cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The motif Tyr-X-X-hydrophobic residue mediates lysosomal membrane targeting of lysosome-associated membrane protein 1

We have investigated the mechanism by which LAMP-1, a principal protein of the lysosomal membrane, is targeted to lysosomes. Mutagenesis and transfection experiments indicate that the motif Tyr-X-X-hydrophobic residue at the carboxyl terminus of the 11-amino acid cytoplasmic tail of the protein constitutes the lysosomal targeting signal for LAMP-1. This motif directs CD44, a cell surface hyaluronate receptor, to the lysosomal membrane, but only when the signal is placed at the carboxyl-terminus of a truncated cytoplasmic tail. The signal did not confer lysosomal targeting when it was situated internally or at the carboxyl terminus of the normal CD44 cytoplasmic tail. An apparent paradox is that similar Tyr-containing sequences mediate internalization, but not lysosomal targeting, of several receptors. Of possible relevance is the additional finding that purified LAMP-1 protein lacks the two carboxyl-terminal residues predicted by cDNA, both of which are essential for proper trafficking. A model is proposed in which lysosomal targeting is distinguished from receptor internalization through proteolytic modification of the internalization signal.
War and Presidential Greatness

Historians and journalists commonly survey other historians on the relative 'greatness' of American presidents, and these rankings show remarkable consistency between surveys. In this paper we consider commonalities between highly ranked presidents and compare plausible determinants of greatness according to historians. We find that a strong predictor of greatness is the fraction of American lives lost in war during a president’s tenure. We find this predictor to be robust and compare favorably to other predictors used in previous historical research. We discuss potential reasons for this correlation and conclude with a discussion of how historians’ views might affect policy.
Estimating measurement error when annualizing health care costs

Objective Health insurers routinely annualize members’ health care costs for reporting, predicting high cost cases and evaluating health management programmes. Annualization is the practice of extrapolating to a yearly cost from less than a year of data. In this paper, we systematically estimate the measurement error inherent in this approach. Study design The paper uses a retrospective observational study using longitudinal claims data from three types of insured populations: Medicare managed care, public employees and a self-insured employer. Methods The unit of analysis was a block ‘year’ consisting of 12 consecutive months of cost data for any individual member. These blocks were constructed recursively allowing use of all available data that an individual could contribute. We tested the accuracy of the annualized costs by calculating the absolute error (AE) representing the difference, in dollars, between the actual annual costs and the predicted annual costs, and the absolute percentage error (APE) which is the absolute error divided by the actual 12-month costs. Results Under the best case scenario (when 11 months of data were used to annualize costs), the mean AE ranged from approximately $2700 for the Medicare population to about $400 for the two working-aged populations; and the mean APE ranged from 9.6% to 11.0% in the three populations. Accuracy diminished systematically with fewer months of available data. Conclusions Due to the largely unpredictable nature of monthly costs, annualization can produce substantial measurement error. Given the importance of cost metrics for decision making, we offer several alternative approaches that insurers should consider to improve measurement accuracy.
Learning with feature description logics

We present a paradigm for efficient learning and inference with relational data using propositional means. The paradigm utilizes description logics and concepts graphs in the service of learning relational models using efficient propositional learning algorithms. We introduce a Feature Description Logic (FDL) - a relational (frame based) language that supports efficient inference, along with a generation function that uses inference with descriptions in the FDL to produce features suitable for use by learning algorithms. These are used within a learning framework that is shown to learn efficiently and accurately relational representations in terms of the FDL descriptions. The paradigm was designed to support learning in domains that are relational but where the amount of data and size of representation learned are very large; we exemplify it here, for clarity, on the classical ILP tasks of learning family relations and mutagenesis. This paradigm provides a natural solution to the problem of learning and representing relational data; it extends and unifies several lines of works in KRR and Machine Learning in ways that provide hope for a coherent usage of learning and reasoning methods in large scale intelligent inference.
Boundary conditions to the effect of fluency and comprehension on AAD when targeting Hispanics vs Whites with single meaning vs polysemous slogans

Purpose – This paper aims to show that high ethnic identifying Hispanics and Whites pursue different routes discussed in the Elaboration Likelihood Model when processing single meaning versus polysemous slogan ads. The authors found that high ethnic identifying Hispanics used the peripheral route (processing fluency) to a higher extent compared to Whites who used the central route (comprehension) to process ads. Design/methodology/approach – In this study, 310 undergraduate students of a Southwestern university were randomly assigned to one of two conditions (slogan: single meaning vs polysemous) in a between-subjects experimental design. Subsequently, participants responded to statements measuring constructs of interest and demographics. Participants were debriefed at the end of the survey. Findings – It was found that high ethnic identifying Hispanics used the peripheral route (processing fluency) to a higher extent compared to Whites who used the central route (comprehension) to process advertisements....
Adenocarcinoma complicating regional enteritis: report of a case and review of the literature.

Summary A case is presented of a 60-year-old man who had regional enteritis for 31 years, with subsequent development of adenocarcinoma in an involved area of the small bowel. This is the 17th report of such an occurrence; comparisons are made with the 12 other cases reported in detail.
Improved Haptic Two-Port Networks Through Force Feedback and Admittance/Impedance Network Duality

This paper uses the two–port network with virtual coupling paradigm to analyze various haptic system architectures. Haptic Two–Port Network (H2 PN) numerical tuning algorithms and analysis techniques based on Llewelyn Stability Criterion are presented and lay the groundwork for testing haptic networks on HuRBiRT (Human Robotic Bilateral Research Tool), a large scale nonlinear hybrid active / passive haptic device. This paper presents the addition of local force feedback to the Impedance / Admittance (I/A) H2 PN to form the true dual of the Admittance / Impedance (A/I) H2 PN and explores alternative impedance and admittance virtual coupling forms. First, I/A and A/I H2 PN’s are numerically tuned using a linearized dynamic model of HuRBiRT and resulting admittance and impedance limits of the respective networks are compared to add insight on the duality of the two different implementations of haptic causality, with specific consideration given to the advantage of adding force feedback to the impedance network and selection of virtual coupling form. Second, I/A and A/I H2 PN’s are experimentally validated on HuRBiRT and resulting experimental networks are directly compared to those numerically formulated through use of HuRBiRT’s linearized dynamic models.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Long-column meniscus depletion sedimentation equilibrium technique for the analytical ultracentrifuge.

Abstract A simple modification of the meniscus depletion technique for sedimentation equilibrium studies in the ultracentrifuge is described. In this modification a relatively large volume of solvent is layered onto a small volume of sample solution in the capillary synthetic boundary cell. The presence of solute in the upper part of the cell at equilibrium can be detected unambiguously, equilibrium is attained in shorter time and at lower rotor speed, and the method can be applied to lower molecular weight solutes.
Van der Pauw measurement of metal fibre orientation in a plastic-metal composite

Stainless steel fibres in ABS plastic form a composite with an anisotropic resistivity. Samples are rectangular shapes with uniform thickness. By assuming two principal resistivities and by using van der Pauw's technique, we findϱ 2 =ϱ x ϱ y . For rectangular samples, field theory determinesϱ y /ϱ x and hence fibre direction. Results for three sample geometries agree with the theoretical predictions of the fibre patterns and with X-ray data. Samples formed by a centre-sprue feed are the best for fabricating large, uniform samples, while samples with a large length-to-width ratio have the most uniform metal density and fibre orientation. Resistivity was also measured by the more-common two-probe technique. Results correlate well to van der Pauw data, with 95% confidence.
Is a 2000-Year-Old Formula Still Keeping Some Secrets?

For example, a = b = c = 1 defines an equilateral triangle and the formula gives Area = V3/4. However a = 3, b = c = 1 does not define a triangle, and the formula produces 4 45 This would have made perfect sense to the ancientsthere is no triangle, and there is no number. Today we know more: 4 1.677i is indeed a number, and that creates a problem. Does it mean that a = 3, b = c = 1 really does define some triangle? The formula tantalizes us: for example, a = 1.99, b = c = 1 just barely defines a triangle; the formula correspondingly gives a very small real area, which becomes zero as a increases to 2. As a increases beyond 2, the sides at first just miss forming a triangle, and the formula produces small imaginary numbers; as a increases, the sides get further and further away from forming a triangle, and the imaginary numbers grow. It seems that the formula is tracking triangles we don't see, and is reporting their areas to us. What's going on? After two millennia, is Heron's Formula still keeping some secrets?
Reaction Dynamics of Phenyl Radicals (C6H5) with Propylene (CH3CHCH2) and Its Deuterated Isotopologues

The reactions between phenyl radicals (C6H5) and propylene (CH3CHCH2) together with its D6- and two D3-isotopologues were studied under single collision conditions using the crossed molecular beams technique. The chemical dynamics inferred from the center-of-mass translational and angular distributions suggests that the reactions are indirect and initiated by an addition of the phenyl radical to the α-carbon atom (C1 carbon atom) of the propylene molecule at the CH2 unit to form a radical intermediate (CH3CHCH2C6H5) on the doublet surface. Investigations with D6-propylene specified that only a deuterium atom was emitted; the phenyl group was found to stay intact. Studies with 1,1,2-D3- and 3,3,3-D3-propylene indicated that the initial collision complexes CH3CDCD2C6H5 (from 1,1,2-D3-propylene) and CD3CHCH2C6H5 (from 3,3,3-D3-propylene) eject both a hydrogen atom via rather loose exit transition states to form the D3-isotopomers of cis/trans-1-phenylpropene (CH3CHCHC6H5) (80−90%) and 3-phenylpropene (H2CCHC...
Independent development of sensory and motor innervation patterns in embryonic chick hindlimbs.

Previous studies suggest that sensory axon outgrowth is guided by motoneurons, which are specified to innervate particular target muscles. Here we present evidence that questions this conclusion. We have used a new approach to assess the pathfinding abilities of bona fide sensory neurons, first by eliminating motoneurons after neural crest cells have coalesced into dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and second by challenging sensory neurons to innervate muscles in a novel environment created by shifting a limb bud rostrally. The resulting sensory innervation patterns mapped with the lipophilic dyes DiI and DiA showed that sensory axons projected robustly to muscles in the absence of motoneurons, if motoneurons were eliminated after DRG formation. Moreover, sensory neurons projected appropriately to their usual target muscles under these conditions. In contrast, following limb shifts, muscle sensory innervation was often derived from inappropriate segments. In this novel environment, sensory neurons tended to make more "mistakes" than motoneurons. Whereas motoneurons tended to innervate their embryologically correct muscles, sensory innervation was more widespread and was generally from more rostral segments than normal. Similar results were obtained when motoneurons were eliminated in embryos with limb shifts. These findings show that sensory neurons are capable of navigating through their usual terrain without guidance from motor axons. However, unlike motor axons, sensory axons do not appear to actively seek out appropriate target muscles when confronted with a novel terrain. These findings suggest that sensory neuron identity with regard to pathway and target choice may be unspecified or quite plastic at the time of initial axon outgrowth.
Steady state feedback in mammalian phototransduction illustrated by a nomogram.

Abstract Published data characterizing the four reactions responsible for the Ca 2+ -mediated negative feedback in mammalian rod phototransduction were used to generate graphs which are combined in a circular fashion so that the y -axis of one serves as the x -axis of the next. The nomogran thus created makes it possible to determine by inspection the steady state situation in darkness, and the quasi-steady state situations that pertain shortly after exposure to light of different intensities. The results predicted by the nomogram suggest that Ca 2+ -mediated negative feedback is responsible for the Weber-Fechner relationship between stimulus and response.
Effect of a single 20-mg tablet of Atorvastatin on brachial artery blood flow in normolipidemic male smokers versus nonsmokers.

This study evaluated the acute effect of statin administration in smokers. We conducted a prospective study to determine the acute effect (24 hours) of single-dose atorvastatin (20 mg) on brachial artery endothelial function using vascular ultrasonography (flow-mediated vasodilation [FMD]) and blood flow in normolipidemic smokers (10 men, 42 ± 9 years of age) and healthy nonsmokers (10 men, 39 ± 7 years of age). Atorvastatin increased brachial artery percent FMD in smokers from 4.1 ± 1.4% to 5.7 ± 1.7% (p
Intraspecific Interactions and Risk of Predation for Dyspanopeus sayi (Decapoda: Xanthidae) Living on Polychaete (Filograna implexa, Serpulidae) Colonies

. Along the Atlantic coast of the United States, the mud crab Dyspanopeus sayi frequently occurs in crevices and depressions within aggregated calcareous tubes (termed “heads”) of the serpulid polychaete Filograna implexa. In New Jersey, U.S.A., waters, crab number was significantly correlated with the logarithm of worm tube colony volume. Laboratory experiments suggested that crabs compete for shelter within worm colonies. Additional laboratory experiments indicated that colony occupancy greatly decreased the risk of predation by blue crabs (Callinectes sapidus), and field tethering experiments also demonstrated that colony occupancy significantly decreased predation risk. Thus, the consequence of holding space on worm tube heads is a greatly increased probability of survival.
On Sternberg's “Reply to Gottfredson”

Abstract Sternberg disputes not a single point in my critique of his work on practical intelligence. Instead, he discusses his broader theory of successful intelligence and answers self-posed objections from unspecified critics. His discussion exhibits the same problematic mode of argument and use of evidence that my critique had documented: it repeats the unsubstantiated claims that critics question as if merely repeating them somehow rebutted the critics; it ridicules rather than answers critics while claiming to do the reverse; and it spuriously validates Sternberg's theory by reporting evidence selectively and inaccurately.
View from the center: Supercities conference

Abstract The Supercities Conference (26–30 October 1992) was the initial activity planned and executed by the Pacific Basin Study Center (PBSC), a research center founded by San Francisco State University and the University of California, Davis. The Conference focused on issues of environmental quality and the quest for sustainable development in the great urban centers—Supercities—of the Pacific. The Conference, with its working group process, highlighted the long-term commitment of the PBSC to education, training, and research in regard to environmental, energy, and resource utilization issues that challenge society now and the coming century. We define a “Supercity” as a large metropolitan area of about eight million population currently undergoing rapid growth in population and urbanization. Some of the cities considered at the conference are emerging “Supercities”—large urban complexes destined to soon be “Supercities”. Supercities in both the developing and developed nations are at critical stages of development, with the size and number of Supercities appearing to be unstoppable. These urban centers and their surrounding areas are large users of resources and energy. In many cases, the national demand for energy and materials will be largely patterned by the strategies, management, and actions taken within the Supercities. It is for this reason that our focus is on these dynamic, urban entities of the Pacific. Appropriate technology transfer, sharing of common concerns and knowledge, and the seeking of workable conservation and remediation efforts within Supercities could improve living conditions within these centers, and address regional and global environmental issues in parallel. The Conference focused on urban air quality conditions in 14 metropolitan areas, common health impacts, and projected emissions; a working group process defined needed areas for research and development of key information. Through the medium of panels, the progress of several major cities in addressing urban air quality issues was reported, as well as the rationale for the documented successes of environmental improvement. The Conference played a key role in the definition of the early research directions of the PBSC, and in the establishment of a Pacific Basin network of researchers and planners committed to the pursuit of sustainable development.
Mechanism of Activation of ERK2 by Dual Phosphorylation

The mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases are characterized by their requirement for dual phosphorylation at a conserved threonine and tyrosine residue for catalytic activation. The structural consequences of dual-phosphorylation in the MAP kinase ERK2 (extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2) include active site closure, alignment of key catalytic residues that interact with ATP, and remodeling of the activation loop. In this study, we report the specific effects of dual phosphorylation on the individual catalytic reaction steps in ERK2. Dual phosphorylation leads to an increase in overall catalytic efficiency and turnover rate of approximately 600,000- and 50,000-fold, respectively. Solvent viscosometric studies reveal moderate decreases in the equilibrium dissociation constants (K(d)) for both ATP and myelin basic protein. However, the majority of the overall rate enhancement is due to an increase in the rate of the phosphoryl group transfer step by approximately 60,000-fold. By comparison, the rate of the same step in the ATPase reaction is enhanced only 2000-fold. This suggests that optimizing the position of the invariant residues Lys(52) and Glu(69), which stabilize the phosphates of ATP, accounts for only part of the enhanced rate of phosphoryl group transfer in the kinase reaction. Thus, significant stabilization of the protein phosphoacceptor group must also occur. Our results demonstrate similarities between the activation mechanisms of ERK2 and the cell cycle control enzyme, Cdk2 (cyclin-dependent kinase 2). Rather than dual phosphorylation, however, activation of the latter is controlled by cyclin binding followed by phosphorylation at Thr(160).
The Year in Atherothrombosis

The present review aims to summarize relevant studies published during the last year in the field of atherothrombosis. A special emphasis was placed on the promotion of cardiovascular health worldwide, as well as on the need for a progressive shift from the treatment of advanced disease to early
Determining structure/function relationships for sarcomeric myosin heavy chain by genetic and transgenic manipulation of Drosophila.

Drosophila melanogaster is an excellent system for examining the structure/function relationships of myosin. It yields insights into the roles of myosin in assembly and stability of myofibrils, in defining the mechanical properties of muscle fibers, and in dictating locomotory abilities. Drosophila has a single gene encoding muscle myosin heavy chain (MHC), with alternative RNA splicing resulting in stage- and tissue-specific isoform production. Localization of the alternative domains of Drosophila MHC on a three-dimensional molecular model suggests how they may determine functional differences between isoforms. We are testing these predictions directly by using biophysical and biochemical techniques to characterize myosin isolated from transgenic organisms. Null and missense mutations help define specific amino acid residues important in actin binding and ATP hydrolysis and the function of MHC in thick filament and myofibril assembly. Insights into the interaction of thick and thin filaments result from studying mutations in MHC that suppress ultrastructural defects induced by a troponin I mutation. Analysis of transgenic organisms expressing engineered versions of MHC shows that the native isoform of myosin is not critical for myofibril assembly but is essential for muscle function and maintenance of muscle integrity. We show that the C-terminus of MHC plays a pivotal role in the maintenance of muscle integrity. Transgenic studies using headless myosin reveal that the head is important for some, but not all, aspects of myofibril assembly. The integrative approach described here provides a multi-level understanding of the function of the myosin molecular motor.
Convection and thermoregulation in two antarctic seabirds

1. Metabolism and heat transfer were measured at different wind speeds (V) and ambient temperatures (Ta) in Adelie penguins (Pygoscelis adeliae) and blue-eyed shags (Phalacrocorax atriceps). Five age classes of penguins (adults, fledglings, and 1-, 2-, and 3-kg downy chicks) and three age classes of shags (adults and 2- and 3-kg chicks) were studied. 2. In penguins, rates of oxygen consumption (\(\dot V_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} } \)) in the absence of forced convection increased with decreasingTa in downy chicks. The\(\dot V_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} } \) of fledglings and adults increased marginally at −20°C. Lower critical temperatures (T1c) were approximately 15–20°C for 1-kg chicks, −5°C for 2-kg chicks, and −10°C for 3-kg chicks, fledglings, and adults. In shags,T1c was approximately 0°C for all age classes, and\(\dot V_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} } \) increased substantially at −20°C. 3. Wind speeds of 3–6m·s−1 elicited significantly increased\(\dot V_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} } \) in all age classes of both species at −20°C. The largest increases were observed in adult and fledgling penguins (averaging 190% compared to\(\dot V_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} } \) in the absence of forced convection). At 0°C,V had smaller but still significant effects in shags, but in penguins wind had little effect on\(\dot V_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} } \) at thisTa. The\(\dot V_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} } \) of all age classes of both species was independent ofV at of 20°C. 4. The response of thermal conductance (C) to changingV andTa resembled that for\(\dot V_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} } \). TheC of fledglings and adults of both species increased rapidly with increasingV at lowTa but was independent ofV at highTa. In shags, minimalC did not differ significantly among age classes, but in penguinsC was highest in 1-kg chicks and lowest in adults. 5. In both penguins and shags, the responses of\(\dot V_{{\text{O}}_{\text{2}} } \) andC to changingV were similar in 3-kg downy chicks and adults, indicating that convection effects on down and feather plumages do not differ.
Heat transport in real spin-chain materials

Abstract The problem of heat transport in low-dimensional antiferromagnets that consist of 1D spin-chains coupled to three-dimensional phonons and impurities is discussed. Using an example of SrCuO 2 doped with Ca we show that the thermal conductivity in this class of materials should exhibit a ubiquitous behavior—saturation at higher temperatures. The reasons for such a behavior are outlined and a close agreement with the existing experimental data is demonstrated.
Systematization and the origin of rules: The case of subject-verb inversion in questions

One of the design features of language is its systematicity: to a considerable extent, the rules of grammar relate not to the world outside, but only to other rules. They exist in autonomy from external motivations. Subject-verb inversion in the Germanic languages as a marker of interrogatives is a well-known example of such an externally unmotivated rule. The notion of systematization implies a process whereby such rules have evolved from pre-systematic externally motivated origins. In this particular case: Greenberg’s constituent order universal #11 proposed that only those languages with sentence-initial interrogative words will ever allow subject-verb inversion in questions. There is, however, an obvious functional basis for fronting question words: Jespersen’s principle of actuality. Moreover, of the languages which front question words, many demarcate focussed from presupposed material by a focus-marking flag. In other languages, it may be that the verb itself may function as such a flag, that is, subject-verb inversion may be the functional analog of a demarcative focus marker. The best evidence for the functional unity of focus marking and subject-verb inversion is their complementary distribution, sometimes within the same language. The genuine systematicity of subject-verb inversion may then be the outcome of functional external motivations, and a series of analogical steps. More generally, it may be that other aspects of the autonomization or emancipation of language can be explained by reference to processes that are attested in observed language change. Analogy leads to systematization (and possibly even to recursiveness), as ritualization leads to displacement, and its linguistic aspects (sound change and grammaticalization) lead to arbitrariness, discreteness, and double articulation.
Computation vs. Experiment for High-Frequency Low-Reynolds Number Airfoil Plunge:

We seek to extend the literature on sinusoidal pure-plunge of 2D airfoils at high reduced frequency and low Reynolds number, by including effects of camber and nonzero mean incidence angle. We compare experimental results in a water tunnel using dye injection and 2D particle image velocimetry, with a set of computations in 2D — Immersed Boundary Method and unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier Stokes. The Re range is from 10,000 to 60,000, based on free stream velocity and airfoil chord, chosen to cover cases where transition in attached boundary layers would be of some importance, and where transition would only occur in the wake. Generally at high reduced frequency there is no Reynolds number effect. Mean angle of attack has significance, notionally, depending on whether it is below or above static stall. Computations were found to agree well with experimentally-derived velocity contours, vorticity contours and momentum in the wake. As found previously for the NACA0012, varying Strouhal number is found to c...
Evaluating proton stereotactic body radiotherapy to reduce chest wall dose in the treatment of lung cancer

Abstract Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) can produce excellent local control of several types of solid tumor; however, toxicity to nearby critical structures is a concern. We found previously that in SBRT for lung cancer, the chest wall (CW) volume receiving 20, 30, or 40 Gy (V20, V30, or V40) was linked with the development of neuropathy. Here we sought to determine whether the dosimetric advantages of protons could produce lower CW doses than traditional photon-based SBRT. We searched an institutional database to identify patients treated with photon SBRT for lung cancer with tumors within
Political knowledge in Poland

Abstract Using Polish panel data from 1998, 2003, and 2008, I examine people's knowledge of the governing parties of the Sejm in 2003. I focus on ability, opportunity, and motivation to explain political knowledge. I also examine the effects of knowledge on changes in political attitudes and behaviors from 2003 to 2008. Major sources of political knowledge are prior political interest and the change in interest from 1998 to 2003, political experience, and cognitive ability. There also exists a substantial gender gap in knowledge. Finally, political knowledge leads to changes in political interest, alienation, democratic attitudes, and voting behavior.
An Ion Selectivity Filter in the Extracellular Domain of Cys-loop Receptors Reveals Determinants for Ion Conductance

Neurotransmitter binding to Cys-loop receptors promotes a prodigious transmembrane flux of several million ions/s, but to date, structural determinants of ion flux have been identified flanking the membrane-spanning region. Using x-ray crystallography, sequence analysis, and single-channel recording, we identified a novel determinant of ion conductance near the point of entry of permeant ions. Co-crystallization of acetylcholine-binding protein with sulfate anions revealed coordination of SO4(2-) with a ring of lysines at a position equivalent to 24 A above the lipid membrane in homologous Cys-loop receptors. Analysis of multiple sequence alignments revealed that residues equivalent to the ring of lysines are negatively charged in cation-selective receptors but are positively charged in anion-selective receptors. Charge reversal of side chains at homologous positions in the nicotinic receptor from the motor end plate decreases unitary conductance up to 80%. Selectivity filters stemming from transmembrane alpha-helices have similar pore diameters and compositions of amino acids. These findings establish that when the channel opens under a physiological electrochemical gradient, permeant ions are initially stabilized within the extracellular vestibule of Cys-loop receptors, and this stabilization is a major determinant of ion conductance.
Synthetic-Aperture Radar Based on Nonsinusoidal Functions: IV-Tracking Radar and Beam Rider

Basic features of synthetic-aperture radar based on nonsinusoidal functions have been discussed in three previous papers [1]. This paper investigates the application of the principles to tracking radars and beam riders. The main area of application is for high-resolution all-weather radar. In this case, the highest significant frequency used is two orders of magnitude lower than for a radar using a sinusoidal carrier, if the same absolute bandwidth and thus the same information flow are used in both cases. Data for the angular resolution and the accuracy of angle measurement are obtained as functions of timing errors and mechanical tolerances. Angle measurements are based directly on the measurement of time diffemces, while radar with a sinusoidal carrier derives angles from the measurement of phase differences, which yield time differences with an ambiguity of multiples of the carrier period. The need to remove this ambiguity by spacing radiators or receptors no more than half a wavelength apart is a major reason for the very different design of radars with and without a sinusoidal carrier.
Native Conformation at Specific Residues in Inclusion Body Protein in Whole Cells Detected with Solid-State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

Recombinant protein expression is often plagued by the production of inclusion bodies which are insoluble aggregates of the expressed protein. Although little is known about the structures of inclusion body protein, one model is amyloid beta sheet structure. Residue-specific conformation of two recombinant proteins in inclusion bodies was probed by solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance. One protein was a 193-residue membrane protein and the other protein was a 92-residue soluble protein. The native conformations were predominantly helical. The 13CO chemical shifts of individual residues in the proteins were measured and correlated with local conformation. Three types of samples were studied: (1) purified protein which had native structure; (2) whole unlysed hydrated cells; and (3) the hydrated pellet formed from the insoluble material in the cell lysate. The 13CO signals from the latter two types of samples were predominantly from inclusion body protein. All measured 13CO chemical shifts in all samples correlated with helical rather than beta strand conformation. The data therefore suggest that much of the native fold is retained for these two proteins in hydrated inclusion bodies.View Large Image | View Hi-Res Image | Download PowerPoint Slide
A far wing line shape theory and its application to the foreign-broadened water continuum absorption. III

The far wing line shape theory developed previously and applied to the calculation of the continuum absorption of pure water vapor is extended to foreign‐broadened continua. Explicit results are given for H2O–N2 and H2O–CO2 in the frequency range from 0 to 10 000 cm−1. The theory is based on the quasistatic and binary collision approximations and assumes for the interaction potential an isotropic Lennard‐Jones part and the leading anisotropic multipolar (dipole–quadrupole) term. For H2O–N2, the positive and negative resonant frequency average line shape functions and absorption coefficients are calculated for a number of temperatures between 296 and 430 K for comparison with existing laboratory data. In general, the agreement is very good, especially at the higher temperatures for which the experimental absorption is larger and the corresponding error limits are smaller. For H2O–CO2 for which no experimental data exists, the calculations are made only at 296 K. Because of the significantly different line shapes for self vs foreign broadening, the ratio of the corresponding continuum absorption coefficients varies widely as a function of the frequency. The implications of this for absorption in the Earth’s atmosphere are discussed briefly.
A Recommended Standard for Voltages Appearing Across Publicly Accessible Surfaces

A review of a number of pertinent sources of research and published papers on stray voltage, contact voltage, and their physiological effects on humans and animals are utilized to support a proposed Standard for voltages appearing across publicly accessible surfaces.
International Law and the Future

Abstract Globalisation, 9/11 and the USA's ‘war on terror’ have shaken the foundations of 21st century world order, leading to consensus on the need for an effective and benevolent form of global governance, but there is little agreement on how this should be implemented. Distinguishing between Westphalian pessimists and optimists (the former doubtful of the state system's ability to solve the current crisis; the latter convinced that said system can be adapted and modified to do so), this article examines the different approaches currently being taken to global governance, concluding that a post-Westphalian solution must be achieved. However, it rejects the notion of benevolent (US) empire, with its reliance on militarisation and pre-emptive action, and argues instead for a law-oriented approach espousing cosmopolitan values and striving for global justice and global democracy. The rise of a global civil society and the growing influence of transnational social forces are among the trends that suggest th...
The Readability of Content Textbooks Used in Middle and Junior High Schools.

Current external criticism of American schooling includes an assumption that content textbooks used in upper grades fail to challenge the abilities of pupils. To investigate this assumption, the multiformula readabilities of 111 content textbooks currently employed in grades six through nine in 30 middle or junior high schools were obtained. Five and six formula, same sample readability data were collected and analyzed by 37 teacher researchers. Two or more formulas placed 49% of these texts one or more grade levels above grade of use. The results also were analyzed in light of current concerns about the accuracy and use of readability formulas. Readability placements varied notably and significantly between‐texts and within‐texts for each content area and grade level of use. Significant mean differences occurred in grade placement by formulas differing in comprehension criteria and in word count procedures. Extending sample selection from three to six and nine within‐text samples did not change readabili...
Thin film approaches for high-efficiency III–V cells

Abstract By analyzing the internal recombination losses in state-of-the-art GaAs solar cells, we demonstrate that such cells are approaching a material limit efficiency. Two new designs for III–V cells are then proposed and analyzed; both approaches make use of thin epitaxial layers. The first approach is to make use of light-trapping techniques to reduce volume recombination losses while maintaining the short-circuit current. Projections show that light trapping might add 2%–3% in efficiency. A second approach is to trap photons emitted during radiative recombination in order to enhance the bulk lifetime. With this approach, a 2% gain in efficiency is projected. These new design approaches will require the development of techniques for producing and processing thin epitaxial layers of GaAs, but they promise substantial gains in the efficiency of single-junction cells.
Early redox imbalance mediates hydroperoxide-induced apoptosis in mitotic competent undifferentiated PC-12 cells

Our recent study has demonstrated that cellular redox imbalance can directly initiate apoptosis in a mitotic competent PC-12 cell line without the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, whether cell apoptosis induced by ROS is, in fact, mediated by a loss of redox balance caused by the oxidant is unresolved. The linkage between oxidant-mediated apoptosis and the induction of cellular redox was examined in PC-12 cells using the oxidant, tert-butylhydroperoxide (TBH). TBH caused cell apoptosis in 24 h that was preceded by an early increase (30 min) in oxidized glutathione (GSSG). Pretreatment with N-acetyl cysteine prevented TBH-induced GSSG increases and cell apoptosis. Altered Bax/BcL-2 expression and release of mitochondrial cytochrome c occurred post-redox imbalance and was kinetically linked to caspase-3 activation and poly ADP-ribose polymerase cleavage. Moreover, cell apoptosis was attenuated by inhibition of caspase-9, but not caspase-8, and blockade of mitochondrial ROS generation and permeability transition pore attenuated caspase 3 activation and cell apoptosis. Collectively, these results show that TBH-induced GSSG elevation is associated with the disruption of mitochondrial integrity, activation of caspase-3 and cell apoptosis. This redox induction of the apoptotic cascade was dissociated from cellular GSH efflux.
X-ray characterization of epitaxially grown dilute magnetic semiconductors Zn1 − xFexSe(0 ⩽ x ⩽ 0.22)

Abstract Epitaxially grown Zn 1 − x Fe x Se films have been characterized by X-ray diffraction techniques. These films exhibit tetragonal distortion which varies with iron composition. Double-crystal topographs and rocking curves indicate that these films have a mosaic structure which also varies with iron content.
Combining corporate and marketing strategy for global competitiveness

Outlines effective corporate strategy‐marketing strategy relationships in the context of a behavioural segmentation framework for competing in the global marketplace. Evaluates standard, local and regional market strategies in conjunction with cost‐based, customer‐based and innovation‐based corporate strategies. Highlights key corporate strategy‐marketing strategy combinations in a global strategic marketing decision tree. These combinations enhance an organization’s ability to compete effectively in global consumer markets. Utilizes corporate examples to emphasize the effectiveness of these combinations. The premiss of this paper is that corporate strategy drives marketing strategy. Concludes that by recognizing the complex interrelationships between corporate and marketing strategy, organizations may achieve global strategic competitiveness.
The economic and food security implications of climate change in mali

The study focuses on economic and food security implications of projected climate change on Malian agriculture sector. Climate change projections made by two global circulation models are considered. The analysis focuses on the effects on crops, forages, and livestock and the resultant effects on sectoral economics and risk of hunger in Mali. Results show that under climate change, crop yield changes are in the range of minus 17% to plus 6% at national level. Simultaneously, forage yields fall by 5 to 36% and livestock animal weights are reduced by 14 to 16%. The resultant economic losses range between 70 to $142 million, with producers gaining, but consumers losing. The percentage of population found to be at risk of hunger rises from a current estimate of 34% to an after climate change level of 64% to 72%. A number of policy and land management strategies can be employed to mitigate the effects of climate change. In particular, we investigate the development of heat resistant cultivars, the adoption of existing improved cultivars, migration of cropping pattern, and expansion of cropland finding that they effectively reduce climate change impacts lowering the risk of hunger to as low as 28%.
Reduced cortical folding in individuals at high risk for schizophrenia: a pilot study

While cortical gyrification anomalies have been reported in schizophrenia, it is unknown if individuals at high risk for schizophrenia (HR) might also exhibit abnormal cortical folding. Using MRI scans, the gyrification index (GI) was calculated for 9 adolescent HR males and 12 healthy male controls. Using the first coronal slice anterior to the corpus callosum, cortical contours were manually traced to calculate the GI. The left GI was lower in HR when compared to controls, but no difference in the right GI was observed. These results are consistent with studies of affected individuals, supporting genetic and neurodevelopmental models of schizophrenia.
Library Support for Distance Learners: What Faculty Think

Abstract In 2001, Texas Tech University Library surveyed faculty who taught distance learning courses. This article reports the findings of the survey. Implicit in the article is the belief that a clear understanding of the needs and expectations of faculty serves as a foundation on which librarians can build a solid program of support for distance learners. This clear understanding may also serve as the basis for better strategies to educate faculty on how librarians can help improve distance learning courses. Unfortunately, what faculty think about library support for distance learning courses is not always clearly understood. To a significant extent, this limited understanding is due to the dearth of information in the professional literature on the subject. More surveys need to be completed and the results published so that distance learning librarians can better understand faculty and better inform them, optimizing support for distance learners.
Ripped, Shucked, and Scattered

Suggested citation for this article: Potter P. Ripped, shucked, and scattered. Emerg Infect Dis [Internet]. 2013 Aug [date cited]. http://dx.doi.org/10.3201/eid1908.AC1908
Probing androgen receptor co-factor selectivity profiles: a chemical tool to determine cross-talk between androgen receptor and β-catenin in vivo

Previous reports on Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) have described their activity primarily by their tissue selectivity in animal models. A few SARMs have been described with tissue selectivity ascribed to their diminished activity in promoting the intramolecular interaction between the androgen receptor (AR) carboxyl and amino termini. In the current study we characterized an AR ligand PF-05314882 that has an unusual in vitro selectivity profile in AR cell based assays. This SARM was previously reported to have tissue selective AR activity in rats. In the current study PF-05314882 bound to the AR ligand binding domain with good affinity and activated AR-mediated transcription in vitro. However, unlike naturally occurring androgens and other SARMs, PF-05314882 does not stimulate interaction between AR and β-catenin. Consistent with this observation, PF-05314882 had only weak activity on androgen-AR dependent inhibition of Wnt reporter activity. In castrated rats, the daily administration of PF-05314882 had anabolic activity on increasing levator ani muscle weight and elevating RNA expression of androgen regulated metabolic genes in the liver. Similar to previously described tissue selective SARMs, PF-05314882 has very little activity in the prostate, seminal vesicles and in repressing circulating luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. More importantly, since AR and β-catenin have been shown to play important roles in overlapping tissues including adipose, bone, hair and in diseases such as prostate cancer, PF-05314882 may be an important pharmacologic tool to elucidate the role and extent of cross-talk between AR and β-catenin.
Laterality differences in sensitivity to line orientation as a function of adaptation duration.

Since available evidence indicates that the two cerebral hemispheres are differentially sensitive to different types of stimulus information, and that they also utilize different strategies in processing information, is it possible that the two hemispheres are differentially sensitive to adaptation? Three groups of four subjects each were adapted to black and white gratings using three adapting durations: 500, 1,000, and 5,000 msec. Immediately following adaptation, a test grating was presented in either the left or right visual field. The task of the subject was to determine whether the lines of the adapting and test gratings had the same orientation or not. Analysis showed that in the 5,000-msec and 1,000-msec conditions, more errors occurred with left visual field presentations, responses to left visual field presentations took longer, and a bias-free measure showed that subjects were more sensitive to right visual field presentations. For the 500-msec group, there were no apparent differences between left and right visual fields presentations. The results indicate differential effects of adaptation on the two hemispheres, suggesting sensitivity differences between the two halves of the brain.