cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
1472 THE EFFECT OF PRENATAL LIDOCAINE ON HEARING RESPONSES IN TERM INFANTS

Abnormal hearing responses were found in a group of term infants born by Caesarian section after maternal administration of epidural anesthesia in a study comparing the effect of lidocaine and lidocaine-epinephrine combination on the infant's neurobe-havioral response. Twenty-nine infants born after lidocaine anesthesia (mean dose 455±85mg) had an umbilical artery lidocaine level of 1.18±0.50ug/ml, and umbilical venous concentration of 1.87±0.70ug/ml compared to 14 born after lidocaine epinephrine (mean dose 406±86mg) that resulted in a UV level of 1.43±0.40ug/ ml and a UA level of 1.06±0.30 ug/ml. All infants were evaluated with the neurobehavioral index (ENNS) at four and 24 hours of age. Both groups demonstrated optimal responses during both time periods in muscle tone and reflex items including pinprick, pull to sit, arm recoil, truncal tone, body tone, rooting, suck, Moro, placing, and alerting. However, response to sound was abnormal in 65% of the lidocaine and 68% of the combined therapy group, comparable to similar results following 0.5% bupivacaine. The results of this study suggest that maternal anesthesia with these agents adversely affects hearing in the newborn infant, possible mechanisms including conduction delay in the eighth nerve or other neuronal pathways.
Microbodies and an anomalous "microcylinder" in the ultrastructure of plants with Crassulacean acid metabolism.

An ultrastructural study was made of the leaf tissues of four species of plants in three genera with Crassulacean acid metabolism (“CAM” plants): Kalanchoe daigremontiana Hamet et Perrier, K. verticillata Elliot, Sedum rubrotinctum clausen and Crassula tetragona L. Microbodies similar in appearance, with fibrillar or granular nucleoids but no crystalline deposits, were present in the mesophyll of all four species. The microbodies resembled in size and abundance those of C3 plants more closely than those of C4 plants, both under long-day and short-day conditions. The reaction for catalase activity employing 3,3′-diaminobenzidine produced a heavy deposit in the microbodies; the reaction was blocked by the catalase inhibitor, aminotriazole. Some of the plants of the two species of Kalanchoe studied contain in the epidermal and mesophyll cells of the leaves and plantlets an organelle-like structure consisting of a hollow cylinder, 90–160 nm in diameter and up to 2 μm or more in length, around which 18–20 or more minute tubules are wound in a steep helix. The tubules are only ca. 9 nm in diameter, hence are much smaller than conventional microtubules. The cylinder and surrounding tubules, herein tentatively assigned the term “microcylinder” for convenience, may represent a product of viral infection, or may be an organelle that appears at certain stages of growth or under particular environmental conditions. In any case it may prove to be of considerable importance for investigators of CAM plant physiology.
Impacts of Mesonet Observations on Meteorological Surface Analyses

AbstractGiven the heterogeneous equipment, maintenance and reporting practices, and siting of surface observing stations, subjective decisions that depend on the application tend to be made to use some observations and to avoid others. This research determines objectively high-impact surface observations of 2-m temperature, 2-m dewpoint, and 10-m wind observations using the adjoint of a two-dimensional variational surface analysis over the contiguous United States. The analyses reflect a weighted blend of 1-h numerical forecasts used as background grids and available observations. High-impact observations are defined as arising from poor observation quality, observation representativeness errors, or accurate observed weather conditions not evident in the background field. The impact of nearly 20 000 surface observations is computed over a sample of 100 analysis hours during 25 major weather events. Observation impacts are determined for each station as well as within broad network categories. For individu...
Minimum-time path planning for robot arms and their dynamics

Despite its close relationship to robot arm dynamics, conventional path planning does not take it into account, leading to the possible underutilization of the robot's capabilities. The authors have developed a minimum-time path-planning method in joint space taking into consideration robot arm dynamics as well as other realistic constraints. The main differences between this method and others are: (1) an absolute tolerance in the path deviation at each corner point can be specified; (2) local upper bounds on joint accelerations are derived from the arm dynamics so as to nearly fully utilize robot's capabilities; and (3) a set of local optimization problems, one at every local corner point, replaces the global minimum-time problem, thus making the minimum-time path-planning problem simpler and easier to solve. The method is applied to the path planning of the first three joints of the Unimation PUMA 600 series robot arm, using its simulator on a DEC VAX-11/780. The results show significant improvements in the total traveling time in addition to the ease and simplicity obtained from the decomposition of the global problem into a set of local optimization problems.
Robustness of Velocity Feedback Controllers for Flexible Spacecraft

The robustness properties of collocated velocity feedback controllers used for damping enhancement in large, flexible space structures are investigated. It is proved that the closed-loop system using such controllers is asymptotically stable in the large when: 1) unmodeled linear time-invariant dynamics (such as sensors/actuators) are present, provided that the phase angle of such dynamics is between -90° and 90°, 2) time-varying or invariant nonlinearities lying in the first and the third quadrant (i. e., belonging to the (0, ?) sector) are present, or 3) sector-type nonlinearities following first-order stable dynamics are present in the feedback loop.
Polarization dependence in Ti-diffused LiNbO 3 directional couplers

The effect of design and fabrication parameters on the dependence on polarization of the splitting ratio in directional couplers produced by Ti diffusion in LiNbO3 has been investigated experimentally at a wavelength of 1.54 µm. The parametric study was carried out at a diffusion temperature of 1025 °C, which was found to suppress outdiffusion effects. The directional couplers were produced by use of various combinations of waveguide separation, Ti film thickness, and diffusion time. Of particular interest was the identification of parameter sets for which the sum of TE and TM splitting ratios equals unity, as required for electro-optic and acousto-optic tunable filter designs with relaxed beam-splitter requirements. Directional couplers that closely match this criterion were obtained by diffusion of 3.5-mm-long, 7-µm-wide Ti strips separated by 11 µm for 11 h. It was found that a bending angle of 0.6° for input and output waveguides produces lower transmission loss for both polarizations than a 1.0° bend angle (>1-dB loss reduction).
Time Changes in Emission from Oxide-Coated Cathodes

The decay of electron emission which sets in when emission-limited current is drawn from an oxide cathode has been studied as a function of anode voltage, anode current, cathode temperature, and tube temperature. It is concluded that the decay is due to a transport of barium or oxygen by electrolysis and diffusion. A value is deduced for the heat of the diffusion process. Other time variations in emission have been observed and are discussed.
Tryptophan accumulation and tryptophan pyrrolase induction in rat liver as a function of age

Abstract The kinetics of tryptophan uptake and tryptophan pyrrolase induction in the livers of 1- and 6-month-old rats were studied in order to ascertain whether the observed age-related alteration of induction is the result of changes in the pattern of substrate accumulation with age. The initially faster rate of appearance of the enzyme in the youngest group was not paralleled by a more rapid uptake of the amino acid. Instead, considerably more tryptophan was present per gram liver of the 6-month-old rats during the initial phase of induction. The rate of increase of enzyme activity began to diminish in 1-month-old rats at the same intracellular concentration of tryptophan which was followed, in the older rats, by an unabated increase in enzyme level. These findings suggest that the enzyme is synthesized and inactivated or catabolized more rapidly in the young growing rats.
Changes in forage fish community indicated by the diet of the Brandt's cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) in the central California Current

The population, productivity and diet of two Brandt's cormorant (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) colonies located in the central California Current were compared. The offshore colony on Southeast Farallon Island has experienced a declining population over time and anomalously low productivity in recent years. The nearshore colony near Point Arguello has been increasing and its productivity has remained stable. The diets of cormorants at the two colonies elucidated by analysis of regurgitated pellets, while different, have shown similar decreases in the consumption of northern anchovy (Engraulis mordax) since 2008, followed by increased consumption of rockfish (Sebastes spp.) and flatfish (order Pleuronectiformes). By using the diet results from another seabird nesting in central California, the rhinoceros auklet (Cerorhinca monocerata), and one from which whole fish can be obtained, we found that the rockfish species assemblage has changed with offshore rockfish species decreasing while nearshore ones have increased. This change in the rockfish species has negatively impacted Brandt's cormorants at the offshore colony by forcing them to make longer foraging trips to meet energy needs of themselves and their chicks; this has led to low breeding success and a declining population at this site. On the other hand, the nearshore colony has abundant nearby food resources, and it has prospered. These results underscore the value of using seabird data from multiple colonies to better understand changes occurring in the marine environment.
Serotonin: A Different Player in Hypertension-Associated Thrombosis

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) was discovered in the lining of the gastrointestinal tract in 1935; a detailed history on its discovery and characterization was published several years later.1 5-HT is a derivative of the amino acid l-tryptophan, which is synthesized by tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) with its 2 isoforms. TPH1 is responsible for the production of 5-HT in peripheral tissues2 and TPH2 leads to the synthesis of 5-HT in the central nervous system.3 5-HT is metabolized in liver and eventually excreted as 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid. Platelets are likely the biological storage of circulating 5-HT. Platelets do not synthesize 5-HT but acquire it, mainly from the blood, after being secreted by the enterochromaffin cells of the intestine. The free 5-HT level in the blood is tightly regulated by a specific 5-HT transporter, SERT (SLC6A4), which is expressed on the platelet surface.4 SERT removes 5-HT from the blood via a saturable reuptake mechanism.4 Once in the cytoplasm, 5-HT is sequestered by the vesicular monoamine transporter type 2 into intracellular dense granules.4–6 5-HT concentration in resting platelets is millimolar versus in the blood where it is in the low nanomolar range.5,6 Although 5-HT is better known as a neurotransmitter with key roles in a variety of psychiatric diseases, it also has extracerebral roles: multifunctional signaling molecule, growth factor, endocrine hormone, or paracrine messenger, from fetal to adult life.2,7,8 Platelets are derived from the fragmented cytoplasm of megakaryocytes and enter the circulation in an inactive form. The initial activation of platelets stabilizes them in hemostasis. Further platelet activation enlists more platelets at a fibrin-stabilized hemostatic area to form a thrombus after associating with the endothelium or each other. The role of circulating, free 5-HT in platelet adhesion, aggregation, and thrombus …
Quasiparticle spectra and the calculation of thermodynamics for a two-dimensional Fermi liquid

If the dynamical quasiparticle spectrum of a Fermi liquid (FL), ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\epsilon}}}_{\mathit{p}}^{\mathrm{dy}}$, given by the poles of the single-particle propagator, is used in the expression for the entropy of a noninteracting Fermi gas, one finds that the result is different from that calculated directly from the thermodynamic potential. In particular, the coefficient of the ${\mathit{T}}^{3}$lnT terms, the leading correction to the linear T dependence for a three-dimensional (3D) FL, is overestimated when calculated from ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\epsilon}}}_{\mathit{p}}^{\mathrm{dy}}$. The thermodynamic properties may be calculated correctly from a second quasiparticle spectrum, the statistical quasiparticle spectrum, ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\epsilon}}}_{\mathit{p}}^{\mathrm{st}}$. In this paper I calculate the corrections to leading linear energy and temperature dependences for a 2D FL. I compare the difference between the two spectra in the 2D and 3D cases. Although these differences are qualitatively the same, they are quantitatively larger in the 2D case.
Electronic structures and conductivity in peptide nanotubes.

Self-assembling cyclic d,l-peptide nanotubes are electronically insulating and possess wide band gaps (Eg > 4eV). Our ab initio electronic structure calculations indicate that the presence of aromatic rings in the side chain of peptide nanotubes significantly reduces the band gap. We investigate the conductivity of the modified peptide nanotubes through calculations of the electron tunneling probability. The electron tunneling probability through a molecule depends on the length of the molecule, L, as e-β(E)L, where the tunneling β(E)-factor is strongly energy-dependent. We have calculated β(E) in three types of peptide nanotubes that have different sequences of amino acid residue, (l-Gln, d-Ala)4, (l-Gln, d-Leu)4 and (l-Gln, d-Phe)4, using the complex band structure approach. We find large β values near midgap, making these peptide nanotubes a poor tunneling conductor.
Millimeter and sub-millimeter wave detection of hydrogen peroxide

The measurement of small concentrations of hydrogen peroxide through the detection of rotational transitions in the millimeter and sub-millimeter wave regions is discussed. Calculated transition frequencies and absorption coefficients of H2O2 for frequencies up to 2000 GHz are presented. The reliability of the calculated values is illustrated by measurements of the linewidths and absorption coefficients of transitions in the 140 GHz range. Finally, methods for the detection of trace quantities of the peroxide molecule are briefly described.
Parent--offspring correlations and regressions for IQ.

Studies of family resemblances for measured intelligence show a substantial heritability for this conglomeration of characteristics. We have 2029 pairs of parents with one or more offspring. The IQ values for both parents were obtained when they were in their “teens,” and their offspring were likewise tested during their teens. The regression coefficient for each offspring's IQ on the midparental average IQ, for the 2029 pairs, was 0.613±0.022. The regression for the offspring when the midparental average IQ was above 114 (+1σ), with 259 pairs, was 0.496±0.139. The regression for the offspring when the midparental IQ averages were from 74 to 114 was 0.481±0.034 (−2σ to +1σ), with 1664 pairs. The regression when the midparental IQ average was below 74, with 106 pairs, was 1.531 ±0.324. Statistical truncations, such as the above, can cause gross aberrations in the correlations and regressions of the subsamples. The effects of such truncations on the relevant literature are discussed. The average correlation between siblings was 0.387 with 95% confidence intervals of 0.318–0.451.
Outsourcing and the Heckscher–Ohlin Model

The purpose of this paper is to incorporate the currently mushrooming phenomenon of outsourcing into the standard two-sector, two-factor Heckscher–Ohlin model of international trade. We first show how outsourcing modifies a firm's production function, and then demonstrate that outsourcing generally raises the return to capital and lowers the real wage, although the nation's GDP rises in proportion to the value-added in the outsourcing industry. Furthermore, the output of the outsourcing sector may actually fall even though its unit cost goes down; the output of the other sector then rises. By contrast, employment in the outsourcing sector may actually rise.
THE RADIOISOTOPE LABORATORY IN CLINICAL GASTROENTEROLOGY.

The radioisotope laboratory can be of use to the clinician in his evaluation of gastroenterologic problems. The methods available may also provide him with an outlet for clinical investigation, which in many ways brings satisfaction. Obviously, the over-all worth of the radioisotope laboratory will be dependent upon the interest of the clinician.
Renal cystography with triplecontrast material

Abstract Renal cystography with triple-contrast material (meglumine diatrizoate, air, iophendylate) was performed in 9 patients who had associated illnesses which made them high-risk surgical cases for diagnosis of renal masses. There has been no morbidity during the three year follow-up period (range five to thirty-six months, average eighteen months). The cysts retained the oily substance iophendylate (Pantopaque), and they were reduced in size.
Cross-national development and validation of an international business measurement scale: the COISCALE

Abstract There are countless important concepts in international business research that must be assessed using valid measurement scales. A prerequisite for advancing international business research is standardized constructs and associated measures that are reliable, valid, and dimensionally consistent. Because international business research is a costly undertaking, the construction of valid measurement scales is critical. Country image is an important concept in international business research because of its ability to influence purchase behavior and other critical outcomes. Using data from three diverse cultures—Japan, Turkey, and the USA—we devise a scale to measure country-of-origin image (“COI”). We then confirm the validity of the scale using recently defined methods for assessing measurement invariance in cross-national research. The resulting “COISCALE” is valid, yet parsimonious, and appears capable of assessing country image in a variety of national settings.
An intercomparison of continuous flow, and automatically segmenting rainwater collection methods for determining precipitation conductivity and pH

Abstract This report compares two precipitation intensity or volume weighted rainwater collection methods. A continuous flow measurement of conductivity and pH is compared to the corresponding data for samples collected by a fraction collection system. Conductivity data from summer thunderstorms in Omaha, Nebraska, collected by the two systems are comparable to each other and with integrated collection by a wet-only, event collector. The flow system pH measurement exhibits bias with respect to the fraction collection system due to insufficient electrode equilibration time, especially when the precipitation conductivity is low, μ S cm −1 .
Enhanced raman scattering from carbon layers on silver

The broad bands at 1350 and 1550 cm−1 observed in Raman scattering from Ag in electrochemical cells have been observed on Ag surfaces in tunneling structures and in ultrahigh vacuum. Both the shape and intensity of this scattering is explained by the presence of amorphous carbon on the Ag surfaces.
Biogeochemical factors that influence the stable nitrogen isotope ratio of dissolved ammonium in the Delaware Estuary

Abstract The isotopic composition (δ15N) of dissolved ammonium (NH4+) in the Delaware Estuary was related to reactions in the nitrogen cycle occurring in different regions of the estuary and at different rates throughout the year. The range of values at any one location (as great as +10 to +40%.) was dependent on either nitrification, algal uptake, and microbial remineralization, or on a combination of these reactions. Specifically, observations of isotopic discrimination during nitrification in the riverine portion of the estuary were similar to those reported in other estuaries. In addition, the first calculation of the isotopic fractionation during algal uptake in the field is reported. Algal assimilation of NH4+ in the estuary had an estimated fractionation factor (ϵ) of −9.1%. This estimated ϵ for the field data and fractionation factors measured in culture ( − 14 to − 20%.) were compared in a numerical simulation of NH4+ transport and uptake in the estuary. Model results for the period of the spring bloom resembled the field data more closely when the isotopic fractionation estimated with the in situ data was used rather than greater isotopic fractionations measured in culture.
Design and Characterization of a Low Power Consumption, HPGe Spectrometer

A low power consumption, high resolution germanium spectrometer is described. The spectrometer consists of an HPGe detector (either conventional or reverse electrode), a charge loop amplifier, a high count rate indicator, detector bias shutdown electronics, and a portable cryostat. A brief analysis of the charge loop amplifier is presented. Data for FET noise at reduced drain currents is also presented. The effects of various circuit components on temperature coefficient of gain are described along with measured temperature coefficient. Finally, the resolution and peak shift versus count rate are presented along with the spectrometer configuration.
Modulation of response patterns in human auditory cortex during a target detection task: An intracranial electrophysiology study

Abstract Selective attention enhances cortical activity representing an attended sound stream in human posterolateral superior temporal gyrus (PLST). It is unclear, however, what mechanisms are associated with a target detection task that necessitates sustained attention (vigilance) to a sound stream. We compared responses elicited by target and non-target sounds, and to sounds presented in a passive-listening paradigm. Subjects were neurosurgical patients undergoing invasive monitoring for medically refractory epilepsy. Stimuli were complex tones, band-limited noise bursts and speech syllables. High gamma cortical activity (70–150 Hz) was examined in all subjects using subdural grid electrodes implanted over PLST. Additionally, responses were measured from depth electrodes implanted within Heschl's gyrus (HG) in one subject. Responses to target sounds recorded from PLST were increased when compared to responses elicited by the same sounds when they were not-targets, and when they were presented during passive listening. Increases in high gamma activity to target sounds occurred during later portions (after 250 ms) of the response. These increases were related to the task and not to detailed stimulus characteristics. In contrast, earlier activity that did not vary across conditions did represent stimulus acoustic characteristics. Effects observed on PLST were not noted in HG. No consistent effects were noted in the averaged evoked potentials in either cortical region. We conclude that task dependence modulates later activity in PLST during vigilance. Later activity may represent feedback from higher cortical areas. Study of concurrently recorded activity from frontoparietal areas is necessary to further clarify task-related modulation of activity on PLST.
Vaccines for conformational disorders

Neurodegenerative disorders are becoming increasingly common and an ever greater healthcare burden, as the average age in Western populations rises. Many of these are conformational disorders, which are characterized by the accumulation of a host protein that undergoes a structural change increasing its β-sheet content, rendering it toxic. The most common of these illnesses is Alzheimer's disease. Prion diseases are also conformational disorders, which are currently less common than Alzheimer's disease, however, these illnesses have no treatment and are universally rapidly fatal. The emergence of new variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease has raised the possibility of a large population at risk for this illness, as well as causing great concern regarding the safety of blood bank supplies. Recently, immune modulation has emerged as a highly promising therapeutic strategy for both Alzheimer's and prion diseases. We and others have demonstrated in both Alzheimer's and prion disease animal models that vaccination ...
Ecallantide for treatment of acute attacks of hereditary angioedema

Purpose The pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety, dosage, administration, adverse effects, and place in therapy of ecallantide, a kallikrein inhibitor for the treatment of hereditary angioedema (HAE), are reviewed. Summary Ecallantide is the first member of the kallikrein inhibitor class approved for the treatment of acute attacks of HAE. Ecallantide works by binding to kallikrein, preventing the conversion of kininogen to bradykinin, which reduces vascular permeability, thus reducing the swelling associated with acute attacks of HAE. Ecallantide has been studied for the treatment of HAE in three Phase II studies and two Phase III studies. These studies were collectively known as the EDEMA (Evaluation of DX-88’s Effect in Mitigating Angioedema) studies. Phase III clinical trials found that ecallantide is superior to placebo in ameliorating patient symptoms associated with acute attacks of HAE at any anatomical site. Ecallantide has a favorable safety profile, with the most common adverse effects being gastrointestinal effects, headache, and injection site reactions. The most severe adverse effects of ecallantide are the risk of anaphylaxis and the possible development of antiecallantide antibodies. A risk evaluation and mitigation strategy program has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration to help ensure the safety and efficacy of ecallantide use. The recommended dose is 30 mg given as three separate subcutaneous injections. Conclusion Ecallantide is a novel agent approved for the treatment of acute attacks of HAE at any anatomical site. It is one of only three medications approved for this indication in the United States, presents a unique mechanism of action, and appears to be safe and effective when used for its labeled indication.
Agonist-directed Interactions with Specific β-Arrestins Determine μ-Opioid Receptor Trafficking, Ubiquitination, and Dephosphorylation

Morphine and other opiates mediate their effects through activation of the μ-opioid receptor (MOR), and regulation of the MOR has been shown to critically affect receptor responsiveness. Activation of the MOR results in receptor phosphorylation, β-arrestin recruitment, and internalization. This classical regulatory process can differ, depending on the ligand occupying the receptor. There are two forms of β-arrestin, β-arrestin1 and β-arrestin2 (also known as arrestin2 and arrestin3, respectively); however, most studies have focused on the consequences of recruiting β-arrestin2 specifically. In this study, we examine the different contributions of β-arrestin1- and β-arrestin2-mediated regulation of the MOR by comparing MOR agonists in cells that lack expression of individual or both β-arrestins. Here we show that morphine only recruits β-arrestin2, whereas the MOR-selective enkephalin [d-Ala2,N-Me-Phe4,Gly5-ol]enkephalin (DAMGO), recruits either β-arrestin. We show that β-arrestins are required for receptor internalization and that only β-arrestin2 can rescue morphine-induced MOR internalization, whereas either β-arrestin can rescue DAMGO-induced MOR internalization. DAMGO activation of the receptor promotes MOR ubiquitination over time. Interestingly, β-arrestin1 proves to be critical for MOR ubiquitination as modification does not occur in the absence of β-arrestin1 nor when morphine occupies the receptor. Moreover, the selective interactions between the MOR and β-arrestin1 facilitate receptor dephosphorylation, which may play a role in the resensitization of the MOR and thereby contribute to overall development of opioid tolerance.
Speculation and the crawling peg: Some further issues

This paper shows that managed float exchange rate systems may be beset by problems of dynamic instability, given a combination of high capital mobility and minimally rational expectations. This is especially the case if the authorities index the rate of real appreciation/depreciation to either the overall rate of reserve accumulation or the level of reserves. A possible route out of this dilemma is to index the rate of real appreciation to the level of the nominal trade surplus.
Grafting onto cellulose and cellulose derivatives using ultraviolet irradiation

The cellulose-tendering properties of anthraquinone-2,7-disulfonic acid disodium salt have been successfully applied to graft various vinyl monomers onto cellulosic materials. A cellophane (or cellulose derivative) film is suspended in a solution containing monomer, solvent, dye, and water and irradiated with a 100-w. AH-4 mercury-vapor lamp. The photoexcited dye molecule abstracts a hydrogen atom from the substrate. The radical formed on the cellulose backbone initiates vinyl polymerization and a graft polymer is formed. The grafted film may be up to three and one-half times as heavy as the original substrate and has entirely different solubility characteristics. The degree of grafting is dependent on the monomer concentration in the solution and on the irradiation time. Maximum grafting is usually obtained employing a 24 hour irradiation period. The grafting is always accompanied by homopolymerization, which is not inhibited by atmospheric oxygen, but bubbling air through the solution will completely inhibit both the homopolymerization and the grafting. Substantial grafting can be obtained employing the following monomer-solvent systems: acrylonitrile-N,N-dimethylformamide; acrylamide-water; styrene-acrylonitrile-N,N-dimethylformamide. Good evidence for grafting has been obtained by comparing the solubility characteristics of the graft with those of a physical mixture of the cellulose and the homopolymer.
Movement of methylphenazyl free radicals in polar and nonpolar liquids

Abstract A protonated, charged free radical of methylphenazine methosulfate (PMS) was generated at carbon electrodes in a buffered aqueous medium. This radical diffused from the aqueous phase into nonpolar organic solvents, where it was stable for extended periods. The electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrum of the free radical species in the nonpolar solvent was significantly different from that of the aqueous species. This differences was attributed to the loss of electric charge through deprotonation at the solution interface, followed by solvation of the uncharged species in the organic phase. ESR spectra are presented for PMS free radicals in polar and nonpolar liquid phases, along with electrochemical results and conclusions regarding the mechanisms of movement and toxicity of phenazyl free radicals in biological systems.
Increased susceptibility to diet-induced gallstones in liver fatty acid binding protein knockout mice

Quantitative trait mapping identified a locus colocalizing with L-Fabp, encoding liver fatty acid binding protein, as a positional candidate for murine gallstone susceptibility. When fed a lithogenic diet (LD) for 2 weeks, L-Fabp(-/-) mice became hypercholesterolemic with increased hepatic VLDL cholesterol secretion. Seventy-five percent of L-Fabp(-/-) mice developed solid gallstones compared with 6% of wild-type mice with an increased gallstone score (3.29 versus 0.62, respectively; P < 0.01). Hepatic free cholesterol content, biliary cholesterol secretion, and the cholesterol saturation index of hepatic bile were increased in LD-fed L-Fabp(-/-) mice. Chow-fed L-Fabp(-/-) mice demonstrated increased fecal bile acid (BA) excretion accompanied by decreased ileal Asbt expression. By contrast, there was an increased BA pool and decreased fecal BA excretion in LD-fed L-Fabp(-/-) mice, associated with increased proximal intestinal Asbt mRNA expression, suggesting that intestinal BA absorption was enhanced in LD-fed L-Fabp(-/-) mice. The increase in biliary BA secretion and enterohepatic pool size in LD-fed L-Fabp(-/-) mice was accompanied by downregulation of Cyp7a1 mRNA and increased intestinal mRNA abundance of Fgf-15, Fxr, and Fabp6. These findings suggest that changes in hepatic cholesterol metabolism and biliary lipid secretion as well as changes in enterohepatic BA metabolism increase gallstone susceptibility in LD fed L-Fabp(-/-) mice.
Field-Cycling 14N NQR Imaging with Spatial and Frequency Resolution

Abstract The recently developed technique of NQR imaging via field cycling has been used to image 14 N nuclei in a test sample of acetamide and salicylamide. The image obtained is spatially resolved in one dimension and is also obtained as a function of the |0〉 → |+〉 transition frequency. The imaging plane is generated by two collinear solenoids wound with opposite handedness. In the field-cycling experiment, the 14 N |0〉 → | +〉 transition is saturated throughout the sample except at the imaging plane where the magnitude of the RF field, | B 1 |, is near zero.
Environmental Influences on the Microbial Degradation of Exxon Valdez Oil on the Shorelines of Prince William Sound, Alaska

Biodegradation was a major mechanism for removing oil resulting from the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Prince William Sound, Alaska. For three field seasons, we examined the hexadecane, phenanthrene, and naphthalene mineralization potentials of hydrocarbon-degrading microorganisms and the accompanying hydrocarbon concentrations from intertidal and shallow subtidal sediments. We found that mineralization potentials were not directly dependent on sediment substrate concentrations, but environmental factors influenced the ability of microbial populations to mineralize polycyclic aromatic and aliphatic compounds. These factors included the intensity of physical mixing experienced, the treatments received, and the availability of alternative carbon sources. In 1989, when the Exxon Valdez oil was relatively unweathered and before shoreline treatment was begun, the mineralization potentials of aromatic hydrocarbons were high at many sites even in the pres ence of alkanes at higher concentrations. However, by 1990, m...
Iron substitution for sodium in a carboxylate-bridged, heterodinuclear sodium-iron complex

The synthesis and structural characterization of the carboxylate-bridged, heterodinuclear iron-sodium complex [NaFe(PIC2DET)(mu-O2CTrp)3] (2), where PIC2DET (1) is a 2,3-diethynyltriptycene-linked dipicolinic methyl ester ligand and Trp is 9-triptycenyl, are described. The metal ions in 2 are bridged by three triptycene carboxylates with an Fe...Na distance of 3.181(2) A, and each is coordinated to a pyridine nitrogen and carbonyl oxygen atom of 1, forming two five-membered chelate rings. A linkage isomer in which Fe1 is bound by the other ester oxygen atom of 1 was identified by X-ray crystallographic analysis. Treatment of 2 with Fe(OTf)2.2MeCN resulted in substitution of sodium by iron(II) to give the cationic diiron(II) complex [Fe2(PIC2DET)(mu-O2CTrp)3][OTf] (3). This reaction was investigated by UV-vis, IR, MS, and stopped-flow spectroscopy. The substitution is first order with respect to 2 and zero order with respect to Fe(OTf)2.2MeCN (kobs = 21 +/- 2 s-1), consistent with a dissociative mechanism. A positive enthalpy of activation (DeltaH = 59 +/- 6 kJ mol-1) and negative entropy of activation (DeltaS = -20 +/- 6 J mol-1 K-1) were calculated from the temperature dependence of the rate-determining dissociation step.
Abstract 2289: Potential role for Src kinase inhibitors in PKCα-overexpressing breast cancer

Proceedings: AACR 102nd Annual Meeting 2011‐‐ Apr 2‐6, 2011; Orlando, FL The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of Src kinase in estrogen induced growth inhibition in the T47D/PKCα breast cancer cell line. Our lab has previously shown that constitutive overexpression of protein kinase Cα (PKCα) imparts a tamoxifen-resistant, hormone-independent phenotype in the T47D:A18 breast cancer cell line (Chisamore, et al. Clin Cancer Res 2001; 7(10):3156-65). Furthermore 17β-estradiol (E2) inhibits tumor growth in vivo as well as inhibits colony formation when cells are grown in 3D Matrigel (Zhang, et al. Mol Cancer Res 2009; 7(4):498-510). Here we show that the Src kinase inhibitor PP2 (5 μM) significantly inhibited T47D/PKCα colony formation in 3D Matrigel, but was unable to inhibit proliferation in vitro. The combination of PP2 and E2 treatment in 3D Matrigel did not further decrease colony number when compared to either alone. This suggests that these compounds may be acting on the same pathway and that E2 may be inhibiting Src kinase activity. To examine the effect of E2 on Src in T47D/PKCα xenograft tumors we probed the phosphorylation state of Src on Tyr416, known to be necessary for its full kinase activity. Src is basally phosphorylated on Tyr416 in T47D/PKCα cells. Interestingly, E2 treatment in vivo resulted in a decrease in phospho-Src. Erk 1/2, a downstream target of Src, is basally phosphorylated in T47D/PKCα cells. E2 treatment also resulted in a decrease in phospho-Erk1/2, in accordance with decreased Src phosphorylation. A reduction in phosphorylated Src and Erk1/2 was not seen in vitro indicating that the extracellular matrix is necessary for E2 to elicit an inhibitory effect on these proteins. In this study, we report that E2 treatment in vivo inhibited Src phosphorylation in tamoxifen resisitant T47D/PKCα tumors. Additionally pharmacological inhibition of Src inhibited T47D/PKCα colony formation in 3D Matrigel. Taken together, our results suggest that a Src inhibitor may be a potential therapeutic option for patients with PKCα-overexpressing breast cancer. Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2289. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-2289
Association of Atrial Myocardial Fibrosis with a Common Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 Promoter Polymorphism

Background Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common cardiac arrhythmia, is associated with the common –1306C/T matrix metalloproteinase-2 single nucleotide polymorphism (MMP2 SNP), which reduces the synthesis of matrix metalloproteinase-2 enzyme. Understanding the factors that mediate this association may improve current preventive and therapeutic strategies for AF. Methods To test the hypothesis that MMP2 SNP is associated with atrial fibrosis, the study was designed as a single center, observational, cross-sectional study. One hundred consecutive patients with symptomatic drug-resistant AF who underwent catheter ablation between September 2009 and February 2011 were enrolled. The endocardial bipolar electrogram voltage was measured point by point in the left atrium as panel data clustered by patient and compared with the result of genetic testing for MMP2 SNP. Results MMP2 SNP was present in at least 1 copy in 43% of patients, the minor allele frequency was 0.27, and genotype frequencies were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (Χ2 = 2.34, P = .126). The overall mean atrial voltage for the 4878 measures in 87 patients was 0.89 ± 1.10 mV. MMP2 SNP was significantly associated with reduced bipolar voltage in codominant (–0.11 mV per T copy, P = .003) and dominant (–0.18 mV if CT or TT, P Conclusions We report a strong association between a common MMP2 promoter polymorphism and atrial scar fibrosis. Impaired tissue remodeling may mediate the previously reported association between the –1306C/T MMP2 polymorphism and AF.
Asymptotic Equivalence of Seat Bias Models

Apportionment methods round vote proportions to integer numbers of seats in a parliament. An important issue is whether a given apportionment method treats larger and smaller parties equally or gives rise to seat biases. In this paper two models of quantifying seat biases of popular apportionment methods are compared to each other. The models are found to result in the same asymptotic behaviour when the number of seats available for apportionment grows large.
Interferon regulatory factors: critical mediators of human lupus

The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is multifactorial, and the interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) play an important role. Autoantibodies formed in SLE target nuclear antigens, and immune complexes formed by these antibodies contain nucleic acid. These immune complexes can activate antiviral pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), resulting in the downstream activation of IRFs, which can induce type I interferon (IFN-I) and other inflammatory mediators. Genetic variations in IRFs have been associated with susceptibility to SLE, and current evidence supports the idea that these polymorphisms are gain of function in humans. Recent studies suggest that these genetic variations contribute to the break in humoral tolerance that allows for nucleic acid binding autoantibodies, and that the same polymorphisms also augment IFN-I production in the presence of these autoantibody immune complexes, forming a feed-forward loop. In this review, we will outline major features of the PRR/IRF systems and describe the role of the IRFs in human SLE pathogenesis.
Peierls Stress for an Idealized Crystal Model

An analytical investigation is made of the geometry of an edge dislocation in a simple atomic model of an infinite crystal, and the effect on the dislocation of externally applied shear stress. This study indicates that in dislocation theory significant results may be obtained from the discrete model, on which accurate analysis is possible. Even the simple model used here seems to be sufficiently realistic to yield meaningful results.The width, $w$, of the dislocation, in this model, is proportional to ${\ensuremath{\gamma}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$, where $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ is the shear strength of a perfect crystal. The Peierls-Nabarro (P-N) stress has a large cyclic variation as $\ensuremath{\gamma}$ is changed, but is proportional, in the average, to ${e}^{\ensuremath{-}w}$. This differs markedly from the result, ${\ensuremath{\sigma}}_{\mathrm{PN}}\ensuremath{\propto}{e}^{\ensuremath{-}4\ensuremath{\pi}w}$, found from the continuum analysis. The values of the P-N stress ranged from ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}3}$ to ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$, in units of the shear modulus.In the analysis, the doubly infinite set of difference equations, derived from force balances on the atoms, is first reduced, by a type of Fourier series transform, to an infinite system of equations, which is then solved by the method of reduction. Numerical results were obtained from the IBM 1620 digital computer. The over-all error in the P-N stress for this model is believed to be less than ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}$.
Valuation scepticism, liquidity benefits and closed-end fund premiums/discounts: evidence from fair value disclosures

Closed-end fund investors may view assets valued using level 2 and 3 inputs more sceptically because of the subjectivity of these inputs (valuation scepticism), or these assets could be viewed favourably because they allow small investors to access illiquid securities (liquidity benefit). We find that funds holding level 3 assets have higher value when funds trade at a premium, but lower value when funds trade at a discount. Both of these effects are magnified for funds with higher levels of unrealized appreciation. Our results suggest that liquidity benefit (valuation scepticism) is more important when funds trade at a premium (discount).
Backtracking temporal logic synthesis for uncertain environments

This paper considers the problem of synthesizing correct-by-construction robotic controllers in environments with uncertain but fixed structure. “Environment” has two notions in this work: a map or “world” in which some controlled agent must operate and navigate (i.e., evolve in a configuration space with obstacles); and an adversarial player that selects continuous and discrete variables to try to make the agent fail (as in a game). Both the robot and the environment are subjected to behavioral specifications expressed as an assume-guarantee linear temporal logic (LTL) formula. We then consider how to efficiently modify the synthesized controller when the robot encounters unexpected changes in its environment. The crucial insight is that a portion of this problem takes place in a metric space, which provides a notion of nearness. Thus if a nominal plan fails, we need not resynthesize it entirely, but instead can “patch” it locally. We present an algorithm for doing this, prove soundness (correctness of output), and demonstrate it on an example gridworld.
Parents' Reactions to Teacher Practices of Parent Involvement

The Elementary School Journal Volume 86, Number S O 1986 by The University of Chicago. All rights reserved. 0013-5984/86/8603-0002$01.00 Teachers have strong opinions about parent involvement. Some believe that they can be effective only if they obtain parental assistance on learning activities at home. Others believe that their professional status is in jeopardy if parents are involved in activities that are typically the teachers' responsibilities. The different philosophies and beliefs of teachers reflect the two main, opposing theories of school and family relations. One perspective emphasizes the inherent incompatibility, competition, and conflict between families and schools and supports the separation of the two institutions (Parsons, 1959; Waller, 1932; Weber, 1947). It assumes that school bureaucracies and family organizations are directed, respectively, by educators and parents, who can best fulfill their different goals, roles, and responsibilities independently. Thus, these distinct goals are achieved most efficiently and effectively when teachers maintain their professional, general standards and judgments about the children in their classrooms and when parents maintain their personal, particularistic standards and judgments about their children at home.
A Sinorhizobium meliloti Lipopolysaccharide Mutant Altered in Cell Surface Sulfation

The Rhizobium-legume symbiosis involves the formation of a novel plant organ, the nodule, in which intracellular bacteria reduce molecular dinitrogen in exchange for plant photosynthates. Nodule development requires a bacterial signal referred to as Nod factor, which in Sinorhizobium meliloti is a β-(1,4)-linked tetramer of N-acetylglucosamine containing N-acyl and O-acetyl modifications at the nonreducing end and a critical 6-O-sulfate at the reducing end. This sulfate modification requires the action of three gene products: nodH, which catalyzes the sulfonyl transfer, and nodPQ, which produce the activated form of sulfate, 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate. It was previously reported that S. meliloti cell surface polysaccharides are also covalently modified by sulfate in a reaction dependent on NodPQ. We have further characterized this unique form of bacterial carbohydrate modification. Our studies have determined that one of the nodPQ mutant strains used in the initial study of sulfation of cell surface harbored a second unlinked mutation. We cloned the gene affected by this mutation (referred to as lps-212) and found it to be an allele of lpsL, a gene previously predicted to encode a UDP-glucuronic acid epimerase. We demonstrated that lpsL encoded a UDP-glucuronic acid epimerase activity that was reduced in the lps-212 mutant. The lps-212 mutation resulted in an altered lipopolysaccharide structure that was reduced in sulfate modification in vitro and in vivo. Finally, we determined that the lps-212 mutation resulted in a reduced ability to elicit the formation of plant nodules and by altered infection thread structures that aborted prematurely.