cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electrochemistry of the iron-sulfur cluster compound [(η-C5H5)2Fe2S2(SC2H5)2]. Synthesis and propeties of the oxidation products☆

Abstract In order to gain some insight into the stability of configuration and the bonding in the novel disulfide-containing complex [(η-C5H5)2Fe2S2(SC2H5)2], electrochemical properties of this compound and its SCH3 and SCH2C6H5 analogues were studied in various solvents and the magnetic properties of a subsequently isolated paramagnetic monocation were investigated. The cyclic voltammogram of [(η-C5H5)2Fe2S2(SC2H5)2] shows a reversible one-electron oxidation at E 1 2 = +0.21 V and a quasi-reversible one-electron oxidation at E 1 2 = +0.90 V (vs.saturated calomel electrode). The stable monocation has been electrochemically synthesized and the magnetic suceptibility shows a simple paramagnetic behavior with one unpaired electron per dimeric unit. Frozen solutions of this species at 103K yielded anisotropic ESR spectra with g1 = 2.135, g2 = 1.976, and g3 = 1.934. Labeling the complex with 33S in the disulfide bridge resulted in no observable hyperfine splitting or line broadening in the ESR. The dicationic species is unstable with respect to loss of the S2 bridge and formation of a solvent-ligated dication, [(η-C5H5)Fe(NCCH3)(SC2H5)]22+, isolated by electrolysis of the monocation at +1.2 V in CH3CN.
Nanoparticle distribution and temperature elevations in prostatic tumours in mice during magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia

Among a variety of hyperthermia methods, magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia is a highly promising approach for its confined heating within the tumour. In this study we perform in vivo animal experiments on implanted prostatic tumours in mice to measure temperature distribution in the tumour during magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia. Temperature elevations are induced by a commercially available ferrofluid injected via a single injection to the centre of the tumour, when the tumour is subject to an alternating magnetic field. Temperature mapping in the tumours during magnetic nanoparticle hyperthermia has demonstrated the feasibility of elevating tumour temperatures higher than 50°C using only 0.1 cm3 ferrofluid injected in the tumour under a relatively low magnetic field (3 kA/m). Detailed 3-D nanoparticle concentration distribution is quantified using a high-resolution microCT imaging system. The calculated nanoparticle distribution volume based on the microCT scans is useful to analyse nanoparticle depo...
Effects of rapid intramolecular vibrational redistribution on molecular spectra at microwave frequencies

Abstract Some molecules with more than 10 atoms and more than two torsional degrees of freedom have state densities sufficient for rapid (10 10 s −1 ) intramolecular vibrational redistribution at energies as low as 0.25 kcal/mol. Predicted features of low-resolution microwave (LRMW) band spectra of rapidly relaxing polar prolate molecules are discussed and compared with LRMW spectra of ethyl esters.
Repression of Y-organ secretory activity by molt inhibiting hormone in the crab Pachygrapsus crassipes.

Abstract Sinus glands from the shore crab Pachygrapsus crassipes were incubated in saline to extract a Y-organ inhibiting factor. This conditioned saline inhibited ecdysone secretion by Y-organs maintained in vitro and decreased incorporation of [ 14 C]leucine into protein. Inhibition was dose dependent. Media conditioned by other tissues did not significantly affect secretion by Y-organs.
Measures of dependence for the multivariate t distribution with applications to the stock market

Two measures of dependence for multivariate t and Cauchy random variables are developed based on Kullback–Leibler number. The mutual information number T(X) is obtained in a closed expression form, as well as its asymptotic distribution. A dependence coefficient ρ1, is defined (based on the Kullback–Leibler number) with the properties of ρ1=0 indicating independence and ρ1=1indicating degeneracy. Two real life examples from the stock market are used to analyze the level of dependence and correlation among stocks.
Forward modeling and radiative transfer for the NASA EOS‐Aura High Resolution Dynamics Limb Sounder (HIRDLS) instrument

[1] We describe the radiative transfer modeling developed for the High Resolution Dynamics Limb Sounder (HIRDLS) instrument on board the NASA EOS-Aura satellite. HIRDLS is a 21-channel broadband radiometer operating in the spectral region between 6 and 18 microns. It is designed to rapidly measure limb emission at tangent heights from the upper troposphere into the mesosphere on a global basis. Science products will include profiles of temperature and chemical constituents, aerosol estimates, the location of polar stratospheric clouds, and geopotential height gradients. We present the HIRDLS fast forward model, which must accurately and quickly estimate transmittances and channel radiances for use in the operational retrievals. The forward model uses a physically based approach that combines transmittance estimates from Curtis-Godson and Emissivity-Growth approximations with a statistical regression. Channel-dependent radiance accuracies for an eleven-member test ensemble are 0.5–1.0% or better, compared to a line-by-line reference, and satisfy the forward model design requirements. We also discuss the forward model hierarchy developed for HIRDLS which underlies the fast model and provides benchmark calculations, detailed spectroscopy, and access to the physics of the radiative transfer process for development work. Collectively, this framework provides an effective solution to the requirement for fast and accurate radiative transfer modeling for operational use.
Post-hatch dispersal of lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens, Rafinesque, 1817) yolk-sac larvae in relation to substrate in an artificial stream

Summary Knowledge of the effects of environment and genotype on behavior during early ontogenetic stages of many fish species including lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) is generally lacking. Understanding these effects is particularly important at a time when human activities are fundamentally altering habitats and seasonal and diel physical and biotic stream features. Artificial stream channels were used in a controlled experiment to quantify lake sturgeon yolk-sac larvae dispersal distance and stream substrate preference from different females (N = 2) whose eggs were incubated at different temperatures (10 and 18°C) that simulated stream conditions during early and late spawning and incubation periods in the Black River, Michigan. Data revealed that yolk-sac larvae exhibited considerable variability in dispersal distance as a function of family (genotype), temperature experienced during previous (embryonic) ontogenetic stages, and environmental ‘grain’. Yolk-sac larvae dispersal distance varied as a function of the juxtaposition of substrate to location of egg hatch. Lake sturgeon yolk-sac larvae dispersed from mesh screens attached to bricks and settled exclusively in gravel substrate. Dispersal distance also varied as a function of family and egg incubation temperatures, reflecting differences in offspring body size and levels of endogenous yolk reserves (yolk sac area) at hatch. Expression of plasticity in dispersal behavior may be particularly important to individual survival and population levels of recruitment contingent upon the location, size, and degree of fragmentation of suitable (gravel) habitats between adult spawning and yolk-sac larvae rearing areas.
Controlled reduction of postkeratoplasty astigmatism.

Abstract Corneal transplants were performed in 50 eyes using eight deeply placed interrupted 24 micron (10-0) monofilament nylon sutures followed by a more superficial continuous 16 micron (11-0) monofilament nylon suture placed around the wound in 16 equal bites. After surgery the 24 micron sutures in the steepest corneal meridian based on central and peripheral keratometry were cut. This suture technique permitted the donor cornea to assume its normal shape more rapidly while reducing the induced postkeratoplasty astigmatism. With this technique corneal astigmatism was reduced an average of 3.4 diopters (range 0-10 diopters), which allowed patients to achieve a mean visual acuity at three months of 20/50 and at 11 to 13 months of 20/35. Although this suture technique does not eliminate postkeratoplasty astigmatism, it permits the surgeon to reduce actively high degrees of astigmatism present after corneal transplantation.
Susceptibility of inbred mice to group A streptococcal infection.

SummaryLess than 10 organisms of an unadapted strain of Streptococcus pyogenes, type 18, caused fulminant infection in BALB, BALB/c, AKR, DBA/2, C58 and C57 Black inbred mice. Pen bred Swiss albino mice were significantly more resistant to infection. Inbred BALB and C58 mice that survived the original inoculum underwent latent or chronic infection; organisms were recoverable from untreated mice for at least 3 to 4 months. Data were obtained which revealed that susceptibility of mice to infection depended on strain of serotype of the organism tested as well as the genetic constitution, age and sex of the host. These studies demonstrated that a spectrum of diseases could be produced by employing a single strain of Streptococcus pyogenes, type 18, and different strains of inbred mice. The application of these findings to study of streptococcal infections and their late sequelae was discussed.
Microbiological Sampling of the Forgotten Components of a Flexible Fiberoptic Laryngoscope What Lessons Can We Learn

The effectiveness of a Cidex-based decontamination protocol was analyzed for its effectiveness in cleaning various components of a flexible fiberoptic laryngoscope (FFL), including the handle, eyepiece, and detachable light cable. A random microbiological sampling and aerobic bacterial culture analysis of 6 FFL eyepieces, 6 FFL driver handles, and 5 light cables prior to patient use was performed. Of 17 samples collected, 7 (41%) were contaminated with bacterial organisms. Organisms recovered represented both environmental organisms from skin and oral flora origin. This study demonstrates that potential contaminants may be present on FFL eyepieces and light cables, which are commonly overlooked in the cleaning protocols of a standard otolaryngology clinic.
Trypanosome invasion of mammalian cells requires activation of the TGFβ signaling pathway

Trypanosoma cruzi invades most nucleated mammalian cells by as yet unknown mechanisms. We report here that while T. cruzi attaches to epithelial cells lacking signaling transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta) receptor I or II, the adherent parasites cannot penetrate and replicate inside the mutant cells, as they do in parental cells. Invasion of the mutants is restored by transfection with the TGF beta receptor genes, as are biological responses to TGF beta. Similar rescue of both TGF beta antiproliferative response and T. cruzi invasion was demonstrated in a hybrid of TGF beta-resistant bladder and colon carcinoma cells. In addition, T. cruzi did not efficiently invade epithelial cells with dysfunction of the intracellular signaling cascade caused by the constitutive expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase cdk4 or of the oncogene H-ras. Treatment with TGF beta, but not with other antiproliferative agents of non-phagocytic cells, greatly enhances T. cruzi invasion. Moreover, infective, but not noninfective, trypanosomes strongly induce a TGF beta-responsive reporter gene in TGF beta-sensitive, but not in TGF beta-insensitive, cell lines. Thus, T. cruzi itself may directly trigger activation of the TGF beta signaling pathway required for parasite entry into the mammalian cells.
Methionine decreases the embryotoxicity of sodium valproate in the rat: in vivo and in vitro observations.

Methionine provided in the drinking water of pregnant rats injected with sodium valproate reduced the frequency of resorptions but did not improve embryo growth. Rats drinking methionine supplemented water had approximately twice the level of serum-free methionine and consumed only one-half the volume of water of controls. Using whole rat embryo cultures, the simultaneous addition of methionine and sodium valproate to the medium provided no protection from neural tube defects, nor did the addition of methionine to a medium of serum obtained from rats previously dosed with sodium valproate. However, protection from the teratogenic effects of sodium valproate was afforded by methionine when the culture medium was sera from rats consuming methionine and was particularly striking when embryos for culture were taken from pregnant rats that had been consuming methionine. These observations along with those of others indicated the importance of dietary and culture media methionine levels in evaluating experimental and regulatory teratology studies and suggested the possibility that methionine may play an important role in human teratology where multifactorial causes have been implicated in problems such as neural tube closure defects. © 1992 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Mechanistic Studies of the Allylic Rearrangements of α-Silyloxy Allylic Silanes to Silyloxy Vinylic Silanes

Mechanistic evidence suggests that the Lewis acid-promoted allylic rearrangement of alpha-silyloxy allylic silanes proceeds along an ionic reaction pathway involving a contact ion pair. The driving force for this transformation is alleviation of steric congestion at the allylic position of the alpha-silyloxy allylic silane and stabilization of pi cc by hyperconjugation.
CCSDS Advanced Orbiting Systems: international data communications standards for the space station Freedom

Established in 1982, the Consultative Committee for Space Data Systems (CCSDS) is an international organization that is staffed by data-handling experts from nearly all of the world's major space agencies. Its goal is to develop standard data-communications techniques so that several agencies may cross-support each other's data flow and thus allow complex, international missions to be flown. Under the general umbrella of Advanced Orbiting Systems (AOS), an international CCSDS task force was formed in 1985 to develop standard data-communications concepts for manned missions, such as the space station Freedom and the Hermes space plane, and large unmanned vehicles, such as polar orbiting platforms. The history of the CCSDS and the development of the AOS recommendation are reviewed, and the user services and protocols embodied in its systems architecture are introduced. >
Carotid sinus baroreflex influence on electrophysiologic properties of the canine atrioventricular node and ventricle

Abstract This study examines the efferent mechanisms of carotid sinus baroreflex influence on ventricular repolarization and refractory period compared with effects on atrioventricular (AV) nodal conduction. Pressure was controlled in both carotid sinuses by the Moisejeff technique in 16 chloralose-anesthetized dogs. Increases in carotid sinus pressure during pacing produced graded prolongation of AV nodal conduction, ventricular repolarization and refractory period with a threshold at a carotid sinus pressure of 120 mm Hg and a peak response at 200 mm Hg. Atropine, 0.4 mg/kg, attenuated the peak percent change in ventricular repolarization interval by only 12 ± 14% (± standard error of the mean) despite a significantly greater attenuation (48 ± 11%, p 0.25). Changes in mean arterial pressure, ventricular end-diastolic segment length or segment length shortening with systole (sonomicrometer technique) did not account for the electrophysiologic responses. Latency to peak effect on ventricular repolarization (43 ± 7 seconds) was slower than that on AV nodal conduction (23 ± 6 seconds, p
Impact of anticholinergic load on bladder function

Introduction and hypothesis Our aim was to evaluate the impact of anticholinergic load on urinary retention based on postvoid residual (PVR) on micturition study. Secondary objectives were to assess the effect of anticholinergic load on other urodynamic parameters.
Using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) to Conceptualize Disability and Functioning in Psychological Injury and Law

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) is the World Health Organization’s classification of human functioning and disability. The ICF is addressed as an important development in healthcare and of specific importance for informing assessment in forensic psychology. The utility of the conceptual framework of the ICF to inform case conceptualization in psychological injury and law is explored. Future prospects for the ICF in psychological healthcare are reviewed, including the need for more research on the intersection of the ICF and the psychological–legal context.
Detection of the vulnerable coronary atheromatous plaque. Where are we now

Atherosclerosis is a progressive process with potentially devastating consequences and has been identified as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in the industrial countries. The underlying mechanisms include endothelial dysfunction, lipid accumulation and enhanced inflammatory involvement resulting in plaque disruption or plaque erosion and subsequent thrombosis. However, it has been made evident, that the majority of rupture prone plaques that produce acute coronary syndromes are not severely stenotic. Conversely, lipid‐rich plaques with thin fibrous cap, heavily infiltrated by inflammatory cells have been shown to predispose to rupture and thrombosis, independently of the degree of stenosis. Therefore, given the importance of plaque composition, a continuously growing interest in the development and improvement of diagnostic modalities will promptly and most importantly, accurately detect and characterize the high‐risk atheromatous plaque. Use of these techniques may help risk stra...
Net absorption of IgG via FcRn-mediated transcytosis across rat alveolar epithelial cell monolayers

We characterized immunoglobulin G (IgG) transport across rat alveolar epithelial cell monolayers cultured on permeable supports. Unidirectional fluxes of biotin-labeled rat IgG (biot-rIgG) were measured in the apical-to-basolateral (ab) and opposite (ba) directions as functions of [rIgG] in upstream fluids at 37 and 4 degrees C. We explored specificity of IgG transport by measuring fluxes in the presence of excess Fc, Fab, F(ab')2, or chicken Ig (IgY). Expression of the IgG receptor FcRn and the effects of dexamethasone on FcRn expression and biot-rIgG fluxes were determined. Results show that ab flux of biot-rIgG is about fivefold greater than ba flux at an upstream concentration of 25 nM biot-rIgG at 37 degrees C. Both ab and ba fluxes of rIgG saturate, resulting in net absorption with half-maximal concentration and maximal flow of 7.1 nM and 1.3 fmol.cm(-2).h(-1). At 4 degrees C, both ab and ba fluxes significantly decrease, nearly collapsing net absorption. The presence of excess unlabeled Fc [but not Fab, F(ab')2, or IgY] significantly reduces biot-rIgG fluxes. RT-PCR demonstrates expression of alpha- and beta-subunits of rat FcRn. Northern analysis further confirms the presence of alpha-subunit of rat FcRn mRNA of approximately 1.6 kb. Dexamethasone exposure for 72 h decreases the steady-state level of mRNA for rat FcRn alpha-subunit and the ab (but not ba) flux of biot-rIgG. These data indicate that IgG transport across alveolar epithelium takes place via regulable FcRn-mediated transcytosis, which may play an important role in alveolar homeostasis in health and disease.
Understanding Intracellular Transport Processes Pertinent to Synthetic Gene Delivery via Stochastic Simulations and Sensitivity Analyses

A major challenge in synthetic gene delivery is to quantitatively predict the optimal design of polymer-based gene carriers (polyplexes). Here, we report a consistent, integrated, and fundamentally grounded computational methodology to address this challenge. This is achieved by accurately representing the spatio-temporal dynamics of intracellular structures and by describing the interactions between gene carriers and cellular components at a discrete, nanoscale level. This enables the applications of systems tools such as optimization and sensitivity analysis to search for the best combination of systems parameters. We validate the approach using DNA delivery by polyethylenimine as an example. We show that the cell topology (e.g., size, circularity, and dimensionality) strongly influences the spatiotemporal distribution of gene carriers, and consequently, their optimal intracellular pathways. The model shows that there exists an upper limit on polyplexes' intracellular delivery efficiency due to their inability to protect DNA until nuclear entry. The model predicts that even for optimally designed polyethylenimine vectors, only approximately 1% of total DNA is delivered to the nucleus. Based on comparison with gene delivery by viruses, the model suggests possible strategies to significantly improve transfection efficiencies of synthetic gene vectors.
Individualized leadership: A qualitative study of senior executive leaders☆

Abstract Individualized leadership (IL) was studied in 11 independent, formally assigned senior-level relationships. Building on leader–member exchange and transformational leadership theories, these dyadic relationships, comprised of senior executive leaders and their direct reports were examined using one-on-one interviews and coding of transcript text using qualitative research software. The results indicated that in dyadic relationships characterized by strong IL, followers determined whether their superiors would support their sense of self-worth and thus come to view their superiors as leaders. In so doing, follower behaviors contributed to the initiation of these effective leadership relationships and did so while being influenced by three sets of contextual moderators: individual characteristics of the leader, interpersonal dynamics, and developmental factors. Key findings also include differences between dyads with hired or inherited followers, and varying levels of personal closeness correlated with the gender of the leader. Transformational leader behaviors were found to support the development of these leadership relationships in unique ways. Implications for future research and practice to understand successful leader–follower relationships are discussed.
Sulfur Mustard Induces Immune Sensitization in Hairless Guinea Pigs

Sulfur mustard (SM, bis-(2-chloroethyl) sulfide) is a well known chemical warfare agent that may cause long-term debilitating injury. Because of the ease of production and storage, it has a strong potential for chemical terrorism; however, the mechanism by which SM causes chronic tissue damage is essentially unknown. SM is a potent protein alkylating agent, and we tested the possibility that SM modifies cellular antigens, leading to an immunological response to “altered self” and a potential long-term injury. To that end, in this communication, we show that dermal exposure of euthymic hairless guinea pigs induced infiltration of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells into the SM-exposed skin and strong upregulated expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines (TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-8) in distal tissues such as the lung and the lymph nodes. Moreover, we present evidence for the first time that SM induces a specific delayed-type hypersensitivity response that is associated with splenomegaly, lymphadenopathy, and proliferation of cells in these tissues. These results clearly suggest that dermal exposure to SM leads to immune activation, infiltration of T cells into the SM-exposed skin, delayed-type hypersensitivity response, and molecular imprints of inflammation in tissues distal from the site of SM exposure. These immunological responses may contribute to the long-term sequelae of SM toxicity.
Elevated-temperature tensile properties of irradiated 9 Cr-1 MoVNb steel

Abstract Normalized-and-tempered 9 Cr-1 MoVNb steel tensile specimens were irradiated in the Experimental Breeder Reactor-11 (EBR-11) at 390, 450, 500, and 550°C to ∼2.1 and 2.5 × 10 26 neutrons/m 2 (> 0.1 MeV ), which produced displacement damage levels of ∼10 and 12 dpa, respectively. Tensile tests were conducted at the irradiation temperature and at room temperature. In addition to the irradiated specimens, as-heat-treated specimens and as-heat-treated specimens thermally aged at the irradiation for 5000 h were also tested. Thermal aging had no effect on the unirradiated tensile properties. Irradiation at 390°C increased the 0.2% yield stress and the ultimate tensile strength above those of the unirradiated control specimens. The ductility decreased slightly. After irradiation at 450, 500, and 550°C, the tensile properties were essentially the same as the unirradiated values. The hardening at 390°C was attributed to the dislocation and precipitate structure formed during the irradiation. The lack of hardening at 450°C and higher correlates with an absence of an irradiation-induced damage structure.
Diagnostic accuracy of surveillance cultures to detect gastrointestinal colonization with multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria

To quantify the sensitivity of surveillance cultures for the detection of multidrug-resistant gram-negative (MDRGN) bacteria, perianal/rectal swabs were collected from patients with positive clinical cultures for MDRGN species. Surveillance cultures identified colonization with the same genetically related MDRGN species in 29 of 37 MDRGN clinical culture isolates (78%). There was a trend toward less antimicrobial exposure among patients with false-negative surveillance culture results ( P = .06).
Functional architecture for disparity in macaque inferior temporal cortex and its relationship to the architecture for faces, color, scenes, and visual field.

Binocular disparity is a powerful depth cue for object perception. The computations for object vision culminate in inferior temporal cortex (IT), but the functional organization for disparity in IT is unknown. Here we addressed this question by measuring fMRI responses in alert monkeys to stimuli that appeared in front of (near), behind (far), or at the fixation plane. We discovered three regions that showed preferential responses for near and far stimuli, relative to zero-disparity stimuli at the fixation plane. These “near/far” disparity-biased regions were located within dorsal IT, as predicted by microelectrode studies, and on the posterior inferotemporal gyrus. In a second analysis, we instead compared responses to near stimuli with responses to far stimuli and discovered a separate network of “near” disparity-biased regions that extended along the crest of the superior temporal sulcus. We also measured in the same animals fMRI responses to faces, scenes, color, and checkerboard annuli at different visual field eccentricities. Disparity-biased regions defined in either analysis did not show a color bias, suggesting that disparity and color contribute to different computations within IT. Scene-biased regions responded preferentially to near and far stimuli (compared with stimuli without disparity) and had a peripheral visual field bias, whereas face patches had a marked near bias and a central visual field bias. These results support the idea that IT is organized by a coarse eccentricity map, and show that disparity likely contributes to computations associated with both central (face processing) and peripheral (scene processing) visual field biases, but likely does not contribute much to computations within IT that are implicated in processing color.
A simple interactive vegetation model coupled to the GENESIS GCM

Abstract A growing number of research efforts have demonstrated the importance of climate–vegetation interaction in understanding climate sensitivity and climate change. In the study of Earth system history, vegetation is frequently specified or off-line vegetation calculations are produced using comprehensive biome models. However, these methods may fail to capture climate–vegetation feedbacks, and specified vegetation in a climate model may introduce substantial error into the simulation. Simple interactive vegetation models designed for incorporation into climate model studies in Earth history have considerable potential to (a) capture climate feedbacks ignored in earlier studies, (b) improve our ability to validate model simulations, and (c) gain greater insights into the distribution and character of vegetation in Earth history. The Simple Interactive Vegetation Model (SIVM) is a highly simplified vegetation model designed for Earth system history study. This model is evaluated by (1) determining the extent to which the simplified vegetation alters the simulation of the present-day climate, (2) determining the extent to which SIVM produces a realistic present-day vegetation distribution given observed climate parameters, and (3) examining the performance of the coupled GENESIS–SIVM system when applied to the Miocene and Oxygen Isotope Stage 3 climates. The SIVM provides substantial improvement over specified vegetation assumptions in climate models and aids in the interpretation of past climates.
Calcium Current and Activation of Contraction in Ventricular Myocardial Fibers

In thin bundles of dog ventricular myocardium, a slow inward current (distinct from the sodium inward current) could be recorded under voltageclamp conditions. This inward current was influenced by changes in external calcium concentration, but it was not dependent on external sodium concentration. Therefore, this current which contributes an appreciable amount of charge transfer during the plateau of the action potential, is carried by calcium ions. In sodium-free solution, the flow of calcium ions into the fiber is directly related to activation of contraction. In sodium-containing solution, however, calcium inward current serves primarily to fill up some intracellular stores from which calcium can be released by moderate depolarization.
Isolation of Active Adsorbates for the NO–CO Reaction on Pd/Al2O3by Selective Enhancement and Selective Poisoning

A novel experimental approach which couplesin situinfrared (IR) with selective enhancement and poisoning has been developed to identify the active adsorbate for the NO–CO reaction on Pd/Al2O3.In situIR studies of the steady-state NO–CO reaction show that NO adsorbs as Pd–N≡Oδ+, Pd–N=O, and Pd–N//Oδ−; CO adsorbs as Pd–C≡O andPdPd>C=O. Addition of H2to the NO–CO flow as a reaction enhancer which reacts with adsorbed nitrogen and oxygen results in depletion of Pd–N=O, while addition of O2to the NO–CO flow as a reaction poison leads to accumulation of Pd–N=O on the Pd surface. These observations suggest that Pd–N=O is the active adsorbate involved in NO dissociation. The observed variation in the concentrations of CO2and Pd–C≡O suggests that Pd–C≡O is the active adsorbate leading to CO2. This study demonstrates that combinedin situIR with careful selection of enhancing and poisoning reagents allows unambiguous identification of active adsorbates under reaction conditions.
Molecular Packing and Hydrogen Bonding in the Crystal Structures of the N-(n-Alkyl)-D-gluconamide and the 1-Deoxy-(N-methyl-alkanamido)-D-glucitol Mesogens

Abstract Despite differences in molecular configuration and crystal symmetry, the crystal structures of the odd and even alkyl chain members of the N-(n-alkyl-D-gluconamides and the odd alkyl chain members of the 1-deoxy-(N-methyl alkanamido)-D-glucitols have closely related hydrogen-bond systems, which include a homodromic four-bond cycle. This is associated with the monolayer head-to-tail molecular packing common to these crystal structures.
Molecular cytogenetic determination of a deletion/duplication of 1q that results in a trisomy 18 syndrome-like phenotype

We report on an infant who presented at birth with some characteristics of trisomy 18 syndrome, including low birth weight, facial abnormalities, overlapping fingers, and congenital heart defects. On chromosome analysis, no additional chromosome 18 was observed and both chromosome 18 homologues appeared normal. However, a small piece of chromosomal material of unknown origin was detected at the tip of the long arm of chromosome 1. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using whole chromosome 18 painting probes disclosed no additional hybridization at the telomere of 1q, suggesting that the material was derived from another chromosome. Further chromosome painting experiments suggested that the telomeric addition was of chromosome 1 origin. To identify subchromosomal regions involved in the rearrangement, additional FISH analyses were performed using single copy and repetitive DNA probes mapping to different portions of chromosome 1. The analyses showed that probes mapping to 1q34-43 were duplicated in the derivative chromosome 1. In addition, a DNA probe mapping to 1q44 was found to be deleted from the derivative chromosome 1. Our composite analysis suggests that a deletion and a duplication of chromosome 1q can result in some of the clinical findings usually associated with trisomy 18 syndrome. These results demonstrate the usefulness of FISH analysis when karyotype analysis is not consistent with the clinical description.
Magnesium (Mg) and rubidium (Rb) absorption by tall fescue

Abstract Kinetic experiments were conducted to examine Mg+2 [28Mg] and K+ [86Rb] absorption by 2‐week‐old tall fescue (Lolium multiflorum Lam. X Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) seedlings. Magnesium absorption was linear for 180 min and was approximately 3.5 ueq Mg+2 g dry weight‐1.h‐1 from a 0.0625 mM Mg+2 solution. Shoot accumulation of Mg was reduced by increased solution K+. A curvilinear concentration absorption isotherm for roots was obtained for Mg+2. The resultant hyperbolic Hofstee plot could be separated into two linear components with Km values of 0.833 and 0.0117 mM, suggesting that two systems are operable in Mg+2 absorption. Increased solution pH increased Mg+2 absorption both in the presence and absence of NH+ 4. At pH 6.5 NH+ 4 increased Mg+2 absorption 75%; at pH 3.5 the increase was more than 6‐fold. Potassium absorption was linear through 60 min and was decreased by increased Mg2+ levels. Shoot accumulation of [86Rb] was decreased by the first increment of Mg+2, whereas further increases in...
Fredholm property of boundary value problems for a fourth-order elliptic differential-operator equation with operator boundary conditions

In a Hilbert space H, we study the Fredholm property of a boundary value problem for a fourth-order differential-operator equation of elliptic type with unbounded operators in the boundary conditions. We find sufficient conditions on the operators in the boundary conditions for the problem to be Fredholm. We give applications of the abstract results to boundary value problems for fourth-order elliptic partial differential equations in nonsmooth domains.
Microstructural examination of commercial ferritic alloys at 200 dpa

Abstract Microstructures and density change measurements are reported for martensitic commercial steels HT-9 and modified 9Cr1Mo (T91) and oxide dispersion strengthened ferritic alloys MA956 and MA957 following irradiation in the FFTF/MOTA at 420°C to 200 dpa. Swelling as determined by density change remains below 2% for all conditions. Microstructures are found to be stable except in recrystallized grains of MA957, which are fabrication artifacts, with only minor swelling in the martensitic steels and α′ precipitation in alloys with 12% or more chromium. These results further demonstrate the high swelling resistance and microstructural stability of the ferritic alloy class.
Chronic metabolic acidosis in azotemic rats on a high-phosphate diet halts the progression of renal disease

Chronic metabolic acidosis in azotemic rats on a high-phosphate diet halts the progression of renal disease. Background Hyperphosphatemia and metabolic acidosis are general features of advanced chronic renal failure (RF), and each may affect mineral metabolism. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the effect of chronic metabolic acidosis on the development of hyperparathyroidism and bone disease in normal and azotemic rats on a high-phosphate diet. Our assumption that the two groups of azotemic rats (acid-loaded vs. nonÂ–acid-loaded) would have the same degree of renal failure at the end of the study proved to be incorrect. Methods Four groups of rats receiving a high-phosphate (1.2%), normal-calcium (0.6%) diet for 30 days were studied: ( 1 ) normal (N); ( 2 ) normal + acid (N + Ac) in which 1.5% ammonium chloride (NH 4 Cl) was added to the drinking water to induce acidosis; ( 3 ) RF, 5/6 nephrectomized rats; and ( 4 ) RF + acid (RF + Ac) in which 0.75% NH 4 Cl was added to the drinking water of 5/6 nephrectomized rats to induce acidosis. Results At sacrifice, the arterial pH and serum bicarbonate were lowest in the RF + Ac group and were intermediate in the N + Ac group. Serum creatinine (0.76 Â± 0.08 vs. 1.15 Â± 0.08 mg/dL), blood urea nitrogen (52 Â± 8 vs. 86 Â± 13 mg/dL), parathyroid hormone (PTH; 180 Â± 50 vs. 484 Â± 51 pg/mL), and serum phosphate (7.46 Â± 0.60 vs. 12.87 Â± 1.4 mg/dL) values were less ( P P P ) was greater ( P P was similar even though PTH and serum phosphate values were less in the RF + Ac than in the RF group. NH 4 Cl-induced acidosis produced hypercalciuria in the N + Ac and RF + Ac groups. When acid-loaded (N + Ac and RF + Ac) and nonÂ–acid-loaded (N and RF) rats were combined as separate groups, serum phosphate and PTH values were less for a similarly elevated serum creatinine value in acid-loaded than in nonÂ–acid-loaded rats. Finally, the osteoblast surface was less in the N + Ac group than in the other groups. However, in the acid-loaded azotemic group (RF + Ac), the osteoblast surface was not reduced. Conclusions The presence of chronic metabolic acidosis in 5/6 nephrectomized rats on a high-phosphate diet ( 1 ) protected against the progression of RF, ( 2 ) enhanced the renal clearance of phosphate, ( 3 ) resulted in a lesser degree of hyperparathyroidism, and ( 4 ) did not reduce the osteoblast surface. The combination of metabolic acidosis and phosphate loading may protect against the progression of RF and possibly bone disease because the harmful effects of acidosis and phosphate loading may be counterbalanced.
Quantitation and purification of quaternary ammonium compounds from halophyte tissue.

A simple and sensitive spectrophotometric assay for quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) based on Dragendorff9s reagent is described. Although not specific for a particular QAC, the assay allows for rapid survey of tissue for QAC content. A separation method for QACs in halophyte tissue containing high levels of cations was developed using ion exchange resins and ninhydrin to remove the amino acid fraction.
Oxidation of α‐tocopherol to α‐tocopheryl quinone by carbon tetrachloride‐ethanol solvent

The addition of small amounts of CCl4 to ethanolic solutions of α-tocopherol, vitamin A acetate or β-carotene caused destruction of these fat-soluble compounds. The oxidation product of α-tocopherol was identified as α-tocopheryl quinone by UV and IR spectral analysis. Maximum conversion to the quinone occurred with a ratio of CCl4 to ethanol of 25∶75 (v/v).
City manager policy roles as a source of city council/city manager conflict

The role city managers should perform in city council policy deliberations has been debated since the inception of the council-manager form of government. Differing perscriptions for policy roles leads to the potential for conflict between the manager and the council or individual council members. Interviews and role preference instruments were given to a sample of city managers and city council members to determine to what degree their preferences for city manager policy roles differ. Results indicate that the potential for council/manager conflict over city manager policy roles may not be as strong as earlier research would indicate.
Fitness Biasing for evolving an Xpilot combat agent

In this paper we present an application of Fitness Biasing, a type of Punctuated Anytime Learning, for learning autonomous agents in the space combat game Xpilot. Fitness Biasing was originally developed as a means of linking the model to the actual robot in evolutionary robotics. We use fitness biasing with a standard genetic algorithm to learn control programs for a video game agent in real-time. Xpilot-AI, an Xpilot add-on designed for testing learning systems, is used to evolve the controller in the background while periodic checks in normal game play are used to compensate for errors produced by running the system at a high frame rate. The resultant learned controllers are comparable to our best hand-coded Xpilot-AI bots, display complex behavior that resemble human strategies, and are capable of adapting to a changing enemy in real-time.
The anatomy and art of writing a successful grant application: a practical step-by-step approach

Writing a compelling grant application is a skill that is crucial to conducting high-quality and high-impact scientific research. A successful grant proposal provides the resources necessary to foster activity in an important area of investigation. A concise and practical overview of the anatomy and art of grant writing is provided in this article, along with citations to resources that are particularly useful for junior investigators.
Prolonged recovery of memory functioning after mild traumatic brain injury in adolescent athletes.

Object The current body of sports-related concussion literature is hampered by a lack of research conducted in high school athletes. Accordingly, the authors sought to examine the neuropsychological deficits and recovery patterns after concussive injuries in this population. Methods Participants included 419 male and female athletes with a mean age of 15.69 years who underwent baseline testing of their neuropsychological functioning prior to their sports season. Fourteen participants sustained an in-season concussion and were serially reassessed at ~ 2.5, 6, and 10 days postinjury. Fourteen uninjured matched control participants were also reassessed at the end of the school year. Results Individuals who sustained in-season concussions demonstrated impairments in reaction time, processing speed, and had delayed memory functioning. Although reaction time and processing speed deficits returned to baseline levels by ~ 6 days postinjury, participants continued to show memory impairments up to 7 days postinjury...
On substantial independence: a reply to Patrick Toner

Patrick Toner has recently criticized accounts of substance provided by Kit Fine, E. J. Lowe, and the author, accounts which say (to a first approximation) that substances cannot depend on things other than their own parts. On Toner’s analysis, the inclusion of this “parts exception” results in a disjunctive definition of substance rather than a unified account. In this paper (speaking only for myself, but in a way that would, I believe, support the other authors that Toner discusses), I first make clear what Toner’s criticism is, and then I respond to it. Including the “parts exception” is not the adding of a second condition but instead the creation of a new single condition. Since it is not the adding of a condition, the result is not disjunctive. Therefore, the objection fails.
The effect of combined external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy on local control and wound complications in patients with high-grade soft tissue sarcomas of the extremity with positive microscopic margin

Purpose : A previously reported randomized trial from our institution demonstrated a local control advantage to adjuvant brachytherapy (BRT) for completely resected high grade soft tissue sarcoma (STS). In recent years, BRT boost has been combined with wide field external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for selected patients in whom the margin(s) of resection was positive. This study evaluates the impact of BRT boost plus EBRT on local control in this subset of patients and on wound complication rates. Methods and Materials : Between January, 1987 and December, 1992, 105 adult patients with primary or locally recurrent high grade STS of the extremity were treated with wide local excision and BRT alone (87 patients ; dose : 45 Gy) or BRT plus EBRT (18 patients ; dose : 15-20 Gy BRT + 45-50 Gy EBRT). The margin(s) of resection was positive in 10 out of 18 patients in the BRT+EBRT group vs. 17 out of 87 patients in the BRT alone group. Wound complications were classified as major if they required further operative intervention ; moderate if there was purulent discharge, hematoma > 25 ml, wound separation > 2 cm, and persistent seroma requiring drainage ; or minor if less than moderate. Median follow-up was 22 months. Results : The overall 2-year actuarial local control rate was 86%. There was no difference in the 2-year actuarial local control rate between the BRT+EBRT group (90%) and the BRT alone group (82%) (p = 0.32). However, for patients with positive resection margins the use of BRT+EBRT produced better local control than BRT alone [9 out of 10 (90%) vs. 10 out of 17 (59%)]. This difference approached but did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.08). No difference was seen in patients with negative margins. There was no significant difference in the overall wound complication rate (26% BRT vs. 38% BRT+EBRT, p = 0.31) nor in the combined major and moderate wound complication rate (16% BRT vs. 27% BRT+EBRT, p = 0.39). Conclusion : Our preliminary data suggest a trend in favor of BRT boost + EBRT as the optimal adjuvant local strategy for STS with positive resection margins. There is no significant difference in the wound complication rate with either technique.
Omeprazole induces NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 via aryl hydrocarbon receptor-independent mechanisms: Role of the transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2.

Activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) transcriptionally induces phase I (cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1) and phase II (NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) detoxifying enzymes. The effects of the classical and nonclassical AhR ligands on phase I and II enzymes are well studied in human hepatocytes. Additionally, we observed that the proton pump inhibitor, omeprazole (OM), transcriptionally induces CYP1A1 in the human adenocarcinoma cell line, H441 cells via AhR. Whether OM activates AhR and induces the phase II enzyme, NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), in fetal primary human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HPMEC) is unknown. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that OM will induce NQO1 in HPMEC via the AhR. The concentrations of OM used in our experiments did not result in cytotoxicity. OM activated AhR as evident by increased CYP1A1 mRNA expression. However, contrary to our hypothesis, OM increased NQO1 mRNA and protein via an AhR-independent mechanism as AhR knockdown failed to abrogate OM-mediated increase in NQO1 expression. Interestingly, OM activated Nrf2 as evident by increased phosphoNrf2 (S40) expression in OM-treated compared to vehicle-treated cells. Furthermore, Nrf2 knockdown abrogated OM-mediated increase in NQO1 expression. In conclusion, we provide evidence that OM induces NQO1 via AhR-independent, but Nrf2-dependent mechanisms.
A new approach to decoding and compositing motion-compensated DCT-based images

A novel decoding algorithm for the MC-DCT (motion-compensation discrete-cosine-transform)-based video, which performs inverse MC before inverse DCT, is designed. This algorithm can be applied in compositing compressed video within the network, which may take multiple compressed video sources and combine them into a single compressed output stream. The proposed algorithm convers all MC-DCT compressed video into the DCT domain and performs compositing in the DCT domain. This DCT-domain approach can reduce the required computations with a speedup factor depending on the compression ratio and the nonzero motion vector percentage. However, dropping some least-significant DCT coefficients may be necessary for the worst case of high-motion video in real-time implementations. Some issues of networked video compositing are also discussed. Another direct application of the proposed decoding algorithm is converting MC-DCT compressed video to the DCT compressed format directly in the DCT domain. >