cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electronic structure of intrinsic defects in crystalline germanium telluride

Germanium telluride undergoes rapid transition between polycrystalline and amorphous states under either optical or electrical excitation. While the crystalline phases are predicted to be semiconductors, polycrystalline germanium telluride always exhibits p-type metallic conductivity. We present a study of the electronic structure and formation energies of the vacancy and antisite defects in both known crystalline phases. We show that these intrinsic defects determine the nature of free-carrier transport in crystalline germanium telluride. Germanium vacancies require roughly one-third the energy of the other three defects to form, making this by far the most favorable intrinsic defect. While the tellurium antisite and vacancy induce gap states, the germanium counterparts do not. A simple counting argument, reinforced by integration over the density of states, predicts that the germanium vacancy leads to empty states at the top of the valence band, thus giving a complete explanation of the observed p-type metallic conduction.
Chronic marijuana smoke exposure in the rhesus monkey. IV: Neurochemical effects and comparison to acute and chronic exposure to delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in rats.

Abstract THC is the major psychoactive constituent of marijuana and is known to produce psychopharmacological effects in humans. These studies were designed to determine whether acute or chronic exposure to marijuana smoke or THC produces in vitro or in vivo neurochemical alterations in rat or monkey brain. For the in vitro study, THC was added (1–100 nM) to membranes prepared from different regions of the rat brain and muscarinic cholinergic (MCh) receptor binding was measured. For the acute in vivo study, rats were injected IP with vehicle, 1, 3, 10, or 30 mg THC/kg and sacrificed 2 h later. For the chronic study, rats were gavaged with vehicle or 10 or 20 mg THC/kg daily, 5 days/week for 90 days and sacrificed either 24 h or 2 months later. Rhesus monkeys were exposed to the smoke of a single 2.6% THC cigarette once a day, 2 or 7 days a week for 1 year. Approximately 7 months after the last exposure, animals were sacrificed by overdose with pentobarbital for neurochemical analyses. In vitro exposure to THC produced a dose-dependent inhibition of MCh receptor binding in several brain areas. This inhibition of MCh receptor binding, however, was also observed with two other nonpsychoactive derivatives of marijuana, cannabidiol and cannabinol. In the rat in vivo study, we found no significant changes in MCh or other neurotransmitter receptor binding in hippocampus, frontal cortex or caudate nucleus after acute or chronic exposure to THC. In the monkey brain, we found no alterations in the concentration of neurotransmitters in caudate nucleus, frontal cortex, hypothalamus or brain stem. These data indicate that the in vitro effects of THC on MCh receptor binding are not observed in vivo in the rat. Neither chronic THC exposure in the rat nor chronic marijuana smoke exposure in the monkey resulted in any neurochemical alterations in the systems examined.
Effect of meiotic stages and maturation protocols on bovine oocyte’s resistance to cryopreservation

Abstract We investigated the effect of meiotic stages and two maturation protocols on bovine oocyte’s resistance to cryopreservation. Oocytes at germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and metaphase II (MII) stage as well as oocytes matured for 22 h in media supplemented with FSH or LH were vitrified by the open pulled straw method. After warming, oocytes underwent additional 16 h (GVBD group) or 2 h (MII group) maturation. Then they were subjected to in vitro fertilization and culture. Some oocytes that matured in the medium supplemented with LH were subjected to parthenogenetic activation after vitrification to determine their developmental potential in absence of fertilization. Survival of oocytes after vitrifying/warming was determined after 22 h in fertilization medium. Cleavage and blastocyst formation rates were used to assess their developmental competence. In both experiments, a portion of unvitrified MII oocytes were subjected to in vitro fertilization and culture as control groups. In Experiment 1, similar cleavage rates were obtained for both GVBD and MII oocytes (53.56 versus 58.01%, P>0.05). However, significantly higher proportion of cleaved embryos from vitrified MII oocytes developed into blastocysts than those from vitrified GVBD oocytes (1.06 versus 8.37%, respectively, P
Catalytic behavior at the nanoscale: CO adsorption on Al2O3-supported Pt clusters

The study of the adsorption and growth of metals on ceramics is a rapidly growing area, as these interactions are key to understanding many materials and processes used in modern technology. In particular, oxide-supported catalysts have been extensively studied, due to their widespread industrial applications. Knowledge of the role played by the underlying metal oxide in the reactivity of the metal catalyst can give insights into the design of more effective catalysts. Here, we use density functional theory (DFT) to investigate the adsorption of CO onto 1) bulk Pt, 2) Pt thin layers supported on an α-alumina surface and 3) Pt nanoparticles on α-alumina. Our results show strong binding for CO molecules on the surfaces of both the thin Pt layers and the 3-atom nanoparticles supported on alumina substrates. This enhanced binding can possibly lead to more reactive catalysts. Further calculations on reaction products are needed to determine the effectiveness of these new systems.
Calculation and determination of Sr/Mg ratios and % diagenesis of some Carboniferous limestone units

Abstract Four Carboniferous limestone units were analyzed petrographically for skeletal content and chemically for Sr and Mg. The composition of the original unaltered units was calculated from the fossil assemblage and Sr and Mg contents of similar Recent organism species. Sr and Mg compositions calculated in this way indicate 75–95% removal of Sr and Mg from the original units. The course of the diagenesis is concluded to be primarily by non-equilibrium solution processes between the limestones and meteoric water. Calculations based on congruent diagenesis of Sr and Mg give Sr/Mg ratios approximating those found in three of the limestone units.
The Enzymatic Motor Activity of Nonmuscle Myosin II-B is not Critical for Cardiac Myocyte Cytokinesis

Nonmuscle myosin (NM) II is believed to drive contractile ring constriction during cytokinesis and NM II-B is the major nonmuscle myosin II isoform expressed in cardiac myocytes. Ablation of NM II-B in mice resulted in premature binucleation in cardiac myocytes consistent with a role for NM II-B in cytokinesis. Surprisingly binucleation can be rescued by expressing a motor-impaired mutant form of NM II-B (R709C) in the mouse heart, suggesting that NM II-B enzymatic motor activity is not essential for cytokinesis. We tested this hypothesis directly by using a COS-7 cell line which resembles cardiac myocytes in containing only NM II-B and small quantities of NM II-C (<7%) but no NM II-A. Previous work had shown that using siRNA to deplete NMHC II-B in this cell line resulted in multinucleation due to a failure in cytokinesis. We now show that COS-7 cell multinucleation can be rescued by transfecting with mutant forms of NM II-B (R709C) or NM II-A (N93K). These two mutant NM IIs have previously been shown to have marked reductions in their actin-activated MgATPase activity (70% in the case of NM II-B and 96% in the case of NM II-A) and neither could propel actin filaments in an in vitro motility assay. Importantly, cytokinesis is inhibited by the myosin II inhibitor blebbistatin in COS-7 cells expressing either wild-type NM II-B or the mutant form of NM II-A (or II-B). Whereas blebbistatin blocks myosin in an actin-detached state, the mutant NM IIs (R709C II-B and N93K II-A) have no defect in their actin-binding activity. Our results therefore argue that the role of NM II in cytokinesis depends more on its actin binding (cross-linking) property than its enzymatic Mg2+-ATPase activity.
The Influence of Some Experiential and Genetic Factors, Including Hormones, On the Visible Courtship Behavior of Budgerigars (Melopsit Tacus)

Eight precopulatory behaviors were quantified for singly-caged, visually isolated male and female Budgerigars that were castrated and/or given different dosages of testosterone progesterone, estradiol with or without progesterone or a placebo. Feminine "soliciting for copulation" seemed to be influenced mainly by blood estrogen levels, and not by other genetic and/or experiential factors associated with a feminine sexual identity. Estrogen and testosterone both stimulated "intention to mount", but only in males. Of the remaining six typically masculine precopulatory displays, no one factor seems to explain why, under typical breeding conditions, these precopulatory activities are observed to be performed mainly by male Budgerigars - to the extent that they have been denoted as masculine behaviors. This study identifies three factors apart from the different and specific stimuli presented by a mate: (1) the presence of high levels of plasma gonadal hormones; (2) other genetic and/or experiential factors related to a masculine sexual identity; and (3) an interaction of "I" and "2" whereby "2" prevents a greater responsiveness to hormonal stimuli. Data suggest that, when the varying and specific signals from a mate are disregarded, factor "I" may be most responsible for the "masculine nature" of Pumping and factor "2" for Bill-hooking and factor "3" interactions" for intention to mount and displays containing the nudging component, whereas those displays that also contain the Bill-hooking component seem to be associated with a baseline sexual difference and those displays that begin with Nudging followed by Pumping are stimulated by gonadal hormone levels. Thus, different interactions of hormonal and other factors associated with a sexual identity seem to influence the quantities of different precopulatory displays performed by "isolated" Budgerigars.
Regional environmental simulation of African cattle herding societies

Regional analyses of the interaction between human populations and natural resources must integrate landscape scale environmental problems. An approach that considers human culture, environmental processes, and resource needs offers an appropriate methodology. With this methodology, we analyze problems of food availability in African cattle-keeping societies. The analysis interrelates cattle biomass, forage availability, milk and blood production, crop yields, gathering, food subsidies, population, and variable precipitation. While an excess of cattle leads to overgrazing, cattle also serve as valuable food storage mechanisms during low rainfall periods. Food subsidies support higher population levels but do not alter drought-induced population fluctuations. Variable precipitation patterns require solutions that stabilize year-to-year food production and also address problems of overpopulation.
Factors in Hard Wheat Flour Responsible for Reduced Cookie Spread

ABSTRACT Time-lapse photography showed that, during baking, the diameter of sugar-snap cookies increased linearly then suddenly became fixed. Therefore, cookie diameter was a function of spread rate and set time. Cookies made with soft wheat flour were significantly larger in diameter (184 mm) than those made with hard wheat flour (161 mm). Cookies made with soft wheat flour set later (5.8 min) during baking than those made with hard wheat flour (5.1 min). The differences in set time within cookies made with various hard wheat flours or within cookies made with various soft wheat flours appeared to be affected by flour protein content. However, other factors also affected the difference in set time between cookies made with hard wheat and soft wheat flours. Cookies made with soft wheat flour spread at a faster rate (7.8 mm/min) than those made with hard wheat flour (4.6 mm/min). The level of soluble starch in the flour appeared to cause the difference in spread rate between cookies made with hard wheat an...
An Inquiry-Based Density Laboratory for Teaching Experimental Error

An inquiry-based laboratory exercise is described in which introductory chemistry students measure the density of water five times using either a beaker, a graduated cylinder, or a volumetric pipet. Students are also assigned to use one of two analytical balances, one of which is purposefully miscalibrated by 5%. Each group collects data using only their assigned glassware and balance. After the experiment, the complete classes’ data is compiled. The variability in the precision of the glassware and the different calibrations of the balances leads to observations of both random and systematic error in the class data. These data provide a starting point for teaching the types of error commonly encountered in introductory chemistry labs.
Testing for increased mutation rate for neutral alleles

Abstract Methods are given to test whether, at a selectively neutral locus, one can reasonably assume a recent increase in mutation rate to new alleles. The tests use the number of singletons, doubletons, etc. occurring at this locus and also the frequency of the most frequent allele.
Effects of supplementation and stocking rate on body condition and production parameters of multiparous beef cows

Fall-calving multiparous Angus × Hereford cows 3 to 10 years of age were stratified by age in a three by two factorial treatment arrangement to evaluate the efficacy of modifying stocking rate and supplementation strategy to manage cow body condition and production parameters over a 5-year study. Efficacy was evaluated quarterly in association with calving, breeding, weaning, and mid way between weaning and calving (i.e. in August). Three protein supplementation strategies (none, standard, strategic) were imposed across both a moderate (0·3 cows per ha) and a high (0·4 cows per ha) stocking rate. In the strategically supplemented group, protein supplement was provided to cows with a body condition score 0·10). Birth weight was not affected by supplementation strategy or stocking rate (P > 0·10). The lower 205-day weights of calves on a heavy compared with moderate stocking rate was independent of age (P = 0·02). However, the increased 205-day weight of calves born to strategically supplemented cows compared with those born to unsupplemented cows was only evident when data were not corrected for differences in age among groups (P = 0·03). Likewise, analyses of cow condition parameters using models without and with age resulted in different interpretations. These results suggest that strategic and standard supplementation result in similar animal performance and that the improvement in herd productivity associated with altering stocking rate and supplementation may partially be due to altered herd age dynamics.
Defining Incidence and Risk Factors of Venous Thromboemolism after Hepatectomy

Background The incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) among patients undergoing hepatic surgery is poorly defined, leading to varied use of VTE prophylaxis among surgeons. We sought to define the incidence of VTE after liver surgery and identify risk factors associated with VTE.
A ‘GAG’ reflex prevents repair of the damaged CNS

The extracellular matrix of the central nervous system (CNS) serves as both a supporting structure for cells and a rich source of signaling molecules that can influence cell proliferation, survival, migration and differentiation. A large proportion of this matrix is composed of proteoglycans—proteins with long chains of polysaccharides, called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), covalently attached. Although many of the activities of proteoglycans depend on their core proteins, GAGs themselves can influence cell signaling. Here we review accumulating evidence that two GAGs, chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronan, play essential roles during nervous system development but also accumulate in chronic CNS lesions and inhibit axonal regeneration and remyelination, making them significant hindrances to CNS repair. We propose that the balance between the synthesis and degradation of these molecules dictates, in part, how regeneration and recovery from CNS damage occurs.
Behavioral correlates of constant light-induced retinal degeneration.

Abstract Exposure of albino rats to continuous, low-intensity illumination produces degeneration of photoreceptors. In this study adult albino rats that were housed in either cyclic light or constant light (440 lux) were tested on pattern discriminations, intensity discriminations, and color discriminations for at least 24 weeks. Rats showed a decreased ability to perform pattern discriminations after approximately 7 weeks in constant light and after 24 weeks in constant light their performance was near chance. However, intensity discriminations and color discriminations were not impaired during 24 weeks in constant light. The fact that the constant light-exposed rats could perform color discriminations suggests that at least two different visual pigments are transducing light in these animals, despite the fact that no intact photoreceptor cells were observed in the retinas of the constant light-exposed rats.
Activity of gut alkaline phosphatase, proteases and esterase in relation to diapause of pharate first instar larvae of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar

Two distinctly different patterns of gut enzyme activity were noted in relation to diapause in pharate first instar larvae of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar. Trypsin, chymotrypsin, elastase, aminopeptidase and esterase activities were low at the initiation of diapause and through the period of chilling needed to terminate diapause. At the completion of a 150 day chilling period, activity of each of these enzymes quickly increased when the pharate larvae were transferred to 25°C. By contrast, activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) increased rapidly at the onset of diapause, remained elevated throughout diapause, increased again during postdiapause, and then dropped at the time of hatching. In addition, zymogram patterns of ALP activity differed qualitatively in relation to diapause: several bands were detectable during the pre- and postdiapause periods, but only one band, a band of high mobility, was visible during diapause. The ALP isozyme present in diapausing pharate larvae had a pH optimum of 10.6. Diapause in the gypsy moth can be averted by application of an imidazole derivative, KK-42, and pharate larvae treated with KK-42 showed elevated protease and esterase activity, low ALP activity, and expressed ALP isozymes with low mobility. Thus the overall patterns of gut enzyme activity and the ALP zymogram in KK-42 treated individuals were similar to those observed in untreated individuals at the termination of diapause. Our results suggest a unique pattern of enzyme activity in the gut that is regulated by the diapause program. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 37:197–205, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Microspheres embolization of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma in an adult

INTRODUCTION Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) is a benign though locally aggressive, highly vascular tumor primarily affecting adolescent males which has traditionally posed a significant intraoperative challenge during its resection due to the high risk of uncontrollable hemorrhage. Pre-operative angiographic embolization of the major feeding vessels to the tumor has become a valuable, even necessary, tool in the surgical treatment of these lesions.
Soluble Synthetic Multiporphyrin Arrays. 1. Modular Design and Synthesis

A set of porphyrin building blocks has been developed for the construction of light-harvesting model compounds and related molecular photonic devices. The porphyrins are facially encumbered to enhance solubility in organic solvents, are employed in a defined metalation state (free base (Fb) or zinc chelate), and bear peripheral functional groups such as iodo or ethyne for joining the porphyrins via covalent bonds. The coupling of an iodophenylporphyrin and an ethynylphenylporphyrin via mild Pd-mediated reactions (2−4 mM of each porphyrin in toluene/triethylamine (5:1) with Pd2(dba)3 and AsPh3 at 35 °C for 2 h) yields the corresponding diphenylethyne-linked multiporphyrin array in 70−80% yield. The arrays are easily purified by a sequence of flash silica chromatography, preparative size exclusion chromatography, and gravity elution silica chromatography. The diphenylethyne linkers give a center-to-center separation of the porphyrins of ∼20 A. Model light-harvesting compounds are easily prepared using Zn an...
The Ventilation of the World's Oceans: Maps of the Potential vorticity Field

Abstract Maps of potential vorticity (q) within four different density layers are presented for the North and South Atlantic, North and South Pacific, and Indian Oceans. Potential vorticity is evaluated as (f/ρ)∂ρ0/∂z, a prescription that is valid for large slow scales and that allows its mapping from hydrographic data alone. Here, f is the Coriolis frequency, p0 the potential density, and z the vertical coordinate. It is shown that the character of a layer within the thermocline of a subtropical gyre will vary greatly depending on the extent to which the layer is isolated from surface boundary conditions and forcing. Fluid particles recirculating within “ventilated” layers have their potential vorticity and other properties reset with virtually every circuit round the gyre when they pass through the outcrop zone. By contrast, particles within “unventilated” or “dynamically isolated” layers have time to share their properties with neighboring particles and approach a common, “homogenized” state. The North...
STRATEGIC INVESTMENT THEORIES

Strategic investment theory establishes a framework for discussing the benefits of acquisitions. However, these theories do not provide automatic answers to investment questions.
HPV-16 infection predicts treatment outcome in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Objective: To determine if patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) treated with chemoradiation have improved outcomes.Study Design: A retrosp...
Development of a seawater battery for deep-water applications

Dissolved-oxygen seawater batteries rely on the corrosion of a reactive metal anode and the reduction of oxygen at an inert cathode to generate a potential of about 1 V when immersed in seawater. Because oxygen is not very soluble in seawater, such batteries are characterized by small cathodic current densities and are therefore most suitable for long-term low-power applications. A number of batteries have been built recently using sophisticated electrodes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of building a seawater battery using cheap readily-available materials. The results show that magnesium anodes outperform aluminum. Although the cathodic current densities achieved in this study are markedly lower than reported previously, cathodes composed of copper (or stainless-steel) mesh perform reasonably well and facilitate the design of compact batteries with an open structure and large cathodic areas. Deep- and shallow water tests show that a battery occupying 1 m3 could produce 5 W for a year or more in oxygen-saturated waters and 1–2 W in the oxygen-starved waters of the North Pacific seafloor. The energy density of such a battery including the flotation necessary for optimal performance and recovery is estimated to be 150–400 Wh kg−1.
Early pregnancy diagnosis in the bovine.

Abstract A method of pregnancy diagnosis in the bovine, using crystallization patterns of cervical mucus and contraction of the vagina in response to oxytocin, is described. Long, fern-like crystals form during estrus but not at other periods of the cycle. The vagina contracts in response to oxytocin, either at estrus or during pregnancy. By combining a crystallization pattern other than the very marked pattern at estrus and a positive vaginal contraction under the influence of oxytocin, pregnancy was diagnosed. Eighty-five per cent of 33 cows was correctly diagnosed at 15 days post-breeding. Errors on three cows may be justified by their elongated cycles and possible embryonic mortality. All pregnant cows were diagnosed correctly. Ninety per cent of 21 cows was diagnosed correctly at 27 days post-breeding.
Nitrogenase activities associated with macrophytes from a lacustrine and a freshwater estuarine habitat

Abstract The distribution and activities of diazotrophic epiphytes among and between species of freshwater emergent, submersed, and floating macrophytes were examined. We compared the aerobic and anaerobic macrophyte-associated nitrogenase activities from an urban lake, East Twin Lake, and an agriculturally-impacted freshwater estuary, Old Woman Creek Estuary, both in northern Ohio, USA. Epiphyte nitrogenase activity (NA) associated with macrophyte stems, petioles, or entire small plants was measured with the acetylene reduction technique. Aerobic epiphyte NA ranged from 5–760 times greater in the lake compared to the estuary. The differences between these activities probably reflect the higher combined inorganic nitrogen concentrations in the estuary. Anaerobic NA associated with the sediment portions of the macrophytes were virtually equal between the two systems but not between macrophyte species. Nuphar advena supported more near/in-sediment anaerobic NA than did either Nymphaea odorata or Nelumbo lutea. All macrophyte species tested positive for aerobic epiphyte NA. This activity was documented for two species not previously reported: the American lotus, N. lutea, and the floating liverwort, Ricciocarpus natans.
Collaboration and virtual mentoring: building relationships between pre-service and in-service special education teachers

Abstract This study explored the benefits and limitations of mentoring through the Internet in two special education preparation programs in the United States. Nicenet Internet Classroom Assistant was used to facilitate this virtual mentoring process. Seventeen undergraduate and 13 graduate students from two universities participated. The graduate students were mentors to undergraduates who were in the beginning of their senior year of their special education program. Pre- and post-surveys, Internet interactions, and video conferencing were used to gather participants' perceptions of their skill development in teaching, mentoring and collaboration and the effectiveness of virtual mentoring. Content analyses and descriptive statistics were employed to evaluate their responses. Results revealed that participants agreed that virtual mentoring was a positive experience, it supported their intervention and teaming skills and had some positive effects on their communication and teaching skills. However, virtual...
Two dimensional hybrid simulation of a curved bow shock

Results are presented from two-dimensional hybrid simulations of curved collisionless supercritical shocks, retaining both quasi-perpendicular and quasi-parallel sections of the shock in order to study the character and origin of the foreshock ion population. The simulations demonstrate that the foreshock ion population is dominated by ions impinging upon the quasi-parallel side of the shock, while nonlocal transport from the quasi-perpendicular side of the shock into the foreshock region is minimal. Further, it is shown that the ions gain energy by drifting significantly in the direction of the convection electric field through multiple shock encounters.
Post-herniorrhaphy urinary retention: A randomized prospective study

Urinary retention is a known complication of inguinal herniorrhaphy. Bladder distension due to vigorous fluid administration is believed to contribute to this problem. Our hypothesis is that fluid restriction will lower the incidence of urinary retention, post-herniorrhaphy. From January 1989 through March 1991, 113 male patients entered the study. Sixty patients (Group I) received unlimited iv fluids (1294 +/- 58 ml) and 9 patients (15%) developed urinary retention. Fifty-three patients (Group II) received 500 ml or less by protocol (485 +/- 2 ml) and 5 of these patients developed retention (9%). Thus, fluid restriction lowered the incidence of urinary retention post-herniorrhaphy but the difference did not reach statistical significance. In addition age over 60 years approached significance as a risk factor for postoperative urinary retention.
Hydrogen Bonding and the Varying Sweetness of the Sugarsa

SUMMARY Sugar sweetness appears to vary with hydrogen bonding. When hydroxyl groups, which elicit sweet taste, are hydrogen bonded, ability to cause sweet taste appears to be restricted. The thesis is based upon consideration of molecular models, hydrogen-bonding measurements, and taste tests. The varying sweetness of different sugars, and the apparent anomalous sweetness of sugar anomers may be largely resolved by considering hydroxyl group bonding.
New Probes of Oxygen Binding and Activation: Application to Dopamine β-Monooxygenase

Monooxygenases represent a class of enzymes catalyzing a reductive activation of dioxygen, linked to the insertion of an oxygen atom into a C-H bond: $$ R - H + {O_2}R - OH + {H_2}O $$ (1) Basic properties of monooxygenase-type systems which must be taken into account in the development of a reaction mechanism include (i) the splitting of the dioxygen bond, (ii) the interaction of spin unpaired (triplet) oxygen with spin paired (singlet) substrates and (iii) the large thermodynamic driving force deriving from the greater bond energy of the O-H of water relative to the C-H of substrate. In order to circumvent the spin forbidden properties of these reactions, nature has evolved a number of strategies to activate dioxygen involving the use of either organic cofactors or transition metal ions. Although the total number of enzyme systems found to use copper in this capacity is small, eukaryotic copper containing enzymes catalyze physiologically important monooxygenase reactions, e.g., those catalyzed by tyrosinase,4 dopamine β-monooxygenase1 and peptidyl α-amidating enzyme.5
Nutrition and Bone Health in the Elderly

Osteoporosis, a common disorder of women and men, is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and health care costs. Age-related fractures are the most common manifestation of osteoporosis and are usually manifested after menopause in women, and in the seventh or eighth decade in men. Biochemical, biomechanical, and nonskeletal factors contribute to fragility fractures in the elderly. However, nutritional determinants also play a key role in both the pathophysiology and treatment of individuals with osteoporosis. Traditionally, calcium has been considered the key nutrient for optimal skeletal growth and maintenance. However, recent evidence has emerged linking vitamins D, K, and A to the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, especially in elderly individuals. Additionally, adequate protein intake is essential for bone formation, particularly in vulnerable populations residing in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. Preservation of skeletal architecture is also dependent on maintenance of muscle mass, another soft tissue component that is influenced by nutrient intake. This chapter will focus on the skeletal and nonskeletal pathways that contribute to fractures in the older individual and the role of nutrition in treating and preventing age-related osteoporosis. However, it should be noted that the pathogenesis of skeletal frailty is complex and centers on the entire organism, not just bone. For example, fractures generally result from falls; falling can be related to poor muscle strength, which in turn can be strongly influenced by nutritional intake.
Teaching College Students Better Learning Skills Using Self-Hypnosis

This paper reports the effects of self-hypnosis used by 51 college students enrolled in a 10-week course on efficient learning skills. All students were administered the Creative Imagination Scale. Subsequently, they learned to enter and deepen alert self-hypnosis. They gave themselves personal suggestions and then studied in hypnosis. They reported their depth of hypnosis and satisfaction with each session. Grades were collected the quarter before, during and after the course. Satisfaction and depth data indicated the students were involved all through the course. Statistical testing showed that students who scored highest on the CIS had the lowest initial GPA, improved most during the course, and significantly increased their GPA in the quarter after.
Density Functional Theory Study of β-Hairpins in Antiparallel β-Sheets, a New Classification Based upon H-Bond Topology

We present a new classification of β-turns specific to antiparallel β-sheets based upon the topology of H-bond formation. This classification results from ONIOM calculations using B3LYP/D95** density functional theory and AM1 semiempirical calculations as the high and low levels, respectively. We chose acetyl(Ala)6NH2 as a model system as it is the simplest all-alanine system that can form all the H-bonds required for a β-turn in a sheet. Of the 10 different conformations we have found, the most stable structures have C7 cyclic H-bonds in place of the C10 interactions specified in the classic definition. Also, the chiralities specified for residues i + 1 and i + 2 in the classic definition disappear when the structures are optimized using our techniques, as the energetic differences among the four diastereomers of each structure are not substantial for 8 of the 10 conformations.
Extracurricular activity availability and participation and substance use among American Indian adolescents.

School-based extracurricular activity involvement has been associated with lower levels of substance use among adolescents from various populations; however, these associations have only been slightly examined among American Indian (AI) adolescents. Building from various theoretical perspectives, it was hypothesized that AI adolescents’ perceived access to and the intensity (i.e., frequency) of participation in extracurricular activities would be associated with lower substance use and less engagement in risky substance use behaviors (i.e., being drunk or high at school, riding/driving with an intoxicated driver, and selling drugs). The moderating influences of sex, age, reservation residence, and metropolitan status also were examined. Data from the 2010 Arizona Youth Survey were analyzed for 5,701 8th, 10th, and 12th grade AI adolescents (49.1 % female). The expected protective effects of extracurricular participation were demonstrated, such that high levels of perceived availability and intensity of participation consistently predicted low levels of all outcomes. Some of these associations were moderated by one or more demographic factors, with unique patterns emerging for each behavior. Ultimately, the findings suggest that AI adolescents benefit from the availability of extracurricular activities and intensity of participation in them, but the degree of the effect is contingent upon other individual and contextual characteristics.
ROCKWELL COLLINS AIR TRANSPORT METRICS

To continue as a world class avionics company, Collins Air Transport Division is adding engineering metrics to well-planned Systems, Hardware and Software Processes. We ask much of our engineers, requesting them to follow new and unfamiliar processes, while measuring their work. The paper reviews the objectives of the metrics program and how we are carrying out those objectives. The paper also reviews our staff's concerns introduced by the metrics program.
Pseudomonas cepacia pneumonia in a child with chronic granulomatous disease and selective IgA deficiency

A 6 1/2 year-old boy with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) and selective IgA deficiency developed a chronic progressive pneumonia which failed to respond to several conventional combinations of antimicrobial therapy. On lung biopsy, Pseudomonas cepacia was obtained in pure culture, sensitive to chloramphenicol, tetracycline, kanamycin and nalidixic acid. With specific therapy, he slowly recovered. P. cepacia has not been previously described as a cause of persistent pneumonia in immunodeficient children. The occurrence of CGD and selective IgA deficiency together is a very rare combination of immunodeficiencies.
Developments in adaptive control techniques for machine tools

This paper reviews adaptive control techniques for machine tools developed during last four decades. Three different techniques are discussed: (i) Adaptive control with optimization, (ii) adaptive control with constraints, (iii) Geometric adaptive control.
Cortical mapping demonstrates human somatosensory gyrus is larger than motor gyrus

Abstract Craniotomy with intraoperative rolandic cortical mapping was used to evaluate and compare the relative exposed surface areas of somatosensory gyri (SSG) and motor gyri (MG). The records of patients who underwent intraoperative photography and electrophysiologic mapping of SSG and MG were reviewed. Patients were excluded if the perirolandic area was involved with tumor or if the operative exposure did not permit adequate visualization of perirolandic cortex. Twenty-five patients (10 females, 15 males, median age 31 years) with varying pathologies met these criteria. Twenty of the 25 craniotomies were performed on the left side. Outlines of the exposed SSG and MG were traced on transparencies, which were then digitized. The areas of the exposed surfaces of SSG and MG were computed in pixels. A ratio (S/M = surface area of exposed SSG/surface area of exposed MG) was computed for each patient. S/M was >1 (surface area of the SSG was larger than the surface area of MG) in 19 of 25 patients (76%). S/M ranged from 0.79 to 1.62 (median 1.18). These data indicate that the exposed surface area of SSG is usually larger than MG ( p
Natural Enemy Effects on the Survival of Synaxis cervinaria (Lepidoptera: Geometridae)

The geometrid Synaxis ceroinaria (Packard) naturally occurs at very low densities in greenleaf manzanita, Arctostaphylos patula E. Greene, plant communities of northeastern California. To determine mortality rates and identify the more common natural enemies of eggs, larvae, and pupae, we released individuals of each stage into the field under simulated natural conditions and as part of a series of exclosure experiments. We then collected all surviving released individuals and reared them in the laboratory to recover parasitoids. Occasionally, we made first-hand observations of natural enemy attacks in the field. Our results revealed that natural enemies have a significant impact on the survival of S. ceroinaria . The combined actions of invertebrate and vertebrate predators, and pathogens effectively reduce populations by >99%. Larval parasitoids have relatively little impact on populations of S. ceroinaria because parasitized larvae are more likely to be consumed by predators. This geometrid is strongly regulated at low population levels and is thus prevented from causing serious defoliation to greenleaf manzanita plants.
A beam chamber memory system

Abstract We describe a digital delay-line readout scheme for beam-line multiwire proportional chambers used at the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory.
The Hop-Like Stress-Induced Protein 1 Cochaperone Is a Novel Cell-Intrinsic Restriction Factor for Mitochondrial Tombusvirus Replication

Recent genome-wide screens reveal that the host cells express an arsenal of proteins that inhibit replication of plus-stranded RNA viruses by functioning as cell-intrinsic restriction factors of viral infections. One group of cell-intrinsic restriction factors against tombusviruses contains tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) domains that directly interact with the viral replication proteins. In this paper, we find that the TPR domain-containing Hop-like stress-inducible protein 1 (Sti1p) cochaperone selectively inhibits the mitochondrial membrane-based replication of Carnation Italian ringspot tombusvirus (CIRV). In contrast, Sti1/Hop does not inhibit the peroxisome membrane-based replication of the closely related Tomato bushy stunt virus (TBSV) or Cucumber necrosis virus (CNV) in a yeast model or in plants. Deletion of STI1 in yeast leads to up to a 4-fold increase in CIRV replication, and knockdown of the orthologous Hop cochaperone in plants results in a 3-fold increase in CIRV accumulation. Overexpression of Sti1p derivatives in yeast reveals that the inhibitory function depends on the TPR1 domain known to interact with heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), but not on the TPR2 domain interacting with Hsp90. In vitro CIRV replication studies based on isolated mitochondrial preparations and purified recombinant proteins has confirmed that Sti1p, similar to the TPR-containing Cyp40-like Cpr7p cyclophilin and the Ttc4 oncogene-like Cns1 cochaperone, is a strong inhibitor of CIRV replication. Sti1p interacts and colocalizes with the CIRV replication proteins in yeast. Our findings indicate that the TPR-containing Hop/Sti1 cochaperone could act as a cell-intrinsic virus restriction factor of the mitochondrial CIRV, but not against the peroxisomal tombusviruses in yeast and plants. IMPORTANCE The host cells express various cell-intrinsic restriction factors that inhibit the replication of plus-stranded RNA viruses. In this paper, the authors find that the Hop-like stress-inducible protein 1 (Sti1p) cochaperone selectively inhibits the mitochondrial membrane-based replication of Carnation Italian ringspot tombusvirus (CIRV) in yeast. Deletion of STI1 in yeast or knockdown of the orthologous Hop cochaperone in plants leads to increased CIRV replication. In addition, overexpression of Sti1p derivatives in yeast reveals that the inhibitory function depends on the TPR1 domain known to interact with heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), but not on the TPR2 domain interacting with Hsp90. In vitro CIRV replication studies based on isolated mitochondrial preparations and purified recombinant proteins have confirmed that Sti1p is a strong inhibitor of CIRV replication. The authors' findings reveal that the Hop/Sti1 cochaperone could act as a cell-intrinsic restriction factor against the mitochondrial CIRV, but not against the related peroxisomal tombusviruses.
ECD-Dual-Column Pesticide Method Verification by Ion Trap GC/MS and GC/MS/MS

Soil extracts from five Superfund Contract Laboratory Program (CLP) laboratories were analyzed for organochlorine pesticides using gas chromatographic separation with ion trap mass spectrometric detection in both electron impact (GC/EIMS) and tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) modes. These results were compared with those from the standard CLP dual-column gas chromatography electron capture detection (GC/ECD) pesticide method. This was accomplished to (a) determine the number of false positives and false negatives in the CLP data, (b) evaluate ion trap GC/MS/MS as a potential technique to replace/augment conventional ECD-dual-column methodology, and (c) to compare conventional ion trap GC/EIMS with the relatively new ion trap GC/MS/MS. In all, 16 pesticide extracts from five CLP laboratories were analyzed for 20 pesticides by GC/EIMS and GC/MS/MS, and the data were compared with the results from the CLP method (ECD-dual-column pesticide method). Of a possible 960 parameters (20 analytes × 16 samples × 3 ...
Whiteboards that Compute: Goals and Challenges for System Designers

Even after more than thirty years of desktop computing, many (if not most) engineers facing complex problems instinctively run right to the whiteboard. A whiteboard offers an incredibly natural way by which ideas can be remembered: it provides a means of describing and communicating the relationships between complex interacting parts, and can be used to specify rough schematics of final designs. While the utility of these simple smooth white slabs is clear, there is an opportunity here to create a computing device that can provide all of these abilities and more--a computer that is as simple as sketching but as powerful as a modern desktop. Written equations can be captured and solved, sketches of state machines can be executed, and previous drawings can be queried, recalled, shared, and transformed. We are not the first to claim this is an important direction of work, so why do we believe this to be a fruitful direction for systems research now?
Strong atomic displacements around nitrogen in tantalum determined by energy-dispersive x-ray diffraction

The nitrogen induced attenuation of Bragg reflections (static Debye-Waller Factor) of tantalum single crystals containing nitrogen has been measured by energy-dispersive x-ray diffraction. N has been dissolved in Ta up to a concentration ofc=3.3% N/Ta. From a detailed study of the concentration andK dependence (K=scattering vector) of the static Debye-Waller Factor exponent 2L we conclude:i) 2L increases linearly with the nitrogen content forc≦1.8% N/Ta,ii) The displacements of the atomic shells due to N on the octahedral sites areu 1=0.45 (5) A,u 2=(−)0.11 (2) A.u 3=0.25 (2) A,iii) The thermal vibrations of those atoms close to N are changed, due to the strong static displacements that they experience. The unusual strong and extended displacements around N in Ta are in contradiction to calculations where two-force models have been used. We propose arguments that displacements are responsible for the specific site chosen by hydrogen atoms when they are trapped by nitrogen in Ta.
Student pharmacists' perspective on actual vs. simulated pharmacy practice experiences

Abstract The value of experiential education and its importance in the development of the student pharmacist is acknowledged by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). In June 2010, the ACPE adopted a policy allowing colleges of pharmacy to replace up to 20% of introductory pharmacy practice experiences (e.g., 60 h) with simulated activities. As third professional-year student pharmacists, we recognize the importance of simulated experiences and their strategic placement throughout the curriculum. Simulated patient encounters are important bridges that assist in preparing student pharmacists for future patient-centered practice. Although a valuable teaching tool, simulated patient encounters lack an element of reality. In this manuscript, we describe how a unique experience in our second professional year, focused solely on a real-world patient-care experience, accelerated our professional growth and patient-care skills. We gained several valuable insights through this real-world patient-care experience including a change in our approach to simulated experiences, an enhanced perspective on therapeutic course work, and an increased value on patient-centered care. Although there are challenges for emerging pharmacy schools to establish new experiential education sites for students, we encourage colleges of pharmacy to overcome the challenges by creating new and innovative alternative direct patient-care opportunities. A patient-centered pharmacy curriculum that facilitates learning in a real-world environment should be available to every student pharmacist.