cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Direct Comparison of Amino Acid and Salt Interactions with Double-Stranded and Single-Stranded DNA from Explicit-Solvent Molecular Dynamics Simulations

Given the ubiquitous nature of protein–DNA interactions, it is important to understand the interaction thermodynamics of individual amino acid side chains for DNA. One way to assess these preferences is to perform molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Here we report MD simulations of 20 amino acid side chain analogs interacting simultaneously with both a 70-base-pair double-stranded DNA and with a 70-nucleotide single-stranded DNA. The relative preferences of the amino acid side chains for dsDNA and ssDNA match well with values deduced from crystallographic analyses of protein–DNA complexes. The estimated apparent free energies of interaction for ssDNA, on the other hand, correlate well with previous simulation values reported for interactions with isolated nucleobases, and with experimental values reported for interactions with guanosine. Comparisons of the interactions with dsDNA and ssDNA indicate that, with the exception of the positively charged side chains, all types of amino acid side chain interact...
NUMERICAL ALGORITHMS FOR INDEFINITE PROBLEMS

Publisher Summary This chapter presents numerical algorithms for indefinite problems. Mixed variable variational formulations for partial differential equations may arise by introducing a new dependent variable, typically a derivative, together with the original variable, to form a coupled system of partial differential equations of lower order than the equation for the primal variable. The chapter presents the analysis of an iterative algorithm based on the calculation of the Lagrange multiplier. In this method, several problems are solved with operator M. It pays off to calculate a good incomplete factorization of M-1fl and then solve them by inner iterations using a preconditioned iterative method. For a biharmonic problem, a special case occurs because BM-1B* is preconditioned by the product of square matrices. An alternative method is considered in the chapter where the task of constructing a preconditioner is made easier and where the number of outer iterations is made smaller.
Workshop: Statistical Methods for Combining Environmental Information

Primary objectives of the NISS-USEPA cooperative research agreement were to identify important environmental problems to which statistical science could contribute, to perform interdisciplinary research on these problems and stimulate related research and problem identification within the broader statistical community, to assess important examples and areas of environmetric research, and to identify new research problems and directions. To provide a forum for identifying and examining new research and problem areas, a NISS-USEPA workshop series was established within the cooperative research program.
An additional class of m 6 A readers

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) mRNA modification influences mRNA fate by stimulating recruitment of m6A reader proteins. A previously unappreciated class of m6A reader proteins is now shown to use a common RNA-binding domain and flanking regions to selectively bind m6A-containing mRNAs, increasing their translation and stability.
After diffusion: Challenges to enforcing nonproliferation and disarmament norms

ABSTRACTThis article discusses six challenges to enforcing norms regarding nuclear weapons. Three challenges reflect generic problems in international politics. These are differences in power, the collective action problem, and trade-offs with other interests. Three additional dilemmas reflect specific characteristics of the nuclear realm. First, membership in international treaties connected to the norms is not universal, raising questions about the appropriateness of enforcement against states that have not signed the treaties. Second, different implications of the norms can come into conflict with each other. In particular, there can be tensions between the requirements of nonproliferation and disarmament norms. Finally, some common options for norm enforcement become quite problematic when dealing with nuclear weapons. For example, if states respond to defections by starting their own nuclear weapons programs, this tit-for-tat response would defeat the purposes of the nonproliferation regime. Despite ...
Opening windows for bone remodeling through a SLIT

Bone formation and resorption are tightly coupled, and dysfunction of either process leads to bone diseases, such as osteoporosis. Bone-forming agents have been explored clinically to increase bone density; however, long-term efficacy of these strategies is limited due to the accompanying increase in resorption in response to increased bone formation. Axonal guidance molecules have recently been shown to regulate formation-resorption coupling and thus have the potential for osteoporosis therapy. In this issue of the JCI, Kim et al. demonstrate that osteoclast-secreted SLIT3 influences bone formation and resorption by promoting osteoblast migration and suppressing osteoclast differentiation. Activation of SLIT3/ROBO signaling in ovariectomized mice increased bone mass, suggesting that SLIT3 should be further explored as a therapeutic target.
An Update on the Adjunctive Neurovascular Support of Wide-Neck Aneurysm Embolization and Reconstruction Trial: 1-Year Safety and Angiographic Results

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The safety and efficacy of the PulseRider for the treatment of wide-neck, bifurcation aneurysms at the basilar and carotid terminus locations were studied in a prospective trial, the Adjunctive Neurovascular Support of Wide-Neck Aneurysm Embolization and Reconstruction (ANSWER) trial, reporting on initial 6-month angiographic and clinical results. This report provides insight into the longer term durability and safety with 12-month data. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Aneurysms treated with the PulseRider among enrolled sites were prospectively studied. Updated 12-month data on clinical and imaging end points are included. RESULTS: Thirty-four patients were enrolled (29 women, 5 men) with a mean age of 60.9 years. The mean aneurysm height ranged from 2.4 to 15.9 mm with a mean neck size of 5.2 mm (range, 2.3–11.6 mm). At 1 year, there were no device migrations or symptomatic in-stent stenoses. Raymond-Roy I occlusion was achieved in 53% of cases at the time of treatment and progressed to 61% and 67% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. Adequate occlusion (Raymond-Roy I/II) progressed from 88% at 6 months to 90% at 12 months. No recanalizations were observed. There was 1 delayed ischemic event. Good outcome (mRS 0–2) was achieved in 90% of patients. CONCLUSIONS: The updated 1-year results from the ANSWER trial demonstrate aneurysm stability and an acceptable safety profile for aneurysms treated at the basilar apex and carotid terminus. Prospective data from a larger set of aneurysms treated at other locations are required to assess how treatment with PulseRider compares with alternatives for treating wide-neck bifurcation aneurysms.
Reflective Equilibrium and Casuistry

Following upon prior examinations of casuistry’s relationship to principles, the author here compares and contrasts casuistry to narrow and wide reflective equilibrium to argue that casuistry and reflective equilibrium are similar but fundamentally different processes for reaching moral judgments.
Taking Responsibility: Regulations and Protections in Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing

Starting in November 2007, the New York State Department of Health mailed “cease and desist” letters to thirty-one companies, ordering them to stop providing genetic tests directly to consumers without the involvement of a licensed physician. In June 2008, the California Department of Public Health sent similar letters to thirteen genetic testing companies, also involved in direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing services. 2 These cease-and-desist letters echo public concern regarding laboratory testing standards, the need for physician involvement, and the use of misleading advertising. California has since granted licenses to a number of these companies, but discussions regarding the concerns of DTC testing continue. Among these concerns are the lack of standards used to demonstrate the validity of different genetic tests, uncertainty as to whether healthcare professionals must always be involved in the ordering of such tests to protect patients, and lack of consumer understanding regarding the use of genetic testing.
Positive selection at sites of chemosensory genes is associated with the recent divergence and local ecological adaptation in cactophilic Drosophila

Adaptation to new hosts in phytophagous insects often involves mechanisms of host recognition by genes of sensory pathways. Most often the molecular evolution of sensory genes has been explained in the context of the birth-and-death model. The role of positive selection is less understood, especially associated with host adaptation and specialization. Here we aim to contribute evidence for this latter hypothesis by considering the case of Drosophila mojavensis, a species with an evolutionary history shaped by multiple host shifts in a relatively short time scale, and its generalist sister species, D. arizonae. We used a phylogenetic and population genetic analysis framework to test for positive selection in a subset of four chemoreceptor genes, one gustatory receptor (Gr) and three odorant receptors (Or), for which their expression has been previously associated with host shifts. We found strong evidence of positive selection at several amino acid sites in all genes investigated, most of which exhibited changes predicted to cause functional effects in these transmembrane proteins. A significant portion of the sites identified as evolving positively were largely found in the cytoplasmic region, although a few were also present in the extracellular domains. The pattern of substitution observed suggests that some of these changes likely had an effect on signal transduction as well as odorant recognition and protein-protein interactions. These findings support the role of positive selection in shaping the pattern of variation at chemosensory receptors, both during the specialization onto one or a few related hosts, but as well as during the evolution and adaptation of generalist species into utilizing several hosts.
Primary mediastinal melanotic schwannian tumors: A clinicopathological and immunohistochemical study of 5 cases.

Abstract Mediastinal neurogenic tumors are unusual and more so is the presence of melanotic neurogenic tumors. We present five cases of mediastinal melanotic neurogenic tumors. The patients are five men between the ages of 34 and 43 years (average: 38.5 years). All patients presented with non-specific symptoms that included back pain and cough. Diagnostic imaging revealed the presence of a posterior mediastinal mass without connection to the spinal canal, and surgical resection was accomplished in all of the patients. Histologically, the five tumors showed a spindle epithelioid cellular proliferation, nuclear atypia, mitotic activity, and melanin deposition. Histochemical stain for Fontana Masson clearly demonstrated the presence of melanin pigment in all the cases, while S-100 protein was only focally positive in tumor cells. Other immunohistochemical stains including SOX-10, MITF, HMB-45, and Melan A were negative. Clinical follow-up showed that two patients died 22 and 30 months after initial diagnosis; one remains alive, 6 months after initial diagnosis; two patients were lost to follow up. Melanotic neurogenic tumors represent a diagnostic challenge for pigmented thoracic tumors and careful analysis of the morphology and immunohistochemistry is required to lead to proper diagnosis.
The Political Configuration of Historical Narrative: The Case of Kazakhstan

As time has progressed, Russia has shed the historical legacy of the Soviet era. The same process is going on in Central Asia. The obliteration of the Soviet historical legacy reflects the dying ou...
Simulation or Real-time?

After many years of practicing, reading and writing about signal processing education, we have observed some common themes. This paper discusses the trade-off of simulation versus the use of real-time processing on real-world signals as a motivator for signal processing students. A real-time DSP demonstration accompanies the presentation of this paper.
The Effect of Sex on Orthopaedic Surgeon Income.

BACKGROUND Several studies have identified discrepancies in salary between male and female surgeons. Our aim was to investigate the impact of sex on an orthopaedic surgeon's yearly earnings by evaluating stratified income and specialty data from a large sample survey of orthopaedic surgeons. METHODS Self-reported data were obtained from the 2014 and 2008 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) biennial censuses. Responses were received from 6,805 (24.26%) of those who were surveyed. The census form is a 19-question survey that includes information regarding work status (full time versus part time), sex, years in practice, practice type (private versus academic), specialty, hours worked, case volume, and income. The main outcome evaluated was self-reported income, and a multivariate regression model was used to control for confounding variables. RESULTS Male surgeons reported higher incomes than female colleagues working equivalent hours ($802,474 versus $560,618; p = 0.016); however, male surgeons reported a greater case volume for the same number of hours. Among surgeons who performed ≥26 procedures per month, male and female surgeons reported comparable incomes ($949,508 versus $872,903; p = 0.649). Incomes of those in practice for >20 years also were comparable. Regression analysis controlling for subspecialty choice, hours worked, work status, case volume, years in practice, and practice setting revealed that income was $62,032.51 less for women than men (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Income disparity between male and female orthopaedic surgeons remains significant, and the gap increased from 2008 to 2014. Although subspecialty choice, practice setting, years in practice, and amount and distribution of procedures performed can partially explain salary differences, our regression analysis suggests persistence of an income gap based on sex in orthopaedic surgery.
1520. Streptococcus anginosus Group Organisms Are an Increasing Cause of Complicated Sinusitis and Otitis Media in Children

Background The Streptococcus anginosus group (SAG), including S. anginosus, S. intermedius and S. constellatus, are common flora of the oral cavity, respiratory tree and gastrointestinal tract. However, these organisms have the potential to cause serious invasive infections and are notably pyogenic. We observed an apparent increase in the frequency of intraorbital and intracranial infections resulting from SAG at Texas Children’s Hospital (TCH). We undertook a retrospective review to describe the frequency and clinical features of these infections.
Sexy, Thin, and White: The Intersection of Sexualization, Body Type, and Race on Stereotypes about Women

Media images often present one idealized type of woman: she is thin, sexualized, and White. Although research has shown that there are stereotypes associated with sexualized women, known research has not addressed whether these stereotypes vary based on other characteristics such as body type and race. The current study aimed to examine the stereotypes associated with women who varied in sexualization, as well as body size and race, and whether participants’ characteristics moderated these stereotypes. U.S. college-aged students (n = 500: 101 men, 393 women, 6 unknown) completed measures of gender stereotypes and rated the attributes of women who varied in sexualization (sexualized vs. non-sexualized clothing), body size (thin vs. plus-sized), and race (Black vs. White). Results suggest that body size is more salient than sexualization and stereotypes about sexualized women are differentially applied to White and Black women. Additionally, participants’ gender and race moderated stereotype ratings. Lastly, viewing sexualized images was related to higher endorsement of sexualized gender stereotypes, but only in women. Taken together our results highlight that research on sexualization should address important intersectional components, such as race and body size. We also discuss broader implications of our results on lessening stereotyping and weight stigma.
Drug Sites Prediction and Computational Drug Screening for SARS-CoV-2 Proteins

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, first started in the Wuhan region of Hubei, China, and has quickly spread to 191 countries and territories, infecting more than 86.4 million people, and resulting in 1.87 global deaths as of January 6th. With SARS-CoV-2?s genomic sequence and protein structures deciphered and updated rapidly, clinical treatments and vaccine developments have proceeded simultaneously as researchers attempt to learn more about the infecting mechanisms of this virus. Among these attempts, computational drug screening for SARS-CoV-2 has potential for: (1) narrowing down billions of chemical compounds into a list of possible high-affinity ligands for SARS-CoV-2 protein targets, (2) providing information about the activities of SARS-CoV-2 proteins, (3) offering possible treatments, and (4) assisting in scientific knowledge to fight against future coronavirus infections. In this work, computational ligand screening for SARS-CoV-2 is a combination of site prediction using machine learning technology Partial Order Optimum Likelihood (POOL) and molecular docking. Among the techniques deployed, the machine learning technology POOL was developed by us and assists in the drug screening process for SARS-CoV-2 by predicting targeted protein sites, including those that are not the obvious catalytic sites, such as exosites, allosteric sites, and other interaction sites. Results will be presented for the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, non-structural protein 1 (Nsp1), non-structural protein 9 (Nsp9), and non-structural protein 15 (Nsp15). Compounds are taken from a variety of libraries, including the ZINC and Enamine databases. Protein structures are downloaded from the Protein Data Bank (www.rcsb.org). Molecular dynamic structure simulations are used to generate structures for ensemble docking.
Green Tea and Skin Cancer: Immunological Modulation and DNA Repair

Publisher Summary The characteristic aroma and health benefits of green tea are associated with the presence of catechin/epicatechin derivatives, which are commonly called “polyphenols.” The major polyphenolic constituents present in green tea are (-)-epicatechin, (-)-epigallocatechin, (-)-epicatechin-3-gallate, and (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). These polyphenols are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in nature and have been shown to possess anticarcinogenic activity in several in vitro and in vivo systems. EGCG is the major and most effective chemopreventive agent and has been extensively studied in several disease models including its use in skin photoprotective activity. In addition to a small amount of catechins, black tea contains thearubigins and theaflavins, which are the polymerized forms of catechin monomers and are the major components formed during enzymatic oxidation and fermentation processes. The experimental evidence from several in vitro and in vivo studies indicates that the green tea polyphenols (GTPs) are better chemopreventive in nature than those present in black tea. The chapter describe the photoprotective potential, in particular antiphotocarcinogenic potential, of green tea polyphenols and their mechanisms of action, specifically the recent developments on the photoimmunology and DNA repair mechanisms in prevention of photocarcinogenesis by GTPs or EGCG. It has been shown that green tea can protect against both UVA and UVB radiation-induced skin cancer in mice. Also, the regular use of chemopreventive agents, such as green tea polyphenols, might be useful for the prevention of UV-induced immunosuppression in humans.
Radicalism at the Crossroads: African American Women Activists in the Cold War

Acknowledgments Abbreviations Introduction 1 Forging a Community of Radical Intellectuals and Activists 2 In Defense of Black Womanhood 3 Reframing Civil Rights Activism during the Cold War 4 Race and Gender at Work 5 From Freedom to Freedomways ConclusionCentering Black Women on the Left Notes Bibliography Index About the Author
New IR semiconductors in the Si-Ge-Sn system

We will discuss CVD growth, characterization and properties of novel Ge/sub 1-z/Sn/sub z//Ge/sub 1-x-y/Si/sub x/Sn/sub y/ heterostructures on Si(100). The Ge/sub 1-x-y/Si/sub x/Sn/sub y/ system provides independent strain and bandgap engineering to achieve structures that may lead to novel photonic group-IV devices.
The 2010 CMU GALE Speech-to-Text System

This paper describes the latest Speech-to-Text system developed for the Global Autonomous Language Exploitation (“GALE”) domain by Carnegie Mellon University (CMU). This systems uses discriminative training, bottle-neck features and other techniques that were not used in previous versions of our system, and is trained on 1150 hours of data from a variety of Arabic speech sources. In this paper, we show how different lexica, pre-processing, and system combination techniques can be used to improve the final output, and provide analysis of the improvements achieved by the individual techniques. Index Terms: speech recognition, discriminative training, bottle-neck features
Variables influencing alternation prediction by preschool children. I. Previous recurrent, dependent, and repetitive sequences.

Abstract In 3 experiments, 4- to 5-year-old children predicted the next event in a binary event sequence. Experiment I indicated that previous prediction of a nonalternating recurrent sequence (e.g., 100100 …) produced severe interference in subsequent prediction of a single alternation sequence (1010 …). Exp. II indicated that the children respond to a first-order probabilistic event-event contingency incorporated into a 50:50 sequence and that the type of contingency determines the amount of interference in subsequent prediction of a single alternation sequence. Experiment III indicated that brief prediction of a repetition sequence (111 …) does not produce the prolonged interference effect found in the first 2 experiments. The results are discussed in terms of their relevance to a general theory of the predictive behavior of young children in the binary prediction situation.
The Shaker-like potassium channels of the mouse rod bipolar cell and their contributions to the membrane current

RT PCR on mRNA from enzymatically dissociated, isolated bipolar cells showed that these neurons express the Shaker-like K+ channels Kv1.1, Kv1.2, and Kv1.3. Immunohistochemical localization showed each channel to have a unique subcellular distribution: Kv1.1 immunoreactivity was detected in the dendrites and axons terminal, whereas Kv1.2 and Kv1.3 subunits were localized to the axon and the postsynaptic membrane of the rod ribbon synapse, respectively. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings indicated that the activation voltage of the delayed rectifier current of the isolated bipolar cell and the inhibitory constants for current blockade by TEA, 4-AP, and Ba2+ were similar to these same properties measured for Kv1.1 expressed in oocytes. However, the TEA and 4-AP inhibitory constants for the bipolar cell current differed from the inhibitory constants for Kv1.2 or Kv1.3. These results suggest that the current of the isolated rod bipolar cell is most similar to Kv1.1 but that all three channels may function in the intact retina to allow complex modulation of retinal synaptic signals.
Nano-mechanical measurements of protein-DNA interactions with a silicon nitride pulley

Proteins adhere to DNA at locations and with strengths that depend on the protein conformation, the underlying DNA sequence and the ionic content of the solution. A facile technique to probe the positions and strengths of protein-DNA binding would aid in understanding these important interactions. Here, we describe a 'DNA pulley' for position-resolved nano-mechanical measurements of protein-DNA interactions. A molecule of λ DNA is tethered by one end to a glass surface, and by the other end to a magnetic bead. The DNA is stretched horizontally by a magnet, and a nanoscale knife made of silicon nitride is manipulated to contact, bend and scan along the DNA. The mechanical profile of the DNA at the contact with the knife is probed via nanometer-precision optical tracking of the magnetic bead. This system enables detection of protein bumps on the DNA and localization of their binding sites. We study theoretically the technical requirements to detect mechanical heterogeneities in the DNA itself.
Eugenics and Historical Memory in America

How is the history of eugenics in America remembered, and forgotten? In this article, I explore the recent gubernatorial apologies for forced sterilizations, which were carried out under the authority of state eugenics laws from 1907 until the 1970s. I situate the apologies in the global context of movements for reparations and restitution, examine the discursive architecture of apologies that seek to address the contravention of medical ethics and trust, and suggest that the apologies have the potential to elide important aspects of the history of eugenics in America.
Mechanics of edematous lungs.

Using the parenchymal marker technique, we measured pressure (P)-volume (P-V) curves of regions with volumes of ∼1 cm3 in the dependent caudal lobes of oleic acid-injured dog lungs, during a very s...
Contribution of meniscal extrusion and cartilage loss to joint space narrowing in osteoarthritis.

OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to determine the contribution of meniscal extrusion and cartilage loss to joint space narrowing on conventional radiographs by correlation with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Sixty-two consecutive patients, 32 patients with osteoarthritis and 30 without osteoarthritis, over the age of 60 years that were referred for both radiographic and MRI of the knee were included in the study. In each case, relative joint space narrowing on conventional AP radiographs was assessed utilizing the Kellgren-Lawrence scoring system. Subsequently, the degree of meniscal extrusion and the integrity of articular cartilage were evaluated from MR in the same patients. RESULTS: Each of 30 patients with normal joint space (Kellgren Grade 0) were noted to have normal articular cartilage, grade 1 meniscal extrusion was identified in only three of these patients. In comparison, meniscal extrusion was identified in all 32 patients with joint space narrowing (Kellgren Grades 1–4). Definite thinning or loss of articular cartilage was identified in only 15 of the 32 cases. In 17 patients with radiographic joint space narrowing (Kellgren Grades 1–3) and meniscal extrusion, no loss of articular cartilage was observed. A statistically significant correlation (P<0.001) was observed between Kellgren Grade and degree of meniscal extrusion and cartilage thinning on MRI. CONCLUSION: Conventional radiographs are an unreliable method of evaluating for articular cartilage loss in patients with early osteoarthritis. Initial joint space narrowing on conventional radiographs is secondary to meniscal extrusion rather than thinning of articular cartilage in most cases.
17O NMR spectra of tertiary alcohols, ethers, sulfoxides and sulfones in the cyclohexyl and 5‐substituted 1,3‐dioxanyl series and related compounds

17O NMR spectra of fifteen cyclohexane-derived tertiary alcohols and related ethers and acetals, six 1,3-dioxane-derived orthoesters, four cyclohexane- and 1,3-dioxane-derived sulfones and the four corresponding sulfoxides, three acyclic sulfones, six alcohols derived from norbornane and 1,3-dithiane and two esters have been recorded. Attention is drawn to δ-compression effects and saturation effects in several of these compounds.
Understanding Population Segregation from Landsat ETM+ Imagery: A Geographically Weighted Regression Approach

This study attempts to understand population segregation issues in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin utilizing remote sensing and regression technologies. Population segregation was measured with a local...
Microfluidically Switched Frequency-Reconfigurable Slot Antennas

This letter proposes a concept for frequency-reconfigurable slot antennas enabled by pressure-driven capacitive microfluidic switches. The switches are operated by pneumatically displacing a plug of eutectic gallium indium alloy (EGaIn) within an air-filled microchannel that traverses the slot orthogonally. Frequency reconfigurability is achieved by altering the displacement of conductive fluid within the channel, which reactively loads the slot. A transmission-line model is developed to capture the physical behavior of the fluid channel, and measurements are provided that show good agreement with the behavior of the model.
Rat C-type Virus (BV-1): Effect of Amniotic Fluid, Fetal Serum, and Hormones in Cell Culture

SummaryBovine amniotic fluid or fetal calf serum markedly reduced the cell alterations which were produced in Wistar/Furth rat embryo cell cultures by a rat C-type virus (BV-1) isolated from chemically-induced mammary tumors. At the same time, higher titers of infectious BV-1 were produced as early as 2 days post-infection in cultures maintained on medium supplemented with bovine amniotic fluid or fetal calf serum as compared to cultures on medium supplemented with newborn calf serum. A similar stimulatory effect on the growth of BV-1 in these cultures was exerted by estrogen (95% natural) which was dose dependent, 1.0-2.5 μg/ml being the most effective dose under the conditions employed. Progesterone had no stimulatory effect on the replication of BV-1 and appeared to be suppressive at higher dose levels.The technical assistance of Hannelore Asmussen and Margaret F. Peek is gratefully acknowledged.
Nature of singularity for a point load at the edge of a plate in bending

Abstract Starting with the Lur'e solution for the bending of a circular plate with a free edge, it is shown that the singularity of a point load, applied at the edge of a plate, depends on the curvature of the boundary.
Abdominal obesity defined as a larger than expected waist girth is associated with racial/ethnic differences in risk of hypertension.

Objective: Waist circumference (WC) cut-points of ≥102 cm and ≥88 cm for men and women, respectively, representing abdominal obesity have been recommended for determining obesity related co-morbidities. However, these cut-points carry the component of generalised obesity estimated by body mass index (BMI). The aim of this investigation was to determine whether abdominal obesity free of the influence of overall heaviness is associated with increased risk of hypertension in a representative sample of white and black Americans. Methods: Data (n = 11114) from the Third US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were used in this investigation. Standardised residual values from the linear regression of WC on BMI were used to define abdominal obesity status. The risk of hypertension associated with abdominal obesity was estimated from the logistic regression model, adjusting for age, smoking and alcohol. We also estimated the public health consequences of abdominal obesity from the population attributable fraction of hypertension. Results: Relative to white, black race/ethnicity was associated with ∼1.8 and ∼2.7 greater risk of hypertension in men and women, respectively, adjusting for abdominal obesity, age, smoking and alcohol consumption. Having larger than expected waist girths were associated with 1.58 and 1.39 increased risk of hypertension in black men and black women, respectively, adjusting for confounders. Population attributable risks of hypertension due to abdominal obesity were approximately 24.9% and 15.9%, in black men and black women, respectively. Conclusions: In Americans, hypertension is a public health problem that is closely linked to abdominal adiposity. An important research challenge therefore is to determine the best way to regulate body weight under conditions of food abundance. There is a need to clarify how lifestyle habits promote large waist sizes leading to abdominal adiposity and associated cardiovascular disease in the US, particularly among black Americans.
Enantiospecific Adsorption of ( R )-3-Methylcyclohexanone on Naturally Chiral Surfaces Vicinal to Cu(110)

(R)-3-methylcyclohexanone (R-3MCHO) has been shown to adsorb enantiospecifically on naturally chiral Cu surfaces vicinal to the Cu(110) plane. Adsorption of R-3MCHO on seven Cu single crystal surfaces vicinal to (110) was studied using temperature programmed desorption. These surfaces include Cu(110), Cu(771), Cu(430), Cu(13,9,1)R&S and Cu(651)R&S. The Cu(13,9,1)R&S and Cu(651)R&S surfaces are naturally chiral surfaces with terrace-step-kink structures. Enantioselective adsorption of R-3MCHO takes place on the chiral kink sites of these surfaces. Three R-3MCHO desorption features were resolved in the TPD spectra on Cu(13,9,1)R&S and Cu(651)R&S surfaces. Based upon comparisons between these and other Cu single crystal surfaces, they were assigned to desorption of R-3MCHO from flat terrace, close-packed step and kink sites. The desorption of R-3MCHO from the row and trough structure of the Cu(110) surface resembled desorption from a step structure rather than from a flat Cu(111) terrace. R-3MCHO desorbs enantiospecifically from the Cu(13,9,1)R&S and Cu(651)R&S surfaces. The peaks associated with R-3MCHO desorbing from the R- and S-chiral kink sites on Cu(13,9,1)R&S differed in temperature by 2.4 ± 0.8 K. This corresponds to an enantiospecific difference in the desorption energies of 0.7 ± 0.2 kJ/mol, with a preference for R-3MCHO adsorption at the R-kinks. In contrast, R-3MCHO has a desorption energy from the S-kinks on the Cu(651)S surface that is 0.7 ± 0.2 kJ/mol higher than from the R-kinks on the Cu(651)R surface.
Jelly release in the eggs of the white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus: An enzymatically mediated event

The thin electron-dense jelly layer that coats A. transmontanus eggs is released and hydrates when the eggs contact freshwater. This jelly release is dependent on a trypsin-like protease and divalent cations since specific trypsin inhibitors and Ca++-Mg++-free freshwater block release. Chymotrypsin inhibitors have no effect on jelly release. The jelly consists of protein and carbohydrate and is the only layer of the egg envelope that contains sialic acid. The major component of jelly is a glycoprotein with a molecular weight of 110,000 daltons.
Role for the Abi/Wave Protein Complex in T Cell Receptor-Mediated Proliferation and Cytoskeletal Remodeling

Summary Background The molecular reorganization of signaling molecules after T cell receptor (TCR) activation is accompanied by polymerization of actin at the site of contact between a T cell and an antigen-presenting cell (APC), as well as extension of actin-rich lamellipodia around the APC. Actin polymerization is critical for the fidelity and efficiency of the T cell response to antigen. The ability of T cells to polymerize actin is critical for several steps in T cell activation including TCR clustering, mature immunological synapse formation, calcium flux, IL-2 production, and proliferation. Activation of the Rac GTPase has been linked to regulation of actin polymerization after TCR stimulation. However, the molecules required for TCR-mediated actin polymerization downstream of activated Rac have remained elusive. Here we identify a novel role for the Abi/Wave protein complex, which signals downstream of activated Rac, in the regulation of actin polymerization and T cell activation in response to TCR stimulation. Results Here we show that Abi and Wave rapidly translocate from the T cell cytoplasm to the T cell:B cell contact site in the presence of antigen. Abi and Wave colocalize with actin at the T cell:B cell conjugation site. Moreover, Wave and Abi are necessary for actin polymerization after T cell activation, and loss of Abi proteins in mice impairs TCR-induced cell proliferation and IL-2 production in primary T cells. Significantly, the impairment in actin polymerization in cells lacking Abi proteins is due to the inability of Wave proteins to localize to the T cell:B cell contact site in the presence of antigen, rather than the destabilization of the components of the Wave protein complex. Conclusions The Abi/Wave complex is a novel regulator of TCR-mediated actin dynamics, IL-2 production, and proliferation.
Evaluating professionalism in emergency medicine: clinical ethical competence.

Abstract. While the teaching and assessing of technical skills have been an integral part of residency training, the demonstration of ethical and humanistic skills has been more or less left to chance. Only in the last two decades has the formal teaching of bioethics become an accepted component of Western medical education. In spite of the many ethics lectures, discussions, conferences, and courses, the clinical impact of this educational paradigm shift remains unclear. Most ethics assessments to date are conducted retrospectively by risk managers and attorneys. The few prospective evaluations of trainees have focused on single-researcher observations or student attitude surveys that are fraught with observer and recall biases, respectively. More reliable and valid methods of identifying clinical ethical competence are needed. This paper reviews a variety of evaluative tools and suggests a three-level approach to monitoring the ethical knowledge, capacity, and real-time performance of emergency medicine residents.
Estimating WAIS-R FSIQ from the national adult reading test-revised in normal subjects

Abstract Examined the accuracy of the North American revision of the National Adult Reading Test (NART-R; Blair & Spreen, 1989) in predicting current WAIS-R FSIQ scores in a sample of 302 healthy job applicants. Also wished to establish adult norms for the NART-R according to age, education, and level of intelligence. Finally, also compared the accuracy of the NART-R in predicting WAIS-R FSIQ scores with that of the Reading Subtest of the Wide Range Achievement Test-Revised. Using the prediction equations developed by Blair and Spreen, estimated and obtained mean WAIS-R FSIQs were found to be nearly identical for the group as a whole, with r = .46 (p < 001). However, WAIS-R FSIQ was overestimated by NART-R performance among lower IQ groups, and underestimated among higher IQ groups. The WRAT-R Reading Score correlation with WAIS-R FSIQ was r = .45 (p < .001); the Reading Score also underestimated among higher IQ groups. Using the NART-R, 95% of the subjects had less than 15-point estimated-obtained IQ dif...
Precise δ13C analysis of dissolved inorganic carbon in natural waters using automated headspace sampling and continuous-flow mass spectrometry.

A new method is presented for automated measurement of the δ13C of the dissolved inorganic carbon in natural waters, using a Finnigan GasBench-II headspace sampler online with a Finnigan DELTAplusXL gas-source isotope-ratio mass spectrometer. This technique requires a small volume (30–500 mL), analyses are rapid (~80 samples/d), and little or no manual preparation is necessary. The flexibility offered by using sample loops of various sizes permits analyses of aliquots containing 2 to 50 µg C. Based on multiple replicate measurements over a 7-week period, the overall precision of this technique is conservatively estimated to be better than ± 0.15‰ (1 sample standard deviation), which is similar to the precision of methods in current use. This precision can be improved upon (averaging ± 0.04‰, but generally better than ± 0.07‰) by chilling the sample during equilibration at a controlled temperature of 12.0 ± 0.5°C. Standardization is provided by tank CO2 (referenced to an array of international standards) and analyses are monitored against a stock solution of reagent NaHCO3, which remains isotopically stable in powder form. NaHCO3 can be analyzed with traditional acid-digestion methods using dual-inlet mass spectrometry, as well as in dissolved form on the GasBench-II. Standard NaHCO3 stock solutions made to approximate dissolved inorganic carbon concentrations in water samples are isotopically stable over a period of a several weeks.
Modeling and Simulation of Multiphysics Systems

A survey on the evolution of modeling and simulation (M&S) technologies related to multiphysics systems is presented. The concept of a context space for M&S is defined in terms of coexisting fields, domains of interaction, length scales, and computational technologies. Past and present efforts comprising this context space are described as well as their relationship to product development [i.e., efforts of ASME’s Computer and Information in Engineering (CIE) division]. A retrospective of general procedures for developing multifield and multidomain formulations is elucidated for the case fluid-structure interaction pertaining to linear and nonlinear aeroelasticity and aerothermoelasticity as they mostly relate to aerospace applications. Multiscale methodologies and computational technologies associated with M&S generation follow. The evolution of computational and information technologies are also described as they relate to multiphysics M&S. Future potential trends associated with all of these areas conclude this work.
Markovian analysis of phasic measures of REM sleep in normal, depressed, and schizophrenic subjects.

Abstract Rapid eye movement (REM) phasic activity refers to brief events that occur in periods of REM sleep, such as individual eye movements (EMs). REM density (RD) is the bestknown measure of such activity, although reports of RD differences among normal, depressed, and schizophrenic subjects have been equivocal. RD is a measure with a large variability, and its physiological substrate is not known. We sought a more consistent measure which might also suggest the underlying physiology. Using the time intervals between individual EMs, we calculated empirical probability distributions which showed that EMs fell into two subgroups or states: “burst” and “isolated”. Then, a novel Markov chain model of sequential transition between the states was calculated for nine normal, eight schizophrenic, and seven depressed male veterans. A significantly higher probability of remaining in the burst state was observed in both patient groups. The actual number of EMs in the isolated state was nearly identical in the three groups. Possible pontine neurochemical explanations involving cholinergic and serotonergic mechanisms are discussed.
Reciprocity and the Effectiveness of Optimal Agency Contracts

ABSTRACT: Optimal agency contracts pay the lowest wage necessary to induce profit‐maximizing effort. Employees could view such contracts as violating reciprocity because, relative to more reciprocal contracts, they offer a lower wage in exchange for higher effort. Consequently, the profit‐maximizing effectiveness of optimal contracts could be impaired if employees reject them or reduce their effort. We use experimental labor markets to examine (1) how employees respond to an optimal versus a suboptimal reciprocity‐based contract when each contract is the only contract available, (2) how employees respond to these contracts when firms choose which one to offer, (3) whether the firms' contract offers depend on employees' reactions to those offers, and (4) how employees and firms react to a hybrid contract that incorporates features of both contracts. We find that the optimal contract is less effective than agency analysis predicts, the reciprocity‐based contract can be equally effective, and the hybrid cont...
Mixed drinks and mixed messages: adolescent girls' perspectives on alcohol and sexuality

Experimentation with alcohol and sexuality is a normative aspect of adolescent development. Yet both present distinct risks to adolescent females and are especially problematic when they intersect. Although youth are often cautioned about the dangers associated with having sex and using alcohol, popular entertainment media frequently depict the combination of alcohol and sexuality as carefree fun. It is unclear how adolescent females interpret these contradictory messages in their everyday lives. Focus group interviews were used to explore young women's understandings of the relation between alcohol and sexuality. Young women, ages 14-17 years (N = 97, 61% White), and their mothers were recruited through advertisements in local newspapers to participate in separate, simultaneous focus group interviews. Only data from the 15 daughters' groups are presented here. Qualitative analysis revealed that participants recognized the risks associated with combining alcohol and sex, yet they also perceived sexual advantages to drinking alcohol. Advantages included facilitating social and sexual interactions and excusing unsanctioned sexual behavior. Alcohol was also seen as increasing the likelihood of sexual regret and coercion through impaired judgment and self-advocacy abilities. Educational and prevention efforts need to consider adolescent developmental and social needs, as well as the influences of the larger cultural context in which youth function. Language: en
Burkitt's lymphoma presenting as Tolosa-Hunt syndrome

An 11-year-old girl presented with acute, severe symptoms resembling Tolosa-Hunt syndrome. Response to corticosteroids was rapid and satisfactory, but of short duration. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a supra- and parasellar mass and the abdominal ultrasound demonstrated a round tumor. Histopathologic study of the abdominal mass revealed Burkitt's lymphoma.
Heat capacity of thin films of4He in Vycor near the critical coverage

Abstract We report on a study of the heat capacity of thin films of4He adsorbed in porous Vycor glass for temperatures between 20 and 700 mK. As in previous work, we find a critical coverage, nc∼26.6μmoles/m2, above which we find superfluidity. For coverages greater than nc, the heat capacity varies linearly with temperature above the superfluid transition temperature Tc. We also observe a linear dependence at high temperatures for coverages below nc. At lower temperatures, however, the heat capacity for these coverages decreases with a much stronger temperature dependence. We discuss these data in the context of recent theoretical work on the onset of superfluidity in disordered systems.
Electroluminescence produced by high electric fields at the surface of copper cathodes

Spots of light have been observed on the surface of OFHC copper cathodes following the application of high electric fields. The spectrum of the radiation shows a sharp peak at about 640 nm and its intensity obeys the Alfrey-Taylor relationship for electroluminescence. Within the light-emitting regions, discharges have been seen which it is believed are caused by the breakdown of dielectric inclusions trapped at defects in the crystal structure. Observations are consistent with the inclusions having semiconducting properties and emitting light by recombination of conduction electrons with holes produced by impact ionization within their crystal lattice structure.