cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ocular volume and ocular rigidity.

The coefficient of ocular rigidity (K) was measured in enucleated human eyes by the injection of known volumes of fluid and measuring the rise in pressure. The intraocular volume of each eye was calculated from profile photographs of the globe and the scleral thickness measured by a light-scattering technique. K showed a highly significant negative correlation with ocular volume but a coefficient of rigidity which included the volume of the individual eye did not show a significant correlation with ocular volume. There was no correlation between K and scleral thickness but K tended to be higher in older eyes. In 17 out of 20 eyes K decreased as the level of pressure at which it was measured increased. The results suggest that the lower ocular rigidity of myopic eyes is largely due to their greater ocular volume and not to any abnormal distensibility of the sclera.
Virus ecology and disturbances: impact of environmental disruption on the viruses of microorganisms

Viruses of microorganisms (VoMs)—the encapsidated, acelluluar parasites of archaea, bacteria, and microbial eukaryotes (Hyman and Abedon, 2012)—can be both responsive to and the source of change in their environments. Defining the diverse VoMs in an environment has become easier with the advent of various new technologies, so analyzing VoM populations or communities involved with disturbances could be the next step to drive research forward. Contributions assembled in this Research Topic explore the effects of disturbances on one type of VoM, the bacteriophages (phages), as well as disturbances caused by phages. The collection presented in this ebook opens with an editorial describing the importance of change to life on Earth, and by defining the multiple levels at which change can occur: genetic, organismal, and environmental (Allen and Abedon, 2013). We have arranged and introduced the manuscripts in this collection based on which of these levels they address.
Developing Dialogue for Discerning Differences

Les AA. analysent de facon critique un certain nombre de contributions qui portent leur attention sur l'evolution de la science des organisations. Ils montrent que la notion de representation tend a prendre de plus en plus d'importance dans ce cadre. Ils s'interrogent sur les processus d'accumulation de la connaissance a partir d'elements divers issus de multiples recherches empiriques. Ils soulignent que la notion de valeur prend une place toujours plus forte au sein de la science des organisations
Fibrous histiocytomas of the soft palate

Fibrous histiocytomas (FHs) of the oral cavity are exceedingly rare. We report a case of fibrous histiocytoma located in the soft palate of an 11-year-old male. A review of the English literature shows only 4 previously reported cases in this location. This report includes an overview of the clinical and histopathological features of this fibrohistiocytic disorder. A review of the current classification, as well as the diagnosis and management of these neoplasms as they pertain to the head and neck region are discussed.
Coupling of InGaN quantum-well photoluminescence to silver surface plasmons

The coincidence in excitation energy between surface plasmons on silver and the GaN band gap is exploited to couple the semiconductor spontaneous emission into the metal surface plasmons. A 3-nm InGaN/GaN quantum well (QW) is positioned 12 nm from an 8-nm silver layer, well within the surface plasmon fringing field depth. A spectrally sharp photoluminescence dip, by a factor \ensuremath{\approx}55, indicates that electron-hole energy is being rapidly transferred to plasmon excitation, due to the spatial overlap between the semiconductor QW and the surface plasmon electric field. Thus, spontaneous emission into surface plasmons is \ensuremath{\approx}55 times faster than normal spontaneous emission from InGaN quantum wells. If efficient antenna structures can be incorporated into the metal film, there could be a corresponding increase in external light emission efficiency.
Neurosteroid analogues. 6. The synthesis and GABAA receptor pharmacology of enantiomers of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, pregnenolone sulfate, and (3α, 5β)-3-hydroxypregnan-20-one sulfate

The unnatural enantiomers of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (1), pregnenolone sulfate (2), and (3α,5β)-3-hydroxypregnan-20-one sulfate (3), compounds 4−6, respectively, were prepared by total steroid synthesis. The enantioselectivity of the compounds as negative modulators of the GABAA receptors present in cultured rat hippocampal neurons was examined using electrophysiological methods. Enantioselectivity was found for the inhibitory actions of the dehydroepiandrosterone enantiomers. The IC50s for compounds 1 and 4 were 11 ± 1 and 80 ± 14 μM, respectively. Little, if any, enantioselectivity was found for the other two pairs of steroid sulfate inhibitors. The IC50s for compounds 2 and 5 were 82 ± 12 and 76 ± 27 μM, respectively. The IC50s for compounds 3 and 6 were 39 ± 7 and 46 ± 2 μM, respectively. The results suggest that the sites of action for the androstane and pregnane series of steroid sulfate blockers of GABA-mediated current are different. The observed enantioselectivity for the actions of dehydr...
Accuracy, precision, usability, and cost of free chlorine residual testing methods

Chlorine is the most widely used disinfectant worldwide, partially because residual protection is maintained after treatment. This residual is measured using colorimetric test kits varying in accuracy, precision, training required, and cost. Seven commercially available colorimeters, color wheel and test tube comparator kits, pool test kits, and test strips were evaluated for use in low-resource settings by: (1) measuring in quintuplicate 11 samples from 0.0-4.0 mg/L free chlorine residual in laboratory and natural light settings to determine accuracy and precision; (2) conducting volunteer testing where participants used and evaluated each test kit; and (3) comparing costs. Laboratory accuracy ranged from 5.1-40.5% measurement error, with colorimeters the most accurate and test strip methods the least. Variation between laboratory and natural light readings occurred with one test strip method. Volunteer participants found test strip methods easiest and color wheel methods most difficult, and were most confident in the colorimeter and least confident in test strip methods. Costs range from 3.50-444 USD for 100 tests. Application of a decision matrix found colorimeters and test tube comparator kits were most appropriate for use in low-resource settings; it is recommended users apply the decision matrix themselves, as the appropriate kit might vary by context.
Is/are pattern recognition receptor(s) for Staphylococcus aureus defective in atopic dermatitis?

It is known that Staphylococcus aureus induces the expression of human β-defensin-2 (hBD-2), a well-characterized antimicrobial peptide, in keratinocytes. However, in spite of heavy colonization of atopic dermatitis (AD) skin lesions by S. aureus, these lesions have consistently been shown to contain low expression of hBD-2. The current article discusses various possible mechanisms for the low expression of hBD-2 in AD and raises the question whether the innate recognition of S. aureus by keratinocytes in AD is intact.
Jewish Charitable Bequests and the Hekdesh Trust in Thirteenth-Century Spain

Burns in his study of Jewish Latinate wills in Mediterranean Spain between the years 1250 and 1350 noted the paucity of extant Hebrew wills from this period. He indicated that a study of the responsa literature, "in which distinguished experts 'responded' to dilemmas of law and life," would help to explicate the documents found in the various archives of Spain (royal, municipal, and church). One of the topics treated by Burns throughout his study was the surprising lack of evidence in the wills for significant charitable bequests. He suggested that Jews might have practiced setting aside these pious legacies during their lifetime, to be implemented upon death. This article provides evidence from the responsa literature that supports Burns' suggestion that gifts were set aside inter vivos and shows that the Jews of Spain between the years 1250 and 1350 also made substantial charitable bequests on their deathbed.'
Perinatal environment and its influences on metabolic programming of offspring

Abstract The intrauterine environment supports the development and health of offspring. Perturbations to this environment can have detrimental effects on the fetus that have persistent pathological consequences through adolescence and adulthood. The developmental origins of the health and disease concept, also known as the “Barker Hypothesis”, has been put forth to describe the increased incidence of chronic disease such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes in humans and animals exposed to a less than ideal intrauterine environment. Maternal infection, poor or excess nutrition, and stressful events can negatively influence the development of different cell types, tissues and organ systems ultimately predisposing the organism to pathological conditions. Although there are a variety of conditions associated to exposure to altered intrauterine environments, the focus of this review will be on the consequences of stress and high fat diet during the pre- and perinatal periods and associated outcomes related to obesity and other metabolic conditions. We further discuss possible neuroendocrine and epigenetic mechanisms responsible for the metabolic programming of offspring. The paper represents an invited review by a symposium, award winner or keynote speaker at the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior [SSIB] Annual Meeting in Portland, July 2009.
Poverty and childhood cancer incidence in the United States

This study examined socioeconomic differentials in cancer incidence rates during 2000-2005 among children aged 0-19 in the United States. The data on childhood cancers, which were classified by the International Classification of Childhood Cancer, Third Edition (ICCC-3), were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results program. The socioeconomic status of residential area at diagnosis was estimated by county-level poverty rate in Census 2000, i.e., percentage of persons in the county living below the national poverty thresholds. Counties were categorized as low-, medium-, and high-poverty areas when the poverty rates were <10, 10-19.99, and 20% or higher, respectively. The results showed that medium- and high-poverty counties had lower age-adjusted incidence rates than low-poverty counties for total childhood cancers combined, central nervous system neoplasms (ICCC group III), neuroblastoma (group IV), renal tumors (group VI), and other malignant epithelial neoplasms and malignant melanomas (group XI). When the data were stratified by race, these associations were observed among whites, but not blacks. For leukemia (group I), poor counties had higher incidence rates than affluent counties for whites, but lower rates for blacks. This ecologic study provides perspective on area socioeconomic variations in childhood cancer incidence that warrants further research.
Effect of nasal continuous positive airway pressure on methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction

Bronchial hyper-responsiveness is a cardinal feature of asthma. To determine whether nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) influences airway smooth muscle in response to exogenous stimuli, we examined the effect of NCPAP on aerosolized methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction in 16 stable asthmatic patients. The dose-response curve for each subject was measured by a log transformation and linear regression analysis as well as a formula fitted to the data points to obtain values for a (slope) and b (position). The PD20FEV1 significantly increased in patients receiving 8 cmH2O of NCPAP by one doubling dose compared with that in patients using sham pressure. NCPAP shifted the dose-response curves to be flatter, deviated upwards and to the right. The coefficient a, indicating bronchial reactivity, was significantly lower in patients receiving NCPAP. The coefficient b, indicating the bronchial sensitive threshold, was higher after applying NCPAP. In contrast, coefficients a and b did not change in subjects with sham pressure. NCPAP also significantly enhanced the bronchodilator effect of inhaled salbutamol in response to methacholine-induced bronchoconstriction. In summary, we have shown that NCPAP therapy improves bronchial smooth reactivity with an increase in PD20FEV1 and a reduction in the bronchial reactivity and bronchial sensitivity. Therefore, NCPAP may provide an adjuvant therapy in patients with acute bronchial asthma.
Effect of vasodilator hydralazine on tumor microvascular random flow and blood volume as measured by intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) weighted MRI in conjunction with Gd-DTPA-Albumin enhanced MRI.

We studied the effect of hydralazine on tumor blood volume fraction and microvascular random flow velocity magnitude by IVIM weighted MRI in conjunction with dynamic Gd-DTPA-Albumin enhanced MRI. Blood volume fraction maps were obtained from the dynamic Gd-DTPA-Albumin enhanced MRI measurements. The average blood volume fraction of R3230 AC adenocarcinoma decreased from 0.125 ± 0.022 (s.d.) ml/g to 0.105 ± 0.018 (s.d.) ml/g (p < 0.001) after the administration of hydralazine at a dose of 5 mg/kg. The microvascular random flow velocity magnitude maps were obtained from the IVIM weighted MRI signals by utilizing the Gd-DTPA-Albumin measured blood volume fractions as an input in the compartmental modeling analysis of the IVIM weighted MRI signal. The random-directional microvascular flow induced MRI signal attenuation was separated from the molecular diffusion induced signal attenuation. Flow induced attenuation was more significant after the administration of hydralazine. The mean microvascular random flow velocity magnitude increased from 0.52 ± 0.15 (s.d.) mm/sec to 0.73 ± 0.23 (s.d.) mm/sec (p < 0.05) in the presence of the above blood volume fraction change.
All-organic optoelectronic sensor for pulse oximetry

Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive means for measuring blood oxygen saturation and pulse rate, with typical sensors based on rigid electronics. Here, the authors develop a pulse oximeter based solely on organic materials, allowing flexible devices and hence increasing the potential sensing locations on the body.
Regulation of AKAP-membrane interactions by calcium.

The AKAP gravin is a scaffold for protein kinases, phosphatases, and adaptor molecules obligate for resensitization and recycling of β2-adrenergic receptors. Gravin binds to the receptor through well characterized protein-protein interactions. These interactions are facilitated ∼1000-fold when gravin is anchored to the cytoplasmic leaflet of the plasma membrane. Although the N-terminal region (∼550 residues) is highly negatively charged and probably natively unfolded, it could anchor gravin to the inner leaflet through hydrophobic insertion of its N-terminal myristate and electrostatic binding of three short positively charged domains (PCDs). Loss of the site of N-myristoylation was found to affect neither AKAP macro-scopic localization nor AKAP function. Synthetic peptides corresponding to PCD1-3 bound in vitro to unilamellar phospholipid vesicles with high affinity, a binding reversed by calmodulin in the presence of Ca2+. In vivo gravin localization is regulated by intracellular Ca2+, a function mapping to the N terminus of the protein harboring PCD1, PCD2, and PCD3. Mutation of any two PCDs eliminates membrane association of the non-myristoylated gravin, the sensitivity to Ca2+/calmodulin, and the ability of this scaffold to catalyze receptor resensitization and recycling.
Casein kinase 2β as a novel enhancer of activin-like receptor-1 signaling

ALK-1 is a transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily receptor that is predominantly expressed in endothelial cells and is essential for angiogenesis, as demonstrated by the embryonic lethal phentoype when targeted for deletion in mice and its mutation in the human disease hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. Although ALK-1 and the endothelial-specific TGF-β superfamily coreceptor, endoglin, form a heteromeric complex and bind similar TGF-β superfamily ligands, their signaling mechanisms remain poorly characterized. Here we report the identification of CK2β, the regulatory subunit of protein kinase CK2, as a novel enhancer of ALK-1 signaling. The cytoplasmic domain of ALK-1 specifically binds to CK2β in vitro and in vivo. NAAIRS mutagenesis studies define amino acid sequences 181–199 of CK2β and 207–212 of ALK-1 as the interaction domains, respectively. The ALK-1/CK2β interaction specifically enhanced Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation and ALK-1-mediated reporter activation in response to TGF-β1 and BMP-9 treatment. In a reciprocal manner, siRNA-mediated silencing of endogenous CK2β inhibited TGF-β1 and BMP-9-stimulated Smad1/5/8 phosphorylation and ALK-1-mediated reporter activation. Functionally, CK2β enhanced the ability of activated or ligand-stimulated ALK-1 to inhibit endothelial cell migration. Similarly, ALK-1 and CK2β antagonized endothelial tubule formation in Matrigel. These studies support CK2β as an important regulator of ALK-1 signaling and ALK-1-mediated functions in endothelial cells.—Lee, N. Y., Haney, J. C., Sogani, J., Blobe, G. C. Casein kinase 2β as a novel enhancer of activin-like receptor-1 signaling.
Crystallization of membrane proteins: a minireview

Abstract Over ten years ago, the first reports appeared, demonstrating that membraneproteins could be crystallized [H. Michel and D. Oesterhelt, Proc; Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 77 (1980) 1283; R.M. Caravito and J.P. Rosenbusch, J. Cell Biol. 86 (1980) 327]. In the past decade, other research groups have successfully prepared large single crystals of integral membrane proteins for X-ray diffraction analysis. While no simple set of methods yet exists, the general strategies for designing membrane protein crystallization experiments have become clearer. All X-ray quality crystals of membrane proteins were grown from preparations of detergent-solubilized protein, using standard crystallization methods for soluble proteins. In this article, we discuss the roles of the detergent, salt, and precipitant in the crystallization process and the adaptation of published protocols tonew membrane protein systems. We focus on the polyethylene glycol/NaC1/⨿-octyl glucoside system as a general model and show that the presence of detergent applies several types of constraints to the crystallization conditions. The general conclusion is that many integral membrane proteins could be crystallized if pure and monodisperse protein solutions in a suitable detergent system can be prepared.
Evaluation of a new procedure for nasal alar rim and valve collapse: nasal alar rim reconstruction.

OBJECTIVEA new operative technique to improve nasal valve collapse by placement of cartilage struts along the alar rim was compared with the standard nasal valve cartilage graft (NVG) technique.MET...
Characterization of conduction in PZT thin films produced by laser ablation deposition

Abstract Both direct current (d.c.) and alternating current (a.c.) conductivity measurements were undertaken on lead zirconate titanate (PZT) films synthesized by laser ablation deposition. Direct current (I) displayed an initial time dependence of the form I ∝ t−γ (γ ∝ 0.5–1.0). The possible reasons for this time dependence are discussed. At lower temperatures, the a.c. electrical conductivity shows a frequency dependence of the form σ ∝ ω′ which is explained as electrical charge hopping. At higher temperatures, the d.c. component of electrical conductivity becomes dominant, and is accompanied by a strong low frequency dispersion of the dielectric constant. The results are compared to published data on conductivity in SrTiO3, and discussed in terms of the latest theories for dielectric response of materials.
Discussion of Information Transparency and Coordination Failure: Theory and Experiment

There is a common belief that increased transparency of information is desirable. The intuition underlying this belief is simple-as the quality of information improves, users of this information should be able to make better decisions. The conference paper by Anctil, Dickhaut, Kanodia, and Shapiro (hereafter, ADKS) illustrates that this intuition may not always hold; specifically, there might be costs associated with increased information transparency. In situations where individuals do not make decisions in isolation but must coordinate with others, individuals must incorporate their expectations about the beliefs of other decision makers, which leads to strategic uncertainty. Improvements in transparency can increase this strategy uncertainty. Thus, although increased transparency may provide improved information about economic fundamentals, the increased strategic uncertainty may negate these benefits of more transparent information. To investigate the costs of more transparent information, ADKS use a lending situation in which multiple creditors must individually decide whether
Induction of L-serine dehydratase in Aeromonas punctata.

l-Serine dehydratase (SD) was produced to the extent of only 0·04 international unit (iu) per mg dry weight by Aeromonos punctata NRRL B-928 when grown on a chemically defined medium. Addition of 2% (w/v) l-serine to this medium increased SD ten-fold or more, indicating a significant inductive effect. d-Serine was toxic to the organism, making weights and enzyme titres uncertain, but dl-serine induced a specific activity of SD at least equal to that from the l enantiomorph. With complex media containing beef extract, the toxic effect of d-serine was partially overcome, and sufficient growth was obtained to permit reliable analytical figures; d-serine induced slightly better specific activities than the l isomer. dl-Serine at 2% concentration induced a specific activity of 1·2 iu/mg, twice that of l-serine at that level.
Variabilin, a Novel RGD-containing Antagonist of Glycoprotein IIb-IIIa and Platelet Aggregation Inhibitor from the Hard Tick Dermacentor variabilis

A novel inhibitor of human platelet aggregation, named variabilin, was isolated from salivary glands of the hard tick Dermacentor variabilis using a combination of gel filtration and high pressure liquid chromatography. Variabilin was a potent antagonist of the fibrinogen receptor glycoprotein IIb-IIIa (GPIIb-IIIa; alphaIIbbeta3) and the vitronectin receptor alphavbeta3. Amino acid sequence analysis by Edman degradation revealed that it has 47 residues, with a molecular weight of 4968.5. Like many other naturally occurring antagonists of GPIIb-IIIa, variabilin contains the RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp) motif. However, unlike the RGD-containing antagonists of GPIIb-IIIa, the RGD sequence of variabilin is not positioned in a loop bracketed by cysteine residues. It has little sequence homology to the other known naturally occurring antagonists of GPIIb-IIIa, including the disintegrins from snakes, decorsin and ornatin from leeches, and disagregin from soft ticks. Variabilin is the first RGD-containing antagonist isolated from ticks.
Experimental infection of humans with A2 respiratory syncytial virus

Development of a readily available challenge model of human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection would be a useful tool for evaluation of antiviral agents and vaccine candidates. Accordingly, we evaluated a new challenge pool of RSV A2 virus, provided by the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Healthy adults subjects were inoculated intranasally with various dilutions of the pool, and virus shedding, clinical symptoms, and immune response were studied. In a preliminary study of 36 randomly selected volunteers, stratified by serum neutralization titer both higher inoculum dose (4.7 log(10) TCID(50) virus) and lower antibody titer (<==10.36 log(2)), were associated with infection. In a second confirmatory study 12 of 13 (92%) subjects selected for low serum neutralizing activity shed virus after challenge with the high inoculum of virus. Mean peak virus shedding was 2.2 log(10) TCID(50)/mL nasal wash with a mean duration of 4 days. None of the subjects developed signs or symptoms of lower airway disease, although respiratory symptom scores and nasal mucus weight were temporally correlated with virus shedding. Prescreening for low levels of neutralizing antibody may allow selection of subjects with relatively higher susceptibility to experimental infections. This model provides a safe and efficient mechanism for proof-of-concept studies of anti-viral agents and RSV vaccines, as well as for investigation of immune responses to infection.
Lateral Stress and Spontaneous Curvature in Mixed Membranes

A key aspect of membrane mechanics is the balance of attractive and repulsive forces involving lipid head groups and acyl chains [1]. In particular, demethylation of PC lipids and addition of polyunsaturated chains [2] have been shown to alter substantially the activity of membrane receptors [3, 4] and of ion channels. How to best describe membrane forces? An appealing theoretical description is the lateral stress profile, which is easily calculated from computer simulations. However the lateral stress profile is not yet accessible experimentally. Experimental observables (which can be related to the lateral pressure profile if desired) are (i) the spontaneous curvature values as obtained from X-ray scattering, and (ii) the lateral mean-torque profile obtained from solid-state 2H NMR [1]. We report and analyze experimental data on PE/PC and saturated-polyunsaturated lipid mixtures to show how measured shifts in the chain mean-torque profiles correspond to shifts in the balance of forces between headgroups and acyl chains. We first determine changes in the mean-torque profile caused by variations in lipid composition. We then determine a geometric parameter called the projected segmental area, directly related to the spontaneous curvature of individual monolayers. Last, we show that lateral compression energies are sufficiently large to provide a thermodynamic driving force for protein conformational changes. Our approach reveals that a universal chain packing profile exists for saturated acyl chains, and that the measurable shift in the force balance gives rise to the observable membrane mechanics. This approach provides a new framework for relating lipid composition to membrane function.[1] H.I. Petrache et al. (2000) Biophys. J. 79, 3172.[2] H.I. Petrache et al. (2001) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 123, 12611.[3] A.V. Botelho et al. (2002) Biochemistry 41, 6354.[4] M.F. Brown (1994) Chem. Phys. Lipids 73, 159.
Language, cultural intelligence and expatriate success

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine how cultural intelligence (CQ) and language proficiency are related to cross‐cultural adjustment, expatriate satisfaction, and expatriate desires towards the future, to further what is known about CQ.Design/methodology/approach – A quantitative survey was developed and administered to 140 native English‐speaking expatriates living in Japan who were participating in the Japan Exchange and Teaching program. The survey was designed to measure CQ, language proficiency, cross‐cultural adjustment, satisfaction with their work and life in Japan, and their attitudes towards future expatriate assignments.Findings – In total, there were eight criterion variables used in the study. Results from a series of hierarchical regression analyses revealed that the four CQ factors and language proficiency to various degrees were able to predict the various criterion variables. Motivational CQ was the only predictor variable that was able to predict all criterion variables.Res...
Benefits of Colocating Concentrating Solar Power and Wind

We analyze the potential benefits of colocating wind and concentrating solar power (CSP) plants in the southwestern U.S. Using a location in western Texas as a case study, we demonstrate that such a deployment strategy can improve the capacity factor of the combined plant and the associated transmission investment. This is because of two synergies between wind and CSP: 1) the negative correlation between real-time wind and solar resource availability and 2) the use of low-cost high-efficiency thermal energy storage in CSP. The economic tradeoff between transmission and system performance is highly sensitive to CSP and transmission costs. We demonstrate that a number of deployment configurations, which include up to 67% CSP, yield a positive net return on investment.
Multiple Mice for Computers in Education in Developing Countries

A distinct feature observed in computer use in schools or rural kiosks in developing countries is the high student-to-computer ratio. It is not unusual to see more than five children crowding around a single display, as schools are rarely funded to afford one PC per child in a classroom. One child controls the mouse, while others are passive onlookers, without operational control of the computer. Learning benefits appear to accrue primarily to the child with the mouse, with the other children missing out. The obvious technical solution is to provide each child with a mouse and cursor on screen, thus effectively multiplying the amount of interaction per student per PC for the cost of a few extra mice. To our surprise, both the concept and the implementation appear to be unique to date, for the specific application to computers in education in resource-strapped communities, with previous work restricting studies to two mice, or for largely non-educational applications. We have developed software that allows multiple coloured cursors to co-exist on the monitor, along with two sample games with some educational content. Initial trials with both single-mouse and multiple-mice scenarios suggest that children are more engaged when in control of a mouse, and that more mice increases overall engagement. Our results suggest new areas of research in pedagogy for computers in education.
The molecular choreography of a store-operated calcium channel

Store-operated calcium channels (SOCs) serve essential functions from secretion and motility to gene expression and cell growth. A fundamental mystery is how the depletion of Ca2+ from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) activates Ca2+ entry through SOCs in the plasma membrane. Recent studies using genetic approaches have identified genes encoding the ER Ca2+ sensor and a prototypic SOC, the Ca2+-release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channel. New findings reveal a unique mechanism for channel activation, in which the CRAC channel and its sensor migrate independently to closely apposed sites of interaction in the ER and the plasma membrane.
Isolation of an Organism Responsible for the Increased Riboflavin Content of the Feces of the Fowl

Abstract FOR many years it has been known that man and animals harbor millions of micro-organisms in the intestinal tract. The organisms present in the case of certain diseases have been reported. However, very little information is available on the nature of the bacterial flora of the feces of the fowl. Kern (1897) showed that the intestinal tract of birds contained a large number of micro-organisms. Many of these organisms were spore formers. A common characteristic of the organisms isolated was their ability to liquefy gelatin. B. coli was the most abundant, being found in most of the birds examined. Rahner (1901) studied the bacterial content of the intestine of hens and found Escherichia coli, gram-positive cocci, molds, Bacillus megatherium, and lactic acid bacteria. He believes that Escherichia coli is a constant inhabitant and tends to crowd out other organisms whose presence depends upon the food supply. This organism also increased . . .
Comparison of EUV and optical device wafer heating

The International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors requires improvements in resolution for each lithographic node. In essence, all sources of distortion in the chip fabrication process must be minimized to meet the stringent error budgets for the sub-90-nm nodes. These include the thermal distortions of the device wafer caused by energy deposition during exposure. Absorbed energy from the beam produces temperature increases and structural displacements in the wafer, which directly contribute to pattern placement errors and image blur. In this research, the thermomechanical response of the device wafer was investigated and compared for 193-nm lithography and EUV lithography. Thermal and structural finite element (FE) models were developed to numerically simulate the exposure process for both types of tools. The three-dimensional FE models include the full wafer and chuck to identify the time-dependent response. For verification purposes, the FE models were benchmarked against an analytical test case. Since the thermomechanical response is relatively sensitive to exposure energy and wafer chucking, parametric studies were performed to illustrate the effects of resist sensitivity, backside contact conductance, and effective boundary conditions. Results for both 193-nm lithography and EUV lithography are presented.
Exogenous and endogenous leukosis virus genes--a review.

Summary Lymphoid leukosis is induced by exogenous retroviruses (LLV) that replicate via a DNA intermediate that is integrated into host somatic cell DNA. Variation in endogenous LLV expression is largely controlled by location of DNA proviruses integrated in the host germ‐line and inherited as Mendelian genes. Present evidence suggests that endogenous viral genes (ev loci) arose from germ‐line integration of exogenous LLVs and that those integrated ev loci expressing high levels of virus are at a selective disadvantage. Exogenous LLV infection leads not only to development of LL in some chickens but also to reduced productivity of layers. Results of preliminary experiments suggest that variation in ev locus expression influences non‐oncogenic pathology and immune response after infection with an LLV known to be structurally related to ev loci. The effect of these loci on response to infection by unrelated micro organisms and on productivity should now be studied to determine whether the breeder should be ...
Characterization of Cylinder-Forming Block Copolymers Directed to Assemble on Spotted Chemical Patterns

Films of cylinder-forming polystyrene-block-poly(methyl methacrylate) (bulk intercylinder spacing ao) were directed to assemble on surfaces chemically patterned with a hexagonal array of spots (interspot spacing as). The block copolymer domain assembly was investigated as a function of the film thickness and the commensurability between ao and as. The domains assembled vertically away from and matched the spacing and hexagonal order of the underlying lithographically patterned chemical substrate, provided as was equal to or up to 6% larger than ao and the film thickness was ≤54 nm. In contrast, comparably poor assembly was obtained when as was 8% less than ao. When as was commensurate with ao, the cylinder diameter and eccentricity had a lower standard deviation and was more circular, respectively, than that of self-assembled cylinders on a neutral substrate.
Cell-density-dependent regulation of actin gene expression due to changes in actin treadmilling

The actins are essential cytoskeletal proteins required for the survival and growth of cells. The transitions between soluble (G-actin) and filamentous (F-actin) forms of actin (actin treadmilling) are complexly regulated. Here we show that the expression of the cytoplasmic β-actin and γ-actin genes is down-regulated in mouse fibroblasts when the cell density of the culture increases. Conversely, a dense culture replated at lower density results in increases in actin mRNA levels within a few hours. Concomitant with these changes in mRNA levels, we observe increased depolymerization of actin microfilaments at higher densities resulting in an elevated G-actin to F-actin ratio. By using actin polymerization inhibitors, we show that the density-dependent change in actin gene expression is dependent on changes in the ratio of G-actin vs. F-actin levels. Therefore, actin treadmilling and actin gene regulation are not coregulated by cell density, but represent a linear signal transduction pathway in which actin treadmilling regulates actin gene transcription. The physiological transition represented by the growth of a sparse fibroblast population into a confluent and growth-arrested population represents a useful model for the study of how the actin treadmill exerts its action on the gene expression program of cells.
Follow-Up for Medical Care Among Drug Users With Hepatitis C

Prevalence of hepatitis C (HCV) in injection drug users (IDUs) is high and once HCV has been detected, follow-up medical care is essential. Six hundred and one current and former IDUs who tested positive for HCV antibodies received referrals for medical care. Twenty-four percent (147) of participants returned to be interviewed regarding their medical follow-ups. Of these, only 42% (61) had sought additional medical care in the form of further liver or blood tests or liver ultrasound. Four variables predicted seeking medical care: (a) ever being in residential drug treatment, (b) ever trading sex for money, (c) self-reported homelessness, and (d) living in one's own apartment or house. Having income from a job was inversely associated with seeking medical care. Knowledge of HCV infection alone does not mean that IDUs will seek medical care. Additional education concerning medical care and treatment options are needed to address IDU needs.
Cutoff grade economic strategy for byproduct mineral commodity operation: rare earth case study

In a byproduct mining operation, the optimal economic cutoff grade of the primary product is significantly impacted by the economic parameters of the byproduct. Economic indicators such as market price, mining and processing costs, metallurgical recovery, and tonnage grade distribution must be considered in order to maximise the total net present value (NPV) of the operation. In this paper, an NPV byproduct maximisation algorithm for a rare earth’s mining project is introduced, considering the extraction and processing of a byproduct. The algorithm is based on Lane’s using an equivalent factor to determine cutoff grade for each of the two mineral products. The extraction strategy, including optimum mine life, cutoff grade, and corresponding optimal NPV are determined by the algorithm. A rare earth case study is illustrated to confirm the model. The paper concludes that the price variability of byproduct (Dysprosium, Dy) significantly influences the cutoff grade of primary product (Neodymium, Nd).
Sustaining biodiversity and people in the world's anthropogenic biomes

Humans have reshaped more than three quarters of the terrestrial biosphere into anthropogenic biomes (anthromes), embedding substantial areas of remnant and recovering novel ecosystems within the agricultural and settled landscapes that sustain human populations. The need to conserve biodiversity in anthromes is increasingly recognized as critical, as anthromes have largely replaced wildlands in Earth's most biodiverse and productive regions, and novel ecosystems now cover nearly twice the global area of wildlands. Extinction rates may still be increasing. Nevertheless, recent studies indicate that under appropriate conditions, most native taxa may be sustainable within anthromes while at the same time increasing anthrome productivity in support of human populations.
Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1): an Unexpected Player in DNA Replication

Regulation of cell cycle progression is important for the maintenance of genome integrity, and Polo-like kinases (Plks) have been identified as key regulators of this process. It is well established that Polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1) plays critical roles in mitosis but little is known about its functions at other stages of the cell cycle. Here we summarize the functions of Plk1 during DNA replication, focusing on the molecular events related to Origin Recognition Complex (ORC), the complex that is essential for the initiation of DNA replication. Within the context of Plk1 phosphorylation of Orc2, we also emphasize regulation of Orc2 in different organisms. This review is intended to provide some insight into how Plk1 coordinates DNA replication in S phase with chromosome segregation in mitosis, and orchestrates the cell cycle as a whole.
Peru upwelling region sediments near 15°S. 1. Remineralization and accumulation of organic matter1

Six cores were obtained along a 70-km transect perpendicular to the Peru coast in the highly productive upwellng region near 15/sup 0/S, at depths ranging from 90 to 5300 m. All of the sediments sampled were diatomaceous oozes. Three cores overlain by poorly oxygenated water had Thioploca-like filamentous bacteria in surface sediments. Total organic carbon and total nitrogen contents of the sediments ranged from 0.8 to 10% and from 0.1 to 1% (dry wt). For the 90-m and 268-m cores, which had /sup 210/Pb surface sediment accumulation rates of about 0.6 and 1.1 cm x yr/sup -1/, surface sediment organic carbon accumulation rates were 40 and 70 g C x m/sup -2/ x yr/sup -1/. The organic carbon and total nitrogen distributions in the three cores from the oxygen minimum zone indicate that there have been variations in the rate of accumulation of organic matter over time. These variations may be related in part to the frequency and intensity of El Nino events. Porewater ammonium, nitrate, nitrite, total carbon dioxide, sulfate, and sulfide concentrations were measured. Remineralization rates in sediments calculated from the dissolved carbon dioxide profiles range from 0.6 to 20 g C x m/sup -2/ x yr/sup -1/.more » Total carbon dioxide concentrations in porewaters of two oxygen-minimum-zone sediments were modeled using both steady state and nonsteady state distributions of metabolizable organic matter.« less
Structure from limited motion of complex rigid objects

A feature-based method is presented for recovering the structure of rigid objects rotating about a fixed axis. The emphasis is on using several views that span only a small angle of rotation to recover the structure of a complex object. First, the correspondence problem for densely-packed features of a complex object undergoing slow rotations is solved by applying the smoothness of motion constraint to higher-order motion approximations. Second, the inaccurate feature motion solution that results from having only a limited extent of rotation is augmented by utilizing any symmetries discovered in the object to constrain one feature motion solution by the gross approximate motion of another feature. These constraints are in addition to those derived from the assumptions of a fixed axis of rotation and a rigid object. The data source presented is a sequence of radar range-Doppler images; similarities to optical image understanding are noted. >
Can the information contents of biological systems be quantified

The information content of any organized system is difficult to quantify. Reductionist reasoning would suggest that the elements of information are ‘coded’ and ontologically self-standing within the system itself. This is not so. The generation and interpretation of information always requires larger contexts in which it can be understood, because they involve more information than the system itself can possibly contain. Strictly construed, these contexts contribute to that information content. The ways in which they so contribute are not quantifiable in the present understanding of information theory. This non-quantifiability applies from biological organizations to machines to linguistic structures. In this paper, I will discuss some of those inherent limitations to informational quantification.
Horsley was the first to use electrical stimulation of the human cerebral cortex intraoperatively

Fedor Krause has previously been credited with being the first surgeon to use electrical stimulation to define epileptic foci in the human cerebral cortex before extirpation. We provide evidence indicating that Krause was probably preceded by Horsley, and Bidwell and Sherrington in England, and by Keen in the United States. Sir Victor Horsley apparently first used electrical stimulation diagnostically in 1884 and slightly later (1886) to define epileptic foci.
A STUDY OF THE BACTERICIDAL ACTION OF ULTRA VIOLET LIGHT : III. THE ABSORPTION OF ULTRA VIOLET LIGHT BY BACTERIA.

The simple conclusion of former investigators that the shorter the wave length of ultra violet light the greater the bactericidal action is in error. A study with measured monochromatic energy reveals a characteristic curve of bactericidal effectiveness with a striking maximum between 260 and 270 m.micro. The reciprocal of this abiotic energy curve suggests its close relation to specific light absorption by some single essential substance in the cell. Methods are described for determining the absorption curve, or absorption coefficients, of intact bacteria. These curves for S. aureus and B. coli have important points of similarity and of difference with the reciprocals of the curves of bactericidal incident energy, and point the way in a further search for the specific substance, or substances, involved in the lethal reaction.
Computer aids in chemical engineering education-an assessment of CACHE-1971-91

Summary form only given. The author assessed the success of several Computer Aids in Chemical Engineering Education (CACHE) Corporation projects designed to provide aids for individual courses, as well as for a broader segment of the curriculum. The projects include: the provision of 125 computer assignments for the core courses; the preparation of teaching materials for, and the distribution of, Monsanto's FLOWTRAN program for use in the design courses; the preparation of PC modules for many courses, leading to the Michigan Project on the Development of Innovative Engineers and the Washington Project on Graphical Computer Aids, for fluid flow and reaction, in the design of chemical reactors; and the development of the MICROCACHE courseware delivery system. Also considered are the CACHE recommendations concerning the minimum requirements for computing in the undergraduate curriculum, presented to the AIChE Education and Accreditation Committee. >
Ca-induced Ca release: lessons regarding cell models

This essay looks at the historical significance of an APS classic paper that is freely available online: Fabiato A. Calcium-induced release of calcium from the cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum. Am J ...
Loss analysis of air-core photonic crystal fibers

By using a multipole moment approach, we analyze the loss of an air-core photonic crystal fiber and demonstrate that it is possible reduce the transmission loss that is due to photon radiation leakage through the photonic crystal cladding to a level below 0.01 dB/km, with eight rings of air holes. An analogy is drawn between air-core photonic crystal fiber modes and Bragg fiber modes. The influence of material absorption in the silica glass is discussed.