cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of peptides from amino acids and ATP with lysine-rich proteinoid

Lysine-rich proteinoids in aqueous solution catalyze the formation of peptides from free amino acids and ATP. This catalytic activity is not found in acidic proteinoids, even though the latter contain some basic amino acid. The pH optimum for the synthesis is about 11, but is appreciable below 8 and above 13. Temperature data indicate an optimum at 20 degrees C or above, with little increase in rate to 60 degrees C. Pyrophosphate can be used instead of ATP, with lesser yields resulting. The ATP-aided syntheses of peptides in aqueous solution occur with several types of proteinous amino acid.
Systematic survey of opinion regarding the thoracic surgery residency.

Abstract To summarize this rather wide-ranging study, let us review the high points. The future practice of thoracic factors and will have even greater technological dimensions. To do this work, we must continue to attract high-caliber individuals, and this is test accomplished by the early and continuing involvement in the educational process of strong role models from our field. These future surgeons must be motivated to do good work and should have high ethical standards as well as maturity and high intelligence. Experienced, involved faculty leading the residents through a broad program that offers graduated assumption of clinical and leadership responsibilities will facilitate the development of mature clinical judgment. Residents must be taught the clinical skills necessary to do all thoracic operations, leaving subspecialization to post-residency fellowships. The educational program should be humane in its demands and collegial in its application. It should incorporate experiences beyond the operating room, including the opportunity to read, think, and interact with local mentors and colleagues from around the country. The requirements of certification should not be so rigid as to preclude the development of different pathways to the same end. Likewise, although the accreditation process must protect the resident from exploitation, it must not be so restrictive that it does not allow for educational innovation and justifiable differences among programs. These are the thoughtful opinions of our colleagues. They deserve serious consideration.
The “Brittle Response” to Parkinson’s Disease Medications: Characterization and Response to Deep Brain Stimulation

Objective Formulate a definition and describe the clinical characteristics of PD patients with a “brittle response” (BR) to medications versus a “non-brittle response” (NBR), and characterize the use of DBS for this population. Methods An UF IRB approved protocol used a retrospective chart review of 400 consecutive PD patients presenting to the UF Center for Movement Disorders and Neurorestoration. Patient records were anonymized and de-identified prior to analysis. SPSS statistics were used to analyze data. Results Of 345 included patients, 19 (5.5%) met criteria for BR PD. The BR group was comprised of 58% females, compared to 29% in the NBR group (P = .008). The former had a mean age of 63.4 compared to 68.1 in the latter. BR patients had lower mean weight (63.5 vs. 79.6, P = <.001), longer mean disease duration (12.6 vs. 8.9 years, P = .003), and had been on LD for more years compared to NBR patients (9.8 vs. 5.9, P = .001). UPDRS motor scores were higher (40.4 vs. 30.0, P = .001) in BR patients. No differences were observed regarding the Schwab and England scale, PDQ-39, and BDI-II. Sixty-three percent of the BR group had undergone DBS surgery compared to 18% (P = .001). Dyskinesias were more common, severe, and more often painful (P = <.001) in the BR group. There was an overall positive benefit from DBS. Conclusion BR PD occurred more commonly in female patients with a low body weight. Patients with longer disease duration and longer duration of LD therapy were also at risk. The BR group responded well to DBS.
Characterization of neurotransmitter receptor-mediated phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis in the rat hippocampus

Abstract The stimulation of phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis by various neurotransmitter agonists was investigated in rat hippocampal slices using a rapid and sensitive radioisotopic method. Slices were preincubated with [3H]-myo-inositol and the accumulation of [3H]-myo-inositol-1-phosphate induced by various agonists was determined in the presence of 10 mM lithium. The latter resulted in a marked amplification of the response to all agonists tested. The agonist-induced accumulation of [−3H]-myo-inositol-1-phosphate was dependent on tissue, lithium, [3H]-myo-inositol concentration, as well as incubation time. The hydrolysis of phosphatidylinositol in hippocampal slices is induced by carbachol, serotonin, norepinephrine and phenylephrine. The carbachol-induced response is sensitive to atropine, a muscarinic-cholinergic antagonist, but not mecamylamine a nicotinic-cholinergic antagonist, while that of norepinephrine is blocked by the αl adrenoreceptor antagonist prazosin, but not the specific α2 antagonist Rx 781094. Phenylephrine, another α1 adrenoreceptor agonist produced a partial or submaximal response when compared to norepinephrine. The concentration response curve for serotonin-induced phosphatidylinositol hydrolysis is bimodal and the effect is blocked by metergoline, but not mianserin, indicating that the effect of serotonin in the hippocampus may be mediated by 5HTl receptors. Our results suggest that the measurement of agonist-induced [3H]-myo-inositol-1-phosphate accumulation, in the presence of lithium, represents a sensitive method for studying a number of receptor-mediated events in brain.
"Pure" cutaneous histiocytosis-X.

The case histories of two young children who experienced skin rashes involving various areas of the body are reported. The diagnosis of pure cutaneous histiocytosis-X was established after extensive studies revealed no other organ involvement. The patients were treated with oral corticosteroids. Currently, both children are in good health, show no evidence of disease, and have been followed over a four-to-five-year period. Therapy with corticosteroids may not be indicated with pure cutaneous histiocytosis-X unless there is evidence of extracutaneous dissemination or rapid progression of the disease.
Colouterine fistula secondary to diverticulitis.

Colouterine fistula complicating diverticulitis is rare. Our experience with two patients, one with chronic vaginal discharge and the other with acute overwhelming sepsis, emphasizes the wide spectrum of clinical presentations that may accompany this entity. In patients with chronic symptoms, surgery is indicated to forestall further local infectious complications, and a single-stage sigmoid resection without hysterectomy may be adequate. If malignancy cannot be excluded, a single-stageen bloc resection of the uterus and colon is the procedure of choice. Hysterectomy may also be mandatory to extirpate a nidus of acute infection. When severe local inflammation or obstruction mandate urgent operation, a two-stage procedure involving resection and end colostomy, followed by reanastomosis at a later time, is safest and most effective.
Audi on Rationality: Background Beliefs, Arational Enjoyment, and the Rationality of Altruism

With his characteristic clarity, rigor, sophistication, and phenomenological subtlety, Audi presents a rich, plausible, and comprehensive overview of the structure of both theoretical (epistemic) and practical rationality. The issues he raises are too deep and far-ranging to respond to with anything but a few suggestive remarks. After suggesting an alternative to Audi's way of looking at the relationship between epistemic and theoretical rationality, I will focus on two main issues. The first concerns Audi's criticism of traditional ver
Bending modified J – Q theory and crack-tip constraint quantification

It is well known that the J–Q theory can characterize the crack-tip fields and quantify constraint levels for various geometry and loading configurations in elastic–plastic materials, but it fails at bending-dominant large deformation. This drawback seriously restricts its applications to fracture constraint analysis. A modification of J–Q theory is developed as a three-term solution with an additional term to address the global bending stress to offset this restriction. The nonlinear bending stress is approximately linearized in the region of interest under large-scale yielding (LSY), with the linearization factor determined using a two-point matching method at each loading for a specific cracked geometry in bending. To validate the proposed solution, detailed elastic–plastic finite element analysis (FEA) is conducted under plane strain conditions for three conventional bending specimens with different crack lengths for X80 pipeline steel. These include single edge notched bend (SENB), single edge notched tension (SENT) and compact tension (CT) specimens from small-scale yielding (SSY) to LSY. Results show that the bending modified J–Q solution can well match FEA results of crack-tip stress fields for all bending specimens at all deformation levels from SSY to LSY, with the modified Q being a load- and distance-independent constraint parameter under LSY. Therefore, the modified parameter Q can be effectively used to quantify crack-tip constraint for bending geometries. Its application to fracture constraint analysis is demonstrated by determining constraint corrected J–R curves.
Darwinian evolution can follow only very few mutational paths to fitter proteins.

Five point mutations in a particular β-lactamase allele jointly increase bacterial resistance to a clinically important antibiotic by a factor of ∼100,000. In principle, evolution to this high-resistance β-lactamase might follow any of the 120 mutational trajectories linking these alleles. However, we demonstrate that 102 trajectories are inaccessible to Darwinian selection and that many of the remaining trajectories have negligible probabilities of realization, because four of these five mutations fail to increase drug resistance in some combinations. Pervasive biophysical pleiotropy within the β-lactamase seems to be responsible, and because such pleiotropy appears to be a general property of missense mutations, we conclude that much protein evolution will be similarly constrained. This implies that the protein tape of life may be largely reproducible and even predictable.
Influence of Time of Day on Responses to the Profile of Mood States

Total mood disturbance measured using the Profile of Mood States with the “… how you have been feeling this past week …” directional set was greater when reported in the morning than in the afterno...
Artificial neural networks and model-based recognition of 3-D objects from 2-D images

A computer vision system is developed for 3-D object recognition using artificial neural networks and a knowledge-based top-down feedback analysis system. This computer vision system can adequately analyze an incomplete edge map provided by a low-level processor for 3-D representation and recognition using key features. The key features are selected using a priority assignment and then used in an artificial neural network for matching with model key features. The result of such matching is utilized in generating the model-driven top-down feedback analysis. From the incomplete edge map we try to pick a candidate pattern utilizing the key feature priority assignment. The highest priority is given for the most connected node and associated features. The features are space invariant structures and sets of orientation for edge primitives. These features are now mapped into real numbers. A Hopfield network is then applied with two levels of matching to reduce the search time. The first match is to choose the class of possible model, the second match is then to find the model closest to the data patterns. This model is then rotated in 3-D to find the best match with the incomplete edge patterns and to provide the additional features in 3-D. In the case of multiple objects, a dynamically interconnected search strategy is designed to recognize objects using one pattern at a time. This strategy is also useful in recognizing occluded objects. The experimental results presented show the capability and effectiveness of this system.
Coulombic Modified Effective-Range Theory for Long-Range Effective Potentials

Coulombic modified effective range theory for long range effective potentials of charged particle scattered by neutral polarizable system
Interaction of amitriptyline with muscarinic receptor subtypes in the rat brain.

Abstract The affinity of amitriptyline for muscarinic receptors in rat brain areas was studied using autoradiographic techniques including image analysis. As shown by competitive inhibition of [ 3 H]- l -quinuclidinyl benzilate binding, amitriptyline was found to be a potent inhibitor of muscarinic receptors throughout the rat brain. Muscarinic receptors in the external layers of the cortex displayed a high affinity for amitriptyline ( IC 50 = 65.8 ± 2.1 nM), while the hippocampal regions had somewhat lower affinities (e.g. IC 50 = 96.3 ± 3.4 nM). Amitriptyline bound with lower affinity in the thalamus and various midbrain regions, such as the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus and the superior colliculus, which had IC 50 values of 112 ± 6.8 and 117 ± 32.6 nM, respectively. Other midbrain regions displayed higher affinities, for example, the substantia nigra had an IC 50 value of 62.8 ± 0.9 nM. The data show that amitriptyline binds with high affinity to muscarinic receptors with a modest subtype selectivity that is unlike that of either pirenzepine or AF-DX 116. In addition, amitriptyline at concentrations of 10 nM -1 μM antagonized the oxotremorine-induced inhibition of acetylcholine release in cortical nerve endings, demonstrating activity at M 2 autoreceptors.
Transmissible agent associated with 26 types of experimental mouse neoplasms.

A transmissible agent or factor has been found to be associated with all transplanted and spontaneous experimental tumors examined. This observation was made possible by utilization of a biochemical response of normal animals when inoculated with plasma or organ extracts from tumor-bearing hosts. This transmissible enzymic "lesion" is expressed by a five- to tenfold increase in the plasma lactic dehydrogenase activity of the injected normal test animals. The factor is heat labile, passes through bacteria-retaining filters, but is nondialyzable. It is partially sedimented by centrifugation at 100,000g for 1 hour.
A COMPUTATIONAL APPROACH TO CHANDRASEKHAR'S PLANETARY PROBLEM,

Abstract Chandrasekhar's planetary problem (1) is reformulated using an initial-value approach. The problem concerns the diffuse reflection of radiation from a finite atmosphere with a reflecting surface at the bottom. In the direct problem, the angular distribution of multiple-scattered radiation is computationally obtained as the solution of an initial-value problem for ordinary differential equations for S, a generalization of the Chandrasekhar scattering function for an inhomogeneous atmosphere. In the inverse planetary problem, the properties of the atmosphere and the surface are estimated, given the angular distribution of scattered radiation. The quasilinearization technique for nonlinear multipoint boundary-value problems provides an effective method for obtaining a computational solution to the inverse problem.
Do home visiting services received during pregnancy improve birth outcomes? Findings from Virginia PRAMS 2007-2008.

Objectives Reducing poor birth outcomes are national and state priorities. At the national level participation in home visiting services has gained momentum with the recent appropriation of federal funds for states to implement evidence-based maternal and child health home visiting programs. The effects of having a home visit are unknown at the state level. Design and sample Using cross-sectional data from 2007 to 2008 Virginia Pregnancy Risk Assessment and Monitoring System (PRAMS), maternal and infant outcomes were examined. Women who had a home visit during pregnancy were assigned into the home visiting (HV) participation group and those who did not were assigned to the HV Comparison group and used for the analysis. Measures Bivariate analyses, Rao-Scott chi square tests, and multivariate logistic regression measured and quantified the association between HV participation and outcomes. Results The HV Participation group were 87.5% less likely to have a low birth weight infant (0.13, 95% CI: 0.020, 0.78), 4.5 times more likely to initiate breastfeeding (aOR: 4.5, 95% CI: 1.05, 19.54), and 39 times more likely to use contraceptives postpartum (aOR: 38.55, 95% CI: 3.14, 473.21). Conclusions Receiving home visiting services during pregnancy increased breastfeeding initiation and postpartum contraceptive use while reducing the risk of low birth weight.
(New York: Vintage) pp. 45–55.

Over the past generation seaports have undergone a transformation from traditional cargo handling to logistical support centers and changed from bulk shipping and processing to high value-added man...
Asymptotic Behavior of the Height in a Digital Search Tree and the Longest Phrase of the Lempel--Ziv Scheme

We study the height of a digital search tree (DST) built from n random strings generated by an unbiased memoryless source (i.e., all symbols are equally likely). We shall argue that the height of such a tree is equivalent to the length of the longest phrase in the Lempel--Ziv parsing scheme that partitions a random sequence into n phrases. We also analyze the longest phrase in the Lempel--Ziv scheme in which a string of fixed length m is parsed into a random number of phrases. In the course of our analysis, we shall identify four natural regions of the height distribution and characterize them asymptotically for large n. In particular, for the region where most of the probability mass is concentrated, the asymptotic distribution of the height exhibits an exponential of a Gaussian distribution (with an oscillating term) around the most probable value $k_1 = \lfloor \log_2 n + \sqrt{2\log_2 n} - \log_2 ( \sqrt{2 \log_2 n} ) + \frac{1}{\log 2} - \frac{1}{2} \rfloor +1$. More precisely, we shall prove that the asymptotic distribution of a DST is concentrated on either the one point k1 or the two points k1-1 and k1, which actually proves (slightly modified) Kesten's conjecture quoted in [Probab. Theory Related Fields, 79 (1988), pp. 509--542]. Finally, we compare our findings for DST with the asymptotic distributions of the height for other digital trees such as tries and PATRICIA tries. We derive these results by a combination of analytic methods such as generating functions, Laplace transform, the saddle point method, and ideas of applied mathematics such as linearization, asymptotic matching, and the WKB method. Our analysis makes certain assumptions about the forms of some of the asymptotic expansions as well as their asymptotic matching. We also present detailed numerical verification of our results.
Detection of human T-lymphocyte antigens (HTLA antigens) on thymosin-inducible T-cell precursors.

Suspensions of human peripheral blood lymphocytes were enriched for E SIg− null cells expressing either HTLA or HBLA antigens. These enriched suspensions were then tested for responsiveness to the activation of E-rosette formation by thymosin. Thymosin induced some HTLA+ E−SIg− but not HBLA+ E−SIg− cells to form E rosettes. Therefore, the HTLA+ null cell subset appears to contain the immediated precursors of E+ T cells.
Parental Influences on African American Adolescent Marijuana Use

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to examine the impact of parental factors on annual (past year) marijuana use in African American youth within the Greater Cincinnati area. The following research questions were examined for this study: (1) Do family structure, parental education and parental job status impact African American adolescent marijuana use? (2) Does impact of these variables differ based on sex and grade? Participants were African American students in 7th through 12th grade (n = 7488) in schools within the Greater Cincinnati area. Logistic regression analyses revealed that annual marijuana use differed based on family structure, parental education, and parental job status. More specifically, annual marijuana use was lowest among students who lived with both of their biological parents, had parents who had some college experience and had parents who were employed. Findings should be considered by health educators and prevention specialists when developing programs and efforts to prevent you...
DNA sequencing using a four-color confocal fluorescence capillary array scanner

The design, construction and operation of a four-color capillary array electrophoresis scanner are presented. The use of sensitive energy transfer primers facilitates four-color detection of the DNA sequencing fragments following excitation at a single laser wavelength (488 nm). This scanner collects fluorescence data from up to 25 capillaries in parallel. The resulting four-color image files are automatically reduced to four-color line plots, and a base-calling program (Sax) is used to call the sequence. The performance of this system for DNA sequencing is demonstrated by examining twelve different motifs of the hypervariable region I of human mitochondrial (mt) DNA obtained from a Sierra Leone population.
“PTL Club” viewer uses and gratifications

Recent research involving the audience for religious fare has isolated three distinctive types of religious television viewers—ritualized (e.g., habitual, religious), instrumental (e.g., information‐seeking, goal‐oriented), and reactionary (e.g., dissatisfied with secular fare). This investigation examined the particular patterns of viewing and viewing motivations for the “PTL Club,” in light of the recent PTL scandal. A canonical correlation analysis extracted the ritualized user and a modified version (curious consumer) of the instrumental user only. Implications pertaining to the future of religious television are discussed.
Histidine-tag-directed chromophores for tracer analyses in the analytical ultracentrifuge.

Many recombinant proteins carry an oligohistidine (HisX)-tag that allows their purification by immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC). This tag can be exploited for the site-specific attachment of chromophores and fluorophores, using the same metal ion–nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) coordination chemistry that forms the basis of popular versions of IMAC. Labeling proteins in this way can allow their detection at wavelengths outside of the absorption envelopes of un-modified proteins and nucleic acids. Here we describe use of this technology in tracer sedimentation experiments that can be performed in a standard analytical ultracentrifuge equipped with absorbance or fluorescence optics. Examples include sedimentation velocity in the presence of low molecular weight chromophoric solutes, sedimentation equilibrium in the presence of high concentrations of background protein and selective labeling to simplify the assignment of species in a complex interacting mixture.
CD18 antibody treatment limits early myocardial reperfusion injury after initial leukocyte deposition.

Abstract Following myocardial ischemia, initial reperfusion with whole blood impairs the recovery of ventricular function. The exact mechanisms underlying early myocardial reperfusion injury are not clear, but leukocytes play an important role. In this study, we tested if treating the initial blood reperfusate with a monoclonal antibody (CL26) against the leukocyte adhesion protein CD18 would reduce the leukocyte contribution to early reperfusion injury. We reasoned that blocking CD18 would reduce the initial retention of leukocytes in the heart and thereby limit the inflammatory response. Rat hearts were isolated and perfused at constant flow with a red cell-rich solution (K2RBC). The perfusate was not recirculated. Baseline measures were made of coronary flow, perfusion pressure, and ventricular pump function. No-flow, normothermic ischemia was induced for 30 min, followed immediately by reperfusion, at the preischemic flowrate, with diluted whole blood (DWB, treated with either vehicle or CL26). Reperfusion was continued with K2RBC for 40 min more, during which postischemic measures were made. We found that the cardiac retention of leukocytes was not significantly different for the two groups, nor were the recoveries of ventricular function. Later in reperfusion (R35), the coronary blood flowrate and the coronary vascular resistances were not different; however, the recoveries of ventricular pump function were significantly different (+dP/dt @ R35 (%Pre-I): Vehicle: 27 ± 9% (n= 8); CL26: 51 ± 6% (n= 7);P
IAR4, a Gene Required for Auxin Conjugate Sensitivity in Arabidopsis, Encodes a Pyruvate Dehydrogenase E1α Homolog

The formation and hydrolysis of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) conjugates represent a potentially important means for plants to regulate IAA levels and thereby auxin responses. The identification and characterization of mutants defective in these processes is advancing the understanding of auxin regulation and response. Here we report the isolation and characterization of the Arabidopsis iar4 mutant, which has reduced sensitivity to several IAA-amino acid conjugates. iar4 is less sensitive to a synthetic auxin and low concentrations of an ethylene precursor but responds to free IAA and other hormones tested similarly to wild type. The gene defective in iar4 encodes a homolog of the E1α-subunit of mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase, which converts pyruvate to acetyl-coenzyme A. We did not detect glycolysis or Krebs-cycle-related defects in the iar4 mutant, and a T-DNA insertion in the IAR4 coding sequence conferred similar phenotypes as the originally identified missense allele. In contrast, we found that disruption of the previously described mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase E1α-subunit does not alter IAA-Ala responsiveness or confer any obvious phenotypes. It is possible that IAR4 acts in the conversion of indole-3-pyruvate to indole-3-acetyl-coenzyme A, which is a potential precursor of IAA and IAA conjugates.
Antibacterial activity in the coelomic fluid of a marine annelid, Glycera dibranchiata

Abstract The coelomic fluid of the polychaete Glycera dibranchiata contained a naturally occurring antibacterial factor, probably serving as part of the organism's defense against bacterial infection. This factor was active against several Gram-negative bacteria, including Serratia marcescens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and certain Escherichia coli strains. Quantitative methods to measure this activity were developed. This permitted study of some of its fundamental properties such as dose response, kinetics, and temperature sensitivity. Preliminary data suggested that the antibacterial factor was a heat-labile protein, unrelated to lysozyme. This factor differed from previously described bacteriolytic substances of invertebrate origin and may represent a new type of antimicrobial protein.
Cell adhesion and guidance by micropost-array chemical sensors

An array of ~50,000 individual polymeric micropost sensors was patterned across a glass coverslip by a photoimprint lithographic technique. Individual micropost sensors were ~3-micrometers tall and ~8-micrometers wide. The O2-sensitive micropost array sensors (MPASs) comprised a ruthenium complex encapsulated in a gas permeable photopolymerizable siloxane. The pH-sensitive MPASs comprised a fluorescein conjugate encapsulated in a photocrosslinkable poly(vinyl alcohol)-based polymer. PO2 and pH were quantitated by acquiring MPAS luminescence images with an epifluorescence microscope/charge coupled device imaging system. O2-sensitive MPASs displayed linear Stern-Volmer quenching behavior with a maximum Io/I of ~8.6. pH-sensitive MPASs displayed sigmoidal calibration curves with a pKa of ~5.8. The adhesion of undifferentiated rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells across these two polymeric surface types was investigated. The greatest PC12 cell proliferation and adhesion occurred across the poly(vinyl alcohol)-based micropost arrays relative to planar poly(vinyl alcohol)-based surfaces and both patterned and planar siloxane surfaces. An additional advantage of the patterned MPAS layers relative to planar sensing layers was the ability to direct the growth of biological cells. Preliminary data is presented whereby nerve growth factor-differentiated PC12 cells grew neurite-like processes that extended along paths defined by the micropost architecture.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Effects of eribulin, vincristine, paclitaxel and ixabepilone on fast axonal transport and kinesin-1 driven microtubule gliding: implications for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a serious, painful and dose-limiting side effect of cancer drugs that target microtubules. The mechanisms underlying the neuronal damage are unknown, but may include disruption of fast axonal transport, an essential microtubule-based process that moves cellular components over long distances between neuronal cell bodies and nerve terminals. This idea is supported by the “dying back” pattern of degeneration observed in CIPN, and by the selective vulnerability of sensory neurons bearing the longest axonal projections. In this study, we test the hypothesis that microtubule-targeting drugs disrupt fast axonal transport using vesicle motility assays in isolated squid axoplasm and a cell-free microtubule gliding assay with defined components. We compare four clinically-used drugs, eribulin, vincristine, paclitaxel and ixabepilone. Of these, eribulin is associated with a relatively low incidence of severe neuropathy, while vincristine has a relatively high incidence. In vesicle motility assays, we found that all four drugs inhibited anterograde (conventional kinesin-dependent) fast axonal transport, with the potency being vincristine = ixabepilone > paclitaxel = eribulin. Interestingly, eribulin and paclitaxel did not inhibit retrograde (cytoplasmic dynein-dependent) fast axonal transport, in contrast to vincristine and ixabepilone. Similarly, vincristine and ixabepilone both exerted significant inhibitory effects in an in vitro microtubule gliding assay consisting of recombinant kinesin (kinesin-1) and microtubules composed of purified bovine brain tubulin, whereas paclitaxel and eribulin had negligible effects. Our results suggest that (i) inhibition of microtubule-based fast axonal transport may be a significant contributor to neurotoxicity induced by microtubule-targeting drugs, and (ii) that individual microtubule-targeting drugs affect fast axonal transport through different mechanisms.
Effects of 5-Bromodeoxyuridine and 5-Iododeoxyuridine on a Latent Herpes Simplex Virus Infection

A latent herpes simplex virus infection was established in rabbit kidney cells. Treatment of the cells with 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine after the latent infection was established had no effect on the rate of virus recovery but did extend the latent period before active virus growth resumed. In contrast to this, treatment of cells with 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine or 5-iodo-2-deoxyuridine prior to infection with virus increased the subsequent rate of virus recovery.
Human interaction moderates plasma cortisol and behavioral responses of dogs to shelter housing

Housing in an animal shelter is a stressful experience for dogs. This study examined the effects of different forms of human interaction on concentrations of circulating cortisol and stress-related behaviors of dogs within 40 h of admittance to a county animal shelter. Blood samples were collected before and after 30-min sessions in a secluded area in which dogs received one of three forms of human interaction: exposure to a passive human, petting, or play. Controls were either exposed to the secluded area alone, or remained in the general housing area. There was a substantial and near uniform reduction in plasma cortisol concentrations from pretest to post-test in all three conditions receiving human interaction, but not in control conditions. Human interaction also reduced behavioral signs of excitation/social solicitation (vocalizing) and fear (panting). Finally, pretest cortisol levels were found to predict levels of panting and another fear-related behavior (tongue protrusions) that dogs exhibited during subsequent testing. The findings suggest practical means of reducing stress, and potentially of improving the welfare, of dogs in shelters.
Mycoflora associated with slash-pine seeds from cones collected at seed orchards and cone-processing facilities in the south-eastern USA.

Summary A diverse mycoflora was associated with slash-pine seeds from cones obtained at seed orchards and cone-processing facilities in the southeastern USA. Potentially pathogenic fungi, including Lasiodiplodia tbeobromae, Sphaeropsis sapinea, and Fusarium spp., were isolated from seeds of cones obtained at all locations. Fusarium proliferatum and F. semitectum were the Fusarium spp. most often associated with seeds; F. subglutinans was rarely isolated. Many other species of fungi were associated with seeds from all locations. Incidence of fungus-damaged seeds ranged from 2 to 11% among collection sites. Disease incidence was found to increase during cone storage. Types of fungi and the incidence of fungus-damaged seeds were similar for damaged/discoloured cones and apparently healthy cones. The potential for slash-pine seeds to become colonized by pathogenic fungi, such as S. sapinea and the various Fusarium spp., could have important implications for the establishment of these fungi in forest-tree nurseries, as well as their introduction into foreign countries.
On the relations between complex systems and the factorial model of soil formation (with Discussion)

The application of nonlinear dynamical systems (NDS) theory to pedology involves the interaction of complex systems theory, which has not yet been widely applied to field-oriented sciences such as pedology and soil science, where applications of NDS theory are recent and relatively rare. The gap between pedologists and systems theorists can be narrowed by reconsidering Hans Jenny's factors of soil formation model. The latter is an inherently holistic, systems-oriented approach and evidences a concern (in common with NDS theory) with qualitative changes in (soil) system states. Jenny's own reformulation of the original state factor model assigns a strong role to initial conditions and historical contingency, implicitly recognizing the possibilities of self-organization and deterministic chaos. Many fundamental concepts from nonlinear dynamics are thus already embedded in familiar pedologic theory, making the former more accessible to pedologists. Similarly, the links between NDS and soil state factor theory should help nonlinear systems theorists conceptualize the real-world implications and limitations of NDS theory on and in the ground.
0.1 /spl mu/m RFCMOS on high resistivity substrates for system on chip (SOC) applications

This paper describes the impact of substrate resistivity on the key components of the radio frequency (RF) CMOS for the system on chip (SOC) applications. The comparison includes the transistor, inductor, capacitor, noise isolation, latch-up as well as the well-to-well isolation in a 0.1 /spl mu/m (physical gate length) CMOS technology.
A Process-Oriented Perspective on the Alignment of Information Technology and Business Strategy

Even after a decade of research and discussion, strategic alignment, denoting the fit between information technology (IT) and business strategy, remains an enduring challenge for firms worldwide. In this paper, we go beyond the dominant firm-level alignment paradigm by utilizing a value disciplines perspective on strategic foci to conceptualize alignment at the process level. Theory would then suggest that alignment should be tightest in processes that are considered critical to each firm's strategic focus. Using data from matched surveys of IT and business executives at 241 firms, we detect support for this locus of alignment argument when alignment is identified using profile deviation or moderation. We also find a positive link between alignment and perceived IT business value in each of five primary processes in the value chain. By bringing a process-level view to the study of alignment and its impacts, we go beyond a discussion on the extent of fit-a cornerstone of the literature-to whether firms are pursuing the right type of fit for the particular mix of processes underlying their strategy. In this way, a process-level perspective can foster a deeper and more meaningful understanding of how alignment affects firm performance. Our results also show a need for managers to reconsider the steps taken to align IT and business strategy by looking more closely at how IT can support individual processes rather than at how IT can support an entire strategy.
Academic Measures Available in Sophomore Year can Predict Application and Admission to Dietetic Supervised Practice Programs

Abstract The purpose of the study was to determine whether college grade point average (GPA) and application and admission to supervised practice programs could be predicted from measures available in the sophomore year. The sample consisted of 193 graduates of a didactic program in a research university in class years 1986 to 1993. Variables tested included GPA in required dietetics program courses, SAT scores, high school class rank, and age. Prediction equations were developed using data from class years 1986 to 1992 and tested on subjects in class year 1993. Subjects who applied to and were admitted to supervised practice programs had significantly higher GPAs. In class years 1986 to 1992, GPAs and SAT math scores of sophomores explained 88% of the variance in the college GPA, whereas the sophomore GPA for professional courses correctly classified 63% of applicants and 73% of admitted subjects. Using these prediction equations for the class of 1993, college GPA of subjects was accurately predicted and 84% of applicants and 75% of admitted subjects were correctly classified. The results of this study provide valuable information for didactic program directors to counsel students into or out of a dietetics program, and could decrease the number of graduates who do not complete registration requirements. J Am Diet Assoc. 1995; 95:904–907 .
Standard Score Comparison 2.0: Second-generation learning disability regression software

As states increasingly adopt actuarial models to aid learning disability (LD) identification, microcomputer programs are being used to accurately measure the primary LD criterion: severe discrepancies between IQ and achievement. First-generation programs offered little flexibility in regression parameters and user-defined options. This paper describes Standard Score Comparison 2.0 (SSC 2.0), a second-generation regression program that calculates multiple discrepancies, and provides options for Type I error rates, SEM confidence levels, correction for multiple comparisons, and the cut-off value that defines severe discrepancy. Application of SSC 2.0 to non-LD areas and potential features of third-generation software are discussed.
Discovering the RNA Double Helix and Hybridization

The discovery, 50 years ago, that RNA could form a double helix made possible a number of advances, including an understanding that led, decades later, to the discovery of microRNAs and RNA interference. Remarkably, the first nucleic acid hybridization reaction was also described in the same report.
Electrogeochemical sampling with NEOCHIM — results of tests over buried gold deposits

Abstract Electrogeochemical extraction methods are based on the migration of ions in an electric field. Ions present in soil moisture are transported by an applied current into fluids contained in special electrodes placed on the soil. The fluids are then collected and analyzed. Extractions are governed by Faraday's and Ohm's laws and are modeled by the operation of a simple Hittorf transference apparatus. Calculations show that the volume of soil sampled in an ideal electrogeochemical extraction can be orders of magnitude greater than the volumes used in more popular geochemical extraction methods, although this has not been verified experimentally. chim is a method of in-situ electrogeochemical extraction that was developed in the former Soviet Union and has been tested and applied internationally to exploration for buried mineral deposits. Tests carried out at the United States Geological Survey ( usgs ) indicated that there were problems inherent in the use of chim technology. The cause of the problems was determined to be the diffusion of acid from the conventional electrode into the soil. The neochim electrode incorporates two compartments and a salt bridge in a design that inhibits diffusion of acid and enables the collection of anions or cations. Tests over a gold-enriched vein in Colorado and over buried, Carlin-type, disseminated gold deposits in northern Nevada show that there are similarities and differences between neochim results and those by partial extractions of soils which include simple extractions with water, dilute acids and solutions of salts used as collector fluids in the electrodes. Results of both differ from the results obtained by total chemical digestion. The results indicate that neochim responds to mineralized faults associated with disseminated gold deposits whereas partial and total chemical extraction methods do not. This suggests that faults are favored channels for the upward migration of metals and that neochim may be more effective in exploration for the deposits. It defines anomalies that are often narrow and intense, an observation previously made by chim researchers. The field tests show that neochim is less affected by surface contamination. A test over the Mike disseminated gold deposit indicates that the method may not be effective for locating deposits with impermeable cover. Faradaic extraction efficiencies of 20–30%, or more, are frequently achieved with neochim and the method generally shows good reproducibility, especially in extraction of major cations. However, ions of other metals that are useful in exploration, including Au and As, may be collected in low and temporally variable concentrations. The reason for this variability is unclear and requires further investigation.
Mood stabilizers, glycogen synthase kinase-3β and cell survival

Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β) is a central figure in many intracellular signaling systems and is directly regulated by lithium. Substantial evidence now indicates that an important property of the mood stabilizer, lithium, is to influence GSK3β-linked signaling pathways. This raises the possibility that other mood stabilizers act in a similar manner, which may include modulation of signaling systems leading to GSK3β, direct regulation of GSK3β or regulation of signaling intermediates downstream of GSK3β. Downstream targets of GSK3β, and thus potential targets of mood stabilizers, are several key transcription factors, including β-catenin, AP-1, cyclic AMP-response element binding protein, NFκB, Myc, heat shock factor-1, nuclear factor of activated T-cells and CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins. GSK3β also is an important modulator of cell death, which may be a consequence of its regulatory effects on transcription factor activities. GSK3β facilitates apoptosis, and lithium's inhibition of GSK3β supports cell survival. Thus, signaling systems determining cell fate appear to be important targets of mood stabilizers, and these may include signaling pathways encompassing GSK3β, including transcription factors regulated by GSK3β.
GAUSS AND KLOOSTERMAN SUMS OVER RESIDUE RINGS OF ALGEBRAIC INTEGERS

Let K be a field of degree n over Q, the field of rational numbers, with ring of integers O. Fix an integer m > 1, say with as a product of distinct prime powers, and let χ be a numerical character modulo m of conductor f(χ). Set ζm = exp(2πi/m) and let M be any ideal of O satisfying Tr M ⊆ mZ and N(1 + M) ⊆ 1 + f(χ)Z, where Tr and N are the trace and norm maps for K/Q. Then the Gauss sum is well-defined. If in addition N(1 + M) ⊆ 1 + mZ, then the Kloosterman sums are well-defined for any numerical character η (mod m). The computation of GM(χ) and RM(η, z) is shown to reduce to their determination for m = pr, a power of a prime p, where M is comprised solely of ideals of K lying above p. In this setting we first explicitly determine GM(χ) for m = pr (r > 1) generalizing Mauclaire's classical result for K = Q. Relying on the recent evaluation of Kloosterman sums for prime powers in p-adic fields, we then proceed to compute the Kloosterman sums RM(η, z) here for m = pr (r > 1) when o(η) | p -1. This determination generalizes Salie's result in the classical case K = Q with o(η) = 1 or 2.
Houses of Healing: Sacred Space, Spiritual Practice, and the Transformation of Female Suffering in the Faith Cure Movement, 1980–90

In the autumn of 1876, while attending the nation's Centennial celebration, Miss Harriet M. Barker contracted a case of typhoid fever that left her crippled. While she managed to “get about” on crutches for several years, Barker's health “was gradually failing.” By the spring of 1881, she was “completely prostrated.” For the next four years, Barker remained a “helpless invalid” whose case “seemed to baffle even the best medical skill.” Although she tried various treatments, “all remedies were of but little avail,” and her physicians eventually deemed her incurable, predicting that she had only a few months to live, at most. “During all these years of suffering,” Barker later recounted, “I prayed so earnestly for patience and resignation to God's will, and for the most part rested quietly, and, as I believed, submissively, under what I felt was His needed teaching of me.” But as “the weary years dragged on,” Barker recalled, “I began to think of the subject of Divine Healing.” At first, she reported, the possibility of healing by faith “seemed a great way off—something for only a chosen few.” Although she became “more convinced of the reality of this belief” through discussions with friends who were “deeply interested” in the possibility of faith cure, Barker confessed that she “was still much in the dark about the matter” and could not “see it clearly enough to grasp it for myself.”