cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
NR0B1A: an alternatively spliced form of NR0B1.

Abstract The orphan nuclear receptor DAX1 (dosage-sensitive sex reversal-AHC critical region on the X chromosome gene 1), encoded by the NR0B1 gene, plays important roles in the development of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal/gonadal (HPAG) axis as well as in sex determination. Mutations in NR0B1 cause the X-linked cytomegalic form of adrenal hypoplasia congenita (AHC), and associated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH). Over-expression of NR0B1 results in sex reversal in mice and duplication of the 160 kb DSS locus in human patients results in a sex-reversed phenotype (XY females). The purpose of these investigations was to determine if alternatively spliced forms of NR0B1 existed. Analysis of expressed sequence tag data predicted a truncated isoform of DAX1. We confirmed the presence of an alternatively spliced form of NR0B1 , which we will refer to as NR0B1A , by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and will refer to the deduced protein isoform as DAX1A. Sequencing of the NR0B1A cDNA revealed slight differences from the recently described splice form, DAX1α. NR0B1A is encoded by NR0B1 exon 1 and exon 2A located within the 3385 nt intron between NR0B1 exons 1 and 2. Exon 2A includes 35 nt of coding sequence. NR0B1A encodes a deduced protein sequence, DAX1A, of 400 amino acids compared with 470 amino acids for DAX1. RT-PCR detected expression of NR0B1A in adrenal gland, testis, ovary, and pancreas. The identification of NR0B1A and the deduced DAX1A requires reinterpretation of many previous experiments involving expression and knockout of NR0B1 and DAX1.
Multiple POT1-TPP1 Proteins Coat and Compact Long Telomeric Single-stranded DNA

Abstract Telomeres are nucleoprotein complexes that cap and protect the ends of linear chromosomes. In humans, telomeres end in 50–300 nt of G-rich single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) overhangs. Protection of telomeres 1 (POT1) binds with nanomolar affinity to the ssDNA overhangs and forms a dimer with another telomere-end binding protein called TPP1. Whereas most previous studies utilized telomeric oligonucleotides comprising single POT1–TPP1 binding sites, here, we examined 72- to 144-nt tracts of telomeric DNA containing 6–12 POT1–TPP1 binding sites. Using electrophoretic mobility gel shift assays, size-exclusion chromatography, and electron microscopy, we analyzed telomeric nucleoprotein complexes containing POT1 alone, POT1–TPP1, and a truncated version of POT1 (POT1-N) that maintains its DNA-binding domain. The results revealed that POT1-N and POT1–TPP1 can completely coat long telomeric ssDNA substrates. Furthermore, we show that ssDNA coated with human POT1–TPP1 heterodimers forms compact, potentially ordered structures.
The daily and annual effects of dew, frost, and snow on a non-ventilated net radiometer

Abstract The formation of dew, deposition of frost and accumulation of snow mainly on the upper domes of a non-ventilated net radiometer seriously affect the measurement of available energy (net radiation). Net radiometers measure radiation, and energy balances and are widely used for estimation of evapotranspiration throughout the world. To study the effects of dew, frost, and snow on a non-ventilated net radiometer, a radiation station was set up which uses 2 CM21 Kipp & Zonen pyranometers (one inverted), 2 CG1 Kipp & Zonen pyrgeometers (one inverted), along with a Q⁎7.1 net radiometer (Radiation & Energy Balance Systems, Inc.; REBS) in a semi-arid mountainous valley in Logan, Utah, U.S.A. The pyranometers and pyrgeometers were ventilated using 4 CV2 Kipp & Zonen ventilation systems. The net radiometer was not ventilated. The ventilation of pyranometers and pyrgeometers prevents dew and frost deposition and snow accumulation which otherwise would disturb measurements. All sensors were installed at about 3.0 m above the ground, which was covered with natural vegetation during the growing season (May–September). The incoming and outgoing solar or shortwave radiation, the incoming (atmospheric) and outgoing (terrestrial) longwave radiation, and the net radiation have been continuously measured by pyranometers, pyrgeometers and a net radiometer, respectively, since 1995. These parameters have been measured every 2 s and averaged into 20 min. To evaluate the effects of dew, frost, and snow, three days were chosen: 26 April 2004 with early morning dew, 6 January 2005 with an early morning frost, and the snowy day of 24 February 2005. Dew formation, frost deposition, and snow accumulation occurred mainly on the upper dome of the non-ventilated Q⁎7.1 net radiometer on the related days, while the ventilated Kipp & Zonen system was free of dew, frost and snow. Net radiation measured by the non-ventilated net radiometer R n,unvent. during dew and frost periods of the above-mentioned days was greater than ventilated ones R n,vent. (− 0.2 MJ m − 2 vs. − 0.8 MJ m − 2 during almost 4 h on 26 April 2004, and − 0.2 MJ m − 2 vs. − 0.7 MJ m − 2 during almost 6.5 h on 6 January 2005). The reason for higher reading by the non-ventilated net radiometer during dew and frost periods was due to emission of additional longwave radiation from water and ice crystals formed mainly on the upper dome of the Q⁎7.1 net radiometer. In contrast, during the snowy day of 24 February 2005, the R n,unvent. was less than R n,vent. (− 4.00 MJ m − 2 vs. 0.77 MJ m − 2 , mainly from sunrise to sunset). The extremely low R n,unvent. measured by the non-ventilated net radiometer on 24 February 2005 is due to blocking of the incoming solar radiation (mainly diffuse radiation) by the snow-covered upper dome.
Sensitivity analysis of Markov chain Monte Carlo

Markov Chain Monte Carlo sampling method (MCMC) is a powerful and popular method for generating samples needed in computing high-dimensional integrals, particularly for Bayesian inferencing. This paper looks at the application of the Score Function sensitivity method with MCMC to compute probabilistic sensitivities. The results indicate that MCMC converges to the correct sensitivity but at a slower rate than standard Monte Carlo sampling (MC). That is, the variance of the sensitivities is larger for MCMC than MC. As a result, analytical variance estimates for the sensitivities applicable to MC are not accurate for MCMC. Hence, the Score Function method must be applied with care when combined with MCMC.
Effect of hemorrhagic shock, fasting, and corticosterone administration on leucine oxidation and incorporation into protein by skeletal muscle.

Abstract The metabolism of leucine by rabbit skeletal muscle was studied 1 and 3 days after shock or glucocorticoid administration. Hemorrhagic shock resulted in an increase in the capacity for leucine oxidation and a concomitant suppression of leucine incorporation into protein by skeletal muscle. This defect persisted, in part, for at least 3 days following injury. Corticosterone administration to normal animals produced an increase in leucine oxidation and a decrease in leucine incorporation into protein similar to that observed following shock. Fasting, in contrast, caused a simultaneous decrease in both leucine oxidation and incorporation into protein. These findings are consistent with the possibility that the net protein catabolism associated with hemorrhagic shock may be promoted by removal of leucine from the cellular protein synthetic amino acid pool through irreversible combustion. Shock-induced adrenal steroid secretion may contribute to the observed changes in leucine metabolism by skeletal muscle.
Reactions of Laser-Ablated Cobalt Atoms with O2. Infrared Spectra of Cobalt Oxides in Solid Argon

Laser-ablated Co atoms react with O2 to give the linear dioxide, the monoxide, and the rhombic (CoO)2 dimer molecules. The linear OCoO molecule is characterized by oxygen-18 substitution in strong ...
Plasma surface modification of TiO 2 nanoparticles for Dye-Sensitized Solar cell (DSSC) application

Titanium-di-oxide (TiO 2 ) is a very versatile material with applications ranging from photocatalysis to pharmaceuticals. More recently TiO 2 is being investigated for potential applications in the field of renewable energy. One such application is in a new generation of solar cells called Dye-Sensitized Solar cells (DSSC), where TiO 2 nanoparticles can be used as an electrode material. The solar energy conversion efficiency of DSSC is significantly lower than that of a typical Si based photovoltaic cell, but it has a significant advantage in terms of more reduced cost per unit surface area. An atmospheric-pressure fluidized bed plasma reactor was used to modify the surface properties of TiO 2 nanoparticles. Plasma induced morphological changes of the TiO 2 nano-particles were correlated with the corresponding structural and electronic changes. DSSC with plasma treated TiO 2 nanoparticles demonstrated an improvement in photovoltaic performance.
Control of [3H]ouabain binding to cerebromicrovascular (Na+ + K+)-ATPase by metal ions and proteins.

Abstract The (Na + + K + )-ATPase is localized to the cerebral endothelium, i.e. the blood-brain barrier, and is important for the maintenance of the brain electrolyte environment. Data from the present study indicate that Pb 2+ inhibits the binding of [ 3 H]ouabain to the cerebral microvascular (Na + + K + )-ATPase in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Pb 2+ -induced inhibition developed slowly with a maximum obtained after 40 min. Inhibition of [ 3 H]ouabain binding to the enzyme was 48% at 10 μM Pb 2+ and appeared maximal (89%) at 100 μM Pb 2+ when compared to [ 3 H]ouabain binding in untreated microvessels at 40 min. In contrast, 100 μM A1 3+ caused a 55% increase in [ 3 H]ouabain binding to the (Na + + K + )-ATPase, relative to untreated microvessels at 40 min. Insulin or bovine serum albumin stimulated [ 3 H]ouabain binding to the enzyme when added at similar concentrations. However, the addition of both insulin and bovine serum albumin did not result in an additive effect. These results show that insulin exerts a nonspecific effect on [ 3 H]ouabain binding to the (Na + + K + )-ATPase similar to that evoked by bovine serum albumin. However, the metal ions Pb 2+ and Al 3+ provoke selective alterations in the cerebromicrovascular (Na + + K + )-ATPase with Pb 2+ inhibiting and Al 3+ stimulating [ 3 H]ouabain binding.
Dendroides nakabusana Kôno: Proposed new junior synonym of Dendroides lesnei Blair (Coleoptera: Pyrochroidae: Pyrochroinae), with lectotype designation for Dendroides lesnei

Abstract Dendroides nakabusana Kono (1936) is proposed as a new junior synonym of Dendroides lesnei Blair (1914). A discussion of evidence from the original descriptions of both species, as well as illustrations of salient anatomical features associated with the head and pronotum of this Japanese pyrochroid are provided in support of the proposed action. A lectoype is designated for Dendroides lesnei to help insure nomenclatural stability of this previously misunderstood and misrepresented species.
Hemodynamic effects of nitroglycerin, propranolol, and their combination in coronary heart disease.

The hemodynamic effects of 10 mg of propranolol given intravenously (iv) were studied in 10 patients (group I) with coronary heart disease (CHD). These results were compared with the hemodynamic effects in a similar group of the nine (CHD) patients (group II) who were studied after administration of 0.6 mg of nitroglycerin and then after receiving 10 mg of propranolol iv with a second 0.6-mg dose of nitroglycerin. Measurements were obtained at rest and during exercise: before treatment, after nitroglycerin alone, after propranolol alone, and after nitroglycerin-propranolol in combination. Pretreatment exercise showed a 125% increase in mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) to 43 mm Hg and a 163% increase in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) to 29 mm Hg. Nitroglycerin decreased PAP (–45%) and LVEDP (–66%); as did nitroglycerin-propranolol: PAP (–33%) and LVEDP (–38%). Nitroglycerin reduced tension-time index (TTI) –21%, and increased cardiac index (CI) +17%, heart rate (HR) +10%, left ventricular work index (LVWI) +11%, and left ventricular dp/dt (LV dp/dt) +22%. By contrast, nitroglycerin-propranolol reduced LVWI –14%, LV dp/dt –30%, TTI – 15%, and HR – 13% but did not significantly alter CI from pretreatment. Propranolol increased PAP to 40 mm Hg, did not change LVEDP at 29 mm Hg and decreased stroke index (SI) 16%. Nitroglycerin-propranolol diminished PA and LVED pressure and increased SI 14%. Effects of propranolol alone and of nitroglycerin-propranolol on HR, TTI, and LV dp/dt were not significantly different. Nitroglycerin-propranolol appears to have important advantages over nitroglycerin or propranolol alone. A reduction in HR, TTI, and LV dp/dt, determinants of myocardial oxygen consumption, concurrent with improved left ventricular function, demonstrates a beneficial synergistic hemodynamic action for nitroglycerin combined with propranolol.
Mechanics of thin film adhesion-delamination subjected to residual stress and interfacial adhesion: application to MEMS-RF-switch

This paper is an extended work of our previous models [1-5] and an introduction of an experiment along this line. For the 1-D model, a pre-stressed rectangular stiff film clamped at both ends delaminates from a rigid punch. According to thermodynamic energy balance, the delamination mechanics in term of external tensile force applied to the punch, punch displacement, and contact area. Coupling effect of tensile residual stress, film-punch interfacial adhesion energy is discussed in this paper. "Pinch-off" (stable shrinking of the contact area to a line) is predicted at the moment when film is completely detached from substrate. The 1-D model can be further extended to a 2-D axisymmetric model. A thin circular film clamped at the periphery is adhered to the planar surface of a rigid cylindrical punch. An external tensile load is applied to the punch causing the film to delaminate from the substrate and the circular contact edge to contract. The film spontaneously separates from the punch, or, "pull-off", when the contact radius reduces to a range between 0.1758 and 0.3651 of the film radius, depending on the magnitude of the residual membrane stress. The constitutive relation of the delamination process is derived by a thermodynamic energy balance based on a coupled interfacial adhesion and residual membrane stress. The models are useful in understanding the behavior of various adhesion-delamination phenomena, such as capacitive MEMS-RF switches, micro pumps, micro-structure network, and nano-structures. Experiment is carried out simulating the axisymmetric model and will be presented in this conference.
TOWARD A THEORY OF PERSONAL SPACE EXPECTATIONS AND THEIR VIOLATIONS

Proxemics literature is synthesized and placed in a theoretical framework based on norms and expectations. Two major and three subordinate propositions are supported, and a model for predicting effects of violations of proxemic expectations is advanced. A sample of hypotheses generated from the model is included.
Dynamic Kv4.3-CaMKII unit in heart: an intrinsic negative regulator for CaMKII activation.

Aims Reduction of transient outward current (Ito) and excessive activation of Ca2+/Calmodulin-dependent kinase II (CaMKII) are general features of ventricular myocytes in heart failure. We hypothesize that alterations of Ito directly regulate CaMKII activation in cardiomyocytes. Methods and results A dynamic coupling of Ito channel subunit Kv4.3 and inactive CaMKII was discovered in cardiomyocytes with the membrane predominant distribution by co-immunoprecipitation and fluorescence resonance energy transfer techniques. CaMKII dissociation from Kv4.3–CaMKII units caused a significant increase in CaMKII autophosphorylation and L-type calcium current (ICa) facilitation. ICa facilitation was blunted by the compartmental Ca2+ chelator BAPTA but unaffected by bulk Ca2+ chelator EGTA, implicating membrane-localized CaMKII. Kv4.3 overexpression reduced basal CaMKII autophosphorylation in myocytes and eliminated Ca2+-induced CaMKII activation. Kv4.3 blocks CaMKII activation by binding to the calmodulin binding sites, whereas Kv4.3 uncoupling releases these sites and leads to a substantial CaMKII activation. Conclusion Our results uncovered an important mechanism that regulates CaMKII activation in the heart and implicate Ito channel alteration in pathological CaMKII activation.
Local time dependence of Jovian radio emissions observed by Galileo

Galileo has been in orbit around Jupiter since December 1995. All the orbits are equatorial and elliptical, with apogees between 60 R(sub J) - 142 R(sub J) and perigees from 8 - 12 R(sub J). Since orbit injection, the plasma wave instrument (PWS) has been collecting data over specific intervals of each of the orbits at all local times and a range of different radial distances. We present the results of a survey of the data for the frequency range 300 kHz to 5.6 MHz, which includes the hectometric (HOM) and low-frequency decametric (DAM) emissions. The results indicate that both the HOM and DAM emission are more intense and occur more frequently in the midnight sector of Jupiter. This is in analogy to Earth and consistent with a magnetic substorm source for a portion of the radio emissions in this frequency range. Another peak in the power levels is observed on the Jovian dayside in the local time range 11 hrs < LT < 12 hrs. This peak does not have a terrestrial counterpart. We speculate that this dayside peak may be a result of sampling near perigee, but we cannot rule out the possibility that this is not the case.
Deficiency of natural killer cell activity in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Natural killer (NK)6 cell activity of peripheral blood lymphocytes against human leukemia cell lines was measured in patients with chronic B-cell lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and age- and sex-matched controls. In order to remove the leukemia cells that interfere with the in vitro assay we (1) isolated lymphocytes that form rosettes with sheep red blood cells (SRBC) or (2) lysed the CLL cells with a monoclonal anti-B cell antibody and complement. NK activity in either lymphocyte preparation from nine of 10 patients with advanced disease was not detectable and, when calculated in terms of lytic units per ml of blood, was at least seven times lower than in controls; only one of these patients exhibited activity within the control range. Two patients with early disease had measurable, but low, NK-cell activity. Prolongation of the NK cell assay from 6 to 18h gave rise to significant killing in the CLL patients lacking NK cell activity in the 6-h assay; however, the activity still was six times lower than in controls. Treatment of leukemia cell-depleted lymphocytes from CLL patients with human fibroblast interferon or the interferon inducer poly I:C enhanced NK-cell activity in the two early stage patients but this treatment was ineffective in three later stage patients. The percentage of cells with characteristics of NK cells, i.e. those with receptors for SRBC and Fc-portion of IgG, was four times higher in CLL patients and the percentage of lymphocytes binding to NK-sensitive target cells was equal to that in controls despite the fact that, in the majority of patients, lysis of the target cells by the lymphocytes does not ensue. The NK deficiency may be responsible for the increased incidence of secondary malignancies in CLL patients.
Effect of Infidelity, Initiator Status, and Spiritual Well-Being on Men’s Divorce Adjustment

Adjusting to divorce can be a painful process to endure. Fortunately, research is available to help understand what factors contribute to a healthier recovery for both men and women. Similar to an earlier study (Steiner, Suarez, Sells, & Wykes, 2011) conducted only on women, this study focuses on the effect of infidelity, initiator status, and spiritual well-being on men’s divorce adjustment. One hundred and three divorced men in the United States were surveyed using the Fisher Divorce Adjustment Scale, Spiritual Well-Being Scale, and a participant questionnaire. Results indicate that spiritual well-being can predict 21% of the divorce adjustment in men. Recommendations for researchers and implications for clinicians are discussed.
Total-Ionizing-Dose Radiation Effects in AlGaN/GaN HEMTs and MOS-HEMTs

We have investigated the total ionizing dose (TID) radiation effects in AlGaN/GaN MOS-HEMTs as a function of dose and radiation bias, and compared them with conventional HEMTs. Under 10 keV X-ray irradiation, two distinct regimes of threshold voltage (Vth) shifts have been revealed: a rapid Vth shift at low doses for both HEMTs and MOS-HEMTs, and an additional Vth shift only found in MOS-HEMTs for doses up to at least 2 Mrad (SiO2). The rapid Vth shift anneals quickly and is a strong function of layer material. We attribute this portion of the Vth shift to hole trapping in the AlGaN barrier layer. The Vth shift at high doses found only in MOS-HEMTs is attributed to hole trapping in the gate oxide. By comparing MOSFETs with HfO2 and Al2O3 gate dielectrics that are annealed during processing at various temperatures, we find that 500°C annealed HfO2 shows the most promising TID response.
Interlayer-coupling magnetism and electronic structure of Fe/Cr(001) superlattices.

The electronic structure and magnetism of ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{\mathit{m}}$/${\mathrm{Cr}}_{\mathit{n}}$(001) superlattices with varying layer thickness (m=1,3 and n=1,3,5,7) were studied using the all-electron total-energy self-consistent linear muffin-tin orbital method based on the local-density approximation. Similar to the Fe/Cr(110) superlattices, (i) there is a strong hybridization between Cr d and Fe d states; (ii) the absolute values of the magnetic moments of the Fe layers are not significantly modified by the intervening Cr layers. The small moment found on the interfacial Cr atoms is aligned antiparallel for 3 Fe layers and parallel for monolayer Fe to the nearest-neighbor Fe moments in the ${\mathrm{Fe}}_{\mathit{m}}$/${\mathrm{Cr}}_{\mathit{n}}$(001) superlattices, respectively. For the former case the ferromagnetic alignment for the two consecutive Fe layers separated by Cr layers dominates over the antiferromagnetic alignment, whereas a crossover is seen when the number of Cr layers is increased to 5 (or perhaps 3) layers in between a single Fe layer, i.e., a (slightly) lower total energy for the antiferromagnetic state with respect to the ferromagnetic state.
Surface morphology of r.f. sputtered bismuth titanate thin films

Bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12) thin films were prepared by the r.f. sputtering technique. A bismuth-rich target was used to compensate for the loss of bismuth during deposition. Studies on many films, deposited under various conditions, showed that existence of non-uniform erosion leads to many surface morphological features. This varying surface structure is a consequence of the resputtering process. Because the microstructure has a significant effect on the films electrical/optical response, a knowledge of its dependency on process parameters is an important step towards device development.
The association of viral and bacterial respiratory infections with exacerbations of wheezing in young asthmatic children.

The relationship between exacerbations of wheezing and infection of the respiratory tract was studied prospectively in 32 young hospitalized asthmatic children. Of 139 episodes of wheezing, 58 (42 per cent) were associated with identifiable viral infections. There were 25 respiratory syncytial virus infections; wheezing occurred in 24 of these and pneumonia in 13. Parainfluenza type 2 infection appeared to be next most likely to be associated with wheezing, followed by coronavirus infection. Influenza A. (Hong Kong) was not associated with wheezing in any of the children. Infection with “pathogenic” bacteria was not statistically associated with wheezing.
Query co-processing on commodity processors

The rapid increase in the data volumes for the past few decades has intensified the need for high processing power for database and data mining applications. Researchers have actively sought to design and develop new architectures for improving the performance. Recent research shows that the performance can be significantly improved using either (a) effective utilization of architectural features and memory hierarchies used by the conventional processors, or (b) the high computational power and memory bandwidth in commodity hardware such as network processing units (NPUs), Cell processors and graphics processing units (GPUs). This tutorial will survey the micro-architectural and architectural differences across these processors with data management in mind, and will present previous work and future opportunities for expanding query processing algorithms to other hardware than general-purpose processors. In addition to the database community, we intend to increase awareness in the computer architecture scene about opportunities to construct heterogeneous chips.
Hemodialysate composition and intradialytic metabolic, acid–base and potassium changes

We compared the effects of dialysate composition on changes in intermediary metabolites, acid-base balance, and potassium removal during hemodialysis. Patients were dialyzed against dialysates containing acetate or bicarbonate, each with or without glucose, in a four-way cross-over study. Dialysates containing acetate were associated with significant perturbations in intermediary metabolism, including increases in blood citrate, acetoacetate and beta-hydroxybutyrate and a decrease in pyruvate. In contrast, bicarbonate-containing dialysates caused minimal perturbations in intermediary metabolism. Addition of glucose to the dialysate decreased the changes in intermediary metabolites; however, the magnitude of this effect was less than that observed for the change from acetate to bicarbonate. Use of acetate also resulted in lower post-dialysis blood-concentrations of base equivalents than obtained with bicarbonate; this difference was unaffected by the presence or absence of glucose. Although pre- and post-dialysis potassium concentrations were unaffected by the dialysate formulation, total potassium removal was significantly greater when glucose was omitted from the dialysate. Our results suggest that both bicarbonate and glucose should be included in the dialysate, particularly for those patients whose capacity for metabolism may be limited because of highly efficient dialysis, intercurrent illness, or starvation. However, addition of glucose to the dialysate may require a reduction in dialysate potassium to maintain proper potassium homeostasis.
Cobalt-Protoporphyrin treatment renders islets tolerant to interleukin-1 beta suppression.

This study examined whether treating donor mice with a single dose of cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP) induced heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and protected islet cells from interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) suppression. Islets were isolated from mice receiving a single dose of either CoPP (20 mg/kg of body weight, CoPP islets) or isotonic NaCl solution vehicle (control islets), 24 hours before isolation. Glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) and insulin content (IC) of the islets were determined following incubation in the presence versus absence of murine IL-1β for 21 or 65 hours. The HO-1 protein level of CoPP-induced islets, as determined by an enzyme immunoassay, was significantly higher than that of control islets at 12 hours (P < .01) and 30 hours (P < .05), and returned to basal levels at 56 hours (P = NS). Following a 21-hour incubation with IL-1β, CoPP islets secreted significantly more insulin upon glucose stimulation and preserved significantly more IC than control islets. After 65-hour incubation with IL-1β, CoPP islets secreted significantly less insulin upon glucose stimulation than control islets and preserved significantly less IC compared to islets incubated without IL-1β. In conclusion, treatment with cobalt-protoporphyrin to induce heme oxygenase-1 protects islets against the suppressive effects of IL-1β.
Intravascular probe for detection of vulnerable plaque

Abstract Purpose Coronary angiography defines geometry of lumen of artery. However, perhaps 70% of heart attacks occur when minimally obstructive thin capped fibroatheroma rupture, causing thrombus and arterial occlusion. We have developed an intravascular imaging detector to identify vulnerable coronary artery plaque. Procedure Detector measures beta or conversion electron emissions from plaque-binding radiotracers. Detector assembly fits into a 2-mm diameter catheter and overcomes technical constraints of size, sensitivity, and conformance to intravascular environment. Results Device was tested by stepping test point sources past detector to verify function. System resolution is 6.7 mm and sensitivity is 400 cps/μCi one mm from detector. Conclusion This prototype is a first step in imaging of labeled vulnerable plaque in coronary arteries. This type of system may assist in development of targeted and cost effective therapies to lower incidence of acute coronary artery diseases (CAD) such as unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction, and sudden cardiac death.
Control of the transport of reducing equivalents across the mitochondrial membrane in perfused rat heart

Abstract A comparison of the functional significance of the malate-aspartate and α-glycerophosphate hydrogen shuttles was made in the isolated perfused rat heart. Amino-oxyacetate, a competitive inhibitor of aspartate aminotransferase, inhibited lactate and glucose oxidation in the normal rat heart. Although α-glycerophosphate oxidase activity was increased sixfold by tri-iodothyronine, hydrogen flux through the α-glycerophosphate shuttle was limited by low tissue concentrations of α-glycerophosphate and low activity of α-glycerophosphate oxidase. Significant flux was only achieved when the cytosolic NADH NAD ratio and the α-glycerophosphate concentration rose to highly unphysiological levels. It is concluded that the malate-aspartate shuttle is the predominant mechanism for reoxidation of cytosolic NADH in rat heart. Examination of changes in the tissue levels of citric acid cycle intermediates in rat heart under these experimental conditions also suggests that introduction or withdrawal of carbon moieties from the pool can only occur by the concerted action of both aspartate and alanine aminotransferases.
COMPARISON OF ION EXCHANGE AND DONNAN EQUILIBRIUM MODELS FOR THE PH-DEPENDENT ADSORPTION OF SODIUM AND CALCIUM IONS ONTO KRAFT WOOD PULP FIBERS

ABSTRACT Management of nonprocess element (NPE) accumulation in pulp washing operations requires equilibrium models that predict the distribution of metals between the wash liquor and the pulp fibers. The overall goal of this study was to assess models for predicting the multi-component adsorption of hydrogen ions (H+), sodium ions (Na+), and calcium ions (Ca+2) onto bleached and unbleached kraft pulp fibers over a pH range of 2.7–11. As part of this study, binary equilibrium constants for hydrogen and metal ion exchange on carboxylate sites in bleached pulp (0.041 meq/g dry pulp) were measured at 25°C, with log K Na/Ca = −1.604 ± 0.119, log K H/Ca = 0.633 ± 0.087, and intrinsic dissociation constant pK io of 3.64 ± 0.46. Ion exchange and Donnan equilibrium models adequately predicted the multi-component equilibrium data for competitive adsorption of H+, Na+, and Ca+2 onto bleached kraft wood pulp fibers. The ion exchange model was fully predictive, whereas the Donnan model required that the solution pH b...
Slow Conformational Changes of the Voltage Sensor during the Mode Shift in Hyperpolarization-Activated Cyclic-Nucleotide-Gated Channels

Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic-nucleotide-gated (HCN) channels are activated by hyperpolarizations that cause inward movements of the positive charges in the fourth transmembrane domain (S4), which triggers channel opening. If HCN channels are held open for prolonged times (>50 ms), HCN channels undergo a mode shift, which in sea urchin (spHCN) channels induces a >50 mV shift in the midpoint of activation. The mechanism underlying the mode shift is unknown. The mode shift could be attributable to conformational changes in the pore domain that stabilize the open state of the channel, which would indirectly shift the voltage dependence of the channel, or attributable to conformational changes in the voltage-sensing domain that stabilize the inward position of S4, thereby directly shifting the voltage dependence of the channel. We used voltage-clamp fluorometry to detect S4 movements and to correlate S4 movements to the different activation steps in spHCN channels. We here show that fluorophores attached to S4 report on fluorescence changes during the mode shift, demonstrating that the mode shift is not simply attributable to a stabilization of the pore domain but that S4 undergoes conformational changes during the mode shift. We propose a model in which the mode shift is attributable to a slow, lateral movement in S4 that is triggered by the initial S4 gating-charge movement and channel opening. The mode shift gives rise to a short-term, activity-dependent memory in HCN channels, which has been shown previously to be important for the stable rhythmic firing of pacemaking neurons and could significantly affect synaptic integration.
On the importance of material frame-indifference and lift forces in multiphase flows

Abstract In this paper, we discuss the importance of the Principle of Material Frame-Indifference, sometimes referred to as Objectivity, in multiphase flows. We first give a brief account of the formulation of a two-phase mixture and then indicate where and how this principle should be utilized. We will then give a brief review of the meaning of this principle in continuum mechanics and how it has been used in various fields of physics. We also give examples of frame-indifferent and frame-dependent constitutive relations which have been used in multiphase flow studies. The importance of lift forces is also discussed. Finally, we derive a general constitutive relation which is frame-invariant and general enough to be used in many applications.
Prolactin regulation by heparin-binding growth factors expressed in mouse pituitary cell lines.

Prolactin (PRL) secretion is regulated by both inhibitory and stimulatory factors. Dopamine is the primary inhibitor, but multiple factors stimulate PRL gene expression and release. These can be divided into two categories: those that rapidly stimulate PRL release and those that induce the PRL gene followed by increased release. The pituitary intermediate lobe (IL) contains a PRL-releasing factor (PRF) that rapidly stimulates PRL release. From a mouse IL tumor, we established a nonmelanotroph cell line, mIL5, which secretes a factor that stimulated PRL gene expression and release in vitro. This PRF activity did not rapidly stimulate PRL release and bound to heparin. Our objective was to examine the regulation of PRL by heparin-binding proteins and characterize the PRF activity produced by mIL5 cells. PRL gene expression and release was determined using GH3 cells, stably transfected with a PRL promoter/luciferase reporter (GH3/luc). After screening mIL5 cells by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, we found that they expressed two heparin-binding growth factors—basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF)—which were considered strong candidates for PRL transcriptional regulatory activity. To determine whether the activity produced by mIL5 cells is attributed to FGF-2 or HB-EGF, three approaches were used: heparin-affinity chromatography, Western blotting, and immunoneutralization. The PRF activity in conditioned media eluted from heparin with 1 M NaCl whereas both FGF-2 and HB-EGF eluted with >1 M NaCl. Neither growth factor was detectable in mIL5 cells by Western blotting. Antibodies directed against FGF-2 and HB-EGF, alone or together, did not abolish this activity from mIL5 cells. In conclusion, FGF-2 and HB-EGF are potent stimulators of PRL gene expression and release but do not account for most of the endogenous PRL gene activity in mIL5 cells. The distinct heparin-binding factor that stimulates PRL gene transcription remains to be identified.
Frontoparietal traffic signals: A fast optical imaging study of preparatory dynamics in response mode switching

Coordination between networks of brain regions is important for optimal cognitive performance, especially in attention demanding tasks. With the event-related optical signal a measure of changes in optical scattering because of neuronal activity we can characterize rapidly evolving network processes by examining the millisecond-scale temporal correlation of activity in distinct regions during the preparatory period of a response mode switching task. Participants received a precue indicating whether to respond vocally or manually. They then saw or heard the letter "L" or "R," indicating a "left" or "right" response to be implemented with the appropriate response modality. We employed lagged cross-correlations to characterize the dynamic connectivity of preparatory processes. Our results confirmed coupling of frontal and parietal cortices and the trial-dependent relationship of the right frontal cortex with response preparation areas. The frontal-to-modality-specific cortex cross-correlations revealed a pattern in which first irrelevant regions were deactivated, and then relevant regions were activated. These results provide a window into the subsecond scale network interactions that flexibly tune to task demands.
Global phase diagram in the quantum Hall effect.

We report recent progress in determining the global behavior of the two-dimensional electron gas in a high magnetic field. Specifically, we have: (i) derived a law of corresponding states which allows us to construct a global phase diagram and calculate many interrelations between transport coefficients; (ii) derived a ``selection rule'' governing the allowed continuous transitions between pairs of quantum Hall liquid states; and (iii) identified the ``insulating state,'' which we have named the Hall insulator, as a state in which, as the temperature T\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0, ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\rho}}}_{\mathit{x}\mathit{x}}$\ensuremath{\rightarrow}\ensuremath{\infty}, ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\sigma}}}_{\mathit{x}\mathit{x}}$ and ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\sigma}}}_{\mathit{x}\mathit{y}}$\ensuremath{\rightarrow}0, but ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\rho}}}_{\mathit{x}\mathit{y}}$ tends to a constant value, roughly B/nec. Each of these results has many testable experimental consequences.
Soft hands: An analysis of some gripping mechanisms in soft robot design

In contrast to their more rigid counterparts, soft robots have the ability to gently grip and maneuver objects with open-loop kinematic control. Guided by several recent designs and implementations of soft robot hands, the present paper analyzes a rod-based model for the fingers in the hand of a soft robot. We show precisely how gripping is achieved and how the performance can be affected by varying the system’s parameters. The designs we are interested in feature pneumatic control of the soft robot and we model this actuation as a varying intrinsic curvature profile of the rod. Our work provides a framework for the theoretical analysis of the soft robot and the resulting analysis can also be used to develop some design guidelines.
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH VARIATIONS IN STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT SPENDING

IN HIS WELL KNOWN WORK dealing with the long term trend in government spending, Solomon Fabricant included a chapter dealing with an analysis of interstate public expenditure differentials. This section of his study has attracted a great deal of attention and has been the focus of much recent research.' The primary objectives of this paper are (a) to question the interpretation of the results of Fabricant's and similar statistical analyses in light of some methodological and conceptual considerations, and (b) to present a more extensive analysis of the temporal pattern of the determinants of state and local government expenditures. A brief summary of the most relevant literature is presented in this section of the paper while the following two sections contain an analysis of two potentially severe limitations of the "determinants" studies-the existence of multicollinearity and the independence of the federal aid variable. The remainder of the paper contains an attempt to establish a temporal pattern of expenditure determinants by examining data for 1903, 1942, and 1962 using different sets of variables and alternative functional forms. Fabricant was not the first to attempt to explain statistically the variability in governmental expenditures: Brecht, Colm, Davenport, and Berolzheimer had performed similar analyses previously.2 However, Fabricant was the first to use what have since become known as the three basic variables (per capita income, population density, and urbanization) to analyze comprehensively the expenditure data of state and local governments of 48 states. Essentially, he attempted to evaluate the relative importance and joint effect of these three basic factors in explaining interstate differentials in the level of per-
On the Asymptotic Stability of a Class of Linear Difference Equations

(1996). On the Asymptotic Stability of a Class of Linear Difference Equations. Mathematics Magazine: Vol. 69, No. 1, pp. 34-43.
Modeling the impact of fire spread on the electrical distribution network of a virtual city

The research work published in this paper is based upon the design of a virtual city named Micropolis, which has been laid out using a Geographic Information System (GIS) based software called ArcMap (marketed by ESRI). This paper studies the effects of a fire spread on the electrical distribution network of Micropolis. The fire can be initiated either through some natural event, e.g. a lightning stroke or a wildfire; or manually, e.g. a terrorist attack. The paper also proposes a method of quantifying the damage caused by fire to the electrical system, by means of a parameter called the Load Loss Damage Index (LLDI). Finally, it discusses the various conclusions drawn from running numerous simulations corresponding to different fire spread scenarios, and comparing the LLDI values generated for each such scenario.
Fabrication and characterization of a volumetric three-dimensional display using ion-exchanged integrated waveguides

The use of ion-exchanged waveguides to address the voxel emitters of a volumetric three-dimensional display promises to be a reasonable high-volume, high-resolution fabrication technique. We report on the fabrication and initial characterization of a first prototype of this novel display architecture.
Two case reports of neurological disease in coal mine preparation plant workers

Of 60 cases of neurotoxicity related to occupational exposures of workers at plants producing acrylamide monomers, cases involving neurotoxicity related to jobs using polymers with acrylamide monomer contamination have not been widely reported. In 1992, two patients were referred to the Division of Occupational and Environmental Health, Department of Family and Community Health, Marshall University School of Medicine, in Huntington, West Virginia for evaluation. The patients had worked in different coal preparation plants in southern West Virginia for over 10 years and had exposure to an acrylamide polymer flocculent contaminated with acrylamide monomer. Both patients had no instruction on proper use of, or the dangers of, acrylamide and were not given adequate safety equipment. Patient A developed Parkinsonism and Patient B peripheral neuropathies with a neurogenic bladder. These two case reports highlight the need to reemphasize the basic tenets of occupational health and safety. Many chemicals are being introduced into mining operations and awareness of potential toxic exposures and new diseases not previously reported in the mining industry must become part of the surveillance system by mine management and labor safety committees. Further studies on the extent of acrylamide neurotoxicity in the mining industry is encouraged.
Solvation effects on the structure and reactivity of clusters

Elucidating, from a molecular point of view, the differences and similarities in the properties and reactivity of matter in the gaseous compared to the condensed state is a subject of considerable current interest. Although there are a number of promising approaches to this problem, one of the alternatives involves the use of clusters that enable detailed spectroscopy and reactivity investigations to be accomplished as a function of degree of solvation under well controlled conditions. New insight into a variety of phenomena of interest in liquids have been derived from recent studies in our laboratory. In particular, the findings have contributed to unraveling the reactions of ionized functional groups in organic molecules that are influenced by solvation effects, identifying the structure of protonated complexes among species of varying proton affinities, and quantifying the variations in spectroscopic properties of chromophores as influenced by solvation and aggregation. Various examples from the author's laboratory are discussed, including solvation-driven reactions as well as alcohol and acetone dehydration reactions, the influence of clustering on the reaction of OH− with CO2, structures of protonated species comprised of water, ammonia, and trimethylamine; also presented are the results of studies of the influence of solvation on the absorption of photons in the chromophore of tyrosine, namely phenol.
The Precautionary Principle and the Dilemma Objection

The dilemma objection charges that ‘weak’ versions of the precautionary principle (PP) are vacuous while ‘strong’ ones are incoherent. I respond that the ‘weak’ versus ‘strong’ distinction is misleading and should be replaced with a contrast between PP as a meta-rule and PP proper. Meta versions of PP require that the decision-making procedures used for environmental policy not be susceptible to paralysis by scientific uncertainty. Such claims are substantive because they often recommend against basing environmental policy decisions on cost–benefit analysis. I argue that the second horn of the dilemma fails as a result of disregarding the role of proportionality in applications of PP.
Effect of Inlet Turbulence and Premixer Length on Fuel Distribution in Swirling Gas-Turbine Premixer

The mixing characteristics of a production gas-turbine combustor premixer have been investigated using a planar Mie-scattering imaging technique. Speci cally, the effects of introducing controlled inlet grid turbulence (intensity and scale) and varying premixer length on large-scale mixing were independently studied. Baseline data acquired for a particular swirler con guration indicated a strong fuel concentration gradient in the annulus, with a maximum at the centerbody and decreasing outward. The measured fuel concentration, or equivalence ratio, also varied circumferentially, by as much as 45% over the entire premixer exit plane. The circumferential fuel concentration pro les showed that improvedmixingwith increased turbulence intensity was realized for most angularlocations.Premixer length extensionsof 2.5and5.0 cm, corresponding to 0.53and1.06hydraulicdiameters, respectively, resulted in a considerable improvement in mixing, accompanied by signi cant structural changes in the scalar  eld. The circumferential variations were reduced up to 30% for the 5.0-cm extension case. Radial fuel concentration gradients were also reduced by 50%. Overall, increased residence time was a signi cantly more effective means of mixing enhancement than introducing moderate levels of freestream turbulence.