cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Probabilistic patterns of inundation and biogeomorphic changes due to sea-level rise along the northeastern U.S. Atlantic coast

Coastal landscapes evolve in response to sea-level rise (SLR) through a variety of geologic processes and ecological feedbacks. When the SLR rate surpasses the rate at which these processes build elevation and drive lateral migration, inundation is likely. To examine the role of land cover diversity and composition in landscape response to SLR across the northeastern United States. Using an existing probabilistic framework, we quantify the probability of inundation, a measure of vulnerability, under different SLR scenarios on the coastal landscape. Resistant areas—wherein a dynamic response is anticipated—are defined as unlikely (p < 0.33) to inundate. Results are assessed regionally for different land cover types and at 26 sites representing varying levels of land cover diversity. Modeling results suggest that by the 2050s, 44% of low-lying, habitable land in the region is unlikely to inundate, further declining to 36% by the 2080s. In addition to a decrease in SLR resistance with time, these results show an increasing uncertainty that the coastal landscape will continue to evolve in response to SLR as it has in the past. We also find that resistance to SLR is correlated with land cover composition, wherein sites containing land cover types adaptable to SLR impacts show greater potential to undergo biogeomorphic state shifts rather than inundating with time. Our findings support other studies that have highlighted the importance of ecological composition and diversity in stabilizing the physical landscape and suggest that flexible planning strategies, such as adaptive management, are particularly well suited for SLR preparation in diverse coastal settings.
Directly visualizing carrier transport and recombination at individual defects within 2D semiconductors

Two-dimensional semiconductors (2DSCs) are promising materials for a wide range of optoelectronic applications. While the fabrication of 2DSCs with thicknesses down to the monolayer limit has been demonstrated through a variety of routes, a robust understanding of carrier transport within these materials is needed to guide the rational design of improved practical devices. In particular, the influence of different types of structural defects on transport is critical, but difficult to interrogate experimentally. Here, a new approach to visualizing carrier transport within 2DSCs, Carrier Generation-Tip Collection Scanning Electrochemical Cell Microscopy (CG-TC SECCM), is described which is capable of providing information at the single-defect level. In this approach, carriers are locally generated within a material using a focused light source and detected as they drive photoelectrochemical reactions at a spatially-offset electrolyte interface created through contact with a pipet-based probe, allowing carrier transport across well-defined, µm-scale paths within a material to be directly interrogated. The efficacy of this approach is demonstrated through studies of minority carrier transport within mechanically-exfoliated n-type WSe2 nanosheets. CG-TC SECCM imaging experiments carried out within pristine basal planes revealed highly anisotropic hole transport, with in-plane and out-of-plane hole diffusion lengths of 2.8 µm and 5.8 nm, respectively. Experiments were also carried out to probe recombination across individual step edge defects within n-WSe2 which suggest a significant surface charge (∼5 mC m−2) exists at these defects, significantly influencing carrier transport. Together, these studies demonstrate a powerful new approach to visualizing carrier transport and recombination within 2DSCs, down to the single-defect level.
The Effects of Goals and Pay Structure on Managerial Reporting Dishonesty

Organizations often address agency concerns through reward systems such as goal setting and monetary incentives, and while these are important mechanisms for increasing and aligning employee effort, they can lead to undesirable or unethical behaviors. In this article, we explore the interactive effects of goals and pay structures on the amount of dishonesty that occurs in managerial reporting. Using a simulation replicating the cost reporting decisions made by managers, we find that having cost goals decreases dishonesty when managers are paid a flat wage and increases dishonesty when managers are paid a bonus for hitting certain targets. We also observe a “slippery step” effect, wherein dishonest behavior becomes increasingly worse once managers have crossed a certain threshold of dishonesty. This research helps disentangle the effects of goals and monetary incentives and identifies an important boundary condition to warnings about the dangers of goal setting in organizations.
Plant-based antimicrobials inactivate Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella enterica on melons grown in different regions of the United States

Abstract The efficacy of plant-based antimicrobials against Salmonella Newport and Listeria monocytogenes on melon rinds was evaluated. Four cantaloupe and 3 honeydew melon varieties grown in Georgia, Arizona, Texas, North Carolina, Indiana and California were tested. Melon rinds (10 g pieces) were inoculated with 5–6 log CFU/10 g rind of S. Newport or L. monocytogenes. Samples were then immersed in 5 % olive extract or 0.5 % oregano oil antimicrobial solution and gently agitated for 2 min. Samples were stored at 4 °C and surviving populations of both bacteria were enumerated at days 0 and 3. Plant-based antimicrobials reduced S. Newport and L. monocytogenes population on all rind samples, regardless of the melon types, varieties or growing locations. Compared to the control, antimicrobial treatments caused up to 3.6 and 4.0 log reductions in populations of Salmonella and L. monocytogenes, respectively. In most cases, plant-based antimicrobial treatments reduced pathogen populations to below the detection limit (1 log CFU/g) at day 3. In general, oregano oil had better antimicrobial activity than olive extract and the antimicrobial treatments were more effective on Salmonella than on L. monocytogenes. The plant-based antimicrobial treatments exhibited better microbial reductions on honeydews than on cantaloupes. These antimicrobials could potentially be used as sanitizers for decontaminating melons.
In-vehicle networking with NDN

In-vehicle networks have been relying on primitive technologies that provide neither security nor high-throughput. As in-vehicle communication becomes more sophisticated, the automotive community is looking for better security and performance. In this work we argue for NDN as a solution for the future of the automotive community.
Enamine Organocatalysts for the Thiol-Michael Addition Reaction and Cross-Linking Polymerizations

This article describes an efficient enamine organocatalyzed thiol-Michael click reaction and its broad application in cross-linking polymerizations. A series of enamines was shown to catalyze the t...
Exploring the Viability of an Organizational Readiness Assessment for Participatory Management Programs in a Passenger Airline Carrier

This study attempted to determine the feasibility of conducting an organizational readiness assessment for a participatory management program for maintenance workers within a large passenger airline. Organizational readiness factors consisted of the motivation climate of the department, supervisory behaviors, and the employee's orientation to group problem-solving. The results of a questionnaire study among 73 line maintenance workers revealed that only the group orientation factors predicted employees’ willingness to participate in group process improvement programs. However, strong and statistically significant correlations were shown among the willingness to participate variable and employee job satisfaction. The study revealed that employee group orientation moderates the relationships between the independent and criterion factors. Results also revealed that the employee’s personality orientation moderates the relationships between the organizational factors and employees’ willingness to participate in group process improvement programs.
Visualizing Time-Varying Distribution Data in EOS Application

In this research, we have developed several novel visualization methods for spatial probability density function data. Our focus has been on 2D spatial datasets, where each pixel is a random variable, and has multiple samples which are the results of experiments on that random variable. We developed novel clustering algorithms as a means to reduce the information contained in these datasets; and investigated different ways of interpreting and clustering the data.
Stereospecific hydroxylation of indan by Escherichia coli containing the cloned toluene dioxygenase genes from Pseudomonas putida F1

Escherichia coli JM109(pDTG601), containing the todC1C2BA genes encoding toluene dioxygenase from Pseudomonas putida F1, oxidizes indan to (-)-(1R)-indanol (83% R) and trans-1,3-indandiol. Under similar conditions, P. putida F39/D oxidizes indan to (-)-(1R)-indanol (96% R), 1-indanone, and trans-1,3-indandiol. The differences in the enantiomeric composition of the 1-indanols formed by the two organisms are due to the presence of a 1-indanol dehydrogenase in P. putida F39/D that preferentially oxidizes (+)-(1S)-indanol.
Electrostatic effects in biological molecules

Abstract Accounting for polarization effects by either microscopic or macroscopic methods has been an important theme in recent theoretical research on electrostatics in biological molecules. This review covers these efforts and related experimental work.
Charge movement and calcium currents in skeletal muscle fibers are enhanced by GTPγS

G-proteins play several regulatory roles in the cell. They can modulate ionic channels directly or in association with second messengers. In skeletal muscle, G-proteins modulate the activity of calcium channels either by acting directly on the channel and/or through a cAMP-dependent phosphorylating mechanism19. The activation of G-proteins by GTPγS can also induce force generation in skinned fibers7. In this paper we studied the effect of GTP-γS on charge movement and calcium currents (ICa) in rat and frog skeletal muscle, using the Vaseline gap technique. We observed an increase in both charge movement and ICa after the intracellular addition of 10–100 μM GTPγS. GDPβS did not have any effect. Addition of protein kinase A catalytic subunit increased the ICa, probably through a phosphorylation process, but did not modify the charge movement. This suggests that protein kinase A and GTPγS are acting on different sites of the channel. It can be speculated that G-proteins may have a regulatory role in the excitationcontraction coupling mechanism by a direct effect on charge movement.
Effect of Benzo-Ring Hydroxyl Groups on Site-Specific Mutagenesis by Tetrahydrobenzo[a]pyrene Adducts at N6 of Deoxyadenosine

We have previously investigated the mutations induced on replication in Escherichia coli of the M13mp7L2 genome containing each of the eight possible adducts derived from the four optically active 7,8-diol 9,10-epoxide metabolites of benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) by alkylation of a specific deoxyadenosine (dAdo) residue at N6. Observed mutational frequencies depended in part on the relative spatial orientations of the three hydroxyl groups in these adducts. To determine how the presence or absence of these hydroxyl groups affects mutational response, we have synthesized 16-mer oligonucleotides with the same sequence as one of those previously studied with the diol epoxide adducts, but containing B[a]P-dAdo adducts in which two or all three of the adduct hydroxyl groups were replaced by hydrogen. Transfection of the adducted M13 constructs into SOS-induced Escherichia coli consistently gave fewer infective centers than the control construct, with viabilities ranging from 8.4 to 44.9% relative to control. In gener...
A procedure for relieving an existing prosthesis to fit implant abutments.

aAssociate Professor, Department of Prosthodontics. (J Prosthet Dent 2008;100:72-73) Relief on the intaglio surface of an existing denture base is necessary when the healing abutments are connected to the implants after the surgery or before incorporating the attachments.1,2 If the denture is overrelieved, the thinner area may weaken the denture. However, if the denture is not relieved adequately, the interference may change the tissue-denture relationship as well as the occlusal relationship to the opposing dentition. Drago3 suggests using an indelible pencil (Dr Thompson’s Sanitary Color Transfer Applicator; Great Plains Dental Products Co, Kingman, Kan), and Daher4 used pressure-indicating paste to transfer the abutment position to the denture; however, these techniques mark only the contacts and not the dimension and location of the abutment. A simple method is demonstrated for identifying the position of the abutment to facilitate the relief of the denture to fit the abutment.
Inhibition of Reactive Gliosis Attenuates Excitotoxicity-Mediated Death of Retinal Ganglion Cells

Reactive gliosis is a hallmark of many retinal neurodegenerative conditions, including glaucoma. Although a majority of studies to date have concentrated on reactive gliosis in the optic nerve head, very few studies have been initiated to investigate the role of reactive gliosis in the retina. We have previously shown that reactive glial cells synthesize elevated levels of proteases, and these proteases, in turn, promote the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). In this investigation, we have used two glial toxins to inhibit reactive gliosis and have evaluated their effect on protease-mediated death of RGCs. Kainic acid was injected into the vitreous humor of C57BL/6 mice to induce reactive gliosis and death of RGCs. C57BL/6 mice were also treated with glial toxins, alpha-aminoadipic acid (AAA) or Neurostatin, along with KA. Reactive gliosis was assessed by immunostaining of retinal cross sections and retinal flat-mounts with glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin antibodies. Apoptotic cell death was assessed by TUNEL assays. Loss of RGCs was determined by immunostaining of flat-mounted retinas with Brn3a antibodies. Proteolytic activities of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) were assessed by zymography assays. GFAP-immunoreactivity indicated that KA induced reactive gliosis in both retinal astrocytes and in Muller cells. AAA alone or in combination with KA decreased GFAP and vimentin-immunoreactivity in Mϋller cells, but not in astrocytes. In addition AAA failed to decrease KA-mediated protease levels and apoptotic death of RGCs. In contrast, Neurostatin either alone or in combination with KA, decreased reactive gliosis in both astrocytes and Mϋller cells. Furthermore, Neurostatin decreased protease levels and prevented apoptotic death of RGCs. Our findings, for the first time, indicate that inhibition of reactive gliosis decreases protease levels in the retina, prevents apoptotic death of retinal neurons, and provides substantial neuroprotection.
Penetration of the Ionosphere by Very-Low-Frequency Radio Signals-Interim Results of the LOFTI I Experiment

LOFTI I is the first of a series of Navy satellite experiments designed for determination of the degree and extent of very-low-frequency (VLF) radio wave penetration of the ionosphere. This investigation has provided unique data on intensity, time delay, echoes, and other characteristics of VLF signals received in the ionosphere from transmitters on the Earth's surface. Theoretical studies carried on concurrently with planning and implementation of the experiment have indicated that VLF radio energy from transmitters operating below the lower atmosphere-ionosphere interface should appear in the ionosphere in useful amount. The LOFTI I telemetry records show relatively strong signals in the ionosphere from 18-kc transmitters on the terrestrial surface. The signals were attenuated less at night and appeared as far away as Australia, 10,000 miles from the transmitter. Statistical treatment of the data so far reduced shows that the attenuation of magnetic field intensity of the 18-kc time pulses from Naval Radio Station NBA, as measured near extreme line of sight distances to the north of the station, was less than 13 db 50 per cent of the time at night and less than 38 db 50 per cent of the time during the daylight hours. The data studied so far shows very little effect of altitude on signal intensity, an observation which agrees with the theoretical treatment based on a model ionosphere.
1220 ALTERED HEPATIC ENERGY, AMMONIA, AND AMINO ACID METABOLISM IN THE SUBLETHAL ENDOTOXIN RAT MODEL OF REYE SYNDROME

Administration of a sublethal concentration of E. coli 0111:B4 endotoxin (E) to fasted Sprague-Dawley rats results in Reye syndrome-like metabolic (hyperammonemia, elevated serum lactate, and free fatty acids), hepatic histologic (microvesicular fat deposition) and mitochondrial ultrastructural (pleomorphism and swelling with matrix disruption) changes (Yoder et al, Infect. Immun, in press). In this study, we assessed hepatic alterations in energy production, ammonia metabolism, and determined the amino acid concentration profile in E (0.2 mg/kg) or placebo (5% dextrose in water) treated (C) 250g Sprague-Dawley rats (N=5 each group). At 1, 4 or 12 hrs following E or placebo IP injection, the liver was freeze-clamped. There were no significant differences in metabolic parameters detectable at the 1 hr time point. At 4 and 12 hrs, however, ATP/ADP declined by 25% (p<0.01), [lactate] increased by 50% (p < 0.001), and [urea] increased 67% (p < 0.001) in E compared to C rats. In addition, mitochondrial [NAD+]/[NADH] increqased whereas cytosolic [NAD+]/[NADH] decreased in E compared to C rats. Two-fold increases (P<0.005) in [glutamate], [alanine] and [glutamine] and a 55% decrease in [citruilinel (p<.0.05) were measured in E compared to C animals. These results indicate that a sublethal dose of E disrupts hepatic aerobic energy production, increases glycolysis and proteolysis, and impairs ammonia clearance in the fasted rat. Since the metabolic derangements reported in this study are similar to those observed in patients with Reye syndrome, the current findings lend further support to the relevance of our sublethal endotoxin rat model.
Homodimerization of the G protein SRβ in the nucleotide-free state involves proline cis/trans isomerization in the switch II region

Protein translocation across and insertion into membranes is essential to all life forms. Signal peptide-bearing nascent polypeptide chains emerging from the ribosome are first sampled by the signal-recognition particle (SRP), then targeted to the membrane via the SRP receptor (SR), and, finally, transferred to the protein-conducting channel. In eukaryotes, this process is tightly controlled by the concerted action of three G proteins, the 54-kD subunit of SRP and the α- and β-subunits of SR. We have determined the 2.2-A crystal structure of the nucleotide-free SRβ domain. Unexpectedly, the structure is a homodimer with a highly intertwined interface made up of residues from the switch regions of the G domain. The remodeling of the switch regions does not resemble any of the known G protein switch mechanisms. Biochemical analysis confirms homodimerization in vitro, which is incompatible with SRα binding. The switch mechanism involves cis/trans isomerization of a strictly conserved proline, potentially implying a new layer of regulation of cotranslational transport.
Stearoyl-CoA Desaturase Inhibits ATP-binding Cassette Transporter A1-mediated Cholesterol Efflux and Modulates Membrane Domain Structure

Liver X receptor/retinoid X receptor (LXR/RXR) transcription factors have been found to induce a number of genes involved in the regulation of cellular cholesterol efflux, including the ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), which mediates the active efflux of cellular cholesterol and phospholipids to extracellular acceptors, such as apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I). In a screen for macrophage LXR/RXR target genes, we identified stearoyl-CoA desaturases 1 and 2 (Scd1 and Scd2), and subsequently tested the hypothesis that SCD activity might modulate cellular cholesterol efflux. In HEK 293 cells co-transfection of ABCA1 with either SCD1 or SCD2 inhibited ABCA1-mediated cholesterol efflux but not phospholipid efflux. In Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells with moderate stable overexpression of SCD1, cholesterol efflux to apoA-I was inhibited by 73%, whereas phospholipid efflux and ABCA1 protein levels were unchanged. In contrast, cholesterol efflux to HDL(2), which is not dependent on ABCA1, was increased 2-fold in CHO-SCD1 cells. The effect of SCD on cholesterol efflux to apoA-I was independent of acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT) activity. SCD activity led to an increased content of plasma membrane monounsaturated fatty acids (18:1) at the expense of saturated fatty acids (18:0). As shown by confocal microscopy, SCD overexpression led to a decrease of Triton X-100-resistant domains in the plasma membrane, indicating a decrease in membrane-ordered regions. The data suggest that SCD changes membrane organization and depletes a specific pool of membrane cholesterol supporting ABCA1-mediated efflux, whereas increasing availability of cholesterol for passive efflux by HDL(2). ABCA1-mediated cholesterol and phospholipid efflux may be uncoupled in pathological states associated with high SCD activity, as in hyperinsulinemic obese mice, or in animals treated with LXR activators.
Unfolding of 4-aminobutyrate aminotransferase equilibrium and kinetic studies

The unfolding of pig liver 4-aminobutyrate aminotransferase by urea has been investigated at equilibrium. The overall process was reversible as judged from the recovery of catalytic activity after dilution of urea-treated samples. Unfolding of the enzyme was monitored by circular dichroism and fluorescence spectroscopy. The steepness of the fluorescence and CD changes between 2 and 8 M urea, and the lack of any discernible plateau suggests that unfolding of the protein is a cooperative process. The unfolding of 4-aminobutyrate aminotransferase as a function of urea concentration was monitored by fluorescence measurements of the tryptophanyl residues. The kinetic results indicate that the aminotransferase unfolds in a single kinetic phase. Unfolded 4-aminobutyrate aminotransferase recovers immediately its catalytic activity upon dilution with buffers of neutral pH. Based on equilibrium and kinetic results, a two-state model for the unfolding of the aminotransferase is proposed.
Death Concerns and Symbolic Aspects of the Self: The Effects of Mortality Salience on Status Concern and Religiosity

Terror management theorists have demonstrated that, after thinking about their own death, subjects behave in ways that suggest increased adherence to and defense of prevailing cultural values. The present study extends prior work by assessing the effects of mortality salience on two culturally prescribed value systems: religion and status concern. It was predicted that highly religious and highly status-concerned subjects in the mortality salience condition would report especially high post treatment investments in religion and status concern, respectively. The results partly supported the hypotheses. High status-concerned/highly religious subjects became more status concerned following the mortality salience treatment. The treatment had no significant effects on the post treatment measure of religiosity.
The LANL/LLNL Prompt Fission Neutron Spectrum Program at LANSCE and Approach to Uncertainties

Abstract New data on the prompt fission neutron spectra (PFNS) from neutron-induced fission with higher accuracies are needed to resolve discrepancies in the literature and to address gaps in the experimental data. The Chi-Nu project, conducted jointly by LANL and LLNL, aims to measure the shape of the PFNS for fission of 239Pu induced by neutrons from 0.5 to 20 MeV with accuracies of 3–5% in the outgoing energy from 0.1 to 9 MeV and 15% from 9 to 12 MeV and to provide detailed experimental uncertainties. Neutrons from the WNR/LANSCE neutron source are being used to induce fission in a Parallel-Plate Avalanche Counter (PPAC). Two arrays of neutron detectors are used to cover the energy range of neutrons emitted promptly in the fission process. Challenges for the present experiment include background reduction, use of 239Pu in a PPAC, and understanding neutron detector response. Achieving the target accuracies requires the understanding of many systematic uncertainties. The status and plans for the future will be presented.
Facial nerve injury during surgery of the temporomandibular joint: A comparison of two dissection techniques

Changing the dissection technique for gaining access to the temporomandibular joint decreased the incidence of facial nerve injury from 25% to 1.7%. This decrease can be attributed to the elimination of both development of a skin flap and dissection of tissue overlying the lateral capsule. Normal anatomic variation in the distribution of facial nerve branches may relate to the incidence of clinically apparent injury.
Adjustments to Cow Indexes for Milk Yield for Effects of Herd Mean and Standard Deviation

Abstract Lactation records of cows born since 1964 were used to compute Modified Contemporary Comparison cow indexes for 563,853 Holsteins and 339,568 Jerseys. Eight adjustments were made to cow indexes according to herd mean and standard deviation: two varied heritability to adjust for genetic effects, two adjusted Modified Contemporary Deviation for within-herd environmental variation, and four were combinations of these. Rankings of cow indexes for Holsteins, based on R 2 , differed considerably for predicting performance of four offspring groups (all daughters, daughters of elite cows, all sons, and artificial insemination sons). Rankings of cow indexes for Jerseys were more similar across offspring groups. Under the assumption that large true breed differences are unlikely, the best cow index for both breeds had Modified Contemporary Deviation standardized to a common variance with constant heritability. This cow index adjusted for environmental effects of herd variance, ignoring differences in genetic variation. It decreased differences among cow indexes for cows in high variance herds, and increased differences in low variance herds.
Resonant Dipole-Dipole Energy Transfer in a Nearly Frozen Rydberg Gas

In a room temperature vapor of Rb Rydberg atoms, resonant dipole-dipole energy transfer occurs via binary collisions. In contrast, in the $300\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{K}$ vapor produced by a magneto-optical trap, the atoms are nearly frozen in place and many atoms interact simultaneously, as in an amorphous solid. As a result of the simultaneous multiple atom interactions, the energy transfer resonances are broadened substantially in frequency.
Effect of Ultraviolet Irradiation on DNA Metabolism of Euglena gracilis

SYNOPSIS. (P32O4) is rapidly incorporated into DNA of resting cells of Euglena. This incorporation is strongly inhibited by bleaching doses of ultraviolet light. Photoreactivation of the bleaching effect does not immediately restore the rate of P32 incorporation into DNA. It is indicated that this metabolically active DNA is not directly associated with control over the development of the plastids.
Supporting and fostering online communities with wikis

Wikis are commonly used to support (learning) communities in their work processes. However, they offer insufficient support for community processes that go beyond writing and reading content. I propose the development and use of a new generation of wikis that pro-actively foster and support the creation of communities among its participants. This could lead to larger involvement and thus better results in learning and working.
Selective recycling of the mannose 6-phosphate/IGF-II receptor to the trans Golgi network in vitro

Mannose 6-phosphate receptors carry soluble lysosomal enzymes from the trans Golgi network (TGN) to prelysosomes, and then return to the TGN for another round of lysosomal enzyme sorting. We describe here a complementation scheme that detects the vesicular transport of the 300 kd mannose 6-phosphate/IGF-II receptor from prelysosomes to the TGN in cell extracts. In vitro transport displays the same selectivity observed in living cells in that the transferrin receptor traverses to the TGN at a much lower rate than mannose 6-phosphate receptors. Furthermore, recycling of mannose 6-phosphate/IGF-II receptors to the TGN requires GTP hydrolysis and can be distinguished biochemically from the constitutive transport of proteins between Golgi cisternae by its resistance to the weak base, primaquine.
The (Dis)Connection Between Political Culture and External Efficacy

Theories of political culture have traditionally been based on how the mass public views the role of government, yet scholars have rarely studied this issue. Using American National Election Studie...
Stable in a Genome of Instability: An Interview with Evan Eichler

We like to think that our genome is rock-solid, that it is dependable, there for us when we need it. The truth is far from that. By fits and starts, our species' collective genome is undulating, reshaping itself with eruptions of genomic lava and clashes of sequence tectonics, at once both marvelous and unsettling. We are unaware of this tumult within us until we are confronted with disease in ourselves, our friends, or our family.
Psychosocial outcome following temporal lobe surgery

Abstract Psychosocial status was assessed in 77 patients who underwent anterior temporal lobectomy for medically intractable complex partial seizures (46 left, 31 right). Psychosocial status was assessed at an average of 3 1 2 years after surgery using a structured telephone interview. Most patients (92%) benefitted from a significant reduction in seizure frequency, with 64% considered seizure-free. Patients were classified into one of three groups based on their level of vocational improvement after surgery: improved (47%), stable (26%), and unimproved (27%). Multivariate analyses indicated that patients who improved their vocational status after surgery were more likely to report symptoms of emotional distress on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory before surgery than patients who failed to improve their vocational status. Thus, symptoms of emotional distress are not necessarily a contraindication for surgery but may reflect frustration that will motivate patients to achieve a positive psychosocial outcome.
Physical Constancy and Trait Attribution: Attenuation of the Primacy Effect

Seventy-two high school students viewed videotapes in which a confederate's behavior appeared to change markedly over a nominal six-month period. Half the students also saw the confederate's physical appearance (clothes, hairstyle) change significantly. Students observing physical change described the confederate's personality in a manner congruent with the behavior changes observed; students in the physical constancy condition, however, were significantly less likely to revise their trait ascriptions. This finding is discussed in terms of Mischel's suggestion that physical constancy contributes to the persistence of trait attribution processes.
Clustering of sodium channels at the neuromuscular junction.

Voltage-gated sodium channels (NaChs) are highly concentrated in the postsynaptic region of the neuromuscular junction, especially in the depths of postsynaptic folds and in the perijunctional region. The formation of the high NaCh density occurs during synapse maturation, approximately 2 weeks after initial synaptic contact in the rodent. The concentration of NaChs and their localization in the troughs of the folds increase the safety factor for neuromuscular transmission by reducing the threshold for initiation of the action potential. There is evidence that agrin plays a role in the formation of NaCh aggregation. Molecules such as ankyrin and syntrophin that bind NaChs may be important for maintenance of the high channel density at the endplate. Microsc. Res. Tech. 49:84–89, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Fine root inputs to soil reduce growth of a neighbouring plant via distinct mechanisms dependent on root carbon chemistry

Summary 1. Plant carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) inputs to soil interact with microbes and abiotic factors like climate and pH to influence soil fertility and plant productivity. Although root exudates and root litter are important factors affecting the cycling of nutrients critical to plant growth, many studies remain focused on effects of above-ground litter inputs. 2. Using two species that co-dominate alpine moist meadows as a model system (the phenolic-rich forb Geum rossii, and the fast-growing grass Deschampsia caespitosa), we asked whether C from G. rossii fine roots could reduce D. caespitosa growth. We hypothesized that root C would indirectly reduce D. caespitosa growth by stimulating soil microbes, thus restricting plant N supplies. We predicted that this effect could be overcome by fertilization with N. We also hypothesized that G. rossii root phenolics could allelopathically inhibit D. caespitosa growth, and we predicted that direct, allelopathic inhibition would not be reversible with N additions. 3. Both cellulose and phenolic-rich root C additions inhibited D. caespitosa growth in field microcosms, relative to controls. N additions reversed the negative effects of cellulose on plant growth but did not reverse the inhibitory effects of phenolic-rich C additions. A companion soil incubation experiment showed that both types of C addition reduced N availability relative to controls, and there was a strong negative correlation between N availability and substrate-induced soil respiration. 4. Our results indicate that root C inputs to soil can have substantial, negative effects on plant growth. Reduced plant growth was likely to be caused by (i) indirect interactions between root C and soil microbes lowering plant N supply; and (ii) a mechanism independent of N supply, possibly involving allelopathic effects of G. rossii phenolic compounds on D. caespitosa root growth. 5. Synthesis. Fine root inputs to soil (i.e. phenolic-rich C and cellulose C) reduced a neighbouring plant’s growth and the chemical composition of the root C influenced whether growth inhibition could be overcome by increased plant N supply. Negative effects of phenolic-rich root inputs on plant growth could be an under-appreciated factor structuring plant communities, particularly in N-limited systems dominated by phenolic-rich species.
Update on Bacterial Pneumonia and Pleuropneumonia in the Adult Horse

Bacterial infections of the lower respiratory tract in adult horses occur when bacteria from the nasopharynx reach the lower airways and overwhelm normal defense mechanisms. Although Streptococcus equi subsp zooepidemicus is the most commonly isolated bacterial species, mixed infections are possible. Tracheobronchial aspiration for microbiologic culture and sensitivity is suggested in cases presenting with severe clinical signs or not responding to treatment. Early intervention and appropriate antimicrobial selection results in a good prognosis for both survival and return to athletic function in most horses.
Mitochondrial P2Y-Like receptors link cytosolic adenosine nucleotides to mitochondrial calcium uptake.

ATP is a known extracellular ligand for cell membrane purinergic receptors. Intracellular ATP can work also as a regulatory ligand via binding sites on functional proteins. We report herein the existence of P2Y1-like and P2Y2- like receptors in hepatocyte mitochondria (mP2Y1 and mP2Y2), which regulate mCa 2þ uptake though the uniporter. Mitochondrial P2Y1 activation stimulates mCa 2þ uptake; whereas, mP2Y2 activation inhibits mCa 2þ uptake. ATP acts preferentially on mP2Y2receptors, while ADP and AMP-PNP stimulate both the mP2Y1and mP2Y2. PPADS inhibits ADP stimulated mP2Y1-mediated mCa 2þ uptake. In addition, UTP, a selective P2Y2 agonist, strongly inhibits mCa 2þ uptake. The newly discovered presence and function of these receptors is significant because it explains increased mCa 2þ uptake in the setting of low cytosolic (ATP) and, therefore, establishes a mechanism for direct feedback in which cytosolic (ATP) governs mitochondrial ATP production through regulation of mCa 2þ uptake. J. Cell. Biochem. 92: 1062-1073, 2004. 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
An abstract functional differential equation and a related nonlinear Volterra equation

We study the existence, uniqueness, regularity and dependence upon data of solutions of the abstract functional differential equation 1 $$\frac{{du}}{{dt}} + Au \ni G(u) (0 \leqq t \leqq T), u(0) = x,$$ , whereT>0 is arbitrary,A is a givenm-accretive operator in a real Banach spaceX, and $$G:C([0,T]; \overline {D(A)} ) \to L^1 (0, T; X)$$ is a given mapping. This study provides simple proofs of generalizations of results by several authors concerning the nonlinear Volterra equation 2 $$u(t) + b * Au(t) \ni F(t) (0 \leqq t \leqq T),$$ , for the case in which X is a real Hilbert space. In (2) the kernelb is real, absolutely continuous on [0,T],b*g(t)=∫ 0 1 (t−s)g(s)ds, andf∈W 1,1(0,T;X).
An isolated, multi-platform network sandbox for teaching IT security system engineers

The objective of this paper is to describe the successful deployment and operation of a student managed, isolated network "Sandbox" laboratory used for teaching Information Technology (IT) Security System Engineers. Laboratories for training Network Engineers have previously been deployed in IT education, frequently using a standard operating system base configuration in order to facilitate re-imaging for new classes. We have elected to employ a mujlti-platform environment that utilizes bothWindows and Linux operating systems. The Sandbox is called such because it is a creative experimental area physically isolated from all other networks including the Internet. Experimentation with every class of vulnerability such as viruses, worms, parasites, malware, and Denial of Service attacks is evaluated, mitigated and controlled.Having a strictly Linux-based environment as others frequently have done avoids the escalating problems introduced by Windows platforms. We have elected to study and experiment with multiple OS environments and confront the challenges that Windows presents. The Sandbox security laboratory has served as a test-bed for executing security labs created by students concurrent with the running of two different upper-class and graduate university-level IT security courses.Students created both the lectures and the labs used in these security courses. The first course was a very comprehensive course in all topics of network, internet and web security. The sescond course dealt with identity management, data privacy and identity theft.Students architected the network topology and built the Sandbox. The Sandbox is designed in a modular fashion to facilitate the creation of multiple network nodes with firewalls, IDSs, and associated servers, routers and switches. A student Security Team was organized to administer the Sandbox. Security Best Practices were developed to ensure consistent management of the Sandbox and its security policies. IT undergraduate and graduate students have learned that the role of a Security Systems Engineer involves not only technology, but also responsible management of policy and Best Practices concept.
Introduction: Practical Approaches to Optimizing the Effective Use of Opioids in Cancer Pain

The undertreatment of cancer pain remains a significant clinical problem. Of note, large variability exists in pain among individuals. inadequately controlled pain results in unnecessary suffering and a diminished ability to tolerate primary cancer therapy. new drug formulations and delivery systems are under development, and new approaches are required to individualize pain management. Oncology nurses must become acquainted with new strategies to manage cancer pain, including opioid rotation; understand the importance of balancing side effects; recognize potential misuse; and provide effective pain control. The purpose of the symposium “Practical Approaches to Optimizing the Effective use of Opioids in cancer Pain” was to enhance oncology nurses’ understanding of strategies to optimize the management of cancer pain, particularly the use of opioid analgesics. in this supplement, which reviews the content of that symposium, Oscar de leon-casasola, mD, professor and the vice chair for clinical affairs in the Department of Anesthesiology at the university of Buffalo and the chief of pain medicine and professor at roswell Park cancer institute in Buffalo, ny, reviews the basic principles of implementing opioid therapy in patients with cancer. According to de leon-casasola, managing cancer pain is a challenging endeavor that requires an understanding of not only the etiologies of cancer but also the types of pain they produce. He explains that opioid rotation may be useful for opening the therapeutic window and establishing a more advantageous analgesic/toxicity ratio in patients with cancer. side effects associated with opioid therapy significantly contribute to patient reluctance to follow cancer treatment plans. Also in this supplement, issues in side-effect management are Christine Miaskowski, RN, PhD, FAAN Proceedings of a symposium held in conjunction with the Oncology Nursing Society 32nd Annual Congress, Las Vegas, NV, April 2007
Local design vs. global design: A strategic business choice

Abstract The market for a particular product consists of many customers having different needs and wants. A local design strategy attempts to increase market share and sales revenue by designing many variants of the product to exploit these differences. Such a strategy involves increased requirements for design, manufacturing, and marketing resources. A global design strategy offers a single product concept to all customers. Thus, the choice between a local design strategy and a global design strategy poses a fundamental tradeoff to the managers in many markets. Making such a decision is a complex process as it involves many design, manufacturing and marketing factors. We present a model based on optimal control theory representing major tradeoffs that exist between a local design strategy and a global design strategy. We demonstrate, through extensive computational experiments, how the model helps to gain strategic insight into the complex tradeoffs that exist between global design strategy and local design strategy alternatives under various scenarios over the life of a product.
Deletion Analysis of Protein Kinase Cα Reveals a Novel Regulatory Segment

Using a combined pharmacological and genetic approach, we have identified aa 260-280 in the C2 region as a critical factor in the catalytic function of protein kinase Calpha (PKCalpha). Progressive truncations from the N-terminus as well as selected internal deletion mutants were expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and tested for altered sensitivity to dequalinium, a PKC inhibitor whose target site was previously mapped to the catalytic domain. PKC mutants representing truncations of up to 158 amino acid residues (aa) from the N-terminus (ND84 and ND158) displayed 60-63% inhibition of kinase activity by 50 microM dequalinium, somewhat more sensitive than the wild-type PKCalpha enzyme (45% inhibition). Mutant ND262, lacking N-terminal aa 1-262, was inhibited by almost 72% with 50 microM dequalinium, but mutant ND278, which lacked an additional 16 aa, was inhibited by only 9% of total activity. This result suggests that a C-terminal segment of the C2 region (aa 263-278) influences inhibition by dequalinium at low micromolar concentrations. An internal deletion mutant (D260-280) which retains the entire primary structure of PKCalpha except for aa 260-280, was similarly inhibited by only 4% with 50 microM dequalinium. In the absence of dequalinium and despite the presence of a nearly complete regulatory domain, this mutant exhibited constitutive activity (both in vitro and in a phenotypic assay with S. cerevisiae) that could not be further stimulated even by the potent activator TPA. Taken together, our findings suggest that, in the native structure of PKCalpha, the segment described by aa 260-280 regulates PKCalpha activity and influences the sensitivity of PKCalpha to dequalinium.
Strong approximation in the Apollonian group

Abstract The Apollonian group is a finitely generated, infinite index subgroup of the orthogonal group O Q ( Z ) fixing the Descartes quadratic form Q. For nonzero v ∈ Z 4 satisfying Q ( v ) = 0 , the orbits P v = A v correspond to Apollonian circle packings in which every circle has integer curvature. In this paper, we specify the reduction of primitive orbits P v mod any integer d > 1 . We show that this reduction has a multiplicative structure, and that mod primes p ⩾ 5 it is the full cone of integer solutions to Q ( v ) ≡ 0 for v ≢ 0 . This analysis is an essential ingredient in applications of the affine linear sieve as developed by Bourgain, Gamburd and Sarnak.
Scaling theory for localized spin fluctuations

Anderson's scaling idea is applied to localized paramagnons in the intermediate coupling region. The technique takes as its starting point the Wang-Evenson-Schrieffer functional integral formulation of the Anderson model. It then proceeds by integrating out the effects of the highest frequency random fields in the functional integral, assuming that the motion of these modes may be treated perturbationally relative to that of the lower frequency modes. The remaining problem is then (in lowest approximation) like the original one, except that the effective coupling is smaller. Iterating this procedure, eliminating successively lower and lower frequency random fields, we obtain a differential equation (“scaling law”) for the quadratic coefficient in the functional integral. The solution of this equation leads to an expression for the free energy similar (but not identical) to that obtained in the quartic approximation of Schrieffer, Evenson, and Wang. In a higher order approximation, we find scaling laws for the quadratic and quartic coefficients in the functional integral. These cannot be solved analytically, but they enable one to see qualitatively the effect of the sixth-order terms (three-paramagnon forces).
Atlas of the Transatlantic Slave Trade

Atlas of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, by David Eltis and David Richardson, New Haven, CT, Yale University Press, 2010, xxvi + 336 pp., US$50.00 (hardback), ISBN 978-0-3001-2460-6 http://dx.doi.or...
Use of a wave reverberation technique to infer the density compression of shocked liquid deuterium to 75 GPa.

A novel approach was developed to probe density compression of liquid deuterium ($L\mathrm{\text{\ensuremath{-}}}{\mathrm{D}}_{2}$) along the principal Hugoniot. Relative transit times of shock waves reverberating within the sample are shown to be sensitive to the compression due to the first shock. This technique has proven to be more sensitive than the conventional method of inferring density from the shock and mass velocity, at least in this high-pressure regime. Results in the range of 22--75 GPa indicate an approximately fourfold density compression, and provide data to differentiate between proposed theories for hydrogen and its isotopes.
Note on cycle double covers of graphs

Kriesell [M. Kriesell, Contractions, cycle double covers and cyclic colorings in locally connected graphs, J. Combin. Theory Ser. B 96 (2006) 881-900] proved the cycle double cover conjecture for locally connected graphs. In this note, we give much shorter proofs for two stronger results.