cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fetal Alz-50 clone 1 (FAC1) protein interacts with the Myc-associated zinc finger protein (ZF87/MAZ) and alters its transcriptional activity.

Transcription factors mediate their regulatory effects through interaction with DNA and numerous nuclear proteins. The fetal Alz-50 clone 1 (FAC1) protein, a novel DNA-binding protein with the capacity to repress transcription, is likely to function through a similar mechanism (1). Using the two-hybrid yeast screen, we have shown that FAC1 interacts with the myc-associated zinc finger protein (ZF87/MAZ). This association was confirmed in vitro with recombinant protein. The ZF87/MAZ interaction domain was mapped to the region containing a putative nuclear localization signal (NLS) and nuclear export sequence (NES) of FAC1, using deletion mutants of the FAC1 protein. FAC1, on the other hand, recognizes a conformational interface that includes the proline/alanine-rich domain of ZF87/MAZ and the first zinc finger. Cotransfection of NIH3T3 cells with ZF87/MAZ and a luciferase reporter containing the SV40 promoter and enhancer results in an increase in transcriptional activation, suggesting ZF87/MAZ is able to recognize its consensus binding site present in the SV40 promoter. Cotransfection with FAC1 reduces the level of ZF87/MAZ-induced activation of the SV40 promoter in a dose dependent manner. A mutant FAC1, lacking the ZF87/MAZ interaction domain, does not alter ZF87/MAZ activation of the SV40 promoter. These data demonstrate that interaction between FAC1 and ZF87/MAZ alters the transactivation capacity of ZF87/MAZ. By immunoblot analysis, FAC1 and ZF87/MAZ exhibit similar tissue distribution and co-localize to pathologic structures in Alzheimer’s disease brain. Coexpression of FAC1 and ZF87/MAZ suggest that interaction of these two proteins will have biological implications for gene regulation in neurodegeneration.
Oxidative Modifications of α-Synuclein

Hallmark lesions of neurodegenerative synucleinopathies contain alpha-synuclein (alpha-syn) that is modified by nitration of tyrosine residues and possibly by dityrosine cross-linking to generated stable oligomers. Data gathered from in vitro experiments and from model systems of cells transfected with wild-type and mutant alpha-syn revealed that conditions resulting in alpha-syn nitration also induce formation of alpha-syn inclusions with similar biochemical characteristics to protein extracted from human lesions. The detection of tyrosine-nitrated alpha-syn signifies the formation of reactive nitrogen species capable of both radical and electrophilic attack on aromatic residues as well as nucleophilic additions and oxidations. The cellular sources and biochemical reactivity of reactive nitrogen species in the central nervous system remain largely unknown, but kinetically fast reactions of nitric oxide with superoxide to form peroxynitrite as well as enzymatic one-electron oxidation of nitrite are two important sources of reactive nitrogen species. Based on these findings a model is proposed where the process of fibrilization can be differentially affected by oxidants and nitrating species. Posttranslational modifications of alpha-syn by reactive nitrogen species inhibits fibril formation and results in urea- and SDS- insoluble, protease-resistant alpha-syn aggregates that maybe responsible for cellular toxicity.
Gene-environment interactions and depression.

To the Editor: In their meta-analysis, Dr Risch and colleagues concluded that the study of gene-environment interaction in mental disorders should await the identification of “robust marginal gene associations.” We believe that this conclusion extends well beyond the data, and an alternate explanation of their findings suggests other courses of action. The absence of replicable findings across studies that assessed both direct genotype-depression associations and gene-environment interactions may be explained by mismeasurement and undermeasurement of relevant environmental contexts. Two compelling strands of evidence support this hypothesis. First, there is a sharp contrast in the consistency of success in studies that have sought genotype-phenotype associations in animals and in humans. For example, animal models of depression and anxiety disorders have consistently demonstrated genotype-phenotype associations. By contrast, a recent genome-wide association study (GWAS) of depression found no significant associations. One central difference between these 2 research approaches lies in control over potentially relevant environmental exposures. These exposures are effectively randomized in animal models, but such control is absent from observational human gene-hunting studies. Second, outside the gene-environment literature reviewed by Risch et al, the evidence for environmental modification of genetic effects on human behavior is robust and increasing. The heritability of many phenotypes is modified by environmental factors such as socioeconomic status. Genotype-phenotype associations are also modified by context familiarity in animal models and features of social environments in human studies. Unmeasured aspects of environmental context could contribute to nonreplication of gene-environment findings that at best limit the measurement of environment to life events. Rather than conducting less research on how genotype and a range of environmental factors jointly produce mental disorders, what is needed is more and better-quality research. Unfortunately, to date GWAS of mental disorders have exclusively tested for genetic main effects, and geneenvironment interaction studies have focused on candidate genes and individual-level measures of environmental exposures. Genome-wide association studies of mental disorders may produce more robust findings if populations were sampled conditional on exposure to a range of plausible environmental risk factors. Gene-environment interaction studies would benefit from moving away from focus on single candidate genes and toward considering multiple levels of environmental exposures. Studies that integrate state-of-the-science methods of measurement of both genetic and environmental factors will provide a more comprehensive test of the role of geneenvironment interaction in mental disorders than a metaanalysis of a single gene–environmental risk factor disorder association.
Metrifonate: Update on a New Antidementia Agent

Objective To review preclinical and clinical studies of metrifonate, a cholinesterase inhibitor relevant to the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Data sources English-language literature identified by MEDLINE using the term metrifonate was reviewed, and bibliography-sorted searches were conducted. Study findings Metrifonate is an organophosphate cholinesterase inhibitor effective in the treatment of the cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The active metabolite of metrifonate, 2,2-dimethyldichlorovinyl phosphate (DDVP), irreversibly inhibits the acetylcholinesterase enzyme. Although the elimination half-life of DDVP is 2-3 hours, the half-life of cholinesterase inhibition by DDVP is stable (26 days). Metrifonate can be administered once daily. Animal studies demonstrate its efficacy in enhancing memory in animals that have cholinergic deficits. Double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have shown the benefit of metrifonate compared with placebo in improving scores on the Clinical Global Impression of Change scale, the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale, and the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. Conclusion Metrifonate is a useful addition to our limited armamentarium of agents helpful against the cognitive deficits of Alzheimer's disease.
Exercise Training-Enhanced, Endothelium-Dependent Dilation Mediated by Altered Regulation of BKCa Channels in Collateral-Dependent Porcine Coronary Arterioles

Objective Test the hypothesis that exercise training increases the contribution of BKCa channels to endothelium-mediated dilation in coronary arterioles from collateral-dependent myocardial regions of chronically occluded pig hearts and may function downstream of H2O2. Methods An ameroid constrictor was placed around the proximal left circumflex coronary artery to induce gradual occlusion in Yucatan miniature swine. Eight weeks postoperatively, pigs were randomly assigned to sedentary or exercise training (treadmill; 14 week) regimens. Results Exercise training significantly enhanced bradykinin-mediated dilation in collateral-dependent arterioles (~125 μm diameter) compared with sedentary pigs. The BKCa-channel blocker, iberiotoxin alone or in combination with the H2O2 scavenger, polyethylene glycol catalase, reversed exercise training-enhanced dilation in collateral-dependent arterioles. Iberiotoxin-sensitive whole-cell K+ currents (i.e., BKCa-channel currents) were not different between smooth muscle cells of nonoccluded and collateral-dependent arterioles of sedentary and exercise trained groups. Conclusions These data provide evidence that BKCa-channel activity contributes to exercise training-enhanced endothelium-dependent dilation in collateral-dependent coronary arterioles despite no change in smooth muscle BKCa-channel current. Taken together, our findings suggest that a component of the bradykinin signaling pathway, which stimulates BKCa channels, is enhanced by exercise training in collateral-dependent arterioles and suggest a potential role for H2O2 as the mediator.
The cluster expansion for potentials with exponential fall-off

Continuing the work of a previous paper, the Glimm-Jaffe-Spencer cluster expansion from constructive quantum field theory is adapted to treat quantum statistical mechanical systems of particles interacting by potentials that fall off exponentially at large distance. The HamiltonianH0+V need be stable in the extended sense thatH0+4V+BN≧0 for someB. In this situation, with a mild technical condition on the potentials, the cluster expansion converges and the infinite volume limit of the correlation functions exists, at low enough density. These infinite volume correlation functions cluster exponentially. A natural system included in the present treatment is that of matter with ther−1 potential replaced bye−ar/r. The Hamiltonian is stable, but the system would collapse in the absence of the exclusion principle—the potential is unstable. Therefore this system cannot be handled by the classic work of Ginibre, which requires stable potentials.
Coarctation of the aorta with patent ductus arteriosus opening at the coarctation

Abstract A case of coarctation of the aorta with a patent ductus arteriosus opening at the site of the coarctation is described. The precise diagnosis was made at cardiac catheterization and confirmed at operation. The presence of a bidirectional shunt through the ductus was demonstrated by blood-oxygen saturation values and arterial dye-dilution curves of T-1824. The right-to-left component of the shunt was abolished when the patient breathed 99.6 per cent oxygen. Occlusion of the ductus at operation near its junction with the pulmonary artery caused a rise in pulmonary arterial diastolic pressure and a fall in aortic diastolic pressure, with small but directionally similar changes in systolic pressures. This demonstrated the presence of a large right-to-left flow through the ductus which occurred mainly in diastole and contributed significantly to the pressure in the systemic circulation. Occlusion of the ductus near its junction with the aorta produced an increase in aortic pressure proximal and a decrease distal to the coarctation. This demonstrated that the aortic end of the ductus served as a channel for aortic blood to flow past the coarctation. When the coarctation was occluded in addition to the ductus the pressure in the distal aorta dropped to about 30 mm. Hg. Hence the collateral vessels were poorly developed. The coarctation was resected and the ductus divided. After completion of these surgical procedures the pressures in the proximal and distal aorta were similar and the arterial dye-dilution curve had a normal contour. Studies carried out 4 months after operation showed that the coarctation was cured, and the bidirectional central circulatory shunt eliminated. Right atrial, pulmonary arterial and pulmonary arterial wedge pressures had decreased. The pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary arteriolar resistance had fallen by about 60 per cent and 40 per cent, respectively.
John Willoughby, Remaking the Conquering Heroes: The Postwar American Occupation of Germany . New York: Palgrave, 2001. xiii + 187 pp. $45.00 cloth.

Scholars in both the US and Germany have studied the American occupation of Germany extensively. Until recently, however, much of that work focused on the emerging Cold War rivalry between the US and the Soviet Union to explain the rapid shift from an occupation intended to punish the Germans to one that increasingly included West Germans as partners and allies. While not dismissing the importance of the Cold War struggle in shaping US foreign policy, John Willoughby suggests that a more comprehensive understanding of how American power was projected during the Cold War is only possible if attention is shifted from the policy makers in Washington to the players on the ground. By exploring how the American military government dealt with the chaotic social and economic conditions within Germany, the widespread disciplinary problems of American GIs, and the pervasive racism within the military, Willoughby makes a compelling argument that US foreign policy and the “institutions of occupation” were transformed by the “more mundane problems of social control and organizational capability” (3). The American objectives in Germany changed, not because of the Cold War, but because financial pressures, personnel shortages, and economic disarray forced military authorities to hand over power to the Germans much sooner than envisioned by Washington. While Willoughby—by his own admission—does not provide new material to the professional historian of the era, his book nonetheless offers a fresh interpretation that draws on social and cultural history while also paying attention to race and gender.
The analysis of fluid inclusions in halite

Abstract A technique has been developed to drill into fluid inclusions in halite, to extract the inclusion fluids, and to determine the concentration of all of the major and some of the minor constituents in these fluids. The minimum diameter of usable fluid inclusions is ca . 250 μm. After dilution, the fluids are analyzed by ion chromatography and coulometry. Uncertainties in the concentration of the major cations and anions is on the order of 4%. The analytical scheme provides much more precise analyses of inclusion fluids than have been available to date. The analyses are a useful starting point for reconstructing the composition of the seawater from which the evaporite brines evolved.
Too much of a good thing? Hybrid necrosis as a by-product of plant immune system diversification

Plants defend themselves against their enemies with an impressive arsenal of physical barriers, surveillance and defense proteins, enzymes, and toxic chemicals. Many different molecules are involved in the detection of invaders, suggesting that pathogen pressure selects for a broad array of defense strategies and a high diversity of recognition specificities in host species. Recent results in plants, however, show that immune system diversification can also have negative consequences; epistatic interactions among divergent immune system components can cause hybrid necrosis, a form of genetic incompatibility. This type of hybrid failure is frequently lethal, and characterized by the widespread induction of programmed cell death leading to tissue necrosis. In characterized examples, this is caused by hyperactivation of defense responses. Both the prevalence of hybrid necrosis in diverse plant taxa, and the growing indication that it may arise as a by-product of adaptation to the biotic environment, emphasiz...
Anisotropic n.m.r. spectra and the crystalline state of solid H2

Abstract The dependence of the n.m.r. free-induction decay from samples of almost pure parahydrogen, on the orientation of the magnetic field, is analysed in terms of a “motional narrowing” model to yield detailed information about the crystalline state of the samples.
Fusion of point-based postal data with IKONOS imagery

Research in urban remote sensing has been recently reinvigorated by both the continuing fusion with GIS and the advent of high spatial resolution satellite sensor data. Both will be examined by this paper in terms of how GIS data at the point level can assist the identification and interpretation of urban land use patterns from classified land cover. Specifically, how spatial statistics can be used to summarise the two-dimensional patterns of point data representing residential and commercial buildings. In this paper point data refer to the location of postal addresses known as ADDRESS-POINT^T^M and collected by the Ordnance Survey of Great Britain and COMPAS^T^M in Northern Ireland. Groups of these postal points are characterised using standard nearest-neighbour and linear nearest-neighbour indices in terms of the spacing and arrangement of residential and commercial buildings. The indices then form the basis for the interpretation of urban pixels classified from IKONOS imagery at the 4m spatial resolution. In addition, the paper will outline an agenda for constructing an automated pattern recognition system that would ultimately identify and characterise the physical arrangement of buildings in terms of density (compactness versus sparseness) and linearity. Preliminary results so far are most encouraging. Using ground truth from aerial photographs at 15cm spatial resolution, classified IKONOS imagery representing two cities in the United Kingdom, Bristol and Belfast, have been investigated. In both, spatial patterns have demonstrated the ability to identify misclassified urban pixels and characterise a variety of building arrangements. Also, using the software e-Cognition, a spatial classification based on nearest neighbour contextual rules produced accuracies of 95.4% compared to 90.7% from a multispectral-only classification. Further, more extensive testing is continuing.
The inactivation of acetylcholinesterase by trimethyloxonium ion, an active-site-directed methylating agent

Abstract Trimethyloxonium ion inactivates acetylcholinesterase from the electric eel and acetylcholinesterase on the surface of human red blood cells. Tetramethylammonium ion, which is a competitive inhibitor of acetylcholinesterase, protects against this inactivation. Trimethyloxonium ion does not inactivate the system that transports choline into the red blood cell. We conclude that trimethyloxonium ion is an affinity-labeling reagent for acetylcholinesterase and that red blood cell acetylcholinesterase is probably not a component of the choline transport system.
Artificial neural networks for noisy image super-resolution

Abstract Noisy incoherent objects, which are too close to be remotely separated by optically imaging beyond the Rayleigh diffraction limit, might be resolved by employing the artificial neural network (ANN) smart pixel post-processing and its mathematical framework, independent component analysis (ICA). It is shown that ICA ANN approach to super-resolution based on information maximization principle could be seen as a part of the general approach called space-bandwidth product adaptation method. Our success is perhaps due to the blind source separation smart-pixel detectors behind the imaging lens (inverse adaptation), while the Rayleigh diffraction limit remains valid for a single instance of the deterministic imaging systems' realization. The blindness is due to the unknown objects, and the unpredictable propagation effect on the net imaging point spread function. Such a software/firmware enhancement of imaging system may have a profound implication to the designs of the new (third) generation imaging systems as well as other non-optical imaging systems.
Interruption of vascular thrombus formation and vascular lesion formation by dietary n-3 fatty acids in fish oil in nonhuman primates.

BACKGROUNDBecause of discrepant claims regarding the relative biological effects of n-3 fatty acids (n-3FAs), we have concurrently measured the effects of dietary n-3FAs on blood and vascular lipid composition, hemostatic function, blood thrombotic responses, vascular thrombus formation, and vascular lesion formation in baboons.METHODS AND RESULTSDietary n-3FAs displaced n-6FAs in plasma, platelets, blood vessels, and corresponding urinary eicosanoid metabolites (p < 0.01 in all cases) within weeks after initiation of a semipurified diet containing 1 g/kg per day n-3FA-ethyl ester concentrate (composed of two thirds eicosapentanoic acid and one third docosahexanoic acid). Coincidentally, platelet hemostatic function became minimally impaired (template bleeding times prolonged from 4.3 +/- 0.5 minutes to 7.6 +/- 1.3 minutes, p = 0.039); concentrations of collagen producing half-maximal platelet aggregation increased (from 6.4 +/- 2.1 to 8.5 +/- 2.5 micrograms/mL, p = 0.045); and tissue factor expression by...
Impact of Vascular Adaptation to Chronic Aortic Regurgitation on Left Ventricular Performance

Background—This investigation was designed to test the hypothesis that vascular adaptation occurs in patients with chronic aortic regurgitation to maintain left ventricular (LV) performance. Methods and Results—Forty-five patients with chronic aortic regurgitation (mean age 50±14 years) were studied using a micromanometer LV catheter to obtain LV pressures and radionuclide ventriculography to obtain LV volumes during multiple loading conditions and right atrial pacing. These 45 patients were subgrouped according to their LV contractility (Ees) and ejection fraction values. Group I consisted of 24 patients with a normal Ees. Group IIa consisted of 10 patients with impaired Ees values (Ees <1.00 mm Hg/mL) but normal LV ejection fractions; Group IIb consisted of 11 patients with impaired contractility and reduced LV ejection fractions. The left ventricular-arterial coupling ratio, Ees/Ea, where Ea was calculated by dividing the LV end-systolic pressure by LV stroke volume, averaged 1.60±0.91 in Group I. It d...
FEMTOSECOND MOLECULAR-DYNAMICS OF TAUTOMERIZATION IN MODEL BASE-PAIRS

Hydrogen bonds commonly lend robustness and directionality to molecular recognition processes and supramolecular structures. In particular, the two or three hydrogen bonds in Watson–Crick base pairs bind the double-stranded DNA helix and determine the complementarity of the pairing. Watson and Crick pointed out, however, that the possible tautomers of base pairs, in which hydrogen atoms become attached to the donor atom of the hydrogen bond, might disturb the genetic code, as the tautomer is capable of pairing with different partners. But the dynamics of hydrogen bonds in general, and of this tautomerization process in particular, are not well understood. Here we report observations of the femtosecond dynamics of tautomerization in model base pairs (7-azaindole dimers) containing two hydrogen bonds. Because of the femtosecond resolution of proton motions, we are able to examine the cooperativity of formation of the tautomer (in which the protons on each base are shifted sequentially to the other base), and to determine the characteristic timescales of the motions in a solvent-free environment. We find that the first step occurs on a timescale of a few hundred femtoseconds, whereas the second step, to form the full tautomer, is much slower, taking place within several picoseconds; the timescales are changed significantly by replacing hydrogen with deuterium. These results establish the molecular basis of the dynamics and the role of quantum tunnelling.
Pseudomembranous and neutropenic enterocolitis in pediatric oncology patients

Neutropenic enterocolitis in oncological patients represents a wide spectrum of clinicopathological pictures each with its own entity. Early diagnosis of enterocolitis can lead to improved supportive care and therefore better outcome. We present two cases--patient A, a child with pseudomembranous colitis caused by Clostridium difficile, and patient B, a child with neutropenic enterocolitis, where no organism was found. By allowing an insight into the pathology, immunology and culture results, we demonstrated that early diagnosis leads to improved management and therefore improved outcome.
Update on the biology of the chondrocyte and new approaches to treating cartilage diseases

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint disease that involves degeneration of articular cartilage, limited intraarticular inflammation manifested by synovitis and changes in the subchondral bone. The aetiology of OA is largely unknown, but since it may involve multiple factors, including mechanical, biochemical and genetic factors, it has been difficult to identify unique targets for therapy. Chondrocytes, which are the unique cellular component of adult articular cartilage, are capable of responding to structural changes in the surrounding cartilage matrix. Since the initial stages of OA involve increased cell proliferation and synthesis of matrix proteins, proteinases and cytokines in the cartilage, laboratory investigations have focused on the chondrocyte as a target for therapeutic intervention. The capacity of the adult articular chondrocyte to regenerate the normal cartilage matrix architecture is limited, however, and the damage becomes irreversible unless the destructive process is interrupted. Current pharmacological interventions that address chronic pain are insufficient and no proven disease-modifying therapy is available. Identification of methods for early diagnosis is of key importance, since therapeutic interventions aimed at blocking or reversing structural damage will be more effective when there is the possibility of preserving normal homeostasis. At later stages, cartilage tissue engineering with or without gene therapy with anabolic factors will also require therapy to inhibit inflammation and block damage to newly repaired cartilage. This review will focus on experimental approaches currently under study that may lead to elucidation of effective strategies for therapy in OA, with emphasis on mediators that affect the function of chondrocytes and interactions with surrounding tissues.
Ecological Management Problems Caused by Heated Waste Water Discharge Into the Aquatic Environment

Discharge of heated waste water may affect the entire aquatic ecosystem–the interrelated biological, chemical, physical system–and, if the temperature change is large, may destroy the capacity of the ecosystem to serve a variety of beneficial purposes. However, it is possible to discharge heated waste water in carefully controlled amounts without seriously degrading the aquatic ecosystem. There are four basic alternatives which are open to us with regard to the heated waste water problem which we may choose singly or in various combinations: (1) Placing all heated, waste water in streams, lakes, and oceans without regard to the effects. Thus considering the environmental damage as a necessary consequence of our increased power demand. (2) Using, but not abusing, existing ecosystems. This means regulating the heated waste water discharge to fit the receiving capacity of the ecosystem. (3) Finding alternative ways to dissipate or beneficially use waste heat. (4) Modifying ecosystems to fit the new temperature conditions. We are all dependent upon a life-support system which is partly industrial and partly ecological. Unfortunately, we have reached a stage of development where the non-expandable, ecological portion of our life-support system is endangered by the expanding industrial portion. Optimal function and full beneficial use of both portions of our life-support system will only be possible if a variety of disciplines and diverse points of view can cooperate and work together effectively. Since wastes in amounts that are acceptable taken one at a time may be lethal collectively, environmental management should be on a regional basis.
Application of evolved gas analysis to the study of poly(vinyl butyral) thermal stability

Abstract The study of polymer stability can often be aided by the determination of the chemical mechanisms involved in a specific mode of degradation. The technique of evolved gas analysis (EGA) has been combined with kinetic FTIR to identify the reaction products of the thermal and oxidative degradation of poly(vinyl butyral). The data suggests a mechanism involving dehydration of vinyl alcohol functionalities followed by oxidative attack.
Religiousness and sexual responsibility in adolescent girls.

Abstract Objective To investigate a potential association between religiousness and sexual responsibility in a nationally representative sample of adolescent girls. Methods Subjects were 3356 adolescent girls (mean age 15.97 years, SD=1.77; 59.4% Euro-American, 23.3% African-American, 6.0% Hispanic, and 11.4% of other ethnic backgrounds) from the Wave I, In-Home section of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health Study) who responded to items on four dimensions of religiousness (frequent attendance of religious events, personal conservatism, personal devotion, and religious denomination) and three dimensions of sexual responsibility (sexual activity, perception of risk in unprotected intercourse, and birth control use). Data were analyzed using a series of regression analyses with religiousness as the predictor and sexual responsibility as the outcome. Results Personal devotion was positively associated with fewer sexual partners outside a romantic relationship. Frequent attendance of religious events was positively associated with greater perception of risk of contracting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or pregnancy from unprotected intercourse, greater foresight of suffering from HIV or pregnancy, and a responsible and planned use of birth control. Personal conservatism was positively associated with unprotected sex. Conclusion Sexual responsibility was positively associated with personal devotion and frequent attendance of religious events but inversely associated with personal conservatism.
CMOS phase-locked loops for frequency synthesis

As wireless communication systems evolve toward higher frequencies, higher bandwidths, and multi-standard capabilities, the performance of their phase-locked loops (PLLs) becomes increasingly critical to overall system performance. Additionally, PLLs often must be integrated with large digital blocks, so there is strong and increasing economic pressure to implement them in highly-scaled CMOS technology. This short course provides a tutorial explanation of PLL design at both the system and circuit levels in the context of these issues. Topics include integer-N PLLs, fractional-N PLLs, transistor-level design of critical PLL circuit blocks, and practical application-specific PLL issues in a variety of wireless communication systems. The short course is intended for both entry-level and experienced analog, RF, and mixed-signal circuit designers.
Open bedside tracheotomy: Impact on patient care and patient safety

Objectives: Objectives were: 1) to evaluate the impact of open bedside tracheotomy (OBT) on patient care and 2) to determine whether OBT in the intensive care unit (ICU) is a safe, cost-effective procedure. Study Design: Retrospective chart-based review. Methods: A total of 163 consecutive adult patients in the medical or surgical ICU who underwent OBT by the Otorhinolaryngology service from July 2007 to July 2009, in addition to the 163 consecutive adult patients who had undergone open tracheotomy in the operating room immediately prior to July 2007, were included in the study. Data examined included time intervals between initial consultation and performance of tracheotomy, complication rates, ICU length of stay, and cost considerations. Results: In the group of patients examined prior to OBT, time to surgery (TTS) averaged 3.24 days in comparison to an average of 1.48 days for patients who received OBT (P < .05). Review of complications revealed no significant difference in the two study groups (odds ratio [OR], 1.42, 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.44–4.56, P = .56). The length of ICU stay decreased by 0.6 days on average in the OBT group versus the OR group, although not achieving statistical significance (P = .18). Cost analysis suggests a potential savings of $4,575 per case, resulting in approximately $745,700 saved in the OBT group. Conclusions: Review of our experience demonstrates comparable safety for tracheotomy performed bedside versus in the operating room, while offering shorter time to surgery, decreased costs, and perhaps a reduction in the length of ICU stay. These findings suggest that open bedside tracheotomy is preferable to tracheotomy performed in the operating room for patients in the ICU setting. Laryngoscope, 2011
A Rotatable Cold Cathode Penning ion Source

A rotatable cold cathode Penning ion source has been designed and is now operating in the Oak Ridge Isochronous Cyclotron (ORIC). Previous sources for positive heavy ions have been severely limited in life-time by cathode sputtering and buildup of sputtered cathode material. The new ion source extends the cathode lifetime by a factor of ~ 6. The source cathodes are discs of tantalum, 7/8 in. in diameter and 3/8 in. thick. Upon completion of an ion source "burn" at one position on the circular edge of the cathode discs, each disc is rotated to an unused position for the next "burn." Provision exists for continuous rotation of the cathodes. The plasma collimating holes, where the sputtered cathode tantalum is deposited, also are on discs with six possible positions. The new source has resulted in increased accelerated beam currents and greater stability for heavy ions. The source has also been used to produce light ion beams (H, D, ?) over a wide range of intensities.
The Schur subgroup II

1. Let k be a subfield of a cyclotomic extension of the rational field Q. The Schur subgroup S(k) of the B rauer group B(K) consists of those algebra classes which contain a simple component of the group algebra kG for some finite group G. If A is a central simple algebra over k, then [A] will denote the class of A in B(K). The Schur subgroup was first investigated by K. L. Fields and I. N. Herstein [5]. Since the elements of the Brauer group are characterized by invariants, it is reasonable to ask whether the elements of S(K) are distinguished in B(k) by behavior of invariants. In this paper, we obtain the following result. Let [A] E S(k). Let pi and ps be primes of k dividing a rational prime p and let K, denote the p-completion of K. Then A 01, kpl and A Ok kp2 have the same index. Thus if one p-local invariant of A is zero, then all p-local invariants of A are zero. This result allows us to use the term p-local index of A for the common value of the indices of A ol, k, for all primes p of k dividing p. Throughout this paper k denotes a subfield of a cyclotomic field. Also, p and q denote rational primes, and p is not necessarily finite. The term invariant is used to mean invariant reduced to lowest terms. Thus, the index of A & k, is the denominator of the invariant inv,(A). Two formulas for invariants which are quite useful are the following which can be found in Chapter VII of Deuring [3].
Competing interactions in dispersions of superparamagnetic nanoparticles

We study the magnetic properties of dispersions of uniformly sized, chemically synthesized cobalt nanoparticles (NP's), observing a crossover from a blocked state to a superparamagnetic one with increasing temperature. By analyzing magnetization data, we determine the distributions of NP volumes and anisotropies, and establish that variations in the shapes of the magnetic cores of the NP's generate the anisotropy governing the crossover. We characterize the frustrated low-temperature state produced by the competition between dipolar interactions and anisotropy at sufficiently high NP density through remanent magnetization measurements, and explain the results through analysis of a simple model.
Oxidative pit formation in pristine, hydrogenated and dehydrogenated graphene

Abstract We study oxidative pit formation in pristine, hydrogenated, and dehydrogenated monolayer graphene (MLG), bilayer graphene (BLG) and trilayer graphene (TLG). Graphene samples are produced by mechanical exfoliation of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) onto SiO 2 substrates. Etching is carried out by exposing samples to O 2 gas at 450–700 °C. Using atomic force microscopy, we observe that pre-heating pristine MLG in vacuum at 590 °C increases the onset temperature for pit formation to values comparable to those in HOPG. We attribute this decrease in reactivity to an increase in adhesion between the MLG and substrate. In hydrogenated MLG and BLG, we observe a significant decrease in the onset temperature for pit formation. Dehydrogenation of these materials results in a decrease in the density of pits. We attribute the decrease in onset temperature to H-related defects in their sp 3 -bonded structure. In contrast, hydrogenated TLG and thicker-layer samples show no significant change in pit formation. We propose that this is because they are not transformed into an sp 3 -bonded structure by hydrogenation.
PRENATAL HEMATOLOGICAL INDICES DURING GESTATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AS DETERMINED BY PERCUTANEOUS UMBILICAL BLOOD SAMPLING

PRENATAL HEMATOLOGICAL INDICES DURING GESTATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AS DETERMINED BY PERCUTANEOUS UMBILICAL BLOOD SAMPLING
Different Roles for Homologous Interneurons in Species Exhibiting Similar Rhythmic Behaviors

Summary It is often assumed that similar behaviors in related species are produced by similar neural mechanisms. To test this, we examined the neuronal basis of a simple swimming behavior in two nudibranchs (Mollusca, Opisthobranchia), Melibe leonina and Dendronotus iris . The side-to-side swimming movements of Dendronotus [1] strongly resemble those of Melibe [2, 3]. In Melibe , it was previously shown that the central pattern generator (CPG) for swimming is composed of two bilaterally symmetric pairs of identified interneurons, swim interneuron 1 (Si1) and swim interneuron 2 (Si2), which are electrically coupled ipsilaterally and mutually inhibit both contralateral counterparts [2, 4]. We identified homologs of Si1 and Si2 in Dendronotus . (Henceforth, homologous neurons in each species will be distinguished by the subscripts Den and Mel .) We found that Si2 Den and Si2 Mel play similar roles in generating the swim motor pattern. However, unlike Si1 Mel , Si1 Den was not part of the swim CPG, was not strongly coupled to the ipsilateral Si2 Den , and did not inhibit the contralateral neurons. Thus, species differences exist in the neuronal organization of the swim CPGs despite the similarity of the behaviors. Therefore, similarity in species-typical behavior is not necessarily predictive of common neural mechanisms, even for homologous neurons in closely related species.
Electron paramagnetic resonance of manganese(II) and copper(II) in spores

Paramagnetic resonance of manganese and copper have been observed in a number of different bacterial spores. The manganese spectra are different from those of corresponding vegetative cells and most other plant materials which have been investigated. The spectra consist of a single broad curve, that is 460–510 Gauss wide, with a sextet hyperfine pattern superimposed. Upon germination or autoclaving of Bacillus megaterium spores, most of the manganese is released and the residual cellular matter exhibits only the small sextet hyperfine spectrum. It is concluded that manganese in these spores is bonded in at least two different ways. The implications of the electron paramagnetic resonance results on the hypothesis of a metal-dipicolinic acid complex is considered. The electron paramagnetic resonance spectrum for copper in spores is consistent with bonding of copper to protein. Lyophilized clean spores do not exhibit a free-radical spectrum on prolonged storage in air.
On a complex normalized scattering matrix and its application to broadband matching of multiport networks

Abstract The necessary and sufficient conditions that an n x n matrix be the scattering matrix of a lumped, lossless n -port normalizing to n non-Foster positive—real impedances are presented in matrix form in terms of coefficients of the Laurent series of the parameters. Also, a method is introduced for constructing a generalized scattering matrix of a lossless reciprocal n -port equalizer from the preassigned transducer power-gain characteristics and a set of n passive terminations. The significance of this work is that it provides a means for testing the realizability of an n x n scattering matrix by dealing with the coefficients of the Laurent series expansions of the parameters. An example of a three-port network is given to show the procedure for constructing a scattering matrix possessing the para-unitary property, and achieving the preassigned transducer power-gain characteristics when it is terminated in the given impedances.
Studies of autoimmune induction in the rat lacrimal gland

Induction of autoimmunity in the rat lacrimal gland was presently assessed. Antibodies to lacrimal gland extract were detectable in 58% of the immunized rats. Skin tests were positive at 4week postimmunization in 70% of the animals. Histological observations revealed the presence of mononuclear cell infiltrates surrounding the ductal and acinar epithelium at 2–6 weeks.
Mapping of antibody responses to the protective antigen of Bacillus anthracis by flow cytometric analysis.

Background Knowledge of the target and functional capability of the antibody response against an antigen provides more specific and relevant information about protective immunity than measuring the total amount of antibody produced against an antigen. Methods Using flow cytometry, a competitive assay has been created for measuring the antibody response against important epitopes of an antigen. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against the protective antigen (PA) component of Bacillus anthracis are available that neutralize the activity of lethal toxin (LeTx). Flow cytometric analysis revealed that these mAbs bind PA conjugated to polystyrene latex microspheres. Results Unlabeled mAbs against PA competed with fluorescent mAbs that bind the homologous epitope but not with fluorescent mAbs that bind heterologous epitopes. Four-parameter logistic models were developed for measuring the antibody response against two epitopes of PA. Sera from anthrax-vaccinated rabbits inhibited the binding of fluorescent mAbs to either epitope; the degree of inhibition correlated with the dilution of sera. Conclusions The response in the rabbit sera to either epitope on PA depended on the dose of vaccine administered to the rabbits. No inhibition was seen with sera from control animals. With no species-specific components, this assay could be adapted readily for comparing responses between species. Cytometry 49:1–7, 2002. Published 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Prenatal alcohol exposure alters p35, CDK5 and GSK3β in the medial frontal cortex and hippocampus of adolescent mice.

Abstract Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) are the number one cause of preventable mental retardation. An estimated 2–5% of children are diagnosed as having a FASD. While it is known that children prenatally exposed to alcohol experience cognitive deficits and a higher incidence of psychiatric illness later in life, the pathways underlying these abnormalities remain uncertain. GSK3β and CDK5 are protein kinases that are converging points for a vast number of signaling cascades, including those controlling cellular processes critical to learning and memory. We investigated whether levels of GSK3β and CDK5 are affected by moderate prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE), specifically in the hippocampus and medial frontal cortex of the adolescent mouse. In the present work we utilized immunoblotting techniques to demonstrate that moderate PAE increased hippocampal p35 and β-catenin, and decreased total levels of GSK3β, while increasing GSK3β Ser9 and Tyr216 phosphorylation. Interestingly, different alterations were seen in the medial frontal cortex where p35 and CDK5 were decreased and increased total GSK3β was accompanied by reduced Tyr216 of the enzyme. These results suggest that kinase dysregulation during adolescence might be an important contributing factor to the effects of PAE on hippocampal and medial frontal cortical functioning; and by extension, that global modulation of these kinases may produce differing effects depending on brain region.
Proofreading, NTPases and translation: successful increase in specificity.

Abstract The discussion of proofreading started in the April issue of IBS 1 is completed by treating the two branched Michaelis-Menten enzymes that can proofread. The conditions required for proofreading can be seen to determine the expression of proofreading in its biological settings. There are surely instances of proofreading as yet unrecognized.
The Migration of Eimeria acervulina Sporozoites to the Duodenal Glands of Lieberkühn

SYNOPSIS. The establishment of Eimeria acervulina sporozoites in the duodenal glands of Lieberkuhn of the chicken is described. Sporozoites were found to enter the tips of the villi and pass into the lamina propria, or core, of the villus. Within the lamina propria, sporozoites were engulfed by macrophages and taken to the glandular epithelium. Data are presented which indicate that macrophages serve as a defense against infection as well as a mode of transportation.
The MacArthur Communicative Development Inventory: Normative Data for American Sign Language

To This is a 1 test per thousand learn more about normal language development in deaf children, we have developed the MacArthur Communicative Development Inventory for American Sign Language (ASL-CDI), a parent report that measures early sign production. The ASL-CDI is an inventory of sign glosses organized into semantic categories targeted to assess sign language skills in children ages 8 to 36 months. The ASL-CDI uses a recognition format in which parents check off signs that their child produces. The form has demonstrated excellent reliability and validity. To date, normative data have been collected from 69 deaf children with deaf parents who are learning sign language as a first language. We discuss the development of the ASl-CDI and preliminary cross-sectional and longitudinal findings from this early data collection with particular focus on parallels with spoken language acquisition. We also discuss the acquisition of first signs, negation, wh-questions, and fingerspelling with developmental patterns provided based on age, as well as vocabulary size.
Test Design with Cognition in Mind

One of the primary themes of the National Research Council's 2001 book Knowing What Students Know was the importance of cognition as a component of assessment design and measurement theory (NRC, 2001). One reaction to the book has been an increased use of sophisticated statistical methods to model cognitive information available in test data. However, the application of these cognitive-psychometric methods is fruitless if the tests to which they are applied lack a formal cognitive structure. If assessments are to provide meaningful information about student ability, then cognition must be incorporated into the test development process much earlier than in data analysis. This paper reviews recent advancements in cognitively-based test development and validation, and suggests various ways practitioners can incorporate similar methods into their own work.
Parturition prediction and timing of canine pregnancy

An accurate method of predicting the date of parturition in the bitch is clinically useful to minimize or prevent reproductive losses by timely intervention. Similarly, an accurate method of timing canine ovulation and gestation is critical for development of assisted reproductive technologies, e.g. estrous synchronization and embryo transfer. This review discusses present methods for accurately timing canine gestational age and outlines their use in clinical management of high-risk pregnancies and embryo transfer research.