cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fragment occupations in partition density functional theory

The exact ground-state energy and density of a molecule can in principle be obtained via Partition Density Functional Theory (PDFT), a method for calculating molecular properties from Kohn–Sham calculations on isolated fragments. For a given choice of fragmentation, unique fragment densities are found by requiring that the sum of fragment energies be minimized subject to the constraint that the fragment densities sum to the correct molecular ground-state density. We investigate two interrelated aspects of PDFT: the connections between fragment densities obtained via different choices of fragmentation, for which we find “near-additivity”, and the nature of their corresponding fragment occupations. Whereas near-integer occupations arise for very large inter-fragment separations, strictly integer occupations appear for small inter-fragment separations. Cases where the fragment chemical potentials cannot be equalized lead to fragment occupations that lock into integers.
Participation in a Fluoride Dentifrice Brushing Trial Imparts Sustained Caries Protection

Article Title and Bibliographic Information Caries prevalence four years after the end of a randomised controlled trial. Pine, C. M., M. M. Curnow, G. Burnside, J. A. Nicholson and A. J. Roberts (2007). Caries Res 41(6):431-6. Level of Evidence Level 2 (Limited-quality, patient-oriented evidence) Strength of Recommendation Grade Grade B (Inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence) Purpose/Question The authors were interested in whether the anti-caries protection imparted by participation in RCT program of twice-daily or more brushing with a fluoride dentifrice lasted after cessation of the RCT. Source of Funding Information not available Type of Study/Design Randomized controlled trial
Two-axis Beam Steering Mirror Control system for Precision Pointing and Tracking Applications

Precision pointing and tracking of laser beams is critical in numerous military and industrial applications. This is particularly true for systems requiring atmospheric beam propagation. Such systems are plagued by environmental influences which cause the optical signal to break up and wander. Example applications include laser communications, precision targeting, active imaging, chemical remote sensing, and laser vibrometry. The goal of this project is to build a beam steering system using a two-axis mirror to maintain precise pointing control. Ultimately, position control to 0.08% accuracy (40 {micro}rad) with a bandwidth of 200 Hz is desired. The work described encompasses evaluation of the instrumentation system and the subsequent design and implementation of an analog electronic controller for a two-axis mirror used to steer the beam. The controller operates over a wide temperature range, through multiple mirror resonances, and is independent of specific mirrors. The design was built and successfully fielded in a Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory free-space optics experiment. All measurements and performance parameters are derived from measurements made on actual hardware that was built and field tested. In some cases, specific design details have been omitted that involve proprietary information pertaining to Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory patent positions and claims. Thesemore » omissions in no way impact the general validity of the work or concepts presented in this thesis.« less
A method for the determination of the transfer function of electronic circuits

A general method based on the Laplace expansion for determining the transfer function of a wide variety of linear electronic circuits is discussed. The technique developed requires only the calculation of a number of driving-point resistances to specify the coefficients of the transfer function. Dominant-pole techniques are used and extended, making the procedure useful in both analysis and design. As computation only involves resistance networks, complex arithmetic is not required in determination of the response.
Mourning Becomes Elective: Teaching about and Managing Termination in the Classroom

This article suggests that termination is an important, and often neglected, topic for management educators. It discusses termination both as part of management course content and as an influence on classroom dynamics. Basic termination issues are explored from a theoretical perspective. The authors then present suggestions for integrating specific ideas about termination into course content and for managing termination in the classroom in a manner that enhances learning.
Association between statin use and the incidence of atrial fibrillation following hospitalization for coronary artery disease

Mounting evidence suggests that statins possess antiarrhythmic properties and inhibit atrial fibrillation (AF). The goal of this study was to evaluate the relation between statin use and new-onset AF in a large cohort of patients with coronary artery disease. We identified all Medicare beneficiaries ≥65 years old who had been hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction or coronary revascularization from 1995 to 2004 and participated in 1 of 2 government-sponsored medication benefit programs. Patients with a history of AF before and during hospitalization were excluded. This yielded a cohort of 29,088. The incidence of new AF was compared between patients who were (n = 8,450) and were not (n = 20,638) prescribed statins within 1 month of hospital discharge after their cardiac event. New-onset AFs within 5 and 10 years were 32.6% and 51.2%, respectively, in patients who received statins compared to 38.3% and 58.0% in patients who did not receive statins (unadjusted hazard ratio 0.82, 95% confidence interval 0.78 to 0.86). Multivariable analysis controlling for demographic and clinical confounders indicated that statin use independently decreased the risk of developing new-onset AF compared to nonusers (adjusted hazard ratio 0.90, 95% confidence interval 0.85 to 0.94). Adjustment for propensity-score and health-seeking behaviors yielded nearly identical results. In conclusion, statin therapy initiated within 1 month after hospital discharge is independently associated with a decrease in the risk of new-onset AF after myocardial infarction or coronary revascularization. These findings lend support to the antiarrhythmic effects of statins and suggest another benefit for their use in patients with coronary artery disease.
Opioid-Receptor Subtype Agonist-Induced Enhancements of Sucrose Intake are Dependent Upon Sucrose Concentration

Abstract Ruegg, H., W-Z. Yu and R. J. Bodnar. Opioid-receptor subtype agonist-induced enhancements of sucrose intake are dependent upon sucrose concentration. Physiol Behav 62(1) 121–128, 1997.—Selective mu ([D-Ala2, N-Me-Phe4, Gly-ol5]-enkephalin (DAMGO)), delta1 ([D-Pen2, D-Pen5]-enkephalin (DPDPE)), delta2 ([D-Ala2, Glu4]-Deltorphin (Delt II)), kappa1 (U50488H) and kappa3 (naloxone benzoylhydrazone (NalBzOH) opioid agonists each stimulate food intake in rats. Whereas studies with selective opioid antagonists implicate mu and kappa1 receptors in the mediation of sucrose intake, studies with selective opioid agonists implicate mu and delta receptors in the mediation of saccharin intake. The present study determined if specific delta1, delta2, kappa1, kappa3 and mu opioid-receptor subtype agonists produced similar alter- ations in sucrose intake as a function of sucrose concentration (0.5%, 2.5%, 10%) across a 1-h time-course. Each of these agonists significantly increased sucrose intake with variations in pattern, magnitude, and consistency as a function of sucrose concentration. Whereas the mu opioid agonist, DAMGO, and the delta1 opioid agonist, DPDPE, each enhanced sucrose intake at higher (2.5%, 10%), but not lower (0.5%), concentrations, the delta2 opioid agonist, Delt II, increased sucrose intake at lower (0.5%, 2.5%), but not higher (10%), concentrations. Kappa opioid agonists produced less consistent effects. The kappa1 opioid agonist, U50488H, increased sucrose intake at high (10%) concentrations and decreased sucrose intake at low (0.5%) concentrations, and the kappa3 opioid agonist, NalBzOH, inconsistently increased sucrose intake at the 0.5% (20 μg) and 10% (1 μg) concentrations. Thus, these data further implicate mu, delta1, and delta2 opioid mediation of palatable intake, particularly of its orosensory characteristics.
Analysis of heart rate variability for predicting cardiorespiratory events in infants

Abstract Cardiorespiratory events (CREs), including bradycardia and apnea, in infants are a major concern for physicians and families. Our hypothesis was that there is a difference in the heart rate variability (HRV) of infants who have CREs when compared to normal control infants. The purpose of this study was to develop CRE prediction models based on HRV measured during a polysomnographic (PSG) recording. ANCOVA analysis accounting for factors such as age and sleep state show a relationship between HRV variables and CRE. Prediction models, including neural networks and support vector machines, were developed to predict CRE within either (a) 1-week or (b) 1-month after the PSG. The support vector machine prediction accuracy, for CRE susceptibility one month after the PSG on an independent testing dataset, was 50.0% sensitivity and 82.6% specificity. Although the developed prediction models were not sufficiently accurate for clinical decision making, these results support the potential role of abnormalities in autonomic control of heart rate among infants at risk for CREs.
Fear of (re)injury as a predictor of chronic pain, disability and distress: A validation and age analysis using structural equation modeling

The fear-avoidance (FA) model postulates that fear of movement/(re)injury represents a response to pain that is influenced by catastrophizing. This fear contributes to avoidance behaviors, and subsequently disuse, depression and increased disability. Although components of this model have been tested and supported, the full multivariate FA model has not been empirically validated. Possible age differences in the FA model also have not been investigated. We employed structural equation modeling (SEM) for confirmatory analyses of the model in a sample of 474 (54% female) chronic pain patients undergoing initial evaluations in an interdisciplinary university-based pain management center. Participants completed a comprehensive evaluation, including measures of catastrophizing, fear of (re)injury, pain disability, depression, and pain severity. To evaluate potential age differences, the sample was divided into three groups: young 40 (n 155), middle-aged 41-54 (n 199), older 55 (n 120). Fear of (re)injury was assessed with the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK). Confirmatory factor analyses supported the 2-factor structure of the TSK (Avoidance, Somatic Focus) within all age groups. Using SEM, the multivariate fear-avoidance model was found to provide a strong fit to the data (AGFI .96, CFI .95, RMSEA .04), and to be invariant across the 3 age groups. Older adults had significantly lower TSK scores, though clinical significance of these differences was modest. Results provide empirical confirmation of the fear-avoidance model, and its applicability across age groups of chronic pain patients. Findings of lower fear of (re)injury among older adults are contrary to stereotypical assumptions based on increased frailty or physical vulnerability. Implications for treatment and future research are discussed.
Accelerated phase of Chédiak-Higashi syndrome diffuse white-matter-enhancing lesions.

We present the CT and MRI findings of a patient with Chediak-Higashi syndrome in the accelerated phase with marked white-matter abnormalities. Pathologic and clinical features allow diagnosis of this condition, which in this case had dramatic neuroradiographic manifestations not well described in previous reports.
Current status of hospital management information systems

Advanced information systems are becoming a critical factor for hospitals to meet internal needs and external demands. This article reviews the current approaches for usage of hospital information systems, and presents the results of a 1983 survey which examines the actual state of use in an urban area. Data show that most of the hospitals have a management information system with a few planning management science and decision support capability. However, there seems to be a lag between examples in the literature and common practice.
Partner violence before and after couples-based alcoholism treatment for male alcoholic patients: the role of treatment involvement and abstinence.

This study examined partner violence before and after behavioral couples therapy (BCT) for 303 married or cohabiting male alcoholic patients and used a demographically matched nonalcoholic comparison sample. In the year before BCT, 60% of alcoholic patients had been violent toward their female partner, 5 times the comparison sample rate of 12%. In the 1st and 2nd year after BCT, violence decreased significantly from the year before BCT, and clinically significant violence reductions occurred for patients whose alcoholism was remitted after BCT. Structural equation modeling indicated that greater treatment involvement (attending BCT sessions and using BCT-targeted behaviors) was related to lower violence after BCT and that this association was mediated by reduced problem drinking and enhanced relationship functioning. Language: en
Functional Multilayer Ceramic Substrate for Rfmodules

The trend to smaller thinner and lighter portable electronics is accelerating to the market. These demands are required in RF modules. We have developed a Functional multilayer ceramic substrate (F-MLCS) with a flexible ceramic dsign technology to realize size reduction ofRF modules with low power consumption, high efficiency, and low cost. The F-MLCS incorporates built-in coupler and inductor, capacitor to compose impedance matching circuits. Flexibility in the design of the inductor, capecitor, and coupler is essential to realize miniaturization of RF modules. Adopting of F-MLCS for RF modules, with built-in inductor, capacitor, and coupler, has shown to significantly reduce size to 5.0mm × 7.0mm × 0.7mm. The impedance matching circuit and coupler have met the simulation results to clearly show achievement of high performance.
Upright retrograde P waves during ventricular tachycardia

Abstract The morphology and axis of retrograde atrial activation have been well defined: a negative deflection in leads II, III and aVF, reflecting a frontal plane axis of −31 to −100 degrees. 1,2 Retrograde P waves upright in the same leads are well documented 3 but exceedingly rare in clinical electrocardiography. When observed in association with broad ventricular complexes, they can be mistaken for upright P waves of sinoatrial initiation and can be responsible for resulting misdiagnoses. 4 An example of ventricular tachycardia with positive yet undoubtedly retrograde P waves is described below.
The viability of microorganisms in carious lesions five years after covering with a fissure sealant

After five years, fewer bacteria were found in carious teeth covered with o sealant than were found in teeth that were not sealed. Carious lesions that were covered with a pit and fissure sealant for five years yielded bacterial cultures that were predominantly negative. Sixteen of 18 test sites judged to have active caries in 1972 were found inactive in 1977; ten of 12 sites suspected to have caries in 1972 were deemed to have inactive cariesin 1977. Sealant treatment resulted in an apparent 89% reversal from a caries-active to a caries-inactive state. These data confirm and extend previous observations that a limited number of cultivable organisms persist in some lesions but their numbers are few, and they do not appear capable of continuing the destruction of tooth structure.
Culture-Based Considerations in Programming for Stuttering Intervention With African American Clients and Their Families

This article describes a clinical framework that may be used with African American children who stutter and their families. It includes discussion of the clinical importance of culture-based factors such as myths, oral presentation styles, narrative discourse styles, and cognitive learning styles, as well as rules for interaction and turn-taking. These factors are considered relative to the various clinical stages in the evaluation and treatment of stuttering in African Americans.
Transient Ischemic Attack Presenting as Alien Hand Syndrome (P05.241)

Objective: To describe a case of transient Alien Hand Syndrome. Background Alien hand syndrome has been described for over a century as a condition where a patient reports uncontrollable movements of a limb associated with subjective complaints that it feels foreign or alien. It is an uncommon consequence of stroke and is usually associated with a protracted course. We encountered a case with typical but transient presentation of alien syndrome suggestive of transient ischemic attack (TIA). Design/Methods: Case report of a patient admitted to the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Results: An 80 year-old right-handed man with a history of hypertension and coronary artery disease presented with episodes of sudden onset left arm paralysis and decreased sensation, followed by levitation and grasping movements beyond his control. He reported having several episodes, each lasting for 10-15 minutes, over a period of approximately 3 hours. He had no residual deficit on examination approximately 8 hours from onset. Magnetic resonance imaging scan (including DWI/ADC sequences) of the brain did not show any evidence of infarction. Additional studies included magnetic resonance angiogram of the head and neck, echocardiogram (TEE), ECG, cardiac telemetry, electroencephalogram, coagulation studies, lipid profile, complete blood count and serum chemistry, and all were normal or unrevealing. Anti-platelet therapy and treatment of vascular risk factors were initiated. No recurrence of symptoms and excellent compliance with the medication regimen were noted after 6 months of follow-up. Conclusions: The presence of transient neurological symptoms in this case is consistent with a diagnosis of TIA based on the most recent tissue-based definition: a transient episode of neurological dysfunction without acute infarction (Easton JD et al, Stroke, 2009). This case adds Alien Hand Syndrome to the complex range of clinical presentations of TIA. Supported by: Department of Veteran Affairs. Disclosure: Dr. Vaughn has nothing to disclose. Dr. Reyna has nothing to disclose. Dr. Farrow has nothing to disclose. Dr. Prodan has nothing to disclose.
Bending of thin circular rings

Abstract The basic equations for the bending of circular rings are deduced from a set of accurate equations for circular cylindrical shells. The advantages in using these differential equations as compared with the customary energy method are shown through examples. It turns out that solutions of these equations can be as easily obtained as solutions of the well-known differential equation for straight beams. It is also shown that the center line of the ring is essentially inextensible, which is assumed ab initio in the classical ring theory.
A Note on the MT-Consumption Model

(1) Delete Theorem 1 and its proof on page 399 of [2]. (2) In the proof of Theorem 3 on page 400 of [2] make the following changes: (a) In line 2 of the proof change "by either of the two preceding theorems", to "by Theorem 2". (b) In line 6 of the proof change the first sentence to read: "If the solutions satisfy Theorem 2, halt". The authors of [2] are grateful to Professor Ballarini for pointing out our error.
Water quality standards: Everglades National Park

Water quality criteria were developed for delivery waters to Everglades National Park. The park receives a minimum of 12.34 m3/sec (315,000 acre-ft/yr) of water from controlled sources external to its boundary. These waters often originate from areas that are or potentially are impacted from urban and agricultural developments. When, in 1970, the U.S. Congress guaranteed minimum water deliveries to Everglades National Park, it also required that these waters be of good quality.
Transformation of NIH/3T3 mouse cells by DNA of Rous sarcoma virus

Abstract NIH/3T3 mouse cells were transformed by integrated and unintegrated DNAs of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV)-infected chicken cells without production of progeny virus. In addition, DNA of the replication-defective Bryan high titer strain of RSV transformed NIH/3T3 cells, indicating that transformation of NIH/3T3 cells by RSV DNA did not require virus replication. The efficiency of transformation of NIH/3T3 cells by RSV DNA was similar to the efficiency of transformation of these cells by murine sarcoma virus DNA and to the efficiency of transfection of chicken embryo fibroblasts by RSV DNA. NIH/3T3 cells transformed by RSV DNA were morphologically similar to cells transformed by virus infection and were capable of anchorage-independent growth in soft agar. Stable inheritance of intact RSV genomes by RSV DNA-transformed NIH/3T3 cells was demonstrated by rescue of virus from these cells after fusion with chicken embryo fibroblasts and by transfection assays of the DNAs of RSV DNA-transformed NIH/3T3 cells on chicken embryo fibroblasts. Analysis of the DNAs of RSV DNA-transformed NIH/3T3 cells by restriction endonuclease digestion and nucleic acid hybridization indicated that RSV genomes were linked to cellular DNA sequences. It therefore appeared that transformation of NIH/3T3 cells by RSV DNA occurred by direct integration and stable expression of the donor DNA, rather than by production of extracellular progeny virus and secondary virus infection, as was previously shown to be required for transformation of chicken embryo fibroblasts by RSV DNA.
FTIR Spectrum Of The N4+ Molecular Ion Trapped In Solid Neon

In studies of the codeposition at 4 K of a Ne:N2 = 100 or 200 mixture with a beam of neon atoms excited in a microwave discharge, a weak to moderately intense absorption at 2237.6 cm-1 can be assigned to the N4+ molecular cation. Earlier mass spectrometric studies had determined that N4+ is bound by approximately 23 kcal/mol with respect to N2 + N2+. Both ab initio calculations and electron spin resonance observations have indicated that N4 has a linear structure in its ground state. The analysis of the FTIR spectrum is also consistent with a linear structure. The sensitivity of the Bomem DA3.002 FTIR instrument used for these studies is sufficiently great for detection of the high frequency symmetric stretching absorption of several of the noncentrosymmetric isotopic species of N4+. A least squares force constant fit to the isotopic data provides a satisfactory assignment for all of the observed peaks.© (1989) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Anaerobic cilio-excitation and metabolic stimulation by 5-hydroxytryptamine in bivalve gill.

Abstract 1. 1. 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) exerts a cilio-excitatory effect in the gills of Modiolus demissus and Mytilus edulis under the anaerobic conditions described. 2. 2. The anaerobic cilio-excitation can be blocked by the metabolic inhibitors of glycolysis, iodoacetate and fluoride. 3. 3. Anaerobic glycolytic rates, determined by standard manometric techniques, are markedly stimulated by 5-HT in Modiolus gill, and to a lesser extent in Mytilus gill. 4. 4. The addition of dextrose or adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and, to a greater extent, dextrose plus ATP produced increased rates of glycolysis in the gills of both species. 5. 5. 5-HT stimulated the dextrose- or the ATP-enhanced rates, but it had no stimulatory effect in the presence of dextrose plus ATP. 6. 6. Glycolytic rates of gill homogenates were also studied, and the effects of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), fructose-6-phosphate (F-6-P), and fructose-1,6-diphosphate (FDP) are reported. 7. 7. It is suggested, on the basis of indirect evidence, that 5-HT exerts its effect in this system by activating phosphoglucomutase.
Long-lived oxidants generated by human neutrophils: characterization and bioactivity

Human neutrophils were found to generate an unusual class of oxidants with a half-life of approximately 18 hours and with characteristics similar to, if not identical with, those of N-chloroamines. These neutrophil-derived N-chloroamines have sufficient oxidizing potential to attack sulfhydryl- or thioether-containing compounds and can react with both a methionine-containing chemotactic peptide and a plasma protease inhibitor. As judged by their stability and selective reactivity, the N-chloroamines generated by stimulated neutrophils may play an important role in the local and systemic regulation of inflammatory events in vivo.
Human liver glycogen phosphorylase inhibitors bind at a new allosteric site

Abstract Background : Glycogen phosphorylases catalyze the breakdown of glycogen to glucose-1-phosphate for glycolysis. Maintaining control of blood glucose levels is critical in minimizing the debilitating effects of diabetes, making liver glycogen phosphorylase a potential therapeutic target. Results : The binding site in human liver glycogen phosphorylase (HLGP) for a class of promising antidiabetic agents was identified crystallographically. The site is novel and functions allosterically by stabilizing the inactive conformation of HLGP. The initial view of the complex revealed key structural information and inspired the design of a new class of inhibitors which bind with nanomolar affinity and whose crystal structure is also described. Conclusions : We have identified the binding site of a new class of allosteric HLGP inhibitors. The crystal structure revealed the details of inhibitor binding, led to the design of a new class of compounds, and should accelerate efforts to develop therapeutically relevant molecules for the treatment of diabetes.
Comparative biodistribution of meta‐Tetra (Hydroxyphenyl) chlorin in multiple species: Clinical implications for photodynamic therapy

Background and Objective: To optimize photodynamic therapy, it is necessary to know the distribution of photosensitizer in normal tissue as well as tumors and to know how well animal models match human. This study measured the biodistribution of meta-Tetra(Hydroxyphenyl) Chlorin (mTHPC) in three species of animals and in humans. Study Design/Materials and Methods: mTHPC was injected intravenously into dogs, rabbits, rats, and humans, and drug levels in various tissues were determined 6 days later. One dog was perfused with 3 L of saline to remove blood trapped within organs. Results: Absolute and relative concentrations of drug in specific tissues varied between species and between individuals. There was a general pattern of distribution. Highly vascularized tissues had the highest levels of mTHPC, not simply due to trapping of blood. mTHPC did not localize in bone and did not cross the blood-brain barrier. Humans had much higher levels of drug in their plasma and tissues than did animals. Conclusions: First, drug retention varies from one tissue to another. Second, there is significant variability from one individual to another, whether animal or human. Third, current models cannot accurately predict from animal studies the optimum dose for humans. Measurement of photosensitizer level in plasma at time of treatment would allow optimal photodynamic dosing.
Efficacy of Adderall and methylphenidate in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a drug–placebo and drug–drug response curve analysis of a naturalistic study

Stimulant medication has, for many years, been the pharmacological treatment of choice for children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Recently, several studies have documented the efficacy of a new stimulant, Adderall. Although these initial studies provide useful information for clinicians treating ADHD children, their method of data presentation has provided limited information about the clinical significance of drug effects. Thus, to address the issue of clinical significance, we completed drug-placebo response curve analyses of a blinded, placebo-controlled study of Adderall and methylphenidate (MPH). Our results show that the efficacy of Adderall and MPH to improve functioning is seen throughout the full range of improvement scores. Both drugs prevent worsening and, for a majority of patients, lead to improvements that are well into the normal range. The analyses also highlight an important subgroup of placebo responders, which suggests that future research should focus on how to predict robust placebo response in ADHD patients.
An Effect of Chlorpromazine on Rat Mitochondrial Membranes

THE phenothiazines used in therapy appear to affect membranes in many biological systems. Thus, Greig et al. 1, among others, have shown that promethazine, a phenothiazine type of antihistaminic drug, prevents the usual deterioration of red blood cells during storage. This presumably is a membrane effect. The frog gastrocnemius muscle swells when placed in distilled water. This water imbibition can be partially prevented by chlorpromazine2. A few in vivo experiments may be cited as well. Thus, the metrazol-enhanced passage of dyes into the brain is antagonized by chlorpromazine3 ; the absorption of sugar from the intestine4 and drugs from subcutaneous depots5 are both retarded by chlorpromazine. Close inspection of the entire literature dealing with the actions of chlorpromazine on all types of biological systems revealed that most of the test systems employed contained semipermeable membranes of one type or another (cellular or sub-cellular). For this reason the possibility should be considered that these structures are the primary loci of attack by the drug, while the numerous other reported effects may be secondary.
Ultrahigh Pressure Metamorphism: Cambridge Topics in Petrology

The field of ultra-high pressure metamorphism (UHPM) emerged only 12 years ago when microscopic relics of coesite were found in crustal rocks that had been metamorphosed during subduction related to continental collision. Coesite-bearing metamorphic rocks were soon found elsewhere, and then metamorphic microdiamonds were discovered. Suddenly, the pressure axis for orogenic metamorphism had expanded from 1.5–2.0 to 3.0–4.0 GPa!
Lower-Tropospheric Height Tendencies Associated with the Shearwise and Transverse Components of Quasigeostrophic Vertical Motion

The recent suggestion that lower-tropospheric cyclogenesis is predominantly a result of column stretching associated with the updraft portion of the shearwise quasigeostrophic (QG) vertical motion is quantified through direct calculation of 900-hPa height tendencies via the QG vorticity equation. Comparison of the separate lower-tropospheric height tendencies associated with the shearwise and transverse portions of QG omega in a robust cyclogenesis event demonstrates that the shearwise updraft drives the largest part (80%) of the cyclogenetic height falls at least through the end of the mature stage of the life cycle. The lower-tropospheric height falls and vorticity production near the sea level pressure minimum of the occluded surface cyclone are driven nearly equally by shearwise and transverse updrafts.
Synthesis of telechelic polyacrylates with unsaturated end-groups

Abstract A convenient, one-pot synthesis of telechelic and semi-telechelic polyacrylates with unsaturated end-groups has been developed. Atom transfer radical polymerization of methyl or n -butyl acrylate was initiated with either ethyl α-bromomethylacrylate or methyl dichloroacetate, as a monofunctional or difunctional initiator, respectively, and mediated with various Cu/amine complexes. Addition of excess ethyl 2-bromomethylacrylate was found to not only immediately quench the polymerization but also installed 2-carbethoxyallyl moieties on the ends of the polymer chains. The telechelic polymers were found to undergo thermally or photochemically induced crosslinking reactions.
Misfolded, protease-resistant proteins in animal models and human neurodegenerative disease

Neurodegeneration in the substantia nigra has been known to be a constant feature of Parkinson disease (PD) since the early part of the twentieth century, when Tretiakoff (1) correlated the clinical findings of patients with PD with postmortem pathology. A few years earlier, Lewy had described concentric hyaline inclusions within neurons, which are now referred to as Lewy bodies (LBs) (2). LBs are a sine qua non for the neurodegeneration that characterizes PD, but they are also found in nonparkinsonian disorders, most notably dementia with Lewy bodies (3). LBs are composed of filamentous aggregates of α-synuclein (4), and immunohistochemistry for synuclein is currently the most sensitive method for detecting LBs in brain tissue. Ubiquitin is another key component of LBs (5), and widespread use of immunohistochemical methods for detecting LBs, first with ubiquitin and later with synuclein antibodies, demonstrated that pathology in these disorders extended beyond LBs within neuronal perikarya to fibrillar lesions within neuritic processes, so-called Lewy neurites. Neuritic pathology is more widespread than LBs and affects regions of the brain, such as the hippocampus (6), that were not previously considered affected in PD. More recently, using antibodies to modified forms of α-synuclein (7) or sensitive antigen retrieval methods, it has been discovered that LBs are more prevalent and Lewy neurites more widespread than previously recognized. For example, LBs are present in a high proportion of Alzheimer brains (8), and the basal ganglia contain many Lewy neurites (7). The report by Neumann et al. in this issue of the JCI moves the field forward another step (9). The authors have employed a method for detecting abnormal forms of α-synuclein that may not necessarily be composed of fibrillar structures, which are the feature that permits ready detection of α-synuclein in LBs and Lewy neurites in tissue sections.
A Comparison of Bone Density and Dietary Intake in Postmenopausal Women who are Receiving and not Receiving Hormone Replacement Therapy

Abstract LEARNING OUTCOME: Identify dietary factors related to bone density in postmenopausal women receiving and not receiving hormone replacement therapy. Differences in bone density and dietary intake were examined in 38 postmenopausal women, aged 54 to 78 years. Fifteen were receiving hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and 23 were not (NHRT). Bone density in the lumbar spine (BDSP),femoral neck (BDN), Ward's triangle (BDW) and trochanter (BDTR) were assessed using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Three day diet records were analyzed for average energy and nutrient intake. Average dietary intakes of calcium were adjusted for calcium content of supplements consumed. Analysis of variance was used to determine differences in bone density and dietary intake. No significant differences in bone density were found between the two groups. Mean calcium intake was significantly greater (p=0.007) in the HRT group than the NHRT group. No other significant differences in dietary intake were found. When grouped by calcium intake, eight women who consumed a daily mean of 1500mg or more of calcium had significantly lower BDW (p=0.03) than those consuming less. These women may have increased their calcium intake related to their perceived risk of osteoporosis. Pearson correlation coefficients showed calcium intake was significantly associated with BDN (p=0.02), BDW (p=0.04) and BDTR (p=0.02) but not BDSP for 30 women whose mean intake of calcium was below 1500mg.Identification of factors associated with bone density in postmenopausal women can assist in implementing education and lifestyle changes to prevent osteoporosis.
Multivalent group A streptococcal vaccine designed to optimize the immunogenicity of six tandem M protein fragments

One of the major challenges in the development of group A streptococcal M protein-based vaccines is the multiplicity of M types expressed by these organisms. Previous studies have shown that multivalent vaccines containing as many as eight M protein fragments in tandem were immunogenic and evoked opsonic antibodies. It was also noted that the C-terminal fragments of these hybrid proteins were often not immunogenic or evoked only low levels of opsonic antibodies, suggesting that the C-terminus of the molecule may have been preferentially degraded or altered in vivo. In the present studies, we designed a hexavalent vaccine containing protective M protein peptides from types 24, 5, 6, 19, 1, and 3 group A streptococci. In order to "protect" the carboxy-terminal components, the amino-terminal M24 fragment was reiterated on the carboxy-terminal end of the construct. The hexavalent vaccine was immunogenic in laboratory animals and evoked high titers of antibodies against each of the native M proteins represented in the vaccine and bactericidal antibodies against all six sterotypes of group A streptococci. The vaccine was equally immunogenic when delivered in alum or in complete Freund's adjuvant. None of the immune sera contained antibodies that crossreacted with human heart tissue. Our results show that complex multivalent group A streptococcal vaccines can be designed in such a way that each M protein fragment is immunogenic and evokes protective antibodies.
Drosophila GABA-gated chloride channel: modified [3H]EBOB binding site associated with Ala-->Ser or Gly mutants of Rdl subunit

The non-competitive blocker site of the GABA-gated chloride ion channel in normal susceptible strains of Drosophila melanogaster and simulans binds 4-n-[3H]propyl-4'-ethynylbicycloorthobenzoate ([3H]EBOB) at specific sites with KdS of 1.6-1.9 nM and BmaxS of 171-181 fmol/mg protein. This specific binding of [3H]EBOB is strongly inhibited by: a large number and variety of insecticidal channel blockers at 20 nM (lindane, alpha-endosulfan, dieldrin, 12-ketoendrin, fipronil, and a representative bicycloorthobenzoate and dithiane) or 200 nM (picrotoxinin); the insecticidal channel activators avermectin and moxidectin at 20 nM; muscimol at 30 microM and GABA at 300 microM. Cyclodiene resistance in D. melanogaster has been attributed to a mutation resulting in an Ala302-->Ser replacement in the Rdl GABA receptor subunit and in D. simulans to an homologous Ala-->Ser or Gly replacement. These mutations are shown here to greatly reduce [3H]EBOB binding, i.e. lower affinity and apparent number of binding sites. The Ala-->Ser replacement with both melanogaster and simulans almost always reduces the potency in inhibiting [3H]EBOB binding of each of eight channel blockers and of muscimol and GABA. The Ala-->Gly replacement in D. simulans is generally less effective than the Ala-->Ser modification in reducing sensitivity to the channel blockers and to muscimol and GABA. The channel activators avermectin and moxidectin usually retain their inhibitory potency in the Rdl subunit mutants. Thus, it appears that replacement of Ala by Ser generally modifies the non-competitive blocker site and its coupling to the GABA-recognition site with less effect on the channel activator site. In contrast, the Ala-->Gly replacement has less impact in protecting the chloride channel from the action of insecticidal blockers. Each of the resistant strains has the same level of resistance to the lethal action of the five channel blockers examined but none to avermectins and muscimol.
In vitro study of antifungal activity of nitrostyrenes.

SummaryIn screening 53 compounds with chemical formulae related to the stilbene nucleus for antifungal activity by the serial dilution agar method, a number of nitrosty-renes were found to exhibit a high degree of activity against pathogenic fungi.
MODELING HEAT FLOW IN A CALORIMETER EQUIPPED WITH A TEXTURED SOLAR COLLECTOR

Heat engines are being considered for generating electric power for minisatellite applications, particularly for those missions in high radiation threat orbits. To achieve this objective, solar energy must be collected and transported to the hot side of the heat engine. A solar collector is needed having the combined properties of high solar absorptance, low infrared emittance, and high thermal conductivity. To test candidate solar collector concepts, a simple calorimeter was designed, manufactured, and installed in a bench top vacuum chamber to measure heat flow. In addition, a finite element analysis model of the collector/calorimeter combination was made to model this heat flow. The model was tuned based on observations from the as-manufactured collector/calorimeter combination. In addition, the model was exercised to examine other collector concepts, properties, and scale up issues.
Motion-based, multi-modality image registration for cardiac imaging

A novel image registration method is presented for multi-modality, gated cardiac imaging. The motion of the myocardium is registered instead of attributes obtained from image intensities, which may be drastically different. Optical flow methods are used to estimate a set of 3D vector fields for both modalities. The 3D vector fields are assumed to be similar and are rigidly aligned by minimizing a sum-of-squares error objective function. Evaluation of the motion-based (MB) method was performed using simulated cardiac SPECT and CT images of a 4D thorax phantom for registration errors of 1 to 3 cm translation, with and without rotation. The MB method was compared to a mutual information (MI) based method. The MB method was able to register the images with an accuracy of 1–5 mm for an anatomical point in the left ventricle. The MI method required a common background distribution within the two modalities for accurate registration.
Bioelectric memory: modeling resting potential bistability in amphibian embryos and mammalian cells

Bioelectric gradients among all cells, not just within excitable nerve and muscle, play instructive roles in developmental and regenerative pattern formation. Plasma membrane resting potential gradients regulate cell behaviors by regulating downstream transcriptional and epigenetic events. Unlike neurons, which fire rapidly and typically return to the same polarized state, developmental bioelectric signaling involves many cell types stably maintaining various levels of resting potential during morphogenetic events. It is important to begin to quantitatively model the stability of bioelectric states in cells, to understand computation and pattern maintenance during regeneration and remodeling. To facilitate the analysis of endogenous bioelectric signaling and the exploitation of voltage-based cellular controls in synthetic bioengineering applications, we sought to understand the conditions under which somatic cells can stably maintain distinct resting potential values (a type of state memory). Using the Channelpedia ion channel database, we generated an array of amphibian oocyte and mammalian membrane models for voltage evolution. These models were analyzed and searched, by simulation, for a simple dynamical property, multistability, which forms a type of voltage memory. We find that typical mammalian models and amphibian oocyte models exhibit bistability when expressing different ion channel subsets, with either persistent sodium or inward-rectifying potassium, respectively, playing a facilitative role in bistable memory formation. We illustrate this difference using fast sodium channel dynamics for which a comprehensive theory exists, where the same model exhibits bistability under mammalian conditions but not amphibian conditions. In amphibians, potassium channels from the Kv1.x and Kv2.x families tend to disrupt this bistable memory formation. We also identify some common principles under which physiological memory emerges, which suggest specific strategies for implementing memories in bioengineering contexts. Our results reveal conditions under which cells can stably maintain one of several resting voltage potential values. These models suggest testable predictions for experiments in developmental bioelectricity, and illustrate how cells can be used as versatile physiological memory elements in synthetic biology, and unconventional computation contexts.
Pharmacokinetics of valproic acid in children: I. Multiple antiepileptic drug therapy

We studied the pharmacokinetics of valproic acid (VPA) in 37 children who were taking other antiepileptic drugs. Thirteen children were studied both after initial and while on maintenance valproic acid therapy. Significant differences occurred between initial and maintenance therapy in the mean apparent volume of distribution and in apparent VPA clearance, whereas VPA half-life remained relatively constant. Analysis of data in the 13 children studied on two occasions demonstrated wide intrapatient variability of VPA pharmacokinetics. Children taking VPA together with other antiepileptic medications generally require higher doses of VPA given more frequently.
An enhanced erase mechanism in flash memory and its implication on endurance reliability

An enhanced erase mechanism in flash memory by increasing the generation of holes via impact ionization is described. The endurance degradation associated with this erase mechanism is found to be different from those using the conventional source-side erase methods, as the better erase margin and worse program degradation are observed. The improvement of erase margin is then investigated by using a special cell structure with access to the floating gate and is explained in terms of injection efficiency of hot holes. This erase mechanism also has an impact on the data retention results due to the enhanced generation of holes.
Supergravity at the boundary of AdS supergravity

We give a general analysis of AdS boundary conditions for spin-3/2 Rarita-Schwinger fields and investigate boundary conditions preserving supersymmetry for a graviton multiplet in AdS{sub 4}. Linear Rarita-Schwinger fields in AdS{sub d} are shown to admit mixed Dirichlet-Neumann boundary conditions when their mass is in the range 0{<=}|m|<1/2l{sub AdS}. We also demonstrate that mixed boundary conditions are allowed for larger masses when the inner product is 'renormalized' accordingly with the action. We then use the results obtained for |m|=1/l{sub AdS} to explore supersymmetric boundary conditions for N=1 AdS{sub 4} supergravity in which the metric and Rarita-Schwinger fields are fluctuating at the boundary. We classify boundary conditions that preserve boundary supersymmetry or superconformal symmetry. Under the AdS/CFT dictionary, Neumann boundary conditions in d=4 supergravity correspond to gauging the superconformal group of the three-dimensional CFT describing M2-branes, while N=1 supersymmetric mixed boundary conditions couple the CFT to N=1 superconformal topologically massive gravity.
The Gr Family of Candidate Gustatory and Olfactory Receptors in the Yellow-Fever Mosquito Aedes aegypti

The gustatory receptor (Gr) protein family contains most of the diversity in the insect chemoreceptor superfamily, including within it not only taste receptors but select olfactory receptors as well. Manual annotation of the Gr family in the genome sequence of the yellow-fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, yielded a total of 114 potential proteins encoded by 79 genes. In the sequenced genome, 23 of these genes and protein isoforms are pseudogenic, leaving 91 putatively functional Grs. Comparison with our previously published set of 76 Grs encoded by 52 genes in the distantly related Anopheles gambiae mosquito revealed 13 new AgGrs encoded by 8 genes. Phylogenetic analysis reveals the conservation of carbon dioxide, sugar, and several orphan receptors in these 2 mosquitoes and Drosophila flies. On the other hand, most of these Grs are unique to mosquitoes and many are specific to the Aedes or Anopheles lineages, indicating their involvement in mosquito-specific aspects of both gustatory and olfactory perception. In particular, most instances of alternative splicing in orthologous loci appear to have evolved after the culicine-anopheline split +/-150 million years ago.