cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A circulating inhibitor of (Na+ + K+) ATPase associated with essential hypertension

The aetiology of essential hypertension, a disease prevalent in cultured societies, is unknown. However, much evidence suggests that abnormal sodium metabolism has a critical role—this has led to the hypothesis that an increase in the circulating concentration of an inhibitor of (Na+ + K+) ATPase is responsible for the increased peripheral vascular resistance in essential hypertension1. Evidence for relatively high levels of a Na+ pump inhibitor in essential hypertension has come from bioassay and cytochemical assays of plasma and urine from normotensive and hypertensive individuals2,3. There is also evidence for increased plasma levels of a Na+ pump inhibitor in some animal models (for example, renal and deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) models) of hypertension4. Nevertheless, direct biochemical determination of (Na+ + K+) ATPase inhibition by this substance has not yet been reported. We demonstrate here, with a kinetic (Na+ + K+) ATPase assay, a highly significant correlation between levels of a plasma inhibitor of (Na+ + K+)ATPase activity and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) in normotensive and hypertensive individuals. These data provide evidence for the involvement of a circulating Na+ pump inhibitor in the genesis of essential hypertension. Moreover, our assay methods may be useful for the isolation and characterization of this inhibitor.
Interactions of human secretin with sterically stabilized phospholipid micelles amplify peptide-induced vasodilation in vivo

Secretin, a 27-amino acid neuropeptide, is a member of the glucagon/secretin/vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) superfamily of amphipathic peptides that elicits transient vasodilation in vivo. The purpose of this study was to determine whether association of human secretin with sterically stabilized phospholipid micelles (SSM) amplifies the vasorelaxant effects of the peptide in the peripheral microcirculation in vivo. We found that secretin in saline evoked significant concentration-dependent vasodilation in the intact hamster cheek pouch microcirculation (P < 0.05). This response was potentiated and prolonged significantly when secretin was associated with SSM (P < 0.05). Vasodilation evoked by secretin in saline and secretin in SSM was abrogated by VIP(10-28), a VIP receptor antagonist, but not by PACAP(6-38), a PACAP receptor antagonist, or Hoe140, a selective bradykinin B(2) receptor antagonist. Collectively, these data indicate that self-association of human secretin with SSM significantly amplifies peptide vasoreactivity in the intact peripheral microcirculation through activation of VIP receptors. We suggest that the vasoactive effects of human secretin in vivo are, in part, phospholipid-dependent.
Direct evidence for antifreeze glycoprotein adsorption onto an ice surface.

Aqueous solutions of antifreeze glycoproteins (AFGP) exhibit hysteresis between the freezing and melting temperatures. Several recent studies on the mechanism of function of this protein system suggest that a likely model is for the antifreeze molecules to be adsorbed onto the surface of the crystals. However, direct proof of the presence of adsorbed AFGP has eluded previous researchers. In the present study, enhanced surface second-harmonic generation (SSHG) was observed in the presence of an active AFGP solution in contact with a pure single crystal of ice. The enhancement of SSHG is a positive indication that active AFGP molecules adsorb to the surface of ice crystals.
Penetrating the Cycle of Sustained Conflict

Analysis of a family's chronic cycle of escalating and retreating from conflicts is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle, resolving conflicts, and improving relationships.
The accumulation of type I collagen mRNAs in human embryonic lung fibroblasts stimulated by transforming growth factor-beta.

We examined the expression of type I collagen mRNAs (α1(I) and α2(I)) by embryonic lung fibroblasts in cultures treated with transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β). TGF-β caused a concentration dependent increase in the expression of α1(I) mRNA for type I collagen. TGF-β at low concentration (0.1 ng/ml) slightly increased the level of α1(I) mRNA. Higher concentrations of TGF-β (1.0 and 5.0 ng/ml) further increased the amount of α1(I) mRNA. The increase in α1(I) mRNA was associated with a marked increase in production of intact type I collagen molecules. TGF-β did not increase expression of α2(I) mRNA. The α2(I) mRNA levels in human lung fibroblast cultures were not affected by varying the duration of exposure to TGF-β nor the concentration of TGF-β. In contrast, TGF-β increased the amount of both α1(I) and α2(I) mRNA in NIH3T3 cells. These data suggest that the amount of α2(I) mRNA is not rate limiting with respect to type I collagen production during TGF-β stimulation in human lung fibroblast cultures.
Pathophysiology of fetal growth restriction: implications for diagnosis and surveillance.

UNLABELLED Normal fetal growth depends on the genetically predetermined growth potential and is modulated by fetal, placental, maternal, and external factors. Fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are at high risk for poor short- and long-term outcome. Although there are many underlying etiologies, IUGR resulting from placental insufficiency is most relevant clinically because outcome could be altered by appropriate diagnosis and timely delivery. A diagnostic approach that aims to separate IUGR resulting from placental disease from constitutionally small fetuses and those with other underlying etiologies (e.g., aneuploidy, viral infection, nonaneuploid syndromes) needs to integrate multiple imaging modalities. In placental-based IUGR, cardiovascular and behavioral responses are interrelated with the disease severity. Ultrasound assessment of fetal anatomy, amniotic fluid volume, and growth is complementary to the Doppler investigation of fetoplacental blood flow dynamics. A diagnostic approach to IUGR combining these modalities is presented in this review. TARGET AUDIENCE Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Family Physicians. LEARNING OBJECTIVES After completion of this article, the reader should be able to describe the development of the placental interface, to outline the mechanisms of placental insufficiency, and to list the manifestations of placental insufficiency and the tests that can be used to diagnose fetal growth restriction.
Long-Term Followup of the Ventrally Placed Buccal Mucosa Onlay Graft in Bulbar Urethral Reconstruction

ABSTRACTPurpose: We investigate whether the short-term success rate (greater than 90%) of buccal mucosa free grafts in the bulbar urethra is sustained in the long term.Materials and Methods: In 60 patients a ventrally placed buccal mucosa graft was used for repair of bulbar urethral strictures. Of these patients 49 had undergone previous attempt at repair (urethroplasty in 4, internal urethrotomy in 45). Mean graft length was 4.8 cm. In 9 patients a distal penile fasciocutaneous flap was also used for repair of concomitant penile urethral stricture. In 8 of the 9 patients the buccal mucosa graft was combined with end-to-end urethroplasty and 2 buccal mucosa grafts were used in tandem in 1. Followup was at least 1 year in all cases (mean 47 months, range 12 to 107). Failure was defined as an obstructive voiding pattern with radiographic or cystoscopic evidence of recurrent stricture.Results: Bulbar stricture repair was successful in 54 patients (90%) and 4 of the remaining 6 responded to 1 internal urethro...
Definitions and epidemiology.

Purpose of review This is the first part of an eight paper review series on postoperative problems. This section will focus on common postoperative complications with an emphasis on definitions and epidemiology. The major topics covered are cardiovascular and respiratory complications. Other sections will highlight central nervous system and renal complications, postoperative nausea and vomiting, hypothermia, injuries and perioperative mortality. More details on specific problems will be covered later in the series. Recent findings The review will highlight recent aims to standardize definitions of postoperative morbidity. Summary Standardization of definitions is essential to enable high-quality multicenter, multinational research to be carried out. This is vital as we continue to focus on improving patient outcomes.
National Institutes of Health Consensus Development Conference statement on Celiac Disease, June 28–30, 2004

NIH consensus and state-of-the-science statements are prepared by independent panels of health professionals and public representatives on the basis of (1) the results of a systematic literature review prepared under contract with the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ); (2) presentations by investigators working in areas relevant to the conference questions during a 2-day public session; (3) questions and statements from conference attendees during open discussion periods that are part of the public session; and (4) closed deliberations by the panel during the remainder of the second day and morning of the third. This statement is an independent report of the panel and is not a policy statement of the NIH or the Federal Government. The statement reflects the panel's assessment of medical knowledge available at the time the statement was written. Thus, it provides a "snapshot in time" of the state of knowledge on the conference topic. When reading the statement, keep in mind that new knowledge is inevitably accumulating through medical research.
Malignant Phyllodes Tumor of the Breast A Case Report

Phyllodes tumors are very rare fibroepithelial tumors that comprise less than 1% of all solid breast lesions. They can be classified as benign, borderline, or malignant. Their appearance is very si...
Understanding differences in hours worked

Abstract This paper documents the large differences in hours of work across OECD countries, and presents evidence on how they have evolved over time. It argues that changes in technology and government are promising candidates to explain the broad changes over the period 1956–2003.
TRIADS IN SERVICES OUTSOURCING: BRIDGE, BRIDGE DECAY AND BRIDGE TRANSFER

Typically, a triad of actors is involved in any outsourcing situation: the buyer, the supplier and the buyer’s customer. In manufacturing, the buyer acts as a bridge between its supplier and its customer and maintains this bridge position before, during and after the outsourcing. However, in services, the relationship structures among the three actors change before, during and after the outsourcing. Before outsourcing (i.e., during the contract negotiation stage), the buyer is the ‘‘bridge’’ between its supplier and its customer. During implementation, this bridge position begins to ‘‘decay’’ as its supplier comes in direct contact with the buyer’s customer. Post-implementation, the bridge position is intended to be ‘‘transferred’’ to the supplier. However, if left unmanaged, this state of transferred bridge position has serious performance implications for the buyer. The supplier is now the bridge and thus enjoys the leverage inherent in being a bridge. This point has been missed in many services outsourcing ventures by major multinational corporations. To mitigate this effect, we propose that the buyer should continue to actively interact with its customer and closely monitor the supplier in order to prevent the supplier from solidifying its bridge position.
Water Relations of Plant Communities as a Management Factor for Western Watersheds

Altering natural succession may become a major way of modifying plant cover thereby increasing water yield.
Thromboelastography measurements of whole blood from factor VIII-deficient mice supplemented with rFVIII.

Summary. The rotational thromboelastography (ROTEG) assay system allows the real-time analysis of clot formation (fibrin formation) in a whole-blood assay format. The ROTEG system provides significant advantages over the current plasma-based assay systems as it includes the important interactions between cellular and plasmatic coagulation factors. We have employed the ROTEG system to characterize clot formation dynamics in factor VIII- deficient mouse whole blood and examined the ability of recombinant FVIII (rFVIII) supplementation to restore the normal phenotype. The ability to generate a clear dose–response relationship by adding rFVIII to FVIII-deficient murine whole blood (FVIII−/−) demonstrates the feasibility of this approach. A dose–response from 1 U to 0.00001 U mL−1 demonstrates the enhanced sensitivity of the ROTEG system. Further characterization of this experimental approach may provide a potential tool for comparing the activity of FVIII concentrates and/or evaluating FVIII mutants.
Fermentation of [14C]Lactose in Broiler Chicks by Cecal Anaerobes

Abstract Volatile fatty acids and lactic acid were products of [14 C]lactose metabolism in 10-day-old broiler chicks. The [14 C]lactose and unlabeled lactose were given to chicks in combination with cultures of cecal anaerobes (direct fed microbials) from adult broiler chickens. Aliquots of these cecal anaerobes had been used previously to reduce Salmonella typhimurium colonization in broiler chicks. In the current study, chicks were treated with anaerobes and anaerobes plus lactose on the day of hatch. Chicks given lactose plus anaerobes also received unlabeled lactose in the drinking water. Chicks in all treatment groups received [14 C]lactose on Day 10 posthatch. After 5 h, most of the radiolabel was detected in the foregut and intestine. Significantly lower concentrations of [14 C]lactic acid were detected in the serum and foregut of chicks given anaerobes and anaerobes plus lactose than in the similar samples from control chicks. Additionally, significantly less [14 C]lactic acid was detected in the feces of chicks treated with anaerobes plus lactose than in feces from control chicks and chicks receiving only anaerobes. Significant differences in the total content of volatile fatty acids and lactic acid were detected in the serum, liver, intestine, and ceca of chicks treated with anaerobes or anaerobes plus lactose. These data indicate that cecal flora utilize lactose to produce volatile fatty acids and lactic acid.
Light depolarization in turbid media

The characteristic lengths for linear and circular polarized light to depolarize have been studied by an analytical treatment of random walk of vector photons in turbid media. The depolarization lengths for linear and circular polarized light transmission through a slab are derived. A quantitative understanding of light depolarization behavior in turbid media comprised of Mie scatterers of arbitrary size and refractive index are presented.
Comparison of Different Cleaning Procedures of Root Material for Analysis of Trace Elements

Abstract When plant roots are analyzed for trace elements, the cleaning procedure used can affect the analytical accuracy in two ways. First, with inadequate cleaning of the root surface, high levels of trace elements in the soil can contaminate the roots. Second, elements present in the root can be leached into the wash solution. In this study, nine different cleaning solutions were tested on Typha latiofolia (common cattail) for both of these effects. The results of this investigation suggested that there is no universal washing procedure for plant root samples. The best procedure was found to be soaking the root three hours in a solution containing 1% detergent (Alconox) made up in deionized water followed by rinsing five times with deionized water. Other reagents (deionized water, 1% detergent with 1 M MgCl2, 0.1 M HCl, 0.01 M EDTA, 1 M MgCl2 alone, 1 M NaOAc/HAc) and procedures (ultrasonification) were either less effective at cleaning the surface or leached trace elements from the root itself. On ba...
A rapid radiochemical assay for hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase.

Abstract A simple radiochemical method is described for assay of hypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase. 14C-Hypoxanthine is incubated with enzyme PRPP. The labelled product is precipitated on strips of Whatman No. 1 paper by the addition of lanthanum nitrate. Unreacted substrate is eluted with distilled water. The major advantages of this method are speed, reproducibility, ability to process many samples and low blank values.
Requirement Modeling Systems for Mechanical Design: A Systematic Method for Evaluating Requirement Management Tools and Languages

Requirements engineering has received increased attention in mechanical design as systems have become increasingly complex. Requirements engineering involves several key activities including eliciting, modeling, and analyzing requirements. Problems with requirements engineering include addressing requirements generated from multiple design perspectives, communicating requirements across the design team, and understanding how requirements affect other product design information. Several requirement management tools have been developed to address these issues. However, evaluating the capabilities of current and next generation tools has not been systematically addressed. In this paper, a systematic approach and example problem are developed to evaluate the capability of modern requirements management tools. First, eight capabilities are identified from existing literature and industry design problems. Next, a baseline example problem is developed and implemented in two requirement management tools, namely IBM DOORS and NoMagic MagicDraw+SysML. The evaluation results show that each software tool addresses seven of the eight capabilities to a varying degree, with the exception of input validation of an individual requirement. Further, SysML offers a robust and descriptive set of relationships for modeling complex engineering systems that are useful for requirements analysis. Finally, the research is not intended to be a complete survey of all requirements management tools, but rather to provide a repeatable and systematic method for evaluating and developing requirements management tools.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Billiard balls in wormhole spacetimes with closed timelike curves: Classical theory.

The effects of self-interaction in classical physics, in the presence of closed timelike curves, are probed by means of a simple model problem: The motion and self-collisions of a nonrelativistic, classical billiard ball in a space endowed with a wormhole that takes the ball backward in time. The central question asked is whether the Cauchy problem is well posed for this model problem, in the following sense: We define the multiplicity of an initial trajectory for the ball to be the number of self-consistent solutions of the ball’s equations of motion, which begin with that trajectory. For the Cauchy problem to be well posed, all initial trajectories must have multiplicity one. A simple analog of the science-fiction scenario of going back in time and killing oneself is an initial trajectory which is dangerous in this sense: When followed assuming no collisions, the trajectory takes the ball through the wormhole and thereby back in time, and then sends the ball into collision with itself. In contrast with one’s naive expectation that dangerous trajectories might have multiplicity zero and thereby make the Cauchy problem ill posed ("no solutions"), it is shown that all dangerous initial trajectories in a wide class have infinite multiplicity and thereby make the Cauchy problem ill posed in an unexpected way: "far too many solutions." The wide class of infinite-multiplicity, dangerous trajectories includes all those that are nearly coplanar with the line of centers between the wormhole mouths, and a ball and wormhole restricted by (ball radius)≪(wormhole radius)≪(separation between wormhole mouths). Two of the infinity of solutions are slight perturbations of the self-inconsistent, collision-free motion, and all the others are strongly different from it. Not all initial trajectories have infinite multiplicity: trajectories where the ball is initially at rest far from the wormhole have multiplicity one, as also, probably, do those where it is almost at rest. A search is made for initial trajectories with zero multiplicity, and none are found. The search entails constructing a set of highly nonlinear, coupled, algebraic equations that embody all the ball’s laws of motion, collision, and wormhole traversal, and then constructing perturbation theory and numerical solutions of the equations. A future paper (paper II) will show that, when one takes account of the effects of quantum mechanics, the classically ill-posed Cauchy problem ("too many classical solutions") becomes quantum-mechanically well posed in the sense of producing unique probability distributions for the outcomes of all measurements.
HAS ELECTRICITY REGULATION RESULTED IN HIGHER PRICES? AN ECONOMETRIC EVALUATION UTILIZING A CALIBRATED REGULATORY INPUT VARIABLE

The universalization of regulation has made it impossible to measure its effectiveness using traditional techniques. Researchers have used dummy variables, however, the spread of regulation has gradually eliminated the control group of unregulated firms needed for this technique. This explains why Stigler and Friedland (1962) concluded their study with 1937 data. The calibrated regulatory variable technique introduced here, on the other hand, can measure the effectiveness of regulation even when it is a universal condition. We find that electricity regulation raised prices during the period 1947–1966. A politically-motivated, naive policy designed to cross-subsidize residential users may have contributed to this failure.
Counting on comparative budgeting in Africa

International development specialists are uniformly pessimistic about the economic development of Subsaharan Africa. The conventional wisdom is that development interventions do not work there. A comparative budgeting perspective is at odds with the received wisdom and offers a more varied view of African economies.
Transcriptional Regulation of Pro-apoptotic Protein Kinase Cδ IMPLICATIONS FOR OXIDATIVE STRESS-INDUCED NEURONAL CELL DEATH

We previously demonstrated that protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ; PKC delta) is an oxidative stress-sensitive kinase that plays a causal role in apoptotic cell death in neuronal cells. Although PKCδ activation has been extensively studied, relatively little is known about the molecular mechanisms controlling PKCδ expression. To characterize the regulation of PKCδ expression, we cloned an ∼2-kbp 5′-promoter segment of the mouse Prkcd gene. Deletion analysis indicated that the noncoding exon 1 region contained multiple Sp sites, including four GC boxes and one CACCC box, which directed the highest levels of transcription in neuronal cells. In addition, an upstream regulatory region containing adjacent repressive and anti-repressive elements with opposing regulatory activities was identified within the region −712 to −560. Detailed mutagenesis studies revealed that each Sp site made a positive contribution to PKCδ promoter expression. Overexpression of Sp family proteins markedly stimulated PKCδ promoter activity without any synergistic transactivating effect. Furthermore, experiments in Sp-deficient SL2 cells indicated long isoform Sp3 as the essential activator of PKCδ transcription. Importantly, both PKCδ promoter activity and endogenous PKCδ expression in NIE115 cells and primary striatal cultures were inhibited by mithramycin A. The results from chromatin immunoprecipitation and gel shift assays further confirmed the functional binding of Sp proteins to the PKCδ promoter. Additionally, we demonstrated that overexpression of p300 or CREB-binding protein increases the PKCδ promoter activity. This stimulatory effect requires intact Sp-binding sites and is independent of p300 histone acetyltransferase activity. Finally, modulation of Sp transcriptional activity or protein level profoundly altered the cell death induced by oxidative insult, demonstrating the functional significance of Sp-dependent PKCδ gene expression. Collectively, our findings may have implications for development of new translational strategies against oxidative damage.
Thallium-201 yields and excitation functions for the lead radioactivities produced by irradiation of thallium-205 with 34–60 MeV protons

Abstract Excitation functions, production yields and radionuclidic purities are described for 201Tl production by the 203 Tl (p,3n) 201 Pb → 205 Tl and 205 Tl (p,5n) 201 Pb → 201 Tl nuclear reactions. The yields (Ci g−1cm2/μA-hr) of the parent 201Pb(9.4 hr), as well as the radiocontaminants 200Pb(21.5 hr), 202mPb (3.62 hr), 203Pb(52.1 hr) and 204mPb(1.115 hr) were measured by irradiating a stack of thin natural Tl foils with protons from the 76-in isochronous cyclotron at the Crocker Nuclear Laboratory (CNL). The 201Tl thick-target yield (mCi/μA hr) was calculated for different target thicknesses and corresponding incident proton energies. The excitation functions for the 203 Tl (p,3n) 201 Pb and the 205 Tl (p,5n) 201 Pb reactions were measured in the 15–60-MeV energy range.
There is no Landauer Limit: Experimental tests of the Landauer principle

Power dissipation is one of the most important factors limiting the development of integrated circuits. This work will explore the limits of energy dissipation in computation and show that there is no “Landauer Limit” at k B T ln2 as long as information is preserved. Experimental data is presented that demonstrates a dissipation of 0.04 k B T, well below k B T ln2. Simulation results for adiabatically clocked reversible circuits are presented showing dramatic reductions of power dissipation.
The development of a pattern model for social forecasting

Abstract Planning of social systems is problematic in quantifying secondary consequences of social changes and in accounting for unmeasurable system characteristics. This article critically reviews a method, Field Anomaly Relaxation, which offers a logical appreciation of the complex whole of a social system and the creative generation of field pattern concepts. Its limitations and value are summarised along with the elaboration of a supplementary method called Organisation Unit Trajectories which is proposed to offset some of the limitations.
Investigation of free-floating resonant cavity microwave plasmas forpropulsion

Results of experiments with high-pressure helium and nitrogen discharges generated in a microwave resonant cavity for use in an electrothermal thruster are presented. The cavity, operating in the TMoii mode, generated the discharges within a quartz sphere, which allowed the discharge to be both free floating and away from solid surfaces. Input powers of up to 400 W were used with gas pressures up to 300 kPa (absolute) and mass flow rates up to 2.79 x 10~ 4 kg/s. Coupling efficiencies up to 19% have been demonstrated, and temperature measurements 200 mm downstream of the plasma indicate thermal efficiencies of up to 36.6% and total efficiencies of up to 25.2%, both increasing linearly with mass flow rate. The downstream temperature measurements also closely match the coupling efficiency behavior when plotted against pressure. Absolute measurements of the continuum radiation yield electron temperatures of between 10,200 and 10,900 K, which are insensitive to changes in the operating conditions.
Interaction of heat stress glycoprotein GP50 with classical heat-shock proteins.

Abstract Cellular stress conditions are known to elevate heat-shock protein (HSP) synthesis and protein glycosylation, leading to the development of cellular thermotolerance. In the present study, we investigated the interaction of a major stress glycoprotein, GP50, with other cellular proteins during recovery from heat stress, using mostly immunoprecipitation techniques. Parallel studies of heat-stressed CHO and M21 cells showed that both glycosylated and unglycosylated forms of GP50 interact with several members of the classical HSP families (e.g., HSP70 and HSP90) in an ATP-dependent manner. The specificity of HSP–stress glycoprotein interactions was confirmed by chemical cross-linking with a homobifunctional agent, 3,3′-dithiobis (succinimidyl propionate). Interaction of GP50 with denatured proteins was also demonstrated through binding to gelatin. Protein complexes formed between stress glycoproteins and HSPs were further characterized by gel filtration and showed an average molecular mass between 400 and 600 kDa. Overall, the consistent association of stress glycoproteins with nonglycosylated HSPs suggests a structural/functional role for protein chaperone complexes that consist of denatured proteins and the glycone/aglycone elements of cellular stress response.
A denotational semantics for the generalized ER model and a simple ER algebra

The recent spurt of research activities in Entity-Relationship Approach to databases calls for a close scrutiny of the semantics of the underlying Entity-Relationship models, data manipulation languages, data definition languages, etc. For reasons well known, it is very desirable and sometimes imperative to give formal description of the semantics. In this paper, we consider a specific ER model, the generalized Entity-Relationship model (without attributes on relationships) and give denotational semantics for the model as well as a simple ER algebra based on the model. Our formalism is based on the Vienna Development Method—the meta language (VDM). We also discuss the salient features of the given semantics in detail and suggest directions for further work.
Minimum sequence requirements for selective RNA‐ligand binding: A molecular mechanics algorithm using molecular dynamics and free‐energy techniques

In vitro evolution techniques allow RNA molecules with unique functions to be developed. However, these techniques do not necessarily identify the simplest RNA structures for performing their functions. Determining the simplest RNA that binds to a particular ligand is currently limited to experimental protocols. Here, we introduce a molecular-mechanics based algorithm employing molecular dynamics simulations and free-energy methods to predict the minimum sequence requirements for selective ligand binding to RNA. The algorithm involves iteratively deleting nucleotides from an experimentally determined structure of an RNA-ligand complex, performing energy minimizations and molecular dynamics on each truncated structure, and assessing which truncations do not prohibit RNA binding to the ligand. The algorithm allows prediction of the effects of sequence modifications on RNA structural stability and ligand-binding energy. We have implemented the algorithm in the AMBER suite of programs, but it could be implemented in any molecular mechanics force field parameterized for nucleic acids. Test cases are presented to show the utility and accuracy of the methodology.
The schizophrenia prodrome: treatment and high-risk perspectives

Interest in the prodromal stage of schizophrenia-the stage directly preceding the onset of psychosis-has recently undergone a dramatic increase. To a great extent, this has resulted from the convergence of two very different research traditions. Many treatment researchers have moved from a concern with symptom control to an interest in prevention and view the prodrome as the optimal stage to begin intervention with anti-psychotics. High-risk researchers, who view the identification of accurate risk factors as necessarily preceding preventive programs, have begun to move from the premorbid to the prodromal phase as the most effective starting point. Thus, researchers in both traditions have targeted the schizophrenia prodrome as the most likely gateway to prevention. However, clashes between the two traditions in approaches, methodology and research goals have also led to considerable controversy. Such issues as how best to define the prodrome, what the actual risk for schizophrenia is among prodromal individuals, and what type of medication should be used remain largely unresolved. The Hillside Recognition and Prevention (RAP) Program has been designed to address many of these and related questions. Within a naturalistic treatment framework, the RAP program combines both high-risk and treatment research strategies. Preliminary findings from a 3-year RAP pilot study, for example, suggest that the prodrome is a developmentally complex phase of schizophrenia, that it consists of distinctly different subgroups and that novel anti-psychotics are clearly beneficial for some but not all individuals. Depending upon clinical characteristics and phase of the prodrome, anti-depressants also appear highly effective.
Use of paradoxical intention in the context of acceptance and commitment therapy

The purpose of this paper is to describe the use of therapeutic paradox within the contextual-behavioral treatment called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Emphasis is on the difference between inherent and constructed paradox, expanding on previous work and emphasizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy's relationship to Logotherapy.
Curvilinear relationships between mu-opioid receptor labeling and undirected song in male European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris)

Female-directed communication in male songbirds has been reasonably well studied; yet, relatively little is known about communication in other social contexts. Songbirds also produce song that is not clearly directed towards another individual (undirected song) when alone or in flocks. Although the precise functions of undirected song may differ across species, this type of song is considered important for flock maintenance, song learning or practice. Past studies show that undirected song is tightly coupled to analgesia and positive affective state, which are both mediated by opioid activity. Furthermore, labeling for the opioid met-enkephalin in the medial preoptic nucleus (POM) correlates positively with undirected song production. We propose that undirected song is facilitated and maintained by opioid receptor activity in the POM and other brain regions involved in affective state, analgesia, and social behavior. To provide insight into this hypothesis, we used immunohistochemistry to examine relationships between undirected song and mu-opioid receptors in male starlings. Polynomial regression analyses revealed significant inverted-U shaped relationships between measures of undirected song and mu-opioid receptor labeling in the POM, medial bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BSTm), and periaqueductal gray (PAG). These results suggest that low rates of undirected song may stimulate and/or be maintained by mu-opioid receptor activity; however, it may be that sustained levels of mu-opioid receptor activity associated with high rates of undirected song cause mu-opioid receptor down-regulation. The results indicate that mu-opioid receptor activity in POM, BSTm, and PAG may underlie previous links identified between undirected song, analgesia, and affective state.
Immunopathology of human T cell responses to skin, artery and endothelial cell grafts in the human peripheral blood lymphocyte/severe combined immunodeficient mouse

Blood vessels and their endothelial lining are major stimulators and targets of the rejection response. The immunological properties of human endothelial cells differ significantly from those of other species and new models are needed for proper study of human vessels in the transplant setting. We have employed the human peripheral blood lymphocyte/severe combined immunodeficiency (huPBL/SCID) mouse for this purpose. We describe here our results involving transplantation of human skin, human artery and cultured human endothelial cells. We also describe our more limited experience using porcine skin and artery transplantation to study human T cells responses to pig endothelium.
Selective propane dehydrogenation with single-site CoII on SiO2 by a non-redox mechanism

Abstract We report the synthesis, characterization, and catalytic performance for gas phase propane dehydrogenation of single-site Co2+ ions supported on silica. Spectroscopic characterization by resonance Raman, electron paramagnetic resonance, and X-ray near-edge and extended absorption fine structure revealed that tetrahedrally coordinated Co2+ ions are chemisorbed into the trisiloxane rings on the surface of amorphous silica. In situ XAS shows that Co is not oxidized by air nor reduced by hydrogen even at 650 °C. For catalytic propane dehydrogenation, single-site Co2+/SiO2 exhibits selectivities >95% at 550 °C and >90% at 650 °C with stable activity over 24 h. Calculations with hybrid density functional theory support a non-redox mechanism for activation of C–H and H–H bonds by Co2+ similar to that previously reported for single-site Zn2+/SiO2.
Determination of the activity and concentration of immobilized and soluble enzymes by microcalorimetry.

Abstract The relationship between activity and concentration of both soluble and immobilized lactate dehydrogenase and uricase was determined using the rate of heat production in a batch-type microcalorimeter. The results demonstrate the feasibility of using microcalorimetry for the determination of enzyme levels in biological fluids and for the determination of the activity of particle-bound enzymes.
Clinical Features, Differential Diagnosis and Treatment of Autoimmune Hepatitis in the Elderly

Autoimmune hepatitis affects all ages, and it is probably under-diagnosed in the elderly. Patients aged >or= 60 years have a higher frequency of cirrhosis at presentation than adults aged 18 months) and repeated therapies after relapse. Adjustments in the management strategy are warranted for an incomplete response or a need for re-treatment after relapse. Azathioprine (2 mg/kg/day) should be used as a corticosteroid-sparing, long-term maintenance therapy in these instances. Treatment failure is uncommon in the elderly, and age-related changes in the cellular immune response may attenuate the disease and enhance its response to therapy. Concurrent adjuvant therapies must focus on maintenance of bone density.
Ketogenesis in vitro.

Abstract Starvation for 48 h and diabetes (induced either by alloxan treatment or by pancreatectomy) resulted in increasing degrees of ketosis in rats. Optimal conditions were established for acetoacetate synthesis from CoASAc in homogenates of liver taken from animals of all experimental groups. The results obtained from these studies show that the dramatic increase in ketosis associated with starvation and diabetes cannot be accounted for by the minor fluctuations observed in the levels of hepatic enzymes responsible for ketogenesis.
The hydrolysis of soap solutions. IV. The composition of acid potassium laurates and acid sodium oleates as determined by conductivity measurements

The effect of excess lauric and oleic acids on the conductivity and on the pH of 0.2–0.02N potassium laurate and 0.1–0.01N sodium oleate systems was observed. The decrease in the specific conductivity corresponded with the formation of the acid soaps, 2KL·HL, KL·HL, 2NaOl·HOl, NaOl·HOl, and the mixed soaps 2KL·HOl and 2NaOl·HL. The mixed soaps resemble the oleates in appearance. All of these systems, even with 100 or 150 moles per cent excess acid, were slightly alkaline.
Factors Affecting Overlay Ride Quality

A study was conducted to identify the predominant factors that affect the achievable smoothness of asphalt overlays. The subject was approached from the perspective of a contracting entity (state highway agency). The basis of the study was a roughness survey that incorporated 4270 lane-km (2,650 lane-mi) and two full construction seasons with hot-mix asphalt concrete paving. Among the variables found to be related to the achievable smoothness were the functional classification (highway system), original surface roughness, and a special provision for smoothness. Variables that were found to be not significantly related to the smoothness achieved included surface mix type, the application of additional structural layers, the use of milling, and time-of-day restrictions on construction activities (i.e., nighttime paving).
Relationships Between Chemical Structure and Properties of Fibers from Certain Partially Aromatic Polyamides

A new group of nylon yarns was prepared from copolymers of terephthalic and isophthalic acids with hexamethylene diamine, containing up to 80/20 molar ratios of the two acids, respectively. The corresponding polymers were characterized as to melting point, and spinning was explored. Compositions containing 60/40 and 65/35 molar ratios were evaluated more extensively, with the 65/35 ratio being used for detailed studies. Physical property tests, a Hat-spotting evaluation in tires, and wrinkle testing of three fabric types showed yarns of this composition to have dimensional stability approaching but not fully equalling that of poly(ethylene terephthalate), while having dyeing characteristics similar to those of nylon 66.
University students' causal conceptions about social mobility: Diverging pathways for believers in personal merit and luck

Abstract Many college students hold ambitious goals for upward social mobility via post-college careers. However, in the current economic recession such optimistic expectations are not a given. The present study examines how college students' current social status and beliefs in causal factors for socioeconomic status (SES) attainment lead to diverging goal-engagement and goal-disengagement promoting pathways that influence expectations for future SES attainment. Data from an ethnically and socioeconomically diverse sample of 419 university students are analyzed. Most study participants expected to attain a significantly higher level of SES than their parents. Moreover, we identified two pathways of SES-related beliefs, goal engagement or disengagement, and goal attainment. An engagement-promoting pathway consisting of meritocratic-oriented causal beliefs and increased goal engagement tendencies was associated with higher expected personal SES. Conversely, a disengagement-promoting pathway consisted of luck-oriented causal beliefs and enhanced goal disengagement tendencies along with decreased expected personal SES. College students' current social status, causal conceptions about SES and goal engagement/disengagement tendencies fully mediate the relationship between perceptions of one's own family of origin's SES and one's expected personal SES.
Orbit Boosting Maneuvers for Two-Craft Coulomb Formations

This paper investigates the effectiveness of using active electrostatic charging to perform orbit altitude adjustments of a nominally circular orbit. Coulomb forces are employed to gently pull a charged object, such as space debris or a satellite being repositioned, in the along-track direction. In contrast to prior work, this study uses an enhanced position-dependent electrostatic force model. The charge at a fixed absolute potential is a function of separation distance, size, and charge of the neighboring object. The pulling configuration at a given voltage is shown to provide larger electrostatic forces over a pushing configuration. Further, the pulling configuration provides relative dynamics that are easier to stabilize. Variational equations are employed to estimate the resulting semimajor axis changes. Numerical sweeps are performed illustrating that kilovolt levels of potential are sufficient to achieve kilometer-level radius changes per orbit for geosynchronous orbit regimes. A key new insight is...
Deductions from space shuttle glow photographs

It is shown that from the appearance of certain photographs taken from STS-5, it is possible to make several useful statements about the production mechanism of the visible glow around the shuttle, and presumably other space vehicles. These are: 1) the electronic excitation of particles in the gas phase by either electrons or fast neutrals is probably not important, 2) the interaction of thermal atoms and molecules with the surfaces does not generate the glow, and 3) translational energy accommodation of fast particles is efficient enough that a single surface collision reduces the kinetic energy below the threshold for glow production. There is no glow without the direct interaction of fast particles with the surfaces, and the sum of the contributions of the three above processes does not exceed 14% of the observed surface intensity.
COURSEWARE FOR OBSERVATIONAL RESEARCH (COR) : A NEW APPROACH TO TEACHING NATURALISTIC OBSERVATION

Naturalistic observation is one of the most basic and widely used techniques of scientific research, yet it often receives only a cursory treatment in the research methods course. In this paper, we describe a new interactive multimedia software program that teaches interval, frequency, and duration coding with the use of brief digitized video clips and model check sheets. The program teaches basic observational techniques by leading students through the stages of developing a behavioral coding scheme, collecting data, establishing interrater reliability, and analyzing with chi square. It also has a laboratory component that allows students to practice their skills.
Design and Evaluation of Partial Weight-Bearing Sensor and Haptic Feedback System for Lower-Extremity Orthopedic Patients

The design of a partial weight-bearing compliance aid for orthopedic surgery patients is presented in this paper. This device is capable of detecting weight-bearing loads and delivers appropriate vibrotactile haptic stimuli to the user to encourage compliance with partial weight-bearing orders. This is achieved with either haptic confirmations of correct weight-bearing loads or haptic alerts when loads exceed a prescribed limit. In a preliminary evaluation with 9 healthy subjects, it was demonstrated that the device has a dynamic sensing accuracy of ±2.43kg (±5.34 lbs.) within the 2.3-23kg (5-50 lb.) weight-bearing range, which is within the clinical tolerance for partial weight bearing. Additionally, a user wearing this device was able to detect the haptic stimuli and discern whether he was exceeding the weight-bearing load. Ultimately the goal is to create a low-cost alternative to existing products seeking to improve patient weight-bearing compliance, with viability as a take-home rehabilitation aid.
Considerations for the use of radar-derived precipitation estimates in determining return intervals for extreme areal precipitation amounts

To explore the feasibility of radar-based extreme precipitation climatologies, prototype radar areal reduction factor (ARF) curves are developed and compared to those based on traditional rain gauge networks. For both the radar and gauge data, increasing the spatial density of observations has little influence on the ARF relationship. However, independently, considerable differences between radar ARF and gauge ARF exist. Radar ARF decays at a faster rate (with increasing area) than gauge ARF. For a basin size of 20,000 km2, the percent difference between radar ARF and gauge ARF ranges from 11 to 32%. This implies that radar-derived estimates of extreme point precipitation are disproportionately larger than radar-derived estimates of extreme areal precipitation, as compared to the corresponding relationship based on rain gauges. Between-station variance of same-day extreme precipitation, as well as the coefficient of variation tends to be larger for the radar-derived areal extreme events, favoring a smaller radar areal precipitation. Smaller radar ARF is also favored because, on average, a higher percentage of gauges have coincident annual maxima than do the radar pixels that correspond to these gauges. Radar ARF curves computed based on gauge-calibrated radar data decay at an even faster rate than the unadjusted radar ARF. The accuracy of the calibrated radar data for these extreme events is suspect, however. Areal precipitation amounts for the 2-, 5- and 10-year return period were computed by fitting an extreme value distribution to the areal radar, (and separately gauge), maxima from 5 years of available data. In one study area, the radar estimates tend to exceed those based on the gauge, whereas in a different region the gauge estimates tend to exceed those based on the radar. These results emphasize that a smaller radar ARF does not necessarily imply a lower radar mean areal precipitation.