature, we find that districts with greater resources and more heterogeneous environments exhibit higher degrees of professionalism than other districts.
Comparison of Care Provided in Practices With Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants Versus Subspecialist Physicians Only: A Cohort Study of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Objective The Affordable Care Act proposes wider use of nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs), but little is known about outcomes of care provided by them in medical specialties. We compared the outcomes of care for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) seen in practices with NPs or PAs and rheumatologists versus practices with rheumatologists only. Methods We enrolled 7 rheumatology practices in the US (4 with NPs or PAs and 3 without). RA disease activity (categorized as in remission, low, moderate, or high, using standardized measures) was abstracted from medical records from the most recent 2 years. We performed a repeated-measures analysis using generalized linear regression to compare disease activity for visits to practices with NPs or PAs versus rheumatologist-only practices, adjusting for disease duration, serologic status, RA treatments, and disease activity measures. Results Records from 301 patients, representing 1,982 visits, were reviewed. The patients’ mean age was 61 years and 77% were female. In the primary adjusted analysis, patients seen in practices with NPs or PAs were less likely to have higher disease activity (odds ratio 0.32, 95% confidence interval 0.17–0.60; P = 0.004) than those seen in rheumatologist-only practices. However, there were no differences in the change in disease activity. Conclusion Patients seen in practices with NPs or PAs had lower RA disease activity over 2 years compared to those seen in rheumatologist-only practices; no differences were observed in the change in disease activity between visits either within or between the different types of provider practice.
Marked changes in right ventricular contractile pattern after cardiothoracic surgery: implications for post-surgical assessment of right ventricular function.

Background Longitudinal shortening accounts for the majority of right ventricular (RV) contraction in normal hearts. This finding accounts for the correlation between longitudinal measures of RV contraction such as tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and global RV function. We hypothesized that, after cardiac surgery, there are major differences in the RV contractile pattern relative to normal hearts. Methods We retrospectively studied 2 cardiac surgical cohorts who underwent cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with pericardial incision (OHT, n = 54; CABG, n = 23) and compared them with a lung transplant cohort ( n = 25). We compared TAPSE, RV fractional area change (RVFAC) and relative change in RV transverse and longitudinal area in the surgical cohorts with data from normal subjects ( n = 84). Results RVFAC was lower in the surgical groups compared with the normal group, yet still in the normal range (37% to 42% vs 47%; p p p p p p Conclusions After cardiac surgery, the RV contractile pattern changes, with a relative loss of longitudinal shortening and gain in transverse shortening despite normal global RV function. These findings have major implications for quantitative assessment of RV function after cardiac surgery, suggesting that global measures of RV function assessment may be preferred in this setting and that lower normative ranges should be used when measurement of RV function is performed with longitudinal methods.
Framing AIDS Mobilization and Human Rights in Post-apartheid South Africa

Human rights as a collective action frame has been an important aspect of social movement mobilization around AIDS since the beginning of the pandemic 25 years ago. As an epidemic strongly associated with homosexuality and other socially marginalized behaviors, the AIDS movement in the developed world fueled and built on traditions of gay identity politics and gay rights. When the AIDS epidemic was recognized in 1981, the gay movement had already reconstituted itself as a legitimate interest group pursuing civil rights and civil liberties. Building on the preexisting organizational foundations as well as cultural capital of the gay movement as well as others, the AIDS movement was not only able to push for the protection of the civil rights of people living with AIDS, but through its engagement with the medical profession and the political establishment over access to drugs, was able to insist on a correlation between health and human rights.Krista Johnson is Assistant Professor at Agnes Scott College in Atlanta (krmjohnson@agnesscott.edu). Her research on HIV/AIDS in South Africa was funded in part by a postdoctoral fellowship from the Ford Foundation.
Analysis of the FnrL regulon in Rhodobacter capsulatus reveals limited regulon overlap with orthologues from Rhodobacter sphaeroides and Escherichia coli

FNR homologues constitute an important class of transcription factors that control a wide range of anaerobic physiological functions in a number of bacterial species. Since FNR homologues are some of the most pervasive transcription factors, an understanding of their involvement in regulating anaerobic gene expression in different species sheds light on evolutionary similarity and differences. To address this question, we used a combination of high throughput RNA-Seq and ChIP-Seq analysis to define the extent of the FnrL regulon in Rhodobacter capsulatus and related our results to that of FnrL in Rhodobacter sphaeroides and FNR in Escherichia coli. Our RNA-seq results show that FnrL affects the expression of 807 genes, which accounts for over 20 % of the Rba. capsulatus genome. ChIP-seq results indicate that 42 of these genes are directly regulated by FnrL. Importantly, this includes genes involved in the synthesis of the anoxygenic photosystem. Similarly, FnrL in Rba. sphaeroides affects 24 % of its genome, however, only 171 genes are differentially expressed in common between two Rhodobacter species, suggesting significant divergence in regulation. We show that FnrL in Rba. capsulatus activates photosynthesis while in Rba. sphaeroides FnrL regulation reported to involve repression of the photosystem. This analysis highlights important differences in transcriptional control of photosynthetic events and other metabolic processes controlled by FnrL orthologues in closely related Rhodobacter species. Furthermore, we also show that the E. coli FNR regulon has limited transcriptional overlap with the FnrL regulons from either Rhodobacter species.
Advancements to SCREAM: Multiple spectrum input and ShielDDDose options

The SCREAM (Solar Cell Radiation Environment Analysis Models) software package, developed by the US Naval Research Laboratory implementing the displacement damage dose (DDD) modelling methodology for space solar cell radiation degradation analyses, has several new features to help in solar array design. The ShielDDDose and multispectrum input improvements are described.
Activated Partial Thromboplastin Times From Venipuncture Versus Central Venous Catheter Specimens in Adults Receiving Continuous Heparin Infusions

Background In patients receiving heparin infusions, variations in specimen collection technique may contribute to inaccurate measurements of activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Objectives To determine if there is a difference in aPTT results between specimens collected from a central venous access device (CVAD) compared with venipuncture in patients receiving heparin infusions. Methods Simultaneous blood samples (CVAD vs venipuncture) from 66 patients receiving continuous heparin infusions were compared. Results The mean aPTT difference (peripheral aPTT minus CVAD aPTT) was -7.3 seconds (P=.07). Neither length of time heparin was turned off (P=.18) nor waste volume (P=.32) was significantly associated with the difference in aPTT. The median aPTT difference when the CVAD specimen was obtained from the heparin infusion port was -20.5 seconds, compared with -0.1, -3.0, and -0.2 seconds for specimens from a port proximal to, distal to, or coterminal with the heparin infusion, respectively (P=.008). Conclusions Use of this protocol resulted in similar aPTTs when the CVAD specimen was not obtained from the heparin infusion port. However, obtaining the specimen from the heparin infusion port resulted in significantly higher aPTT values.
Toward the optimization of a class of black box optimization algorithms

Many black box optimization algorithms have sufficient flexibility to allow them to adapt to the varying circumstances they encounter. These capabilities are of two primary sorts: user-determined choices among alternative parameters, operations, and logic structures; and the algorithm-determined alternative paths chosen during the process of seeking a solution to a particular problem. We discuss the process of algorithm design and operation, with the intent of integrating the seemingly distinct aspects described above within a unified framework. We relate this algorithmic optimization process to the field of dynamic process control. An approach is proposed toward the optimization of a process for controlling a specific class of systems, and its application to dynamic adjustment of the algorithm used in the search problem. An instance of this approach in genetic algorithms is demonstrated. The experimental results show the adaptability and robustness of the proposed approach.
The Thermodynamics of Irreversible Processes. III. Relativistic Theory of the Simple Fluid

The considerations of the first paper of this series are modified so as to be consistent with the special theory of relativity. It is shown that the inertia of energy does not obviate the necessity for assuming the conservation of matter. Matter is to be interpreted as number of molecules, therefore, and not as inertia. Its velocity vector serves to define local proper-time axes, and the energy momentum tensor is resolved into proper-time and -space components. It is shown that the first law of thermodynamics is a scalar equation, and not the fourth component of the energy-momentum principle. Temperature and entropy also prove to be scalars. Simple relativistic generalizations of Fourier's law of heat conduction, and of the laws of viscosity are obtained from the requirements of the second law. The same considerations lead directly to the accepted relativistic form of Ohm's law.
Identification Of Trail Leg Recovery Acceleration Curve Profiles For Use In Matching Track And Field Athletes To Events

For many years, coaches and trainers have been looking for athletes that fit the mold of the typical sprint somatotype. Unfortunately the majority of the studies have focused on the “Max Velocity” phase of the sprint, leaving the start (drive and transition phases) relatively uninvestigated. The purpose this study was to identify trail leg recovery acceleration profiles (a key determinant of stride frequency)for use in matching track and field athletes to events.Collegiate track and field athletes with high levels of experience performed a series of trail leg recoveries at two different pelvic tilt angles while wearing an accelerometer. A series of four model acceleration curves were identified and associated with event characteristics and levels of performance:QAHP - Quick Explosive Acceleration with High Peak Force; QAMP -Quick Acceleration with Moderate Peak Force; LAMP - Low Acceleration with Moderate Peak Force; and LALP - Low Acceleration with Low Peak Force.
Fluorescence Detection in Liquid and Gas Chromatography

In the past decade, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) has developed into one of the most powerful tools for the analytical chemist. A wide variety of analyses can be performed at (or near) room temperature using HPLC. In contrast, gas chromatography requires elevated temperatures, limiting its utility to the analysis of those compounds that can be volatilized without decomposition.
EXISTENCE THEORY FOR GAMES OF PRICING AND TECHNOLOGY

A differential game model of a technological service industry is reformulated as an equivalent game over a function space by direct substitution of the solutions of the state equations. For this game, Nash equilibria are shown to exist under certain mild assumptions. A generalization is considered in which each firm has a choice of three different objective functions, which may reflect distinct management options in a technological service industry. Nash equilibria for the generalized version exist under similar mild assumptions.
An Analysis of Estimators of Trends in Southern Pine Beetle Populations

Two estimators of trends in Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmerman populations are evaluated. One estimator is brood increase ratio, R*, the brood beetles emerging per parent. The other is within-tree survival, S*, the brood beetles emerging per egg. The sampling distributions of R* and S* were studied using computer simulations. Both R* and S* are biased, always overestimating R and S, but S* is less biased and more consistent than R*. The distributions of R* and S* become less biased and more peaked as sample size increases. The validity and sensitivity of tests of hypotheses based on R* and S* are discussed. Because the distributions of R* and S* are not normal, the estimators should be used cautiously in tests of hypotheses that assume normality. Besides the statistical problems inherent in using R* and S*, there are problems in gathering sufficient data to calculate the estimators reliably. Complete dissection of bark samples and precise timing of sampling are vital.
Low Power Multimode Electrochemical Gas Sensor Array System for Wearable Health and Safety Monitoring

This paper presents an electrochemical gas sensor array system for health and safety monitoring. The system incorporates a custom room temperature ionic-liquid gas sensor array, a custom multimode electrochemical sensor readout board, and a commercial low power microcontroller board. Sensors for multiple gas targets were implemented in a miniaturized 2 × 2 array where each sensor consumes <;3.2 μW and occupies a sensing area volume of 350 mm3. A novel resource-sharing circuit architecture tailored to the gas sensor array was utilized to significantly decrease power, cost, and size. The system supports multiple electrochemical measurement modes to provide orthogonal data to in-module sensor array algorithms for better prediction accuracy. The system achieves a resolution as high as 0.01 vol% in amperometry mode and 0.06 vol% in ac impedance mode for oxygen as an example target gas.
Argon Green Laser Treatment of Macular Edema in Diabetes

Objective To study the effect of argon green laser in treatment of diabetic macular edema. Method 62 eyes with clinical significant macular edema in diabetes were treated with “C” type local photocoagulation, grid photocoagulation, or direct microaneurysm laser coagulation, respectively, by argon green laser irradiation. There were 14 eyes with mild lesions in the first group to undergo microaneurysm photocoagulation directly. 43 eyes in pre or proliferative diabetic retinopathy as the second group were treated by pan photocoagulation and macular laser irradiation. 5 eyes of severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy as the third underwent operations of vitreous besides laser therapy of retina. FFA, fundus examination and visual acuity test were made after photocoagulation. Results In the first group macular edema disappeared in 10/14 (71 4%), visual acuity raised 2 lines and no fluorescent leakage was found in the FFA. In the second group, the rate was 27/43(63 0%). No eye in the third group showed increase of visual acuity. There was significant difference among them(P0 05). Conclusions The earhier the treatment to diabetic macular edema by photocoagulation is made, the better the outcome for visual acuity is.
Cryosurgical Treatment of the Lymphoid Tissue of Waldeyer’s Ring

The role of cryosurgery in the treatment of tonsil disease is an unresolved issue. Initial favorable reports failed to provide the necessary incentives for larger well-controlled studies. Bacteriologic and immunologic response to the cryosurgical treatment of tonsils remains unclear. Without appropriate studies, cryosurgery has been relegated to a backup status for conventional tonsil surgery. At present, cryogenic treatment of lymphoid tissue is generally limited to tonsillectomy in patients with blood dyscrasias; elimination of palatine tonsil regrowth and posterior pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia; and occasional laryngeal and lingual tonsillectomy.
Building Social Capital from the Inside Out: Leveraging Intrapower (Personal Capital)

In this writer’s view, the building of social capital starts with the development of personal individual capital. The author posits that an individual may not be optimally effective in building meaningful social relationships and networks, or in influencing results in one’s community that serve the individual and others well, unless the individual has the prerequisite personal attributes and skillsets to do so. Therefore, in this chapter, the author identifies four key personal capital attributes that he sees as foundational to the building of social capital from the inside out. The dynamic synergistic interface among these four core attributes (Control, Empathy, Awareness, and Resolve), is referred to in this chapter as “Intrapower that is seen as a potent facilitative force in the effective building of social capital.
Community development through agroecotourism in Cuba: an application of the community capitals framework

This study explores the relationship between a Cuban organiponico, an urban, organic cooperative farm, and the surrounding community, particularly in regard to increasing agroecotourism. This was examined through the community capitals framework which allows for the use of a systems approach to inventory and analyse assets and wealth stocks within the community. Individual interviews were conducted in the summer of 2013 with members of the farm cooperative to explore the relationship between the farm and the community, and the way tourism to the farm has improved community capitals. Overall, this study demonstrated the ability for agroecotourism to help support goals of food security, beyond acting only as a tool for economic diversification, but also by influencing other community capitals. The study also adds to the literature on agroecotourism, tourism development in socialist contexts, and the way in which tourism can help support and grow sustainable agriculture.
Analog/RF wonderland: Circuit and technology co-optimization in advanced FinFET technology

Stacked-gate is one of the most popular solutions used in mismatch-sensitive circuits in FinFET technology. A Bandgap circuit using stacked-gate formed by 150 short-channel devices to achieve high accuracy is demonstrated. Adding uniform surrounding patterns to the target MOS array, the device mismatch caused by DGE (density gradient effect) can be cancelled. In low-power RF LNA and VCO, dc power reductions are achieved. The near-threshold-voltage (NTV) design technique is adopted for further 50% RF power reduction.
A Closer Look at Fractional Flow Reserve in Complex Anatomic Subsets: Left Main Disease, Bifurcation Lesions, and Saphenous Vein Grafts

Fractional flow reserve (FFR) is a well-validated tool for determining the functional significance of a coronary artery stenosis, facilitating clinical decisions regarding the need for revascularization. FFR-guided revascularization improves clinical and economic outcomes. However, its application remains challenging in certain complex anatomic subsets, including left main coronary artery stenosis, bifurcation disease, and saphenous vein graft disease. This article reviews recent data supporting the use of FFR in these complex anatomic subsets.
Impact of single and dual neoadjuvant HER2-directed therapy on clinical outcomes among patients with HER2-positive breast cancer (BC).

647 Background: While the addition of trastuzumab to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (CTX) is well established for HER2+ BC, the use of dual agent HER2 blockade in the preoperative setting is not consider...
Interrogating islets in health and disease with single-cell technologies.

Background Blood glucose levels are tightly controlled by the coordinated actions of hormone-producing endocrine cells that reside in pancreatic islets. Islet cell malfunction underlies diabetes development and progression. Due to the cellular heterogeneity within islets, it has been challenging to uncover how specific islet cells contribute to glucose homeostasis and diabetes pathogenesis. Recent advances in single-cell technologies and computational methods have opened up new avenues to resolve islet heterogeneity and study islet cell states in health and disease.
The Pedagogy of the Student: Reclaiming Agency in Receptive Subject-Positions

In this article, I bring feminist theories, queer theories, and disability studies into dialogue with critical pedagogy by exploring the ways in which Freire constructs receptivity on the part of students as undesireable. Using Freire’s schema of objectification, I first look at how disabled people are objectified and then use this as a springboard for exploring Freire’s figuration of the student as a passive receptacle of knowledge. Making an analogy between Freire’s receptacle-students and its roots in Plato’s theory of the receptacle, I draw upon feminist theorists in order to challenge prevailing conceptions of the receptacle and to argue for tactically claiming receptivity as a subject position. Rather than merely taking on an active, masculine role, I suggest that both students and teachers need to be receptive to the Other and to the possibilities of being changed by the knowledge that they receive. Finally, I use these ideas of receptivity to explore the possibility for disabled subject positions within critical pedagogy.
Feelings Bound and Freed: Wandering and Wonder on Buddhist Pathways

AbstractIn fourteenth-century Tibet, Longchen Rabjam drew from classic Indian Buddhist writing and early Dzogchen tantric poetry to articulate unique features of the Great Completeness (Dzogchen] tradition. I trace here the pivotal shifts he describes: he upturns classic Buddhist views of self and senses. For the senses are not problems, they are portals to reality. The state of awakening, enlightened mind, bodhicitta, is not a goal to achieve, but the way things are. The path does not go anywhere, it simply opens. Wisdom, the ultimate truth, suffuses mind, body and world. Recognising this wisdom evokes in practitioners feelings of wonder, amusement and spacious delight. Longchenpa’s narrative is rooted in confidence that these qualities are so natural that they are bound to be elicited through practice. Therefore, in closing, I connect some of his key points with a more contemporary manner of eliciting feeling and knowing that otherwise remains occult to us.
Functional Behavior Assessment Rating Scales: Intrarater Reliability with Students with Emotional or Behavioral Disorders

This study evaluated the intrarater reliability of two functional behavior assessment rat- ing scales: the Motivation Assessment Scale and the Problem Behavior Questionnaire. Teachers rated 30 students from 10 self-contained classrooms for students with emotional or behavioral dis- orders on three separate occasions using both rating scales. Pearson correlation coefficients and exact and adjacent agreement percentages indicated variable and inconsistent ratings across admin- istrations and rating scales. The authors discuss possible reasons for inconsistencies, as well as implications for practice and future research.
Some physiologic effects of protein ingestion in pregnancy

Plasma insulin and growth hormone concentrations were measured in healthy females during the various stages of gestation following the ingestion of a protein meal. Decreased insulin and glucose responses were found after oral protein ingestion and were similar to the values obtained in pregnancy following the intravenous administration of amino acids. Plasma growth hormone responses were greater than normal during the first 28 weeks of gestation, but were blunted thereafter. Thus, the ingestion of protein during pregnancy is followed by increments in insulin and growth hormone not unlike those found following an arginine infusion in pregnancy. The responses are, however, different from those found in the nonpregnant state.