cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
College Student Applications

Publisher Summary Alcohol consumption is the most prevalent risky behavior among students, with approximately 85% consuming alcohol at least occasionally and about 44% recently consuming at least four drinks (for women) or five drinks (for men) during one sitting. However, drinking is not the only risky behavior present among students. Other drug use, particularly marijuana use, can also lead to negative consequences and has been a targeted focus of researchers and college student personnel in the last several years. A number of empirically supported treatment approaches for addictive behaviors are available for college students. Many of these treatment approaches are brief in focus and fall in the gray area between prevention and treatment. Empirically supported approaches for college students have focused most often on alcohol, but other substances, including cigarettes and marijuana, have been targeted using similar approaches. Primary themes of most approaches include addressing potential resistance to change and social factors that have considerable influence on addictive behaviors in this population.
Spontaneous conversion of nontransformed avian sarcoma virus-infected rat cells to the transformed phenotype.

Abstract Normal rat kidney (NRK) fibroblasts were infected with the Schmidt-Ruppin strain (SR-D) of avian sarcoma virus (ASV) and cloned 20 h after infection without selection for the transformed phenotype. Most infected clones initially exhibited the flat, nontransformed morphology that is characteristic of uninfected NRK cells. In long-term culture, however, the majority of the SR-D NRK clones began segregating typical ASV-transformed cells. Transforming ASV could be rescued by fusion with chicken embryo fibroblasts from most of the infected clones tested. Three predominantly flat, independently infected clones were further analyzed by subcloning 8 to 10 weeks after infection. Most flat progeny subclones derived at random from two of these “parental” SR-D NRK clonal lines did not yield virus upon fusion with chicken embryo fibroblasts, although a nondefective transforming ASV was repeatedly recovered from the parental clones. This observation suggested that most, but not all, daughter cells in these SR-D NRK clones lost the ASV provirus after cloning. The progeny of the third independent parental cell clone, c17, gave rise to both flat and transformed subclones that carried ASV. In this case, ASV recovery by fusion and transfection from the progeny subclones was equally efficient regardless of the transformation phenotype of the cells. The 60,000-dalton phosphoprotein product of the ASV src gene was, however, expressed at high level only in the transformed variants. The results of a Luria-Delbruck fluctuation analysis and of Newcombe's respreading test indicated that the event leading to the spontaneous conversion to the transformed state occurred at random in dividing cultures of these flat ASV NRK cells at a rate predicted for somatic mutation.
Cultural Narcissism and Education Reform.

Background/ContextScholars have described American culture in recent decades as narcissistic, manifested by displays of self-absorption tantamount to a pathological syndrome that has reached epidem...
DO SUBSIDIES JUSTIFY RETALIATORY PROTECTIONISM

A theoretical case can be made to justify trade protectionism on the ground that foreign governments are subsidising export industries. This case is based on overall international welfare grounds. However, the country receiving the subsidised products benefits from the subsidies. Furthermore, imposing retaliatory protectionist measures risks encouraging rent-seeking behaviour. In practice, it is impossible to define exactly what behaviour does and does not amount to the grant of subsidies by the government of an exporting country.
Advances in electrically small antennas augmented with internal non-Foster elements

Non-Foster element-augmented electrically small electric and magnetic antennas have been designed, characterized numerically, fabricated and tested. Internal non-Foster elements, which produce specifically tailored broad bandwidth inductive and capacitive devices, are introduced into the near-field resonant parasitic (NFRP) components of their narrow bandwidth counter-parts. This internal non-Foster element approach leads to nearly complete matching of the entire system to a 50 Ω source without any matching network and high radiation efficiencies over their FBW10dB bandwidths that surpass the fundamental passive bounds.
Yeast Aldehyde Dehydrogenase III. PREPARATION OF THREE HOMOGENEOUS SPECIES

Abstract Aldehyde dehydrogenase had previously been purified from autolyzed yeast and had been obtained in crystalline and ultracentrifugally homogeneous form. Further examination of the product by amino-terminal end group analysis revealed gross microheterogeneity which is ascribed to proteolysis. By avoiding autolysis and by using large concentrations of the esterase inhibitors, diisopropyl fluorophosphate and phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride, the enzyme was isolated in a 10-fold greater yield and in a form in which serine was the amino-terminal end group. By proper choice of the inhibitor and its concentration, two proteolytically degraded forms of the enzyme can be isolated in a state of macrohomogeneity. The three enzyme species differ in specific activity but not in their gross kinetic parameters.
Probing Single-Molecule Interfacial Electron Transfer Dynamics of Porphyrin on TiO2 Nanoparticles

Single-molecule interfacial electron transfer (ET) dynamics has been studied by using single-molecule fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopic imaging. For a single-molecule zinc-tetra (4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (ZnTCPP)/TiO2 nanoparticle system, the single-molecule fluorescence trajectories show strong fluctuation and blinking between bright and dark states. The intermittency and fluctuation of the single-molecule fluorescence are attributed to the variation of the reactivity of interfacial electron transfer. The nonexponential autocorrelation function and the power-law distribution of the probability density of dark times imply the dynamic and static inhomogeneities of the interfacial ET dynamics. On the basis of the power-law analysis, the variation of single-molecule interfacial ET reactivity is analyzed as a fluctuation according to the Levy statistics.
Measurements of mode-splitting self-pulsing in a single-mode, Fabry-Perot laser

Self-pulsing of a single-mode laser has been studied with the use of the inhomogeneously broadened 3.51-\ensuremath{\mu}m transition in xenon. Time-averaged intensity power spectra, average power output, and real-time observations of intensity fluctuations have been recorded for various detunings of the Fabry-Perot cavity. Two forms of self-pulsing have been observed, both of which can be explained in terms of the phase locking of several frequencies which simultaneously exist in the same spatial mode, made possible by the rapid variations of the index of refraction in the high-gain medium. One form of such mode splitting occurs in the wings of the atomic response due to the variations in the inhomogeneously broadened anomalous dispersion. The second form can occur anywhere in the tuning range of the laser as it is caused by distortions induced in the dispersion by the hole-burning effects of the oscillating mode. The pulsation frequency of this induced mode splitting varies with cavity tuning, shows a dip at the atomic line center, and may be absent for detuning of one or two homogeneous linewidths away from center. The instabilities have shown subharmonic bifurcations of the pulsation frequencies. Both high-$Q$ pulsation frequencies and broad bands of frequencies in the power spectra have been observed for various operating conditions.
Assessment of the Environmental Effects of Constructing the Three Gorge Project on the Yangtze River

A 10-man delegation from the United States visited China for 6 weeks during May and June 1981 for the purpose of consulting with the Chinese on the Three Gorge Project. This visit was in partial fu...
Effect of muscle length on adrenergic stimulation of canine detrusor

Abstract The effect of muscle length on adrenergic stimulation of canine detrusor was studied in an in vitro muscle bath. The commonly reported response of muscle relaxation with norepinephrine stimulation was seen in muscle strips at or near the resting length. When the muscle strips were stretched, however, an alpha receptor mediated contraction was noted. Length, rather than norepinephrine dose or tension, was the predominant factor determining whether a given strip would respond in an alpha or beta fashion. Sympathetic stimulation may enhance accommodation (beta effect) during bladder filling at low muscle length and potentiate bladder emptying (alpha effect) at increased muscle length.
Structure and gating of the glutamate receptor ion channel

Ionotropic glutamate receptors are ligand-gated ion channels that mediate rapid information transfer at most excitatory synapses in the brain. Crystal structures are now available for the ligand-binding domain, but the structure of the ion channel itself remains unknown. The core of the ion channel shares structural features with an inverted K(+) channel. In detail, however, differences are emerging. Most notable in the glutamate receptor ion channel are distinct structural and functional properties of a major pore-lining domain, the requirement of an additional transmembrane segment (M4), and twofold rather than fourfold symmetry. Together with ligand-binding domain structures and kinetic experiments, these findings have started to define the basic principles of channel gating in glutamate receptors.
EFFECTS OF GLUCAGON ON PLASMA ADENOSINE 3,5-MONOPHOSPHATE /cAMP/ IN FULL TERM NEWBORNS AND PREMATURES

cAMP plasma levels in fullterm and premature new-borns, during the first day of life, were 3–4 times higher than those of children. Glucagon /50 u g/kgr, i.v./, attains maximum levels of cAMP at 20 minutes. In newborns and prematures the response was similar to that of children. In conclusion both fullterm and premature newborns have higher than adults plasma levels cAMP and also have mature hepatic cAMP response to glucagon.
A longitudinal investigation of alcohol use over the course of the year following medical-surgical intensive care unit admission.

Background There have been no studies describing post-intensive care unit (ICU) alcohol use among medical-surgical ICU survivors. Objective To examine alcohol use and identify potentially modifiable risk factors, such as in-hospital probable acute stress disorder, for increased alcohol use following medical-surgical ICU admission. Method This longitudinal investigation included 150 medical-surgical ICU survivors. In-hospital interviews obtained baseline characteristics including pre-ICU alcohol use with the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and in-hospital probable acute stress disorder with the Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist-civilian version. Clinical factors were obtained from medical records. Post-ICU alcohol use was ascertained via telephone interviews at 3 and 12 months post-discharge using the AUDIT. Mixed-model linear regression was used to examine potential risk factors for increased post-ICU alcohol use. Results There was a significant decline in the mean AUDIT score from baseline (3.9, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 2.9, 5.0) to 3 months post-ICU (1.5, 95% CI: 1.0, 2.1) (P Conclusions Alcohol use decreases in the early aftermath of medical-surgical ICU admission and then increases significantly by one year post-ICU. Interventions for unhealthy alcohol use among medical-surgical ICU survivors that take into account comorbid psychiatric symptoms are needed.
There's always Plan B: adolescent knowledge, attitudes and intention to use emergency contraception.

Abstract Background It can prove challenging to create social marketing materials aimed at a specific subsection of the population, especially when the topic is relatively new and possibly misunderstood. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess adolescent knowledge of and attitudes towards emergency contraception (EC), with the goal of creating a locally relevant social marketing campaign and intervention. Methods This qualitative study consisted of 18 in-depth interviews and four focus groups ( n =29) with adolescents and young adults ages 15 to 21 years, conducted in New York City between August and December 2006. Results While respondents seemed generally aware of EC's existence, most were unclear about circumstances warranting its use and its mechanism of action. The FDA change to behind-the-counter availability appeared to increase knowledge and access to EC, although substantial barriers to EC access and use remain, including price. Conclusions Further work remains in educating those in need of EC, especially adolescents under the age of 18 years. Results from this study initiated a social marketing campaign and intervention aimed at increasing adolescent knowledge of and access to EC.
Coping, distress, and well-being in mothers of children with autism

Abstract As is the case in stress research generally, studies examining the relationship between coping and mental health outcomes in parents of children with autism frequently classify parental coping methods as being either problem- or emotion-focused. We argue that this dichotomization of coping strategies oversimplifies the way parents respond to their child's autism. In the present study, the coping methods employed by 113 mothers of children with autism were investigated using the Brief COPE ( Carver et al., 1989 ). Exploratory factor analysis of Brief COPE subscales identified four reliable coping dimensions: engagement coping, distraction coping, disengagement coping, and cognitive reframing coping. In addition, using multiple regression, we examined the relationship of coping strategies to negative and positive maternal outcomes (depression, anger, and well-being). In general, maternal use of avoidant coping (distraction and disengagement) was found to be associated with increased levels of maternal depression and anger, while use of cognitive reframing was associated with higher levels of maternal well-being. In several instances, child characteristics, particularly severity of child maladaptive behavior, moderated the effect of coping on maternal outcomes. Study findings are discussed in light of previous research in the area; in addition, study limitations and clinical implications are highlighted.
Abstract 3203: High quality DNA obtained with an automated DNA Extraction method with 15 to 40 year old formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) blocks from normal and cancer tissues

Proceedings: AACR 103rd Annual Meeting 2012‐‐ Mar 31‐Apr 4, 2012; Chicago, IL DNA and RNA have been used as markers of tissue quality and integrity in tissues the last decade. In this research study, kidney, liver, colon, lung, and breast genomic quality were analyzed in tissues from surgical cancer patients and post-mortem cases obtained with an IRB approved protocol and informed/or next of kin consent. DNA extraction was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues (FFPE) from both groups of cases from the 1970's through the 2000's and formalin fixed / long term 70% ethanol storage(15 + years). To extract the DNA from the FFPE tissues, we soaked all tissues in xylene to remove the paraffin, digested the tissue with a proteinase K solution, and used an automated extraction machine to extract the DNA. A similar SOP was used for the formalin fixed/ 70% long term ethanol-stored tissue, except the tissue was first homogenized rather than soaked in xylene. DNA quality and yield were evaluated using a spectrophotometer. Gel electrophoresis was used to evaluate the length of the DNA in about 20% of the 200 samples. Samples that had optical density (OD) readings above 1.60 and below 2.10 with a DNA yield above 100 µg/mL were deemed to be high quality DNA. FFPE tissues yielded the highest DNA concentration and quality (OD reading of 1.87 and yield of 625 ug/ml) with greater than 95% of the samples meeting the above specifications, while the formalin fixed/long term 70% ethanol stored tissue yielded both the lowest DNA concentration and quality (yield of 52 ug/ml and OD reading of 1.48). In conclusion, the results show that high quality DNA can be extracted from FFPE tissue using an automated DNA extraction procedure with paraffin blocks from the early 1970's to present, and the DNA extracted is useful for clinical and experimental studies. The DNA from tissues stored in aqueous media (formalin fixed / long term 70% ethanol storage) may be useful in some research applications, but the DNA is partially degraded compared to the tissue stored in paraffin blocks. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3203. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-3203
Chondrocyte‐fibrin matrix transplants for resurfacing extensive articular cartilage defects

Cartilage resurfacing by chondrocyte implantation, with fibrin used as a vehicle, was examined in large (12 mm) full-thickness articular cartilage defects in horses. Articular chondrocytes, isolated from a 9-day-old foal, were mixed with fibrinogen and injected with thrombin, in a 1:1 mixture, into 12 mm circular defects on the lateral trochlea of the distal femur of eight normal horses. The contralateral femoropatellar (knee) joint served as a control in which the defect was left empty. Synovial fluid from the femoropatellar joints was sampled on days 0, 4, 7, 30, 120, and 240 postoperatively. Groups of four horses were killed at 4 or 8 months postoperatively, and the repair tissue was evaluated by gross and histologic examination with use of hematoxylin and eosin and safranin O staining and by autoradiography. Biochemical analyses included quantitation of proteoglycan, total collagen, and type-II collagen in the repair tissue. Grossly, grafted defects had improved filling of the cartilage lesions; histologically, these areas consisted of differentiated chondrocytes in the deep and middle zones. The cellular arrangement in these zones resembled that of hyaline cartilage. The control defects contained poorly attached fibrous tissue throughout. Grafted tissue at 8 months had increased proteoglycan synthesis evident by both safranin O staining and autoradiography. Glycosaminoglycan quantitation by dye-binding assay confirmed a significantly elevated glycosaminoglycan content in grafted defects (58.8 micrograms/mg of dry weight) compared with control defects (27.4 micrograms/mg; p < 0.05). Similarly, the levels of chondroitin sulfate/dermatan sulfate was significantly elevated in the grafted defects, and this was the predominant glycosaminoglycan epitope present. There was a statistically significant (p < 0.05) increase in type-II collagen in the grafted tissue at 8 months (61.2% grafted; 25.1% control). This resurfacing attempt with use of allograft chondrocytes, secured in large full-thickness articular defects with polymerized fibrin, resulted in an improved cartilage surface in comparison with the control defects, a significantly greater aggrecan level, and a significantly higher proportion of type-II collagen.
The biocompatibility manifesto: biocompatibility for the twenty-first century.

A number of papers appeared in the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s examining the tissue reaction to implanted biomaterials (for example, see [1]). Though many of these early observations were accurate, the word “biocompatible” was never used. By 1970, a few papers appeared that used the word “biocompatible.” According to the biocompatibility article in Wikipedia, “The word biocompatibility seems have been mentioned for the first time in peer-review journals and meetings in 1970 by RJ Hegyeli (Amer Chem Soc Annual Meeting abstract) and CA Homsy et al. (J Macromol Sci Chem A4:3,615,1970).” Thus, I believe it is accurate to trace the first thinking about how a material should appropriately perform in an implant situation to about 1970. The nature of this “appropriate reaction” we call “biocompatibility” is expanded upon in the next section of this article. Over the years, many definitions have been offered for biocompatibility. The most widely cited of these originated at a consensus conference on biomaterials held in Chester, UK in 1986. Biocompatibility is “the ability of a material to perform with an appropriate host response in a specific application [2]” Though accurate and philosophically useful, this definition provides no insights for how to assess biocompatibility or how to enhance it. An update of this definition was recently offered that acknowledges the biological reaction: Biocompatibility "refers to the ability of a biomaterial to perform its desired function with respect to a medical therapy, without eliciting any undesirable local or systemic effects in the recipient or beneficiary of that therapy, but generating the most appropriate beneficial cellular or tissue response in that specific situation, and optimising the clinically relevant performance of that therapy [3]" This definition, though a step in the right direction, does not address the most compelling concern with biocompatibility today—the reaction we call “biocompatible” seems quite the opposite of biocompatible. This point is elaborated upon in the last section of this article.
Determination of sulfite in food products by an enzyme electrode

Abstract An enzyme electrode using sulfite oxidase and a hydrogen peroxide electrode has been developed for the determination of sulfite in various food products. The enzyme was cross-linked with bovine serum albumin via glutaraldehyde and attached to the sensing area of a polarographic electrode. The electrode detected hydrogen peroxide during the oxidation of sulfite to sulfate by sulfite oxidase in the presence of oxygen as electron acceptor. The enzyme electrode exhibited a linear response up to 550 μM with a detection limit of 5 μM. The sensor was stable for a period of up to 11 h of continuous use and at least 53 days when stored in a solution of 3 M (NH4)2SO4 at 4°C. The enzyme electrode was applicable for sulfite measurements in dried foods and in beverages. The results were in excellent agreement with the colorimetric technique using pararosaniline.
An improved synthesis of [5′‐3H]‐3′‐azido‐3′‐deoxythymidine, tritiated zidovudine

[5′-3H]-3′-Azido-3′-deoxythymidine (3) was prepared at a specific activity of 14.0 Ci/mmol by a two-step synthetic sequence involving controlled oxidation of the unlabelled compound (1) to the 5′-aldehyde (2) followed by reduction with [3H]-NaBH4. Purification was performed by preparative TLC. The radiochemical purity was 99.2%.
Mating behavior, physical activity and aging in the housefly, Musca domestica.

Abstract Effects of varying population composition, mating behavior, and physical activity on wing loss, flightlessness, and lifespan of male and female houseflies were studied. The frequency of wing loss and flightlessness increases due to mating activity, whereas lifespan decreases as mating activity increases. Restriction of physical activity and elimination of mating by confining flies individually doubles the mean and maximum lifespans of males. Under conditions of similar physical activity, mean and maximum lifespans of males and females become equal. Results of this study demonstrate that aging in the housefly is greatly influenced by physical activity. It is postulated that the generally observed differences in longevity of male and female flies may not be genetically determined.
Enzymatic mechanisms during temperature acclimation of the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus. I. Oxygen consumption and activity of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase.

Abstract 1. 1. Whole animal oxygen consumption studies of Chesapeake and Florida crabs indicated that acclimation to 10 and 20°C was successfully accomplished within 2 weeks. 2. 2. Specific activities of hepatopancreas glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G6PDH) and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGDH) were significantly increased in the Chesapeake crab population following acclimation to 10°C. 3. 3. Isozyme patterns of hepatopancreas G6PDH and 6PGDH were not significantly altered qualitatively or quantitatively in either crab population following acclimation to 10 or 20°C. 4. 4. These studies suggest that temperate-zone crabs from the Chesapeake are more adaptable to a low temperature stress than are Florida crabs. The mechanism involved in the greater activity of the two pentose shunt enzymes of the 10°C-acclimated Chesapeake crabs may be an increase in the amount of enzyme present.
Consumer Choice between Dental Delivery Systems

Given a choice between traditional fee-for-service insurance and a prepaid group dental plan, why do consumers choose one or the other? This study attempts to answer that question.
Characterization of creep-fatigue crack growth behavior under trapezoidal waveshape using Ct-parameter

An experimental study of creep-fatigue crack growth behavior of 1.25Cr-0.5Mo steel at 538°C (1000°F) under trapezoidal loading waveshapes has been carried out on compact type specimens. In creep-fatigue crack growth experiments, hold times ranged from 0 seconds to 24 hours with intermediate conditions of 10 seconds, 98 seconds, 10 minutes and 15 minutes. Time-dependent crack growth rate during the hold period, (da/dt)avg, is correlated with (Ct)avg. The values of (Ct)avg are estimated using the equation recently proposed for elastic-cyclic plastic-secondary creeping (EL-CPL-SC) materials. The (da/dt)avg vs. (Ct)avg data fall on a single trend which matches with the trend of da/dt vs. Ct creep crack growth data for the same material. A model is proposed for predicting both the creep crack growth behavior and the creep-fatigue crack growth behavior. The model is suitable for assessing the residual life and/or the safe inspection intervals of high-temperature components such as steam headers. Transition of crack tip damage patterns from oxidation to creep cavitation across the range of hold times examined is also discussed.
Alfalfa sprouts: A natural source for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles

The preparation and study of quantum dots and quantum wires play a very important role in nanotechnology. In this particular study, we report on the uptake of silver by living alfalfa plants. X-ray absorption spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies corroborated silver metal uptake by alfalfa plants from a silver-rich solid medium and the subsequent formation of silver nanoparticles. Silver nanoparticle alignment, structure, and coalescence were observed using TEM with an atomic resolution analysis. Dark field image TEM showed the connection of silver nanoparticles of different sizes by possibly noncrystalline silver atomic wires. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the formation of silver nanoparticles by a living plant system.
Steady-state perturbative theory for nonlinear circuits

We study the steady-state behavior of a damped, driven nonlinear LRC oscillator, where the nonlinearity arises due to voltage-dependent capacitance. The driving or input signal is assumed to be a pure tone. Using an iterative, perturbative solution technique combined with an energy conservation argument, we show that the oscillator transfers energy from the fundamental to higher harmonics. We determine a series expansion of the two-norm of the steady-state output signal and show that in a large region of parameter space, the two-norm depends superlinearly on the input amplitude. We also use the two-norm calculation to devise a performance goal that the infinity-norm of the steady-state output signal should satisfy, in order for the nonlinear system to have a genuine boost over the corresponding linear system. Taken together, these results are a step toward the automatic design of nonlinear systems that have an optimal boost over corresponding linear systems.
Best Practices in Diversity Management in Customer Service Organizations: An Investigation of Top Companies Cited by Diversity Inc.

An analysis of diversity management programs used by fourteen companies cited for diversity found a suite of practices used by nearly all of them. Using a benchmarking assessment, this study analyz...
Interaction between circulatory control and drug-induced reactions

The dynamic interaction between a vasoactive drug (Acetylcholine) and the baroreceptor reflexes has been examined in the anesthetized dog. Acetylcholine (ACh) was infused intravenously at different constant rates and in sinusoidally varying rate (0.0025 to 0.1 Hz). The reaction of the arterial blood pressure was recorded. The comparison of the blood pressure response in control state with that after cutting the sinus nerves or the vagi, and, after cutting both, sinus nerves and vagi, allows to quantitate the interaction between drug effect and circulatory control. Furthermore a simple linear model is described and the results of a calculation, using open loop data from an earlier study, is compared with the experimental results. In spite of the highly simplified assumptions the agreement was found to be surprisingly good. In the discussion are mentioned the possible effects of nonlinearities of the baroreceptor reflexes and of the drug action. The basic method which may be called parametric closed loop testing of the circulatory control by drug infusion appears useful especially due to its simplicity.
On the Dissociation of Aromatic Radical Anions in Solution. 2. Reaction Path and Rate Constant Analysis

The theoretical formulation presented for the solution reaction path and rate constant for the radical anion [CN−Φ−Cl]•- dissociation in solution, described in the preceding paper of this series of work, hereafter referenced as I. The reaction paths that lead to the bent geometry transition state, which is required for the avoidance of the conical intersection point, and cross through such a state vary with the solvent (e.g., water versus acetonitrile) and differ considerably from an equilibrium solvation image. A transition state theory (TST) rate constant, kTST, is described in terms of reactive and nonreactive normal modes and is contrasted with a conventional equilibrium solvation perspective. Finally, dissipative frictional effects on the reaction rate are examined and determined to be negligible, which supports the use of the kTST formula for the rate constant evaluation in I.
Erratum to the introduction to the special issue “Neuropsychology of timing and time perception” [Brain and Cognition 58 (2005) 1–8]

The article contains cross-referencing and other citation errors that were introduced during the final editing process. In particular, on page 2, the third paragraph should read: As suggested by Santamaria (2002), there is ample reason to believe that humans and other animals have a well-developed time sense in the seconds-to-minutes range. Humans are excellent at interval timing and sequencing, they can make fine temporal discriminations and are sensitive to small perturbations in rhythm and musical structure (e.g., Epstein, 1989; Janata & Grafton, 2003; McAuley & Jones, 2003; Naatanen, Syssoeva, & Takegata, 2004). ‘‘Estimating time intervals is an important adaptive skill, vital for making predictions and for motor control’’ (e.g., Diedrichsen, Ivry, & Pressing, 2003; Ivry, 1996; Ivry & Richardson, 2002; Spencer, Zelaznik, Diedrichsen, & Ivry, 2003). Evolutionarily, time estimations in the seconds-to-minutes range ‘‘are important for making predictions about one’s environment, for example, about the appearance of predators or prey’’ (e.g., Bateson, 2003; Gallistel & Gibbon, 2000). Millisecond time estimations ‘‘are important for motor control and for rapid sequencing of cognitive operations’’, such as updating working memory and language processing (e.g., Justus & Ivry, 2001; Lustig, Matell, & Meck, 2004; Meck & Benson, 2002; Schirmer, 2004).
APPROACHING THE TRANSITION STATE IN THE CRYSTAL STRUCTURE OF A PHOSPHORIBOSYLTRANSFERASE

Hypoxanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (HPRT) salvages 6-oxopurine bases in the nucleotide metabolic pathway. The 1.8 A crystal structure of an asymmetric dimer of the HPRT from the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi was determined in a ternary complex with the primary substrate phosphoribosylpyrophosphate (PRPP) and an analogue of the substrate hypoxanthine, revealing both open and closed active site conformations. The ligands are positioned for in-line nucleophilic attack at the PRPP ribose C1‘ by two metal ions which straddle the pyrophosphate leaving group. The structure provides the first evidence for the involvement of two metal ions in the HPRT-catalyzed reaction, and structural details further suggest the mechanism may proceed via SN2-type chemistry. The closed conformation reveals the structural roles for invariant flexible loop residues Ser103 and Tyr104 and supports a role for the loop in the liberation of pyrophosphate. The pre-transition state structure is valuable for understanding the enz...
Extraterrestrial geomorphology: science and philosophy of Earthlike planetary landscapes

Abstract Newly discovered extraterrestrial landscapes afford an opportunity for adventitious change in the discipline of geomorphology. This opportunity contrasts with the various programs of stipulative change to the discipline initiated over the past century and leading to the present Systems-Process-Functional-Modeling (SPFM) paradigm among Anglo-American geomorphologists. Planetary geomorphology has been largely irrelevant to this paradigm and has found its home almost exclusively within geology. As exemplified by Grove Karl Gilbert's classic 1893 study of the moon's surface, planetary geomorphology affords a remarkable interplay of inference and observation in understanding nature. The balanced approach to scientific understanding, illustrated by Gilbert's work, has been lacking in some of the puzzle-solving exercises of modern SPFM geomorphology. Recent discoveries concerning Mars and Venus illustrate the role of extraterrestrial studies for enhancing the science of Earthlike planets and particularly Earth itself.
Store-operated calcium influx in human gastric cells: Role of endogenous prostaglandins

Abstract Background: Store-operated calcium influx (SOCI) appears to be a key component in regulating processes such as gene expression and cellular metabolism in nonexcitable cells. Our objective was to determine what effect, if any, prostaglandin inhibition had on SOCI in human gastric cells. Methods: SOCI was induced in human gastric cells (AGS) with thapsigargin, a microsomal Ca ++ adenosine triphosphatase inhibitor. Quantitation of SOCI was achieved by two different methods: sustained intracellular calcium elevation and manganese (Mn ++ ) uptake. Endogenous prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) synthesis was measured by enzyme immunoassay. Three different nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; indomethacin, ibuprofen, and aspirin) were used to minimize the nonspecific actions of any individual agent. Results: SOCI in AGS cells was inhibited by the store-operated Ca ++ channel blocker lanthanum (La +++ ) but not the voltage-operated Ca ++ channel antagonists verapamil or nifedipine. Each of the three NSAIDs equally inhibited SOCI. The inhibition of SOCI induced by indomethacin was partially reversed by the addition of exogenous PGE 2 . Finally, AGS cells exposed to thapsigargin demonstrated significantly increased endogenous PGE 2 release. Conclusions: These data suggest that NSAIDs inhibit (or endogenous prostaglandins modulate) SOCI in human gastric cells, at least in part. Because SOCI appears to be a critical mechanism involved in cell proliferation, this may provide one explanation of how NSAIDs inhibit (and endogenous prostaglandins enhance) gastric epithelial renewal and repair. (Surgery 1998;124:429-37.)
Structural investigations of microbial cellulose produced in stationary and agitated culture

Structural characteristics of microbial cellulose synthesized by two different methods have been compared using FT-IR and X-ray diffraction techniques. Cellulose synthesized by Acetobacter xylinum NQ-5 strain from agitated culture conditions is characterized by a lower Iϑ mass fraction than cellulose that was produced statically. Such a decrease was in good correlation with smaller crystallite sizes of microfibrils produced in agitated culture. Formation of characteristic cellulose spheres during agitation has been investigated by various electron and light microscopic methods. On this basis, a hypothetical mechanism of sphere formation and cell arrangement in the agitated culture has been proposed. During agitation, cells are stacked together in organized groups around the outer surface of the cellulose sphere.
Localization of components of the renin-angiotensin system within the kidney and sustained release of angiotensins from isolated and perfused kidney.

INAGAMI, T., MIZUNO, K., KAWAMURA, M., OKAMURA, T., CLEMENS, D.L. and HIGASHIMORI, K. Localization of Components of the Renin-Angiotensin System within the Kidney and Sustained Release of Angiotensins from Isolated and Perfused Kidney. Tohoku J. Exp. Med., 1992, 166 (1), 17-26-We found colocalization of renin, angiotensin (Ang) I and Ang II in juxtaglomerular (JG) cells of the kidney. Coexistence of Ang II in renin granules was demonstrated by electron microscopic immunogold labeling of these components. Coexistence of both Ang I and Ang II in the high density renin storage granules were also demonstrated by gradient centrifugation of renal homogenate. These findings supported the synthesis of Ang I and Ang II in juxtaglomerular cells. Isolated and cultured JG cells showed the synthesis of Ang I, Ang II and renin. Ang I and Ang II were secreted from isolated and perfused rat kidneys at steady rates over 2hr. Their secretion rates were proportional to that of renin. The rate of Ang II secretion from the kidney was higher than that from the vascular bed. Ang II was also found in renal lymph. These findings indicate that a large amount of Ang II is generated in JG cells by the intracellular action of renin and may play a significant role in the regulation of renal function.
Coexistence and the comparative light relations of the submersed macrophytes Myriophyllum spicatum L. and Vallisneria americana Michx.

The Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum L.) has partially replaced wild celery (Vallisneria americana Michx.) as a community dominant in the littoral zones of lakes of Madison, Wisconsin. The two species have very different growth forms, with that of M. spicatum corresponding more closely to the optimal growth form simulated by the macrophyte production model WEED. The objective of this research was to investigate the mechanisms by which Vallisneria could compensate for its nonoptimal growth form and coexist with Myriophyllum.A quantification of midsummer growth form for the two species at a rooting depth of 80-90 cm showed that M. spicatum had 68% of its shoot biomass within 30 cm of the surface, whereas V. americana had 62% of its leaf biomass within 30 cm of the bottom. Vallisneria had a light extinction coefficient ranging from 0.013 to 0.019 m2·g-1, much higher than the value (ca. 0.006 m2·g-1) for M. spicatum. This indicates less effective penetration of light to lower leaves of V. americana. Half-saturation constants describing the light-dependence of carbon uptake in "shade" and "sun" tissues ranged from 60-197 microeinsteins·m-2·s-1 for V. americana, and 164-365 μeinsteins·m-2·s-1 for M. spicatum. The optimum temperature for photosynthesis was 33.6°C for M. spicatum and 32.6°C for V. americana, but Myriophyllum was nearly twice as effective at carbon uptake at 10°C. Integration of all of the above features with WEED showed that, for midsummer conditions, V. americana more than compensated for apparently disadvantageous morphological features by its greater physiological adaptability to low light regimes. Coupled with the temperature-dependence of photosynthesis, it appears that V. americana is favored by midsummer conditions, whereas M. spicatum is at an advantage at other times.
Emerging treatment approaches for the systemic amyloidoses

A 57-year-old man was diagnosed with AL amyloidosis after presenting with nephrotic syndrome. He had been well until 6 months earlier, when he noticed intermittent ankle swelling. He sought medical attention approximately 2 months later because of increased swelling of his legs and progressive fatigue. At that time, his urinary protein excretion was 7.4 g/day. Serum creatinine was 0.9 mg/dL and serum albumin 3.1 g/dL. A renal biopsy disclosed amorphous material in the mesangium that was birefringent under polarized light when stained with Congo red dye. Immunofluorescence was positive for lambda light chain in the glomerular capillary walls, mesangium, and tubulointerstitium. Electron microscopy revealed randomly dispersed fibrils with a diameter of 10 nm throughout the mesangium and interstitium. A monoclonal IgG lambda protein and a monoclonal free lambda light chain were evident by immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE) of the serum and urine, respectively. Bone marrow biopsy had 5% plasma
The effects of two types of play settings on young children's use of social comparison 1, 2

The purpose of this study was to examine whether age and sex differences exist in young children's motivations to make social comparisons as they were observed within two specific activity contexts at preschool, constructive and dramatic play. The children studied included 18 3‐year‐olds, 41 4‐year‐olds, 29 5‐year‐olds, and 10 6‐year‐olds, divided unequally by sex, and drawn from three preschools serving predominantly white, middle class families. Subjects were observed during free play for 3‐minute intervals, with social comparison behavior recorded each time that it occurred. Following the observation period, each comparison statement was classified according to Mosat‐che and Bragonier's (1981) schema. Older males (5‐6 years) uttered social comparisons more frequently in dramatic play than younger males (3‐4 years). Additionally, older males (5‐6 years) uttered social comparisons more frequently in dramatic than constructive play. Results are discussed in terms of ecological psychology and the emergence...
Point mutations in EBV gH that abrogate or differentially affect B cell and epithelial cell fusion

Cell fusion mediated by Epstein-Barr virus requires three conserved glycoproteins, gB and gHgL, but activation is cell type specific. B cell fusion requires interaction between MHC class II and a fourth virus glycoprotein, gp42, which complexes non-covalently with gHgL. Epithelial cell fusion requires interaction between gHgL and a novel epithelial cell coreceptor and is blocked by excess gp42. We show here that gp42 interacts directly with gH and that point mutations in the region of gH recognized by an antibody that differentially inhibits epithelial and B cell fusion significantly impact both the core fusion machinery and cell-specific events. Substitution of alanine for glycine at residue 594 completely abrogates fusion with either B cells or epithelial cells. Substitution of alanine for glutamic acid at residue 595 reduces fusion with epithelial cells, greatly enhances fusion with B cells and allows low levels of B cell fusion even in the absence of gL.
Black Politics but Not Black People: Rethinking the Social and “Racial” History of Early Minstrelsy

Although American blackface minstrelsy in its early period (1829–1843) esteemed the anti-authoritarian potentiality of black alterity, the form's performers and most influential public (the white working class of the urban northeast) spurned actual black people. In minstrelsy they fashioned “blackness,” a new “race” with which to distinguish themselves from socioeconomic elites as well as African Americans.
‘Whose colour was no black nor white nor grey, But an extraneous mixture, which no pen Can trace, although perhaps the pencil may’: Aspasie and Delacroix’s Massacres of Chios

While painting Massacres of Chios in 1824, Eugene Delacroix wrote in his journal that ‘The mulatto will do very well.’ This paper asks why a ‘mixed-blood’ would figure in a picture painted on behalf of the Greek War of Independence and argues that Chios must be understood as material evidence of the history of France's imperial aspirations, as a vestige of its confusions as well as its experiments. To broaden the geopolitical horizon of interpretation of Chios is to appreciate the extent to which global politics were performed and remembered in the studio space of an ambitious, insecure and sexually preoccupied young French male painter.
Effects of Gas Adsorption in Nanotribology and Demonstration of In-Situ Vapor Phase Lubrication of MEMS Devices

This paper discusses the important role of gas adsorption in nanotribology and demonstrates in-situ vapor phase lubrication of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices. We have elucidated the molecular ordering and thickness of the adsorbed water layer on the clean silicon oxide surface and found the molecular-level origin for the high adhesion between nano-asperity silicon oxide contacts in humid ambient. The same gas adsorption process can be utilized for continuous supply of lubricant molecules to form a few A thick lubricant films on solid surfaces. Using alcohol vapor adsorption, we demonstrated that the adhesion, friction, and wear of the silicon oxide surface can significantly be reduced. This process made it possible to operate sliding MEMS without failure for an extended period of time.Copyright © 2007 by ASME
From First Principles--Gauging the Web's Impact on Scientific Journals

Starting from first principles, physicists intrepidly tackle such problems as the origin of life or human consciousness. In that same spirit of boldness, Charles Day attempts to gauge the Web's future impact on scientific journals.
Enhancement of NMDA-evoked neuronal activity by glycine in the rat spinal cord in vivo

Abstract The effects of iontophoretically administered N- methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA), glycine and strychnine on nociceptive dorsal horn neurons of the rat spinal cord were studied to test the hypothesis that their responses to NMDA are influenced in vivo by glycine acting at a strychnine-insensitive site. Experiments were carried out on 44 dorsal horn neurons responsive to microiontophoretic application of NMDA and peripheral stimulation. Glycine alone either enhanced or inhibited NMDA responses depending upon its dose (151% and 68% of control, respectively). Strychnine alone increased the NMDA-induced neural firing (129%), suggesting the presence of endogenous glycine. When glycine was co-ejected with strychnine, NMDA responses were further elevated (171%) revealing the activation of strychnine-insensitive binding sites. These data provide evidence that glycine can potentiate NMDA responses of nociceptive dorsal horn neurons in vivo and thus that glycine sites on NMDA receptors on these neurons are not saturated.