cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Metabolism and properties of a liver precursor to prothrombin.

Publisher Summary This chapter describes the metabolism and properties of a liver precursor to prothrombin. The production of the K-dependent clotting factors could be experimentally regulated and studied in a number of laboratory species. Vitamin K could theoretically function at a number of sites in the chain of metabolic events that lead from the production of an mRNA molecule specific for the polypeptide chain of prothrombin within the nucleus of the hepatocyte to the secretion of a completed prothrombin molecule into the plasma. A number of cell-free systems that produce factor VII upon incubation have also been described. The direct evidence of the presence of a precursor has been obtained by the demonstration that the prothrombin produced when hypoprothrombinemic rats are given vitamin K does not contain radioactive amino acids if they are administered at the same time as the vitamin. The precursor does not adsorb to insoluble barium salts, and although it is inactive in the standard two-stage assay for prothrombin, it can be degraded by thrombin in the same manner as prothrombin to yield a 55,000 DA basic fragment that contains the thrombin portion of the protein and a 25,000 molecular weight fragment.
Transforaminal nerve root stimulation: a technical report.

Objectives. This technical report provides a detailed description of a method of transforaminal nerve root stimulation useful in the treatment of chronic pain conditions. Material and Methods. We describe a patient who presented with a medically refractory peripheral neuropathy and suffered from bilateral foot pain. We utilized transforaminal nerve root stimulation to provide robust stimulation paresthesias to the painful areas. Implementing progressively angled stylets, we were able to successfully navigate the stimulators into the intervertebral foramenae with a retrograde approach. Results. The patient experienced appropriate pain relief after the stimulation and did not have any complications related to the procedure. Conclusions. We describe a method of transforaminal nerve root stimulation that can be easily implemented by providers using the standard tools available to them. Transforaminal nerve root stimulation may be appropriate for patients in whom more traditional approaches such as spinal cord stimulation or peripheral nerve stimulation are suboptimal.
Abstract T MP43: Utility of Augmented Reality in Relation to Virtual Reality in Stroke Rehabilitation

Introduction: Virtual Reality (VR) has been found useful for numerous rehabilitation applications, but has some intrinsic constraints such as the need for a visuospatial transformation when guiding movements. Augmented Reality (AR) is a new approach to human-computer interaction that enables patients to interact directly with virtual objects. The current study compared AR and VR in a stroke rehabilitation setting. METHODS: The Fruit Ninja game simulates a rehab setting by having subjects perform repeated goal-directed wrist/hand reaching tasks. Subjects held a cup-shaped color-marker in the paretic hand, then reached for a virtual fruit target that sliced in 2 when reached. This game was implemented in both AR and VR settings, with identical movement demands across the two. The target plus real-time visual feedback on hand movements were provided by a computer monitor in VR, and by a projection onto a tabletop in AR. After undergoing baseline assessments (arm motor Fugl-Meyer scale (FMA) and Box and Block...
XLI. Fluorescent relations of certain solid hydrocarbons found in coal-tar and petroleum distillates

(1872). XLI. Fluorescent relations of certain solid hydrocarbons found in coal-tar and petroleum distillates. The London, Edinburgh, and Dublin Philosophical Magazine and Journal of Science: Vol. 44, No. 294, pp. 345-349.
Catabolite Inhibition: a General Phenomenon in the Control of Carbohydrate Utilization

When Escherichia coli is grown in synthetic medium with radioactive galactose or lactose as the carbon source, the addition of glucose rapidly inhibited utilization of the radioactive substrate, whether the formation of 14CO2 or acid-insoluble products was measured. The inhibition was reversed after the removal of glucose. Experiments with mutants blocked in subsequent steps of galactose and lactose metabolism demonstrated that the inhibition occurs prior to the formation of the first metabolic product. The utilization of a variety of sugars, including maltose, lactose, mannose, galactose, l-arabinose, xylose, and glycerol was inhibited by glucose. Of a number of carbohydrates tested as potential inhibitors, only glucose and, to a lesser extent, glucose-6-phosphate (G-6-P) were capable of inhibiting the utilization of all of the substrates. Glucose did not inhibit G-6-P utilization but G-6-P inhibited glucose utilization. With all substrates, except glycerol, there was a delay before the onset of inhibition by G-6-P. We conclude that E. coli has a general regulatory mechanism, termed catabolite inhibition, which controls the activity of early reactions in carbohydrate metabolism, allowing certain substrates to be utilized preferentially.
The Unbearable Lightness of Politics: Climate Change Denial and Political Polarization

“It's anti-American and anti-freedom.” (Rand Paul)Newly elected Republican Senator Paul states succinctly the conservative view of U.S. cooperation with international efforts to stem global warming...
Symbolic schedulability analysis of real-time systems

We propose a unifying method for analysis of scheduling problems in real-time systems. The method is based on ACSR-VP, a real-time process algebra with value-passing capabilities. We use ACSR-VP to describe an instance of a scheduling problem as a process that has parameters of the problem as free variables. The specification is analyzed by means of a symbolic algorithm. The outcome of the analysis is a set of equations, a solution to which yields the values of the parameters that make the system schedulable. Equations are solved using integer programming or constraint logic programming. The paper presents specifications of two scheduling problems as examples.
A method for constructing orthonormal basis functions with good time-frequency localization

In this paper we derive an explicit, single expression for a complex-valued, orthonormal basis well localized in time-frequency domain. We construct it from a single real function Φ(x) which is a Gaussian divided by the square root of a Jacobi theta θ 3 function. Then we simplify Φ(x) to the form of inverse square root of a Jacobi theta θ 3 function. We show that the shape of Φ(x) can be changed from Gaussian-like to rectangular-like with a single parameter. The basis generating function Φ(x) and its Fourier transform Φ have exponential decay. We also show how to modify a standard I and Q processor to compute complex-valued time-frequency expansion coefficients.
Dual Ion Beam Sputtering of Carbides for EUV Reflectance

There is a need for thin optical coatings that can be produced at low temperatures and have a high reflectance at the extreme ultraviolet (EUV), λ < 1200 A. Currently, the best such materials are silicon carbide (SiC) and boron carbide sputtered onto optical surfaces. The EUV reflectance of sputtered SiC, however, is not as high as that of the sputtered target materials (sintered or CVD -SiC). More significantly, the reflectance of both sputtered films degrades with time. In previous work the reflectance degradation of the SiC films has been quantified, and efforts to ameliorate it via ion-beam assisted deposition (BAD) were described. Further work on sputtered SiC films is reported, including chemical and structural analysis. In addition, the degradation behavior of sputtered boron carbide is discussed.
Some Aspects of Near-Surface Vortices

An experimental investigation of the dynamics of near surface vortices is presented. Using digital particle image velocimetry, the velocity and vorticity fields of a vortex ring and a pair of undulated vortices were mapped as they rise toward a free surface. Circulation measurements indicate that vortex disconnection and appearance of the surface-normal vortices are simultaneous. Vortex disconnection due to the vorticity flux through the surface is shown to be related to the free-surface deceleration.
Effects of test temperature and grain size on the charpy impact toughness and dynamic toughness (K ID ) of polycrystalline niobium

The effects of changes in test temperature (−196 °C to 25 °C) and grain size (40 to 165 µm) on the dynamic cleavage fracture toughness (K ID ) and Charpy impact toughness of polycrystalline niobium (Nb) have been investigated. The ductile-to-brittle transition was found to be affected by both changes in grain size and the severity of stress concentration (i.e., notch vs fatigue-precrack). In addition to conducting impact tests on notched and fatigue-precracked Charpy specimens, extensive fracture surface analyses have been performed in order to determine the location of apparent cleavage nucleation sites and to rationalize the effects of changes in microstructure and experimental variables on fracture toughness. Existing finite element analyses and the stress field distributions ahead of stress concentrators are used to compare the experimental observations with the predictions of various fracture models. The dynamic cleavage fracture toughness, K ID , was shown to be 37±4 MPa√m and relatively independent of grain size (i.e., 40 to 105 µm) and test temperature over the range −196 °C to 25 °C.
At the Musarium (10)

I've blood red view late, clear daughter, beyond happy purpose or further knowledge– neither mine nor none. Living comes & desire makes real. Suppose position, sound, cold– rose wood. An army run. ...
Liftings for Haar measure on {0,1}k

We callE ⊆ {0,1}kprojective if for some countableA ⊆κ there is anEA ⊆ {0, 1}A such thatE=EA×{0,1}k\A andEA is a projective subset of the Cantor set {0, 1}A. We construct a model where Haar measure on {0,1}k has no projective lifting (and in particular no Baire lifting) for anyκ≥ω.
Synergistic Development of Phonetic Skill

Fey (1985; reprinted 1992, this issue) described children’s disordered speech sound production using a combination of phonological and traditional articulatory constructs that are not specifically related to levels of language organization higher than the morpheme or word form. This theoretical viewpoint coincides with current testing and treatment procedures that focus on production, perception, and categorization of word pairs that have been selected by the clinician because of their phonological properties. This article will argue that such an approach is not necessarily the most efficacious for preschool children with phonological delay who also exhibit delayed semantic-syntactic development. A model of verbal communication that unites phonetic, phonological, and higher organizational levels will be described. Treatment strategies related to this model will be exemplified.
Direct coupling of Euler flow equations with plate finite element structures

A procedure to compute aeroelasticity by directly coupling the Euler equations for fluids and with plate finite element equations for structures is presented. The coupled equations are solved using a time integration method. The accuracy is maintained using moving grids that conform to aeroelastically deformed shape computed every time step. The aeordynamic forces are transferred to structures by using simple lumped load approach and also a more accurate virtual surface approach
Structure of the O16 nucleus

Abstract An approximate Hartree-Fock self-consistent-field calculation is carried out for the ground state of the O16 nucleus. The two-body interaction used has a finite hard core as well as tensor and Serber exchange interaction. Our zeroth-order wave function gives an improved ground state energy of −116.3 MeV as compared to −87.8 MeV obtained with harmonic oscillator wave functions in zeroth order in a previous calculation using the same Hamiltonian. The calculated value of the r.m.s. radius is 2.07 fm. Coulomb forces are neglected in zero order and contribute 18.2 MeV when treated as a first order perturbation. A projection operator technique is used to construct 1,1S wave functions from the various excited configurations which interact with the ground state. The configuration interaction calculation yields −13.6 MeV as the correlation energy, giving a total binding energy nearly identical with that obtained in an earlier calculation which used harmonic oscillator wave functions in zeroth order. Thus the net correlation energy is found to be very much smaller than would appear from the simple shell model. The tensor force does not contribute to the energy of the 1,1S ground state configuration, and the configuration interaction effects due to the tensor force are found to be quite small (≈−0.2 MeV). The fact that total correlation energy including tensor force is small indicates that L−S coupling is a good approximation for the ground state of closed shell nuclei like O16. The 3, 1P states arising from the configurations p−1d and p−12s in L−S coupling are calculated. These states are associated with dipole resonance in O16. The calculation shows that most of the dipole sum is obtained from our two 3, 1P states. The methods of calculation described in this paper are quite general and can be applied easily to either open or closed shell nuclei, if the two-body interaction has no worse than an integrable singularity (integrable hard core).
Laryngeal and nasal involvement in pemphigus vulgaris.

Abstract Background: The presence of lesions of pemphigus vulgaris in the larynx and nasal cavity has been reported in individual case reports. However, the frequency with which these sites are involved is not known. Objective: Our purpose was to investigate the incidence of laryngeal and nasal disease involvement in patients with pemphigus vulgaris. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis conducted in a referral private practice in an academic department of dermatology. A total of 53 sequential patients with pemphigus vulgaris diagnosed by clinical, histologic, and immunofluorescence criteria were selected on the basis of having been treated by one of us (J. C. B.) during most of their illness. Patients' charts were reviewed for documentation of laryngeal and nasal symptoms, ear/nose/throat evaluation, and response to treatment. Results: Twenty-six (49%) of the patients complained of laryngeal or nasal symptoms at some time during the course of their disease. Twenty-one patients had laryngeal symptoms and 12 had nasal symptoms. More than 80% of patients with laryngeal or nasal symptoms had evidence of pemphigus involvement based on ear/nose/throat examination or rapid response to increased doses of corticosteroids, and 2 patients had candidiasis confirmed by fungal culture. Conclusion: These observations indicate that laryngeal and nasal symptoms are common in pemphigus vulgaris. In the majority of cases, this appears to be a result of involvement with the disease or with candidiasis. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2001;44:609-11.)
Characterization of high‐affinity melatonin binding sites in purified cell nuclei of rat liver

Acuna-Costroviejo D, Reiter RJ, Menendez-Pelaez A, Pablos MI, Burgos A. Characterization of high-affinity melatonin binding sites in purified cell nuclei of rat liver. J. Pineal Res. 1994: 16: 100–112. Abstract High-affinity 2-125I-iodomelatonin binding sites in homogenates of purified cell nuclei from rat liver were localized and characterized using biochemical binding techniques. Binding at these sites was found to be rapid, reversible, saturable, and to demonstrate pharmacological selectivity. At 0°C, binding reached equilibrium in about 10 min. Scatchard analysis of the data at equilibrium revealed a single class of binding sites with a dissociation constant of KD= 190 ± 47 pM, Bmax= 9. 8 ± 0. 6 fmol/mg protein, and a Hill coefficient of nH= 1. 02 ± 0. 034. Kinetic analysis of the association and dissociation curves indicated a kinetic KD= 148 ± 41 pM, which is in good agreement with the value obtained at equilibrium. The specific binding of 2-125I-iodomelatonin (45 pM) (0. 51 ± 0. 04 fmol/mg protein) was significantly improved (0. 79 ± 0. 04 fmol/mg protein) when the homogenates of purified liver cell nuclei were reinsulated with DNase (2 μg/ml at 37°C for 20 min) before being used in binding experiments. After the addition of either proteinase K or trichloroacetic acid to DNase-treated purified cell nuclear homogenates, the specific binding disappeared. This suggests that the specific binding of 2-125I-iodomelatonin in liver cell nuclei is associated with nuclear protein. Competition experiments show that N-acetyl-serotonin (Ki= 81. 3 nM) was more potent than 5-hydroxytryptamine (Ki > 1 μM) and 5-methoxytryptamine (Ki≫ 10 μM) in inhibiting 2-125I-iodomelatonin binding (Ki melatonin = 146 pM). These data indicate that specific 2-125I-iodomelatonin binding sites exist in the cell nuclei of rat liver, and that they may comprise a locus for the intracellular action of melatonin. The correlation between the KD and Bmax values with melatonin concentrations in nuclei suggest that these binding sites may be a physiological melatonin receptor, which could explain the described genomic effects of the pineal hormone.
Transient studies of the mechanisms of CO oxidation over Au/TiO2 using time-resolved FTIR spectroscopy and product analysis

Transient studies on the oxidation of CO over Au/TiO{sub 2} have been performed at 243-363 K using a time-resolved fast-scanning Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer coupled with a quadrupole mass spectrometer. Different CO-O{sub 2} interactions were performed by stepping CO into a steady-state He flow, O{sub 2} into a steady-state CO flow, CO into a steady-state O{sub 2} flow, and CO/O{sub 2} into an He flow. The CO oxidation reaction occurs at all temperature ranges investigated whether CO is preadsorbed or O{sub 2} is preadsorbed, indicating that there is no competition between CO and O{sub 2} for adsorption at a temperature range of 243-363 K (noncompetitive adsorption). It suggests that CO and O{sub 2} adsorption occurs on two different types of sites. When there is no O{sub 2} present in step feed (i.e., step CO into He), CO immediately builds up on the surface (rapid adsorption of CO) and desorbs slowly after cutting off CO flow. However, when O{sub 2} is present in the step feed (i.e., step CO/O{sub 2} into He), adsorbed CO reacts with adsorbed oxygen immediately (fast surface reaction), whereas CO{sub 2} product desorption monitored by mass spectroscopy appears to be very slow. Slow desorption of CO{submore » 2} product is claimed to be the rate-limiting step of CO oxidation over Au/TiO{sub 2} at a temperature range of 243-273 K.« less
Regulated expression of a contractile protein gene correlates with recovery of contractile function after reversible metabolic inhibition in cultured myocytes

Little is known of the relation between recovery of contraction and the regulation of contractile protein gene expression in ventricular myocytes after severe ATP depletion. We have examined alterations in activation of an MLC-2 luciferase fusion gene in cultured neonatal rat ventricular myocytes produced by exposure to 2 mM Na CN and 20 mM 2-deoxyglucose, and after recovery is serum or serum free medium. The effects of metabolic inhibition followed by recovery on expression on an RSV-luciferase activity were also investigated. Myocytes were co-transfected with a CMV beta-galactosidase fusion gene, and luciferase activities were normalized relative to beta-galactosidase activity to control for transfection efficiency. Two hours of metabolic inhibition produced significant cell injury, as documented by disorganization of myofilaments, and reduction in luciferase and beta-galactosidase activity within transfected cells. Cells allowed to recover for 48 h in serum free hormone supplemented medium showed a further decline in corrected luciferase activity, consistent with a marked reduction in MLC-2 gene transcription. Cells recovered from severe metabolic inhibition in serum free medium also showed failure to redevelop contractile activity, and failure of redevelopment of organized myofibrils. In contrast, myocytes exposed to serum during the 48 h recovery period had a marked increase in luciferase activity, resumed contractile activity and re-established organized myofilaments. There were no significant differences between RSV luciferase activities in cells recovered in serum versus serum free media. In ventricular myocytes in which contraction was inhibited by exposure to 10 microM verapamil, MLC-2 luciferase activity declined by 87%. However, even when contractile activity was inhibited by exposure to verapamil during recovery from metabolic inhibition, exposure to serum containing medium caused a significantly greater increase in MLC-2 luciferase activity than did serum free medium. Thus, the effects of serum on MLC-2 gene expression were not solely due to an effect of serum on recovery of contractile activity. Verapamil had no consistent effect on expression of RSV luciferase. These results suggest that expression of the MLC-2 gene is markedly reduced following recovery from severe metabolic inhibition, an effect largely due to cessation of myocyte contractile activity. Resupply of growth factors present in fetal calf serum reactivate expression of this gene, and this is associated with resumption of contractile activity and redevelopment of organized myofibrils. These results suggest that reactivation of contractile protein gene expression during recovery from metabolic inhibition may be beneficial in allowing cells to recover from this insult.
Sex pheromone blend discrimination by male moths fromE andZ strains of European corn borer.

Sex pheromone behavioral responses were analyzed in a flight tunnel with European corn borer,Ostrinia nubilalis (Hubner), males from three distinct populations. Males from a bivoltine and a univoltine biotype using a 97.8∶2.2 blend (Z strains) of (Z)- and (E)-11-tetradecenyl acetate were assayed with treatments containing 0, 0.5, 1, and 3% of theE isomer. Males from neither population oriented in the plume to the 100%Z treatment, but bivoltine males oriented and flew to the source to the other three treatments, whereas univoltine males oriented and flew to the source only to the 1 % and 3 %E treatments. Males from a bivoltine biotype using a 1∶99 blend ofZ/E isomers (E strain) were assayed with sources containing 0, 0.5, 1, and 3% of theZ isomer. Males did not orient to the 0%Z source, but oriented and flew to the source to the other three treatments. In addition to using opposite geometric isomers for the main pheromone component, the bivoltineE strain differed from the bivoltineZ strain by producing and responding better to 1 % of the minor component and by storing 3 times more pheromone in the female glands. Contrary to previous reports, the blend of two pheromone components is significantly better than the main component alone in eliciting oriented flight and close-range behavior with males from all three populations of European corn borer.
More research needed: informal information-seeking behavior of youth on the Internet

Les jeunes arrivent a faire des recherches sur internet a condition que la recherche ne soit pas commandee par des adultes. De plus, la notion de pertinence est differente pour eux
Sensory hind-limb representation in the Sml cortex of the cat after spinal tractotomies

Abstract The functional properties of single neurons in the hind-limb area of the primary somatosensory cortex were studied in cats with surgical interruption of the various sectors of the midthoracic spinal cord. Lesions which spared or isolated the dorsal spinal column in no way altered mechanoreception. Lesions severing the dorsal column reduced the cortical representation of hair follicle receptors. Lesions which isolated the contralateral lateral funiculus increased the cortical representation of receptors whose adequate stimulus was light tap. Cortical organization in depth and in topography was unchanged by the above lesions. Tactile and proprioceptive reflexes were not impaired by chronic lesions limited to the dorsal column. Lesions severing both the contralateral dorsal column and the dorsal part of the lateral funiculus completely eliminated the cortical representation of lowthreshold mechanoreceptors and released the cortical representation of high threshold mechanoreceptors. Somatic nonspecific influences were detected in the superficial and the deep cortical layers. There was no evidence for a tactile component of the spinothalamic tract. In the chronic state, tactile and proprioceptive reflexes were gravely impaired, as was also the ability to localize pinch.
Connectivity of Random Cubic Sum Graphs

Consider the set $\mathcal{SG}(Q_k)$ of all graphs whose vertices are labeled with nonidentity elements of the group $Q_k=\mathbb{Z}_2^k$ so that there is an edge between vertices with labels $a$ and $b$ if and only if the vertex labeled $a+b$ is also in the graph. Note that edges always appear in triangles since $a+b=c$, $b+c=a$, and $a+c=b$ are equivalent statements for $Q_k$. We define the random cubic sum graph $\mathcal{SG}(Q_k,p)$ to be the probability space over $\mathcal{SG}(Q_k)$ whose vertex sets are determined by $\Pr[x\in V]=p$ with these events mutually independent. As $p$ increases from 0 to 1, the expected structure of $\mathcal{SG}(Q_k,p)$ undergoes radical changes. We obtain thresholds for some graph properties of $\mathcal{SG}(Q_k,p)$ as $k\rightarrow\infty$. As with the classical random graph, the threshold for connectivity coincides with the disappearance of the last isolated vertex.
Enterprise Resource Planning Software in the Human Resource Classroom.

The relatively recent development of comprehensive human resource information systems (HRIS) software has led to a large demand for technologically literate human resource (HR) professionals. For the college student who is about to begin the search for that first postcollege job, the need to develop technology literacy is even more necessary. To meet this technology need, many business schools have started to think about or have begun to incorporate more advanced technology such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems into their curriculum. This article describes the efforts of faculty from two university business schools that incorporated the HRIS module of an ERP system into their HR management courses. In both cases, HRIS was used to illustrate examples of HR processes, measurement, best practices, and planning. Outcomes and lessons learned from the past 2.5 years are also described.
Computer-Assisted Fingerprint Encoding and Classification

A proposed man-machine system for encoding fingerprint ridge characteristics is described. The fundamental concept underlying the proposed system is to use an operator to recognize the ridge characteristics and to impart to a computer the ability to manipulate and compare the digitized locations and directions of these characteristics for single-fingerprint classification. The proposed system and encoding schemes were simulated using a RAND tablet and an IBM 1800 computer. Sample input prints were encoded and stored on a magnetic tape. Experimental results on human factors and multiple-impression file searches illustrate the feasibility of computer-assisted fingerprint encoding and classification.
Techniques for locating the stereo axis of stereo-pair images

A pair of stereoscopic images can be created by rotating a solid object through a small angle and capturing two images of that object, one before and one after the rotation. The pair of images is called an approximate stereo-pair, and the projection of the axis of rotation onto the stereo-pair is called the stereo axis. For the stereo-pair to be fusible, or perceived as three-dimensional, the stereo-pair must be rotated so that the stereo axis is perpendicular to the observer's inter-pupillary axis, the imaginary line connecting the centers of focus of the observer's eyes. Techniques are presented for locating the stereo axis of a stereo-pair. >
Computer-Aided Process Planning: The Present and the Future

Abstract This paper examines the current status of, and suggests some future directions for, research efforts in an area important for computer-integrated manufacturing: computer-aided process planning (CAPP). Rather than discuss a specific aspect of the subject or present details of a particular prototype system, the major emphasis is on the global perspectives of fundamental issues involved in developing computer-based planning systems for various manufacturing tasks. In reviewing the current research, references are made to technical papers presented at the 19th CIRP ( International Institution for Production Engineering Research ) International Seminar on Manufacturing Systems held at the Pennsylvania State University, June 1-2, 1987, with the major theme of Computer Aided Process Planning. In suggesting future directions, an integrated planning framework as a logical extension of current CAPP activities is proposed. The need for, and challenges of, such an integrated planning approach to manufacturing problems are summarized, and, specifically the potential role of artificial intelligence (AI) based techniques within this framework are explained. The objective of this paper is to promote a better understanding of the nature and potential of manufacturing-related planning tasks by critiquing the present efforts with respect to the ultimate goals of unmanned production in the future.
Possibility of a large T=2 component in the ground state of 26Mg

Abstract The anomalous beta decay rate of 26 Al (0.229 MeV) can be explained by a large (∼ 10%) T =2 admixture in both parent and daughter states. Several experiments to directly measure the T =2 component of the 26 Mg (daughter) ground state are suggested.
Not all effector CD8+ T cells are alike

As naive CD8+ T cells circulate throughout the bloodstream and secondary lymphoid tissues (i.e. spleen and lymph nodes), they sample complexes of peptides and MHC class I molecules expressed on the surface of professional antigen presenting cells (APCs). A proper fit between lymphocyte and APCs sets into motion a complex series of events that result in the generation of activated cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) that are the principal immune effectors against infected and transformed cells. Owing to the severe immunopathology that can result from the aberrant stimulation of CTLs, the activation of naive CD8(+) T cells is a tightly regulated process. A growing body of evidence suggests that the quality of stimulation naive CD8+ T cells receive during the induction and maintenance of an immune response dictates the functional competency of the responding antigen-specific CTLs, and that CD8+ T cells and their progeny "effector cells" can exist long-term in vastly different activation states.
Group X secretory phospholipase A2 negatively regulates adipogenesis in murine models.

Studies in vitro indicate that group X secretory phospholipase A2 (GX sPLA2) potently releases arachidonic acid (AA) and lysophosphatidylcholine from mammalian cell membranes. To define the function of GX sPLA2 in vivo, our laboratory recently generated C57BL/6 mice with targeted deletion of GX sPLA2 (GX−/− mice). When fed a normal rodent diet, GX−/− mice gained significantly more weight and had increased adiposity compared to GX+/+ mice, which was not attributable to alterations in food consumption or energy expenditure. When treated with adipogenic stimuli ex vivo, stromal vascular cells isolated from adipose tissue of GX−/− mice accumulated significantly more (20%) triglyceride compared to cells from GX+/+ mice. Conversely, overexpression of GX sPLA2, but not catalytically inactive GX sPLA2, resulted in a significant 50% reduction in triglyceride accumulation in OP9 adipocytes. The induction of genes encoding adipogenic proteins (PPARγ, SREBP-1c, SCD1, and FAS) was also significantly blunted by 50–80% in OP9 cells overexpressing GX sPLA2. Activation of the liver X receptor (LXR), a nuclear receptor known to up-regulate adipogenic gene expression, was suppressed in 3T3-L1 and OP9 cells when GX sPLA2 was overexpressed. Thus, hydrolytic products generated by GX sPLA2 negatively regulate adipogenesis, possibly by suppressing LXR activation.—Li, X., Shridas, P., Forrest, K., Bailey, W., Webb, N. R. Group X secretory phospholipase A2 negatively regulates adipogenesis in murine models.
Educational Stratification and Students’ Social Bonding to School

Abstract This paper examines the polarization model from qualitative research in both Great Britain and the US, which claims that educational stratification practices polarize students into pro- and anti-school orientations. Because few researchers have adequately conceptualized school attitudes and behavior, social bonding theory (Hirschi, 1969) is used to provide a framework for examining the polarization hypothesis. Relying on High School and Beyond data from the US, an attempt is made to develop measures of respondents’ social bonding to school, including college expectations, absenteeism, disciplinary problems, and engagement. The polarization hypothesis is supported by these US data when examining educational stratification effects on the school bonding measures. Compared to academic-track students, general- and vocational-track students have Iowa college expectations, more disciplinary problems, and are less academically engaged, controlling for prior school orientations and for selection bias due ...
Atrial Fibrillation and Ventricular Dysfunction A Vicious Electromechanical Cycle

Case Presentation: A 44-year-old man with a history of hypertension presented with New York Heart Association class IV congestive heart failure (CHF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) with rapid ventricular response (160 beats per minute) and unknown onset. Transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography demonstrated severe global left ventricular (LV) dilatation, LV ejection fraction (LVEF) of 20%, and a mobile thrombus in the left atrial appendage but no evidence of coronary artery disease or valvular heart disease. After treatment with furosemide, digoxin, metoprolol, lisinopril, and warfarin, a repeat transesophageal echocardiogram 4 weeks later showed resolution of the thrombus. Subsequent attempts at cardioversion were unsuccessful despite treatment with sotalol hydrochloride and amiodarone. An average heart rate of less than 80 beats per minute was achieved after treatment with diltiazem hydrochloride, metoprolol, and digoxin. Three months later, the patient’s LVEF was 55% with mild LV enlargement. AF and CHF are recognized as 2 major epidemics of cardiovascular disease in the 21st century.1 In 1995, AF was reported to be the most common cardiac arrhythmia, affecting more than 2 million people in the United States alone.2 According to 2001 estimates, CHF affects more than 4 million Americans.3 The prevalence of CHF increases from 0.8% among persons 50 to 59 years of age to 6.6% among persons 80 to 89 years of age.4 Similarly, the prevalence of AF more than doubles with each decade of age, from 0.5% at age 50 (50 to 59 years) to 9% at age 80 (80 to 89 years).5 Thus, these burgeoning populations can be attributed at least in part to the changing composition of the overall US population with its growing number of elderly persons.6,7 However, a study in Olmsted County, Minnesota, found a 3-fold increase in prevalence of AF between 1960 and 1989 that …
The financial structure of government debt in OECD countries: An examination of the time-consistency issue

Abstract This paper analyzes the financial structure of government debt in the OECD countries from the perspective of time-consistency problems with a focus on debt held by financial institutions. Testable implications from a theoretical time-consistency model are derived and incorporated into the framework of a cost-minimizing model for public debt service. The approach is tested for a sample of 15 OECD countries over the period 1974–1989. The theoretical analysis and the empirical results show how, in addition to maturity, ownership of government debt in those OECD countries with debt accumulation problems can be related to time-consistency considerations.
Using genetic algorithms to map first-principles results to model Hamiltonians: Application to the generalized Ising model for alloys

The cluster expansion method provides a standard framework to map first-principles generated energies for a few selected configurations of a binary alloy onto a finite set of pair and many-body interactions between the alloyed elements. These interactions describe the energetics of all possible configurations of the same alloy, which can hence be readily used to identify ground state structures and, through statistical mechanics solutions, find finite-temperature properties. In practice, the biggest challenge is to identify the types of interactions which are most important for a given alloy out of the many possibilities. We describe a genetic algorithm which automates this task. To avoid a possible trapping in a locally optimal interaction set, we periodically “lock out” persistent near-optimal cluster expansions. In this way, we identify not only the best possible combination of interaction types but also any near-optimal cluster expansions. Our strategy is not restricted to the cluster expansion method alone, and can be applied to select the qualitative parameter types of any other class of complex model Hamiltonians.
STRESS ACCUMULATION AND RELEASE AT COMPLEX TRANSFORM PLATE BOUNDARIES

Finite element methods are used to model the dynamics of deformation along complex transform plate boundaries, specifically the San Andreas fault system, California. Effects of mantle rheology and fault geometry on the stress buildup and release are investigated. No prior knowledge of the earthquake cycle time or amount of fault slip is assumed that the results suggest that the San Andreas fault slips at low shear stress (about 15 MPa). Although the maximum stress on the fault is 15 MPa, models with an upper mantle shear zone deforming entirely by dislocation creep accumulate stresses that exceed 100 MPa, a stress level high enough to drive localized dynamic recrystallization and a shift in dominant deformation mechanism to diffusion creep. Models in which the mantle shear zone deform locally by diffusion creep reach a dynamic steady state where lithospheric shear stresses never exceed the specified fault stress anywhere in the model and indicate that the strength of the upper mantle is an important parameter in the dynamics of plate boundary deformation. 17 refs.
Bioimpedance analysis: potential for measuring lower limb skeletal muscle mass.

Background: Ambulation, balance, and lower extremity bone mass and strength are all partially dependent on lower limb skeletal muscle mass. At present, both research and clinical methods of evaluating lower limb skeletal muscle mass as a component of nutrition assessment are limited. One potential simple and inexpensive method is lower extremity bioimpedance analysis (BIA). The present study had two objectives: to examine the determinants of lower limb resistance, with the underlying hypothesis that fluid-containing muscle is the main electrical conductor of the lower limbs; and to establish if a correlation of equivalent magnitude and similar covariates is observed when height squared (H 2 ) is used instead of lower limb length squared (L 2 ) in multiple regression models relating resistance to independent variables. Methods: Lower limb resistance was measured using a contact-electrode BIA system, and lower limb fat and skeletal muscle were estimated by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry in healthy adults. A physical BIA model was developed in the form of a regression equation with pathlength (as L 2 and H 2 )-adjusted resistance as dependent variables and lower limb skeletal muscle, fat, age, and gender as potential independent variables. Results: There were 94 subjects, 34 men and 60 women, with a mean (±SD) age of 41.5 ± 17.8 years. Strong associations were observed between L 2 /resistance and lower limb skeletal muscle, although for both men and women, age entered into the model as a significant covariate (total R 2 , men =.79 and women =.72; both p <.001). Similar models were observed with H 2 /resistance as dependent variable. Additional analyses showed a significantly lower resistance in lower limb skeletal muscle and height-matched old vs young subjects. Conclusions: Strong associations exist between measured lower limb resistance and lower limb muscle mass, adjusting for electrical path length either by L 2 or H 2 . These observations suggest the potential of predicting skeletal muscle using BIA-measured lower limb resistance adjusted for stature. Age is also an independent variable in lower limb resistance-skeletal muscle associations, suggesting the need to establish underlying mechanisms of age-related resistance effects and to consider subject age when developing BIA prediction models.
Neuropsychological manifestations of hyponatremia in chronic schizophrenic patients with the syndrome of psychosis, intermittent hyponatremia and polydipsia (PIP).

We examined the neuropsychological sequelae of water intoxication in nine schizophrenic patients with the syndrome of psychosis, intermittent hyponatremia and polydipsia (PIP). Patients were assessed using a standardized test battery on two occasions following laboratory blood work: once during hyponatremia (serum sodium 136 mmol/l). Results revealed significant deficits during hyponatremia involving complex information processing skills such as mental flexibility and verbal fluency. In contrast, short-term memory was intact and no deficits in sustained attention or visual-motor scanning were observed. Our results underscore the dramatic fluctuations in neuropsychological functioning due to metabolic and osmotic changes during water loading in PIP syndrome patients. In addition, we found that the neuropsychological effects of hyponatremia are remarkably consistent across patients. These complications, if not recognized, are likely to contribute to worsening of psychosis despite appropriate pharmacological treatment while severely limiting patient ability to actively participate in behavioral interventions.
Cardiovascular effects of a μ-selective opioid agonist (tyrosine-D-arginine-phenylalanine-lysine-NH2) in fetal sheep: Sites and mechanisms of action

Abstract Objective: We investigated the effects of DALDA (tyrosine- D -arginine-phenylalanine-lysine-NH 2 ), a μ-selective opioid peptide, on heart rate and blood pressure in fetal sheep with long-term instrument implantation. Study design: DALDA was given as an intravenous bolus in doses ranging from 0.15 to 0.5 mg/kg. A 0.5 mg/kg dose of DALDA was given in the presence of the opioid antagonist naloxone and its quaternary analog naloxone methiodide (6 mg/h); it was also given in conjunction with the β-adrenergic antagonist propranolol (2 mg/h). Statistical analyses were performed by 1-way and 2-way analysis of variance. Results: The fetus responded to DALDA with an increase in heart rate with all doses ( P P P = .003), and propranolol ( P Conclusions: In the fetus intravenous DALDA increases heart rate without any change in blood pressure by way of the μ receptor and through central sympathetic activation. These effects of DALDA are different from those seen in the adult, suggesting different sites and mechanisms of action. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1999;180:1127-30.)
Activation of an ascorbic acid concentrating mechanism by some corticosteroids in vitro.

A RELATION between the actions of ascorbic acid and certain corticosteroids has often been indicated1. Since considerable evidence has accumulated that steroid hormones may act by altering the permeability of the cell membrane to a given compound2 this relationship may be the result of changes in the permeability of certain cellular membranes to ascorbic acid as a result of the action of certain corticosteroid hormones.
Use of Niobium(III) and Niobium(V) Compounds in Catalytic Imine Metathesis under Mild Conditions

The niobium reagents NbCl3(DME) (1) and mer-(DME)Cl3NbNPh (6) serve as effective catalysts or precatalysts in imine metathesis reactions with a variety of aldimines. These reactions are particularl...
Linalyl acetate and methyl silicone effects on cholesterol and triglyceride oxidation in heated lard

The effectiveness of linalyl acetate (LA) at 0.02 and 0.04% as a high-temperature antioxidant was tested in lard with two levels (2 times and 10 times) of added cholesterol. Lard samples with and without added LA or methyl silicone (MS, 0.2 and 1.0 ppm) and a control with no additives were heated at 180°C for 10 hr/day for up to 240 hr. The loss of cholesterol, the formation of cholesterol oxidation products (COP) and the percentage fatty acid retention were measured during the heating periods. Addition of 1.0 ppm MS was significantly effective in reducing the loss of fatty acids (p<0.0005) in lard with 2 times the added cholesterol, but MS at 0.2 ppm was not effective in lard with 10 times the added cholesterol. Addition of LA at 0.02 and 0.04% had little effect at reducing changes in cholesterol loss, COP formation and fatty acid loss in lard samples with both cholesterol levels. But there was a tendency for MS and 0.04% LA to reduce formation of some COP in lard containing 2 times the added cholesterol and to reduce the loss of cholesterol.
Wood's diffraction grating anomalies and other factors in explanation of the artifacts in previous spectral emission studies

Abstract Intense sharp bands observed in emission spectra and previously shown to be artifacts of the single beam mode of the Cary 14 have here been explained in detail. Some of the features have been correlated with the Wood's anomalies inherent in the diffraction grating while the remaining bands have been shown to be due to real absorption by various components in the optical train.
Observation of slow atomic motions close to the glass transition using 2-D 29Si NMR

Abstract Experiments were performed to investigate atomic re-arrangements just above the glass transition in potassium tetrasilicate (K 2 Si 4 O 9 ). These experiments employed two-dimensional NMR techniques which were developed to study chemical exchange in non-viscous liquids and organic polymers. The major feature of the 29 Si 2-D NMR exchange spectra of potassium tetrasilicate above its glass transition was a slow exchange ( Q 3 and Q 4 environments. A similar experiment performed just below the glass transition showed no such exchange, which suggests that this Q species exchange is the motion that is ‘frozen out’ as a viscous liquid cools through its glass transition. The results are consistent with a very local region of atomic re-arrangement and contradict a polymeric view of silicate liquids.
A Model of Cooperative Finance

The unique characteristics of cooperatives require they be analyzed differently from the more traditional noncooperative firm. A model of cooperative finance is developed that has the objective of maximizing the total, after-tax profits of the cooperative member patrons. A mathematical analysis derives the relationships among the various financial instruments, and a numerical analysis derives results for a cooperative under various hypothesized scenarios. We suggest that a model incorporating the unique characteristics of cooperatives is the more appropriate tool for studying cooperative finance than is the noncooperative model.