cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chapter 5 - Future prospects

Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) in combination with single-particle analysis has begun to complement crystallography in the study of large macromolecules at near-atomic resolution. Furthermore, advances in cryo-electron tomography have made possible the study of macromolecules within their cellular environment. Single-particle and tomographic studies will become even more useful when technologies for improving the signal-to-noise ratio such as direct electron detectors and phase plates become widely available. Automated image acquisition has significantly reduced the time and effort required to determine the structures of macromolecular assemblies. As a result, the number of structures determined by cryo-EM is growing exponentially. However, there is an urgent need for improved criteria for validating both the reconstruction process and the atomic models derived from cryo-EM data. Another major challenge will be mitigating the effects of anisotropy caused by the missing wedge and the excessively low signal-to-noise ratio for tomographic data. Parallels between the development of macromolecular crystallography and cryo-EM have been used to tentatively predict the future of cryo-EM.
Contacts to solution-synthesized SnS nanoribbons: dependence of barrier height on metal work function

Tin(II) monosulfide (SnS) is a layered, anisotropic material that is of interest as a two-dimensional semiconductor for opto-electronic, thermoelectric, and piezoelectric applications. In this study, the effect of work function on contact behavior was investigated. Ni/Au, Pd/Au, Cr/Au, and Ti/Au contacts were fabricated onto individual, solution-synthesized, p-type SnS nanoribbons. The lower work function metals (Cr and Ti) formed Schottky contacts, whereas the higher work function metals (Ni and Pd) formed ohmic or semi-ohmic contacts. Of the ohmic contacts, Ni was found to have a lower contact resistance (∼10−4 Ω cm2 or lower) than Pd (∼10−3 Ω cm2 or lower). Both the calculated Schottky barriers (0.39 and 0.50 eV) for Cr and Ti, respectively, and the ohmic behavior for Ni and Pd agree with behavior predicted by Schottky–Mott theory. The results indicate that high work function metals should be considered to form low resistance contacts to SnS multilayers.
The Effects of Error-Flagging in a Tutor on Expression Evaluation

We evaluated the effect of providing error-flagging as support for error detection, but not error correction while the student is solving a problem. We found that providing error-flagging in addition to demand feedback during practice learning was no more effective than providing only demand feedback when the tutor did not explicitly mention that errors were being flagged. On the other hand, explaining and providing error-flagging without demand feedback during pre-and post-tests resulted in significantly better scores on pre-and post-tests even though error-flagging did not provide any error-correction support.
Direct ATRP of Methacrylic Acid with Iron-Porphyrin Based Catalysts.

An iron porphyrin catalyst, derived from the active center of proteins such as horseradish peroxidase and hemoglobin, was successfully used for the atom transfer radical polymerizations (ATRP) of methacrylic acid. ATRP of methacrylic acid and other acidic monomers is challenging due to Cu complexation by carboxylates, protonation of the ligand, and displacement of the halogen chain end. A robust mesohemin-based catalyst provided controlled ATRP of methacrylic acid, yielding poly(methacrylic acid) with Mn ≥ 20000 and dispersity Đ < 1.5. Retention of halogen chain end was confirmed by successful chain extension of a poly(methacrylic acid)–Br macroinitiator.
Design and Fabrication of Orthogonal-Mode Transducer Using 3-D Printing Technology

This letter presents the design and fabrication of an orthogonal-mode transducer (OMT) integrated with a simple circular horn antenna. Two different approaches were used to fabricate the structure using additive manufacturing technology. In the first approach, the whole structure is printed as a single piece. To have better access to the interior layers, in the second approach, the structure is divided into two symmetric pieces, and then is fabricated. The S -parameters of both the fabricated OMTs are measured and compared to the simulations results and discussed. Finally, the radiation patterns of the fabricated prototypes are presented and compared.
Electronic patient records: some answers to the data representation and reuse challenges. Findings from the section on Patient Records.

OBJECTIVES To summarize current excellent research in the field of patient records. METHOD Synopsis of the papers selected for the IMIA Yearbook 2007. RESULTS The Electronic Patient Record encompasses a broad field of research and development. Some current research topics were selected for this IMIA Yearbook: EHR representation and communication standards, and secondary uses of clinical data for research and decision support. Four excellent papers representing the research in those fields were selected for the Patient Records section. CONCLUSION The best papers selected for this section focus on the analysis and comparison of two important clinical documents representation standards, on direct structured data entry, on the use of Natural Language Processing to detect adverse events, and on the development and evaluation of a clinical text corpus annotated for part-of-speech information.
THE CALIFORNIA NORMS: ASSOCIATION AS A FUNCTION OF WORD FREQUENCY

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the California norms and presents norms of free association for samples of words varying widely in frequency of usage. Two sets of norms can be obtained, one by the method of discrete association and the other by the method of continued association or production. In a test of discrete association, S responds to a stimulus with the first single word that comes to mind. In a test of continued association, S gives as many responses to a stimulus as it can within a specified period of time. The mean number of different responses per unit of time defines a measure of meaningfulness of the stimulus word. The distribution of first responses to a stimulus generates an associative hierarchy comparable to that obtained from discrete associations. Word frequency is a major variable that is manipulated or must be controlled in most investigations using verbal materials. The total number of responses is fixed in discrete association; however, it is allowed to vary in continued association.
Oxidative Stress and Acidosis, Molecular Responses to

This article defines oxidative stress and acidosis, describes molecular defenses that have evolved to protect cells against these hazards, and discusses mechanisms mediating the induction of these defenses when appropriate.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Lifetime Prevalence of Homelessness in the United States.

Homelessness in the United States is often examined using cross-sectional, point-in-time samples. Any experience of homelessness is a risk factor for adverse outcomes, so it is also useful to understand the incidence of homelessness over longer periods. We estimate the lifetime prevalence of homelessness among members of the Baby Boom cohort (n = 6,545) using the 2012 and 2014 waves of the Health and Retirement Study (HRS), a nationally representative survey of older Americans. Our analysis indicates that 6.2 % of respondents had a period of homelessness at some point in their lives. We also identify dramatic disparities in lifetime incidence of homelessness by racial and ethnic subgroups. Rates of homelessness were higher for non-Hispanic blacks (16.8 %) or Hispanics of any race (8.1 %) than for non-Hispanic whites (4.8 %; all differences significant with p < .05). The black-white gap, but not the Hispanic-white gap, remained significant after adjustment for covariates such as education, veteran status, and geographic region.
Histone tails decrease N7-methyl-2'-deoxyguanosine depurination and yield DNA-protein cross-links in nucleosome core particles and cells.

Monofunctional alkylating agents preferentially react at the N7 position of 2′-deoxyguanosine in duplex DNA. Methylated DNA, such as that produced by methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) and temozolomide, exists for days in organisms. The predominant consequence of N7-methyl-2′-deoxyguanosine (MdG) is widely believed to be abasic site (AP) formation via hydrolysis, a process that is slow in free DNA. Examination of MdG reactivity within nucleosome core particles (NCPs) provided two general observations. MdG depurination rate constants are reduced in NCPs compared with when the identical DNA sequence is free in solution. The magnitude of the decrease correlates with proximity to the positively charged histone tails, and experiments in NCPs containing histone variants reveal that positively charged amino acids are responsible for the decreased rate of abasic site formation from MdG. In addition, the lysine-rich histone tails form DNA–protein cross-links (DPCs) with MdG. Cross-link formation is reversible and is ascribed to nucleophilic attack at the C8 position of MdG. DPC and retarded abasic site formation are observed in NCPs randomly damaged by MMS, indicating that these are general processes. Histone–MdG cross-links were also detected by mass spectrometry in chromatin isolated from V79 Chinese hamster lung cells treated with MMS. The formation of DPCs following damage by a monofunctional alkylating agent has not been reported previously. These observations reveal the possibility that such DPCs may contribute to the cytotoxicity of monofunctional alkylating agents, such as MMS, N-methyl-N-nitrosourea, and temozolomide.
Strong Integration in bilingual grammar, formalized: Making the case from cross-linguistic influence in wh-questions

Abstract We present elicited production data reflecting cross-linguistic interference effects in the English wh-questions of Spanish-English bilingual children to provide a proof-of-concept for a proposed new formal analysis of such effects across cross-linguistic influence phenomena. The observed interference effects are interpreted as evidence for the Strong Integration hypothesis of bilingual grammatical architecture, in the context of independently documented facilitation and interference effects in a range of bilingual acquisition contexts. Building on an existing Optimality-Theoretic (OT) model of monolingual acquisition and a specific account of the adult grammar of wh-structures across dialects of Spanish, we propose that the individual patterns documented, in particular the sensitivity in child English to distinctions made in Spanish dialects on the basis of an argument/adjunct contrast, find a straightforward explanation in the OT model of acquisition as adapted to bilingual situations. The generalizability of the model as well as effects of exposure and dominance are discussed.
Of Sceptics and Spectators: Les Amants magnifiques and the Wonders of Disenchantment

Moliere’s 1670 comedy-ballet Les Amants magnifiques presents its audience with the unusual case of a work that relies heavily on spectacle encouraging scepticism or wariness of the theatrical illusion’s ability to deceive. Theatre magic here becomes associated with arcane arts such as astrology, and critics have noted that Les Amants magnifiques seems to undermine the very aesthetic effects that it creates. However, taking a closer look at the models of spectatorship provided by the comedy-ballet reveals a nuanced lesson in reception and reflection, in addition to a re-appropriation of theatrical wonder. Moliere is not simply trying to disenchant both the stage and his audience. Through a denouement that unexpectedly reroutes and vindicates spectacle, the playwright shifts attention away from a simplistic opposition between belief and disbelief, arguing instead for an informed spectator who nevertheless is capable of being pleased, impressed, and surprised.
Bioengineered in vitro enteric nervous system.

Bidirectional interactions between the human central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract, via the enteric nervous system, are unmapped and central to many human conditions. There is a critical need to develop 3D human in vitro intestinal tissue models to emulate the intricate cell interactions of the human enteric nervous system within the gastrointestinal tract in order to better understand these complex interactions that cannot be studied utilizing in vivo animal models. In vitro systems, if sufficiently replicative of some in vivo conditions, may assist with the study of individual cell interactions. Here, we describe a 3D-innervated tissue model of the human intestine consisting of human-induced neural stem cells differentiated into relevant enteric nervous system neural cell types. Enterocyte-like (Caco-2) and goblet-like (HT29-MTX) cells are used to form the intestinal epithelial layer, and intestinal myofibroblasts are utilized to simulate the stromal layer. In vitro enteric nervous system cultures supported survival and function of the various cell types, with mucosal and neural transcription factors evident over 5 weeks. The human-induced neural stem cells migrated from the seeding location on the peripheral layer of the hollow scaffolds toward the luminal epithelial cells, prompted by the addition of neural growth factor. nNOS-expressing neurons and the substance P precursor gene TAC1 were expressed within the in vitro enteric nervous system to support the utility of the tissue model to recapitulate enteric nervous system phenotypes. This innervated tissue system offers a new tool to use to help in understanding neural circuits controlling the human intestine and associated communication networks.
Effects of safety behavior fading on appearance concerns and related symptoms.

Objective Appearance-related safety behaviors (SBs; e.g., mirror checking, grooming) have been implicated in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), eating disorders, and social anxiety disorder. The proposed project aimed to extend previous research efforts by exploring the experimental effects of reducing engagement in appearance-related SBs on appearance concerns and related symptoms. Method Eighty-four undergraduate female participants with elevated appearance concerns were randomly assigned to a SB fading group or a no instructions control group. For 2 weeks, participants in the SB fading condition were sent daily reminders via text message to decrease their engagement in appearance-related SBs, whereas participants in the control group completed assessments only. Self-report assessments of study variables of interest were administered at baseline, midmanipulation, postmanipulation, and 2-week follow-up. Participants also completed an appearance-related in vivo stressor task at post, during which participants rated their reactivity to having their photographs taken from various angles. Results Compared to the control group, the SB fading group exhibited significantly lower social anxiety, BDD symptoms, body dissatisfaction, and maladaptive cognitions at the postmanipulation and follow-up assessments. SB fading had stronger effects on BDD symptoms at postmanipulation among those high versus those low in baseline BDD symptoms. The SB fading group also showed less reactivity to some aspects of the in vivo appearance-related stressor task. Conclusions This study provides strong evidence for the importance of appearance-related SBs in the maintenance of BDD and other disorders characterized by body image disturbances. Findings point to the potential utility of decreasing appearance-related SBs as a transdiagnostic treatment strategy. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved).
Right-to-left ventricular diameter ratio at computed tomographic pulmonary angiography in acute pulmonary embolism and obstructive sleep apnea

Introduction: Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction in acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a critical determinant of outcome. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common comorbidity of PE and might also affect RV function. Objective: To investigate RV dysfunction in patients presenting with acute PE in proportion to the severity of OSA. Methods: 197 PE patients were evaluated for sleep-disordered breathing by portable monitoring and nocturnal polysomnography. RV dysfunction was assessed by calculating the right-to-left ventricular (RV/LV) diameter ratio on computed tomographic pulmonary angiography (CTPA). RV dilatation was defined as a RV/LV ratio of ≥ 1.0. Results: RV dilatation was significantly more frequent in OSA patients compared to subjects with an AHI Conclusions: Patients with moderate or severe OSA might compensate PE-related RV strain better, as they are adapted to repetitive nocturnal right heart pressure overload. Potential LV dilatation due to coexisting CHF in severe OSA might prevent the RV/LV diameter ratio to be > 1 even in the presence of relevant RV enlargement. Thus, RV dysfunction might be underestimated in severe OSA when being evaluated by the RV/LV diameter ratio assessment on CTPA.
Policy Evaluation: Incentives and Regulation

Much has been written about the importance of incentives and regulations in the site selection decision making of firms. However, very few papers and books on these subjects treat the potential impact of parametric (environmental) uncertainty on such decisions. Furthermore, we are able to find only a single published work that uses the production/location frame-work to evaluate government regulation, and only our own work uses this framework to evaluate locational incentives. This is unfortunate in view of James B. Cannon’s admonition that, “choice of location cannot be identified as an independent characteristic of a strategic investment decision... .The impact of locational incentives must be seen in the broader context of the total investment decision” [Collins and Walker 1975, p. 112].
Effects of ligands on the migratory insertion of alkenes into rhodium-oxygen bonds.

Migratory insertions of olefins into metal–oxygen bonds are elementary steps of important catalytic processes, but well characterised complexes that undergo this reaction are rare, and little information on the effects of ancillary ligands on such reactions has been gained. We report a series of alkoxo alkene complexes of rhodium(I) that contain a range of bidentate ligands and that undergo insertion of the alkene. Our results show that complexes containing less electron-donating ancillary ligands react faster than their counterparts containing more electron-donating ancillary ligands, and that complexes possessing ligands with larger bite angles react faster than those with smaller bite angles. External added ligands had several effects on the reactions, including an inhibition of olefin isomerisation in the product and acceleration of the displacement of the product from complexes of ancillary ligands with small bite angles. Complementary computational studies help elucidate the details of these insertion processes.
Smithsonian Physical Tables

THE Smithsonian Institution has just published a new edition of the Smithsonian Physical Tables, corrected and slightly modified from the sixth revised edition. Requests have come from certain educational institutions for separate copies of certain individual tables for the use of students in laboratories. If there is likely to be a considerable demand for such separates, the institution will have them printed on stiff paper and distributed at cost to those who desire them. With the view of ascertaining the probable demand for separate tables, it is requested that readers of NATURE inform the Institution which tables they would desire in separate form, and the number of copies of each they would probably require. All tables for which the probable demand of this kind reaches 100 copies will be reprinted separately.
Longitudinal changes in vascular stiffness and heart rate variability among young adults with youth-onset type 2 diabetes: results from the follow-up observational treatment options for type 2 diabetes in adolescents and youth (TODAY) study

(1) To describe changes in arterial stiffness and heart rate variability (HRV) over a 5-year interval, (2) examine changes by sex and race–ethnicity, and (3) evaluate the risk factors associated with the longitudinal changes in arterial stiffness and HRV. Participants with youth-onset type 2 diabetes enrolled in the observational follow-up phase of the Treatment Options for Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents and Youth (TODAY) clinical trial had arterial stiffness [(pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, brachial distensibility] and six indices of HRV measured 5 years apart. Multivariable linear regression models assessed risk factors associated with changes in the outcomes over time. At initial vascular assessment, the 304 participants were a mean age of 21 years, 34% male, and had a mean diabetes duration of 8 years. In more than half the cohort pulse wave velocity, augmentation index and HRV increased over 5 years (p<0.01). Brachial distensibility did not change. There were no differences in the 5-year change by race/ethnicity except for a single HRV measure, where non-Hispanic Blacks had greater worsening of parasympathetic function compared to non-Hispanic Whites, p = 0.008. Blood pressure was related to greater worsening in augmentation index and pulse wave velocity. Higher hemoglobin A1c over time was related to worsening pulse wave velocity and HRV. Arterial stiffness and HRV worsened over 5 years. Blood pressure and glycemic control may be potential targets to influence adverse changes in arterial stiffness and HRV in young adults with youth-onset type 2 diabetes. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00081328
Statistical tests of random number generators

This paper notes several results from statistical distribution theory which are useful in checking random number generators. It illustrates these methods by application to the normal random number generator GGNRF from the IMSL program package. Independence is checked with both time and frequency domain tests. The normal distributional properties are checked with goodness of fit tests and tests of the mean and variance.
110 GHz ECH on DIII-D: system overview and initial operation

A new high-power electron cyclotron heating (ECH) system has been introduced on DIII-D. This system is designed to operate at 110 GHz with a total output power of 2 MW. The system consists of four Varian VGT-8011 gyrotrons, (output power of 500 kW), and their associated support equipment. All components have been designed for up to a 10-s pulse duration. The 110-GHz system is intended to further progress in RF current drive experiments on DIII-D when used in conjunction with the existing 60-GHz ECH (1.6-MW) and 30-60-MHz ICH (2-MW) systems. H-mode physics, plasma stabilization experiments, and transport studies are also to be conducted at 110 GHz. The system design philosophy was based on experience gained from the existing 60-GHz ECH system. The consequences of these design decisions are addressed, as is the performance of various 110-GHz components. >
Simultaneous intracardiac catheterization and ballistocardiography: Correlation of ballistic phenomena with hemodynamic events in living human beings

Abstract By employing a ballistocardiograph of small dimensions easily operated it has been possible for the first time to obtain ballistocardiographic tracings during the course of cardiac catheterization in man. The data thus obtained show a good correlation between the ballistic waves and the cardiodynamic events believed to be responsible for their generation. The genesis of the individual waves has been ascribed as follows: The Systolic Waves: The H wave reflects the duration of isometric ventricular contraction. It is proportional to the intraventricular pressure developed during isometric contraction. The I wave is due to recoil of the body from ventricular systolic ejection, and the J wave, to impact of the pulse and flow waves on the aortic and pulmonary arch vessels. The K wave is thought to be a noncardiac after-vibration. The Diastolic Waves: The L wave occurs at the closure of the aortic valve. This initial diastolic wave is related to the magnitude and rate of change of force due to closure of the aortic valve. A smaller secondary L wave, coincident with pulmonic valve closure, is also described. Pre-Ejection Systole and Atrial Contraction: F-G waves were observed only in records with sinus rhythm and are presumed to be atrial in origin. However, other small atrial waves occurred during asynchronous activity of the atria and ventricles in a patient with ectopic atrial tachycardia and block.
Behavioral Partitioning with Synthesis for Multi-FPGA Architectures under Interconnect, Area, and Latency Constraints

This paper presents a technique to perform partitioning and synthesis of behavioral specifications. Partitioning of the design is done under multiple constraints - interconnections and device areas of the reconfigurable architecture, and the latency of the design. The proposed Multi-FPGA partitioning technique (FMPAR) is based on the Fiduccia-Mattheyses (FM) partitioning algorithm. In order to contemplate multiple implementations of the behavioral design, the partitioner is tightly integrated with an area estimator and design space exploration engine.A partitioning and synthesis framework was developed, with the FMPAR behavioral partitioner at the front-end and various synthesis phases (High-Level, Logic and Layout) at the back end. Results are provided to demonstrate the advantage of tightly integrating exploration with partitioning. It is also shown that, in relatively short runtimes, FMPAR generates designs of similar quality compared to a Simulated Annealing partitioner. Designs have been successfully implemented on a commercial multi-FPGA board, proving the effectiveness of the partitioner and the entire design framework.
Metabolism of Metals and Metalloids by the Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria

The bacteria and archaea that reduce sulfate to sulfide can transform a variety of metal(loids). The latter include metalloids (As, Se and Te), transition metals (Au, Co, Cr, Fe, Hg, Mo, Mn, Ni, Pb, Pd, Pt, Re, Rh, Tc, V, and Zn), and actinides (Pu and U). The conversions are achieved via (1) use of metal-specific enzymes, (2) cometabolism, i.e., use of non-substrate-specific enzymes, (3) biomethylation, (4) inorganic precipitation, (5) oxidation-reduction reactions in the growth medium; or (6) oxidation/cathodic depolarization of the elemental form. Respective examples are (1) the respiration of arsenate by Desulfosporosinus auripigmenti; (2) reduction of selenate and selenite to elemental selenium by enzymes involved in sulfate respiration or assimilation; (3) methylation of mercury; (4) precipitation of zinc sulfide in the supernatant; (5) reaction of sulfide and selenite forming selenium sulfide (SeS2) in the supernatant; and (6) the anaerobic corrosion of iron. Some of these processes yield valuable commodities, e.g., the precipitation of gold by Desulfovibrio desulfuricans. The understanding of anaerobic corrosion can lead to the prevention of corrosion of pipelines. The formation of selenium nanoparticles has potential applications in the design of drug-delivery systems. The formation of insoluble precipitates facilitates the design of bioremediation technologies. While some metals, e.g., Fe, Co, Mo, Mn, Ni, Se, V and Zn, are essential nutrients for bacterial growth, this review focuses on detoxification processes and not on trace metal assimilation into cellular materials.
Effect of stress state and polymer morphology on environmental stress cracking in polycarbonate

Environmental stress crazing or cracking (ESC), a long studied phenomenon, is the brittle failure of glassy thermoplastics, which are normally ductile, under the synergistic action of stress and certain surface active agents. This work involves a study of a polycarbonate—oleic acid system under two novel in-depth conditions: multiaxial stress states and changes in the polymer morphology. Initial uniaxial creep tests showed that the formation of cracks rather than crazes is observed. Multiaxial testing is done using blister tests where the polycarbonate film is stressed using a pressurizing medium to form a blister that is in a biaxial state of stress. Changes in the polymer morphology are induced by orientation of the polymer film. On samples exposed to stress and surface active agents, the stress component that is perpendicular to the direction in which the crazes/cracks form appears to influence the crack patterns. The polymer orientation has a significant influence. The orientation not only induces crack formation in a direction parallel to the orientation (regardless of the direction of the major principal stress), but it also reduces the stress required for crack formation for all stress states. Any attempt at modeling the phenomenon of environmental stress cracking therefore needs to take these effects into account. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 88: 550–564, 2003
Rereading sophistical arguments: A political intervention

This essay argues that Aristotle's categories of oratory are not as useful in judging the methods of Sophistical rhetoric as his presentation of time. The Sophistical argumentative method of “making the weaker the stronger case” is re-evaluated as a political practice. After showing this argument's relation to power and ideology, Aristotle's philosophy, which privileges a procedure of argument consistent with the politics of a polis-ideal rhetoric, is offered as reason for objecting to Sophistical rhetoric. The essay concludes that Sophistical rhetoric prefers the concept of possibility over Aristotelian actuality, and offers a need for an ideological space of radical, generative possibility in rhetorical theory.
Reverse genetics plasmid for cloning unstable Influenza A virus gene segments

Reverse genetics approaches that enable the generation of recombinant influenza A viruses entirely from plasmids are invaluable for studies on virus replication, morphogenesis, pathogenesis, or transmission. Furthermore, influenza virus reverse genetics is now critical for the development of new vaccines for this human and animal pathogen. Periodically, influenza gene segments are unstable within plasmids in bacteria. The PB2 gene segment of a highly pathogenic avian H5 influenza virus A/Turkey/Ontario/7732/1966 (Ty/Ont) was unstable in commonly available cloning plasmids (e.g., pcDNA3.1/V5-His-TOPO) and in standard influenza virus reverse genetics plasmids (e.g., pHH21), which contain high copy origins of replication. Thus, a low-copy influenza reverse genetics plasmid (pGJ3C3) was developed to enable rapid cloning of unstable influenza A virus genes using ligation-independent recombination-based cloning. The unstable Ty/Ont PB2 gene segment was efficiently cloned using the pGJ3C3 plasmid and this clone was used to rescue a recombinant Ty/Ont virus. This low copy reverse genetics plasmid will be useful for cloning other unstable segments of influenza A viruses in order to rescue recombinant viruses, which will facilitate basic studies and vaccine seed stock production.
From monolayer to multilayer: Some unanswered questions

Abstract Artifacts and difficulties in the preparation of Langmuir-Blodgett multilayers, starting from spread insoluble monolayers at the air-water interface, are reviewed briefly. Modern analytical techniques that are being applied to characterize both monolayers and multilayers in greater detail are pointed out.
Hemodialysis and red cell cation transport in uremia: Role of membrane free fatty acids

Active and facilitated cation transport in erythrocytes of uremic patients may be improved acutely by hemodialysis, although the mechanisms remain unknown. As nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) can affect Na+ pump activity in vitro, changes in plasma and red cell membrane NEFA content following a single hemodialysis procedure were examined and compared with acute changes in erythrocyte cation flux rates in 34 hemodialysis patients. In nonsodium-loaded cells, small changes in Na+ pump flux with dialysis did correlate with changes in intracellular Na+ content (r = 0.59; N = 17; P less than 0.01). On average, neither maximal Na+ pump activity nor Na+/Li+ counter-transport flux improved with dialysis, but Na+/K+/Cl- cotransport rates rose 25% post-dialysis (P less than 0.02). Plasma NEFA levels rose 87% following hemodialysis but erythrocyte membrane NEFA content declined by 23% (P less than 0.001). Importantly, 24 of the 34 subjects studied had a decrease in erythrocyte membrane NEFA content of greater than 10%, and in these patients, the fall in membrane NEFA correlated with an increase in ouabain-sensitive Na+ efflux (r = 0.564; P less than 0.01). The effects of hemodialysis on both erythrocyte NEFA content and Na+ pump flux could be reproduced by incubating pre-dialysis cells in fatty acid-free albumin. We conclude that acute changes in membrane NEFA may modulate active cation transport in uremic erythrocytes.
X-ray absorption spectroscopic analysis of reductive [2Fe-2S] cluster degradation in hyperthermophilic archaeal succinate: Caldariellaquinone oxidoreductase subunits

The biological [2Fe-2S] clusters play important roles in electron transfer and cellular signaling for a variety of organisms from archaea, bacteria to eukarya. The two recombinant hyperthermophilic archaeal [2Fe-2S] cluster-binding proteins, SdhC and the N-terminal domain fragment of SdhB, of Sulfolobus tokodaii respiratory complex II overproduced in Escherichia coli are thermostable as isolated, but moderately sensitive to reduction with excess dithionite. We used iron K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy to monitor the structural changes of their Fe sites in the irreversible [2Fe-2S] cluster degradation process. Regardless of the differences in the cluster-ligating cysteine motifs and the XAS-detectable [2Fe-2S](2+) cluster environments, a complete reductive breakdown of the [2Fe-2S] clusters resulted in the appearance of a new Fourier transform (FT) peak at approximately 3.3 A with a concomitant loss of the Fe-Fe interaction at ca. 2.7 A for both proteins. On the basis of the unambiguous assignment of the 3.3 A FT peak, our results suggest that a biological [2Fe-2S] cluster breakdown under reducing conditions generally releases Fe(2+) from the polypeptide chain into the aqueous solution, and the Fe(2+) might then be recruited as a secondary ferrous iron source for de novo biosynthesis and/or regulation of iron-binding enzymes in the cellular system.
Direct electrically heated spray device for a moving belt liquid chromatography—mass spectrometry interface

Abstract A direct electrically heated capillary spray device for the deposition of liquid chromatographic eluents onto a moving belt interface for liquid chromatographymass spectrometry (LC—MS) has been constructed. This system shows significant advantages over hot propellant gas driven or cartridge heated sprayers, especially when eluents with high water content and high flow-rates are used. Various parameters have been examined to achieve optimum conditions with respect to capillary wall temperature, peak variance and analyte yield during deposition. Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic separations with standard bore columns (4.6 mm I.D.) demonstrate the enhanced possibilities of the moving belt interface for on-line high-performance LC—MS.
Fatigue crack growth prediction in concrete slabs

A new method to predict crack growth and fatigue life of concrete slabs is presented based on similar models for 2-D specimens. Four large-scale concrete slabs on ground subjected to three different stress ranges have been tested to fatigue failure. Geometric correction factors to calculate the effective crack length and stress intensity factor from the experimental fatigue compliance are derived based on 3-D finite element modeling. Crack length versus the number of cycles curves are constructed and fitted to a modified logistic function, which enables for the calculation of the crack propagation rates and critical crack lengths from the first and second derivative of the logistic function. Fatigue crack growth is separated into a decelerating and accelerating crack growth functions based on the initial crack length and the applied stress intensity factor, respectively. The proposed method is able to predict the fatigue life of the tested slabs and the fatigue resistance of several independent slabs cast with the same geometry and material. The analysis of the tested slabs shows that load pulses with higher minimum loads generated more fatigue damage as indicated by greater crack growth rates. The principles of this slab fatigue crack growth procedure can now be extended to estimate the remaining life in uncracked or partially-cracked concrete slabs on ground.
A gamma-ray detector for in-situ measurement of 137Cs radioactivity in snowfields and glaciers

Abstract The rate of snow deposition at various cold regions on the earth is an important quantity for glaciological and climatological studies. Radioactive debris from above-ground tests of nuclear weapons (mainly 1954–1970) and from the Chernobyl accident (1986) have been deposited on glaciers and snowfields, where they can be used as time and depth markers to determine the subsequent accumulation of snow. We discuss a technique to locate these markers that has been used just recently — in-situ measurement of γ-rays from 137 Cs. These γ-rays, which are associated with radioactive fallout, have a distinctive depth profile and serve as markers of the historical nuclear events. The γ-ray measurement involves lowering a scintillation detector down a borehole in the snow or ice and recording the response to the 137 Cs γ-rays as a function of depth. The in-situ measurement can be done relatively quickly and can replace sample retrieval, or it can be used to decide which ice or snow samples should be transported for later analysis in the laboratory. The feasibility of in-situ γ-ray measurement has been demonstrated at sites in the French Alps and Greenland. We report on a portable detector system that is being developed for use in Antarctica. It is based, as much as possible, on inexpensive, commercially available detectors and electronics. The advantages and disadvantages of this approach are discussed. The problems involved with making these measurements in a harsh environment and the steps taken to deal with them are also presented.
Cotinine as a biomarker of systemic nicotine exposure in spit tobacco users.

Unlike cigarette smokers, spit tobacco (ST) users absorb a significant amount of nicotine through the gastrointestinal tract while swallowing tobacco juice. The majority of the absorbed nicotine is rapidly converted to cotinine during first-pass hepatic metabolism. This process potentially compromises the utility of cotinine as a biomarker for systemic nicotine exposure in ST users. To investigate this question, we correlated nicotine and cotinine concentrations with clinical measures of ST use in 68 daily ST users enrolled in a nonnicotine pharmacologic intervention trial. We found that a higher frequency of swallowing tobacco juice (P=.007) was an independent predictor of higher serum cotinine concentrations. Serum nicotine concentrations, on the other hand, were not correlated with a higher frequency of swallowing. In the absence of a reliable way to measure frequency of swallowing, we conclude that cotinine should not be used for guiding clinical decisions that depend upon a precise quantification of systemic nicotine exposure, such as tailored nicotine replacement therapy.
Perioperative management of a patient with an axial-flow rotary ventricular assist device for laparoscopic ileo-colectomy.

The use of mechanical circulatory support devices as a bridge to transplant or destination therapy decreases mortality, improves quality of life, and functional status. The paucity of clinical data and the challenges faced by noncardiac anesthesiologists warrant us to present the perioperative care of a patient with a HeartMate II (Thoratec Corp. Pleasanton, CA, USA) left ventricular assist device (LVAD), who underwent a successful major laparoscopic abdominal surgery. Key issues highlighted are the limitations of oxygen saturation (SpO 2 ) monitoring, accuracy of blood pressure (BP) measurement, and the potential usefulness of intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The hemodynamic changes, impact on the LVAD function during laparoscopic surgery, and the multidisciplinary approach are addressed.
The Early Earth: Physical, Chemical and Biological Development

The geological record gleaned from scrutinizing ancient rocks is the only direct source of information regarding the physical, chemical, and biological evolution of Earth. Such studies provide information to geophysicists and geochemists who puzzle over planetary heat and structure, and to biologists who seek to place the element of time within their reconstructions of the emergence of phylogenetic diversity The past decade has seen a resurgence of interest in the first 2 billion years of Earth history. Reports emerge with increasing frequency regarding the nature and timing of the formation of the volatile envelopes of the planets, early bombardments and their contribution to the eventual chemical makeup of all planets, chemical evolution of the atmosphere, and the antiquity of the biosphere. Each of these is of intrinsic interest to science, and uncertainties over the details continue to uphold a reputation in the field of Archean studies for active, often strenuous debate.
Evidence for variable upper mantle temperature and crustal thickness in and near the Australian-Antarctic Discordance

Abstract The Southeast Indian Ridge (SEIR) in and near the Australian-Antarctic Discordance (AAD) exhibits, at a constant spreading rate, almost the full range of the many geophysical and geochemical parameters characteristic of the ‘slow’ Mid-Atlantic Ridge and ‘fast’ East Pacific Rise. We used satellite-derived gravity data, in combination with SeaMARC II bathymetry in and near the AAD, to examine regional density variations in the upper mantle beneath the AAD. Through three-dimensional gravity analysis, we found that at least two end-member models satisfy the gravity observations: regional crustal thickness variations of at least 3 km along the SEIR near the AAD or a temperature anomaly of the order of 150°C in the upper mantle beneath the SEIR. These new observations, combined with other geophysical and geochemical characteristics of the Australian-Antarctic Discordance, provide further evidence that the temperature structure of a mid-ocean ridge is a controlling factor, in addition to spreading rate, in the crustal accretionary process. Numerical models of mantle flow beneath mid-ocean ridges offer one means of investigating the dynamic effect of a variable upper mantle temperature on the accretionary process. Our results indicate that temperature is important, especially at intermediate and slower spreading rates, where thermal effects can dominate mantle flow beneath a mid-ocean ridge and result in increasing crustal production with decreasing spreading rate. At the constant, intermediate spreading rate of 37 mm/yr, characteristic of the SEIR in and near the AAD, our numerical models show that significant crustal thinning (2–4 km) can occur with relatively small variations in upper mantle temperature, all else being equal. Thus, combined with our end-member gravity models, these observations and results suggest that both anomalously cool upper mantle and thin crust exist beneath the AAD.
Mixture modeling with applications in schizophrenia research

Finite mixture modeling, together with the EM algorithm, have been widely used in clustering analysis. Under such methods, the unknown group membership is usually treated as missing data. When the ''complete data'' (log-)likelihood function does not have an explicit solution, the simplicity of the EM algorithm breaks down. Authors, including Rai and Matthews [Rai, S.N., Matthews, D.E., 1993. Improving the em algorithm. Biometrics 49, 587-591], Lange [Lange, K., 1995a. A gradient algorithm locally equivalent to the em algorithm. Journal of the Royal Statistical Society B 57(2) 425-437], and Titterington [Titterington, D.M., 1984. Recursive parameter estimation using incomplete data. Journal of the Royal Statistical Society B. 46, 257-267] developed modified algorithms therefore. As motivated by research in a large neurobiological project, we propose in this paper a new variant of such modifications and show that it is self-consistent. Moreover, simulations are conducted to demonstrate that the new variant converges faster than its predecessors.
The Hardy inequality and nonlinear parabolic equations on Carnot groups

Abstract In this paper we shall investigate the nonexistence of positive solutions for the following nonlinear parabolic partial differential equation: { ∂ u ∂ t = Δ G , p u + V ( x ) u p − 1 in Ω × ( 0 , T ) , 1 p 2 , u ( x , 0 ) = u 0 ( x ) ≥ 0 in Ω , u ( x , t ) = 0 on ∂ Ω × ( 0 , T ) , where Δ G , p is the p -sub-Laplacian on a Carnot group G and V ∈ L loc 1 ( Ω ) .
Toward a Coherent Theory of Human Moral Development: Beyond Sir Isaiah Berlin's Vision of Human Nature:

Berlin's theory of human nature is criticized on two grounds. First, within his substantive account of us, there is a tension between the Kantian vision of persons as purposive (which requires that we be free) and the Herderian pluralism (which depicts liberty as equal to other values). Second, his claim that theories of self-realization are inherently prone to rationalist perversion—and political oppression —is depicted as mistaken because it is teleology, and not the regularities of human change, that perverts our ideals. To resolve the tension within Berlin's account, a non-teleological account of our moral development is suggested: once secured, we can grow in a variety of contradictory directions. Liberty—which, along with justice and privacy, fosters security—is thus not the height of a superior morality, but a part of the psychological basis of any valid morality.
Immune-Complex-Mediated Biologic Effects

COMPLEXES of antigen and antibody (immune complexes) are capable of causing inflammatory injury.1 Many human diseases can now be attributed to the presence of immune complexes in tissues. Some examples are systemic lupus erythematosus, acute and chronic glomerulonephritis, rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, and tissue injury associated with a variety of infectious agents. Immune complexes are formed by the union of one or more antibody molecules with one or more antigen molecules. Once formed, the complex may activate cellular and humoral mediator systems that cause tissue injury. The means by which immune complexes develop in tissues has been determined in several experiments. . . .
Linguistic discrimination in writing assessment: How raters react to African American “errors,” ESL errors, and standard English errors on a state-mandated writing exam

Abstract Raters of Georgia's (USA) state-mandated college-level writing exam, which is intended to ensure a minimal university-level writing competency, are trained to grade holistically when assessing these exams. A guiding principle in holistic grading is to not focus exclusively on any one aspect of writing but rather to give equal weight to style, vocabulary, mechanics, content, and development. This study details how raters react to “errors” typical of African American English writers, of ESL writers, and of standard American English writers. Using a log-linear model to generate odds ratios for comparison of essays with these error types, results indicate linguistic discrimination against African American “errors” and a leniency for ESL errors in writing assessment.