cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Chromosomal aberrations per charged particle per cell nucleus: Studies at the Radiological Research Accelerator Facility

Abstract Chromosomal alterations are responsible for a significant proportion of cellular lethality and of genetic mutations, as well as being specifically associated with human cancers. For ionizing radiations the principal determinant of aberration likelihood is the linear energy transfer (LET). For radiation protection considerations one energy deposition event per cell nucleus is the ultimate low dose and such an approach bypasses traditional concepts of absorbed dose and relative biological effectiveness. Well characterized charged particles (protons, deuterons, 3 He, 4 He) generated at the RARAF Van de Graaff accelerator have been used to irradiate mammalian cells at LETs varying from 10 to 150 keV/μm. Measurements of the nuclear cross-sectional areas of mammalian cells at different stages of the cell cycle and known fluences of charged particles (per absorbed dose) at each LET enable relationships to be determined between charged particle incidence and both frequencies and types of chromosomal changes. Nuclear cross-sectional areas of cells tend to be log-normally distributed with overlapping distributions for the different stages of the cell cycle. There is a clear and profound effect of charged particle LET on cellular progression through the cell cycle and the induction of chromosomal change, two confounding endpoints. While there are variations in sensitivity to aberration induction (and cell cycle progression) for the different stages of the cell cycle, as LET per particle increases linearly, aberration frequency increases quadratically to an LET of about 100 kev/μm. Analysis of chromosomal changes as a function of LET has implications for the attribution of uniformity to alpha particles of different effective LETs following radon daughter breakdown.
Low-Cycle Fatigue Failure Responses of Long and Short Radius Elbows

Low-cycle fatigue experiments of short radius elbows were conducted and the recorded responses were compared with the long radius elbow responses from literature. Elbow components are widely used in piping systems in energy and chemical industries; however, the fatigue failure prediction of elbows remains a challenge. Additionally, the selection criteria between a long or short radius elbow merely considers the long radius elbow as standard, and to use short radius elbows only when spacing requirement prohibit a long radius elbow. The ASME design code provides some guidance for fatigue design of elbows but it is not known if the short radius elbow fatigue failures can be predicted. Hence, low-cycle fatigue experiments of short radius elbows were conducted and force, displacement, and strain data under cyclic loading were recorded. The recorded fatigue responses were critically analyzed for understanding the difference in fatigue lives between long and short radius elbows. These results are presented and discussed in the paper.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Magnetic measurements on the cornell alternate gradient synchrotron

Abstract A brief description of the synchrotron magnet is followed by a summary of the factors leading to a choice of field gradient, and a description of the pole tip design. Measurements of the synchrotron field gradients at low, medium and high fields are described. The medium and high field gradients are measured using a rotating coil magnetometer. The gradients at injection time have been determined by two independent methods: (1) using the electron beam itself to find the radial and vertical focal points; and (2) using peaking strips to make zero time measurements. The results of these measurements and also the determination of the magnetic lens boundaries are summarized.
Further inquiry into the cryobehavior of aqueous solutions of glycerol

Abstract The effects of cooling history as characterized by cooling rate, preglass transition temperature annealing, as well as two-step cooling on the states of solidified aqueous solutions of glycerol were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The phase diagrams of various transitions versus cooling rate, annealing temperature, and two-step cooling temperature were constructed for the first time. The state of solidified glycerol solution was classified as either glass homophase or mixture heterophase composed of vitreous material and crystalline on the basis of its thermal behavior during warming. The glass transition temperature of glass residue is approximately −105 ± 1 °C, independent of the initial concentration of the sample and the cooling history. A practical “dangerous temperature zone” associated with vitrification is defined on the basis of experimental results. Cooling rate itself does not seem likely to play a direct part in vitrification, but rather to affect the time lapse or duration in “dangerous temperature zone,” which is the direct factor influencing vitrification. A particularly important observation is the apparent existence of a second glass transition observed by DSC, which appears to originate from the concentrated phase. The effect of sample size on various transitions was also studied. The results suggest that the conventionally called ante-melting is a first order transition (either devitrification or melting) that occurs in the vicinity of the interface of glass-crystalline.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Imaging the Visual Pathway as a Model for Neurodegeneration

Axonal and neuronal degeneration are important features of multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurologic disorders that affect the anterior visual pathway. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive technique that allows imaging of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), a structure which is principally composed of ganglion cell axons that form the optic nerves, chiasm, and optic tracts. Since retinal axons are nonmyelinated until they penetrate the lamina cribrosa, the RNFL is an ideal structure (no other central nervous system tract has this unique arrangement) for visualizing the processes of neurodegeneration, neuroprotection and, potentially, even neuro-repair. OCT is capable of providing high-resolution reconstructions of retinal anatomy in a rapid and reproducible fashion and permits objective analysis of the RNFL (axons) as well as ganglion cells and other neurons in the macula. In a systematic OCT examination of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, RNFL thickness and macular volumes are reduced when compared to disease-free controls. Conspicuously, these changes, which signify disorganization of retinal structural architecture, occur over time even in the absence of a history of acute demyelinating optic neuritis. RNFL axonal loss in MS is most severe in those eyes with a corresponding reduction in low-contrast letter acuity (a sensitive vision test involving the perception of gray letters on a white background) and in those patients who exhibit the greatest magnitude of brain atrophy, as measured by validated magnetic resonance imaging techniques. These unique structure–function correlations make the anterior visual pathway an ideal model for investigating the effects of standard and novel therapies that target axonal and neuronal degeneration. We provide an overview of the physics of OCT, its unique properties as a non-invasive imaging technique, and its potential applications toward understanding mechanisms of brain tissue injury in MS, other optic neuropathies, and neurologic disorders.
Evaluation of a Novel, Non Contact, Automated Focal Laser with Integrated (NAVILAS) Fluorescein Angiography for Diabetic Macular Edema.

Purpose: To evaluate the procedural experience and complications of a novel integrated laser delivery system (NAVILAS; ; OD-OS Teltow, Germany) that combines automated laser delivery with color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography (FA), fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and infrared imaging with a frequency doubled YAG laser. Materials and Methods: This prospective study evaluated surgical experience with the NAVILAS automated photocoagulation system for the treatment of patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). Subjective assessment of the accuracy of laser spot placement and postoperative complications were documented. Results: Twelve patients (7 males, 5 females) were enrolled in this pilot study. Five patients were phakic and 7 were pseudophakic. Image overlays and the tracking system allowed accurate delivery of laser spots of varying size, duration and power. None of the patients reported any pain and tolerated the procedure well. No complications were reported in the study. Conclusion: In this pilot study, the NAVILAS system allowed accurate laser spot placement with no complications in patients with DME. However a larger sample with longer follow up is required to determine the safety of this procedure.
Early Eradication of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) is the predominant organism infecting the airways of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). This organism has an armamentarium of survival mechanisms that allows it to survive in the CF airway. Since colonization and chronic infection with Pa is associated with poorer lung function and increased morbidity and mortality, therapies that can prevent infection could significantly improve the lives of patients with CF. Numerous studies have examined the effects of treatment on the eradication of Pa as a means to ameliorate disease. This article outlines the pathophysiology and clinical implication of Pa acquisition, and reviews the existing treatment regimens aimed at early eradication of Pa in patients with CF.
Evolutionary divergence of giant tortoises in Galapagos

The giant tortoises in the Galapagos Archipelago diverge considerably in size, and in shape and other carapace characteristics. The saddleback morphotype is known only from insular faunas lacking large terrestrial predators (i.e. Galapagos and Mauritius) and in Galapagos is associated with xeric habitats where vertical feeding range and vertical reach in agonistic encounters are adaptive. The large domed morphotype is associated with relatively cool, mesic habitats where intraspecific competition for food and other resources may be less intense than in xeric habitats. Other external characteristics that differ between tortoise populations are also correlated with ecological variation. Tortoises have radiated into a mosaic of ecological conditions in the Galapagos but critical data are lacking on the role of genetic and environmental controls on phenotypic variation. Morphological divergence in tortoises is potentially a better indicator of present ecological conditions than of evolutionary relationships.
Liberals and theocrats: on Lucas Swaine’s The Liberal Conscience

Lucas Swaine’s respectful manner of engaging with theocrats is at odds with the more heavy-handed arguments he gives to those who would reject his position. Furthermore, it is not clear that Swaine’s case can reach theocrats whose self-conceptions do not fit within the liberal idiom.
Why am I unsatisfied? Adult attachment style, gendered irrational relationship beliefs, and young adult romantic relationship satisfaction

Are individual differences in adult attachment styles (secure, anxious-ambivalent, or avoidant) associated with differential adherence to relationship-specific irrational beliefs? Does endorsement of irrational relationship beliefs relate to actual relationship dissatisfaction? These questions were explored with a sample of 118 male and female college students. Results indicated that insecure individuals (anxious-ambivalent or avoidant) endorsed significantly more relationship-specific irrational beliefs than those with a secure adult attachment style. Gendered patterns of endorsement of specific irrational beliefs cluster were also observed. Further, both an insecure adult attachment style and stronger adherence to relationship-specific irrational beliefs were related to diminished relationship satisfaction.
Dual sites of protein initiation control the localization and myristoylation of methionine sulfoxide reductase A

Methionine sulfoxide reductase A is an essential enzyme in the antioxidant system, which scavenges reactive oxygen species through cyclic oxidation and reduction of methionine and methionine sulfoxide. In mammals, one gene encodes two forms of the reductase, one targeted to the cytosol and the other to mitochondria. The cytosolic form displays faster mobility than the mitochondrial form, suggesting a lower molecular weight for the former. The apparent size difference and targeting to two cellular compartments had been proposed to result from differential splicing of mRNA. We now show that differential targeting is effected by use of two initiation sites, one of which includes a mitochondrial targeting sequence, whereas the other does not. We also demonstrate that the mass of the cytosolic form is not less than that of the mitochondrial form; the faster mobility of cytosolic form is due to its myristoylation. Lipidation of methionine sulfoxide reductase A occurs in the mouse, in transfected tissue culture cells, and even in a cell-free protein synthesis system. The physiologic role of myristoylation of MsrA remains to be elucidated.
Smooth Muscle: An Ultrastructural Basis for the Dynamics of Its Contraction

Electron micrographs of vertebrate and invertebrate smooth muscle indicate that the myofilaments are oriented obliquely to the long axis of the muscle fibers containing them and insert along the sides of the fibers. As a result, a greater proportion of the contractile elements are in parallel with one another and a smaller proportion are in series than would be possible if the myofilaments were strictly parallel to the fiber axis. From this ultrastructural organization it is possible to predict several well-known, but previously unexplained, physiological properties of smooth muscle.
Not just workshops any more: The role of faculty development in reframing academic priorities

Abstract At most US colleges and universities, faculty development programmes have assumed a passive role waiting for interested faculty to come to them. For the most part, their activities have been limited to facilitating instructional workshops, managing faculty study leaves and sabbaticals, and providing remedial support for faculty who experience problems in their teaching. As higher education in the US faces political, social and technological challenges, faculty developers must play a more active role in institutional transformation. After providing an historical overview of faculty development in the US and describing the current situation in US higher education, this paper outlines four activities that faculty developers can undertake as change agents to help institutions accomplish the objective of institutional transformation and to foster a stronger academic culture.
Freezing red blood cells prepared for quality control of antiglobulin sera.

A small-aliquot freezing technique was employed to store at −80 C red blood cells (RBC) prepared for quality control of antiglobulin sera. These RBC were used to test the specificity and potency of both polyspecific and monospecific antiglobulin sera on the day of use. Following deglycerolization, about 83 per cent of test RBC were recovered. They were then stored as 5 per cent suspensions in 0.9% NaCl at 4 C for up to two weeks and tested for specific agglutination. EIg (RBC sensitized with immunoglobulins) and EC4 (RBC sensitized with the fourth component of human complement) remained reactive for the two- week period. EC43 (RBC sensitized with both the fourth and third components of human complement) tended to lose reactivity only with anti-C3c antibodies following deglycerolization and storage. EC3d (RBC sensitized with the C3d fragment of the third component of human complement), produced in vivo as a result of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, remained reactive for the two-week period, whereas EC3d prepared by the alternative pathway of complement activation was useful only for one week. Use of deglycerolized test RBC improved quality- control procedures by saving materials and technician time as well as by providing a constant supply of uniformly prepared test RBC.
Cotranslational cleavage of immunoglobulin light chain precursors by plasmacytoma microsomes.

Murine plasmacytoma endoplasmic reticulum which has been freed of ribosomes by EDTA treatment is capable of the cotranslational proteolytic processing of representative λ1,λ2, and k immunoglobulin light chain precursors. Messenger RNA fractions from the MOPC-104E, MOPC-315, and MOPC-46B tumor lines were used to direct the synthesis of the light chain precursors in a cell-free system derived from Krebs II ascites cells. The precursor cleavage activity of the plasmacytoma membranes is comparable in activity and in characteristics to that of two well-defined membrane preparations: Krebs II ascites intracellular membranes (E. Szczesna and I. Boime, 1976, Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA73, 1179–1183) and EDTA-treated rough endoplasmic reticulum from canine pancreas (G. Blobel and B. Dobberstein, 1975, J. Cell Biol.67, 852–862). The efficiency of the cleavage reaction appears to be dependent upon the precursor being utilized as a substrate. An assay suitable for a preliminary characterization of the plasmacytoma membrane preparations is described.
SYSTEMIC AND CORONARY HAEMODYNAMIC EFFECTS OF KETAMINE IN INTACT ANAESTHETIZED AND UN ANAESTHETIZED DOGS

Ten intact anaesthetized dogs breathing room air spontaneously (Group A) were compared with ten artificially ventilated dogs (Group B). All were given a bolus of ketamine 2 mg/kg followed by a 20-min infusion of ketamine 0.1 mg/kg/min. In Group A, coronary sinus blood flow, measured with a thermodilution flowmeter, increased by 90% while coronary vascular resistance decreased by 28% and coronary sinus oxygen content decreased by 27%. Heart rate increased by 47%, and arterial pressure by 9%. Cardiac output, calculated by the dye dilution method, increased by 29%, while the left ventricular work index decreased by 50%. Minute ventilation rate decreased by 55%. The Group B dogs were studied as described above, except that they were artificially ventilated. The haemodynamic ahanges were less in Group B, possibly because of improved arterial oxygenation. Heart rate increased by 24%, cardiac output by 21% and arterial pressure by 2%. The coronary sinus blood flow increased by 12% while coronary vascular resistance decreased by 11%. Coronary sinus oxygen concentration decreased by 15%. Five unanaesthetized dogs with electromagnetic flowmeter probes chronically implanted on the aorta and circumflex coronary artery, and an indwelling arterial catheter were studied before, during and after the intravenous administration of ketamine 2, 4, and 8 mg/kg. A dose of 8 mg/kg produced increases in cardiac output, heart rate and arterial pressure of 21%, 44% and 24%, respectively, while coronary blood flow increased 47%. We conclude that, in healthy dogs, ketamine produces an increase in heart rate and cardiac work. A significant increase in coronary blood flow appears to be insufficient to meet the metabolic demands of the myocardium, as the coronary sinus oxygen content decreased.
Challenges and opportunities of ESL design automation

System-level synthesis compiles a complex application in a systemlevel description (such as SystemC) into a set of tasks to be executed on various processors, or a set of functions to be implemented in customized logic, as well as the communication protocols and the interface logic connecting different modules. Such capabilities are part of the so-called electronic system-level (ESL) design automation. ESL design automation has caught much attention from the industry recently. In general, it has been shown that the code density and simulation time can be improved by 10X and 100X, respectively, when moved to ESL from RTL. Such an improvement in efficiency is much needed for design in the deep submicron era. This paper identifies a set of key challenges in ESL design automation with major focus on high-level synthesis (HLS). We shall discuss existing and potential solutions to these challenges and outline research opportunities in the evolution of ESL design automation.
Structural Divergence Exceeds Sequence Divergence for a Family of Intrinsically Disordered Proteins

Several sequence based evolutionary analyses have concluded that many intrinsically disordered proteins and disordered regions evolve faster than ordered proteins. However, there are only a couple of studies that demonstrate the physical consequences of this rapid evolution. The transactivation domain of the tumor suppressor protein p53 (p53TAD) is an intrinsically disordered protein with some transient helical structure that is stabilized by binding to partners like the E3 ubiquitin ligase, MDM2, and the 70 kDa subunit of replication protein A, RPA70. The secondary structure and backbone dynamics of five mammalian orthologues of p53TAD were investigated using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Significant differences in secondary structure and dynamics were observed in the binding sites of MDM2 and RPA70 between the orthologues. The degree of transient helical structure observed in the MDM2 binding site was directly related to amino acid substitutions occurring on the solvent exposed side of the amphipathic helix that forms in the bound state, with dog, cow, and mouse orthologues having the lowest fraction of transient helical structure and the fastest backbone dynamics. Differences were also observed in the RPA70 binding site with the guinea pig and rabbit orthologues showing significantly higher propensity for transient helical structure than the other orthologues. Clustering analysis shows greater divergence in secondary structure than expected based on sequence divergence. However, strong correlations were found between the backbone dynamics and the sequence identity of the orthologues. This result is consistent with a previous study from our group and suggests that the dynamic behavior of IDPs is under positive selection.
Use of Historical Pump-and-Treat Data to Enhance Site Characterization and Remediation Performance Assessment

Groundwater withdrawal and contaminant concentration data are routinely collected for pump-and-treat operations conducted at hazardous waste sites. These data sets can be mined to produce a wealth of information to support enhanced site characterization, optimization of remedial system operations, and improved decision making regarding long-term site management and closure. Methods that may be used to analyze and interpret pump-and-treat data to produce such assessments are presented, along with a brief illustration of their application to a site. The results presented herein illustrate that comprehensive analysis of pump-and-treat data is a powerful, cost-effective method for providing higher-resolution, value-added characterization of contaminated sites.
Television and gifted children: What the research says

Borrowing from the special education and educational psychology literature, general characteristics of giftedness are identified and presented as possible determinants of how television is used by young intellectually gifted children. Questions regarding the effects television might have on these children are raised and answers, extracted from the most recent mass communication literature, are provided
Direct ejection of clusters from nonmetallic solids during laser vaporization.

The spectra of cluster ions ([MX] n M + and [MX] n X - , n=1-40) formed by vaporizing mixed alkali-halide powder samples include virtually no alloyed species, indicating that the observed clusters do not grow from molecular vapor but are instead laser sputtered from the solid in a nonthermal shattering process. In carbon, large clusters result from partial evaporation of ultrafine particles on the sample
Southwestern Internal Medicine Conference: Replacement of the Failing Heart

Heart transplantation is an effective means of treating patients with severe congestive heart failure. Following heart transplantation, the 1-year survival rate is now greater than 80%, and the 5-year survival rate is more than 60% at major medical centers. More than 1,200 heart transplants were performed in more than nine countries worldwide in 1985. The failure of medicare to pay for this procedure is no longer defensible on medical grounds. The argument in favor of medicare funding for heart transplantation is at least as compelling as that for kidney dialysis, the treatment of cancer, or AIDS. The limited availability of donor organs (at most, 1300-2000/year) is likely to place a finite constraint on the number of heart transplants that can and will be performed. Although combined heart-lung transplantation is feasible therapy for certain patients with severe pulmonary hypertension, the availability of suitable donors poses an even greater restriction on this procedure. Totally implantable ventricular assist devices are on the horizon. These devices have the potential for helping 17,000 to 35,000 patients annually at an estimated cost to society of $2.5 to $5 billion per annum. The development and use of such extremely expensive technology poses major socioeconomic and ethical questions for society.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Presenting as an Incidental Isolated Malignant Portal Vein Thrombosis

Introduction Portal vein thrombosis is frequently associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Tumor invasion into the portal vein by direct venous extension or metastasis occurs in up to 70% of HCC patients (Cedrone et al., Liver 16:94–8, 1996). However, presentation as an isolated malignant portal vein thrombosis without any evidence of obvious hepatoma-like lesions in the liver by imaging studies is extremely uncommon. We present an unusual case of HCC presenting as a malignant portal vein thrombus, proven on biopsy of the thrombus without any evidence of primary liver lesion. This, to our knowledge, is the first case of HCC presenting as an incidental isolated malignant portal vein thrombosis. The importance of doing delayed enhancement imaging studies to rule out malignant portal vein thrombosis is emphasized.
Comparison of the wear resistance of selected steels and cemented carbide cutting tool materials in machining wood

Abstract An experimental investigation is described where specimens of selected steels and cemented carbides are tested to simulate cutting green wood and cured wood. Extensive results are presented that show quantitatively the progressive wear of several Stellites, steels and cemented carbides as a function of time for sliding under wet and dry conditions. A simple theoretical analysis of tool wear that applies to cutting green wood with cemented carbide tools is described. The analysis, which indicates the important parameters in the wear process, is used to predict the effect of carbide particle size on wear rate. Comparisons are made between the predicted and experimentally determined wear rates for two groups of cemented carbide materials. Good agreement is found between experimental measurements and theoretical predictions. It is shown that wear depends on carbide particle size. Superior wear resistance of cemented carbides is attributed to the high hardness and low chemical reactivity of the carbide phase. The improved wear resistance of the Stellites is attributed to the low reactivity of the matrix.
Transplantation of cultured human retinal epithelium to Bruch's membrane of the owl monkey's eye

Human retinal epithelial cells dividing in culture have been radiolabelled with tritiated thymidine and subsequently transplanted and identified on Bruch's membrane of owl monkey by autoradiography. Such cells have been followed from 2 hours to 7 days after transplantation. The transplant cells reattach within 2 hours to the basement membrane left on Bruch's membrane after the host epithelial cells have been removed by suction after trypsinization. Within 6 to 24 hours they form a layer on Bruch's membrane with junctional complexes between cells and an apical-basal polarity characteristic of such cells in culture or after retinal detachment. After 2 to 7 days multilayers form by continued mitosis but no transplant cells invade the choroid as long as Bruch membrane is intact. Within this time macrophages begin to appear in the choriocapillaris under the transplant. These cells migrate through Bruch's membrane and between the transplant cells but have not been seen phagocytizing transplant cells. Reattachment of the neural retina to the transplant layer has not been attempted but seems technically possible.
The Characteristics and Reactivity of Acid-Labile Aryl Ether Units in Wood Lignin

Wood lignin contains significant amounts of acid-labile aryl ether units, which play a significant role in lignin modification or delignification processes. We have evaluated the rate and reaction kinetics on the acid-catalyzed cleavages of aryl ether structures for wood lignin in situ based on the formation of phenolic hydroxyl groups. The content of acid-labile aryl ether units was quite uniform for a variety of softwood wood lignins (∼4% per C9 unit) and it varied appreciably among hardwood species, ranging from 4% for aspen to 9% for beech wood lignin. These variations, however, appear to be related to the content of syringyl units in wood lignin. The reactivity of these reactive aryl ether structures was noticeably higher for the spruce than for the aspen wood lignin. This difference in reactivity, based on the behavior of lignin model compound reactions, can be attributed to the influence of syringyl moieties in aspen wood lignin. It appears that most of the acid-labile aryl ether units in hardwood ...
Stable bound states of e + + Li and e + + Na

Using model potentials to describe the ionic cores, we have approximated the ${e}^{+}+\mathrm{Li}$ and ${e}^{+}+\mathrm{Na}$ systems as quasi-three-body problems and performed adiabatic hyperspherical calculations to search for the existence of bound states. We have confirmed the existence of a bound state for ${e}^{+}+\mathrm{Li}$ that was first predicted by Ryzhikh and Mitroy [Phys. Rev. Lett. 21, 4124 (1997)] with a binding energy of 58 meV. Further, we predict the existence of a stable bound state for ${e}^{+}+\mathrm{Na}$ with a binding energy of 7 meV and explain why bound states exist for these two systems but not for the ${e}^{+}+\mathrm{H}$ system, despite the fact that ${\mathrm{H}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ has a higher binding energy than either ${\mathrm{Li}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ or ${\mathrm{Na}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}.$ Based on this work, we find that it is unlikely that positrons can form stable bound states with any other of the alkali-metal atoms.
A Catalytic Domain Exosite (Cys527-Cys542) in Factor XIa Mediates Binding to a Site on Activated Platelets

The zymogen, factor XI, and the enzyme, factor XIa, interact specifically with functional receptors on the surface of activated platelets. These studies were initiated to identify the molecular subdomain within factor XIa that binds to activated platelets. Both factor XIa (Ki ∼ 1.4 nM) and a chimeric factor XIa containing the Apple 3 domain of prekallikrein (Ki ∼ 2.7 nM) competed with [125I]factor XIa for binding sites on activated platelets, suggesting that the factor XIa binding site for platelets is not located in the Apple 3 domain which mediates factor XI binding to platelets. The recombinant catalytic domain (Ile370−Val607) inhibited the binding of [125I]factor XIa to the platelets (Ki ∼ 3.5 nM), whereas the recombinant factor XI heavy chain did not, demonstrating that the platelet binding site is located in the light chain of factor XIa. A conformationally constrained cyclic peptide (Cys527−Cys542) containing a high-affinity (KD ∼ 86 nM) heparin-binding site within the catalytic domain of factor XI...
Impact of azithromycin treatment on macrophage gene expression in subjects with cystic fibrosis

Background Azithromycin treatment improves clinical parameters in patients with CF, and alters macrophage activation from a pro-inflammatory (M1) phenotype to a pro-fibrotic, alternatively activated (M2) phenotype. The transcriptional profile of cells from patients receiving azithromycin is unknown.
Far-Infrared, Combination Band, and Raman Spectra of the Ring-Puckering Vibration of 1,4-Disilacyclohexa-2,5-diene

The far-infrared spectrum of 1,4-disilacyclohexa-2,5-diene shows a series of four closely spaced bands originating at 70.5 cm-1 resulting from the ring-puckering vibration. Four mid-infrared bands ...
An XMM-Newton Observation of NGC 1399 Reveals Two Phases of Hot Gas and Super-Solar Abundances in the Central Regions

We present an initial analysis of a new XMM observation of NGC 1399, the central elliptical galaxy of the Fornax group. Spectral fitting of the spatially resolved spectral data of the EPIC MOS and pn CCDs reveals that a two-temperature model (2T) of the hot gas is favored over single-phase and cooling flow models within the central ~20 kpc. The preference for the 2T model applies whether or not the data are deprojected. The cooler component has a temperature (~0.9 keV) similar to the kinetic temperature of the stars while the hotter component has a temperature (~1.5 keV) characteristic of the virial temperature of a ~10^{13} M_sun halo. The two-phase model (and other multitemperature models) removes the ``Fe Bias'' within r < ~20 kpc and gives Z_Fe/Z_sun 1.5-2. At larger radii the iron abundance decreases until Z_Fe/Z_sun \~0.5 for r ~50 kpc. The Si abundance is super-solar (1.2-1.7 solar) within the central regions while Z_Si/Z_Fe ~0.8 over the entire region studied. These Fe and Si abundances imply that ~80% of the Fe mass within r ~50 kpc originates from Type Ia supernovae (SNIa). This SNIa fraction is similar to that inferred for the Sun and therefore suggests a stellar initial mass function similar to the Milky Way.
Longitudinal relations between marital aggression and alcohol problems.

Relations between couples' (N = 158) marital aggression and alcohol problems were examined across a two-year period. Alcohol problems and aggression were assessed via self-report and partner-reports. Results support bidirectional relations between marital aggression and problem drinking. T1 wife problem drinking was associated with decreased T2 verbal aggression; T1 husband problem drinking was associated with increased T2 physical aggression. T1 physical aggression predicted increased T2 wife problem drinking; it predicted increased T2 husband problem drinking only when wife problem drinking was low. T1 verbal marital aggression predicted increased T2 husband problem drinking only when husbands engaged in greater problem drinking at T1. Results suggest that problem drinking may prevent couples from adequately handling marital disagreements, and that marital problems may lead to drinking as a form of coping with stress; couples in which the husband engages in greater problem drinking than the wife may be at increased risk. Language: en
Public Islam and the Problem of Democratization

As in much of the late modern world, Muslim societies in recent years have seen an unprecedented resurgence of religious issues and organizations into public affairs. The resurgence has given special urgency to the question of whether this revitalized Islam is compatible with democracy and civic pluralism. Drawing on comparative materials and an in-depth discussion of recent events in Indonesia, the world's largest majority-Muslim country, this article presents a preliminary analysis of the relationship of Islam to democratization. The article argues that most Muslims continue to look to their religion for principles of public order as well as personal spirituality. The political ideals Muslims derive from their tradition, however, are not immutable, but vary in a manner that reflects competing views as to how Muslims should respond to the challenges of the late modern world. Some Muslim activists invoke the idea of Islam as religion and state to justify harshly coercive policies and the fusion of state and society into an unchecked monolith. But there is also an emerging democratic or civil-pluralist tradition in the Muslim world that seeks to recover and amplify Islam's democratic endowments. Its supporters argue that, by concentrating vast power in rulers' hands, the Islamic state only increases the likelihood that their religion's high ideals will be subordinated to authoritarian intrigues. As events in Indonesia illustrate, this clash of cultures between promoters of a Muslim civil society and democracy and supporters of an anti-pluralist Islamic state is likely to remain a key feature of Muslim politics for some time to come
Acyclic tautomers in crystalline carbohydrates: the keto forms of 1-deoxy-1-carboxymethylamino-D-2-pentuloses (pentulose-glycines).

NMR and X-ray diffraction studies on acyclic carbohydrate keto tautomers of N-(1-deoxy-d-erythro-2-pentulos-1-yl)- and N-(1-deoxy-d-threo-2-pentulos-1-yl)glycines (ribulose-glycine, 1 and xylulose-glycine, 2), are reported. In aqueous solutions, both 1 and 2 exist as a tautomeric mixture, with the β-furanose as a major form, followed by the α-furanose and the acyclic keto tautomer. Both 1 and 2 crystallize as zwitterions in the acyclic keto form. Solid-state 13C NMR spectra reveal the existence of two crystallographically independent molecules in 2 but only one in crystalline 1. The structure of 2 was solved by X-ray diffraction; in the crystal, two conformational isomers, 2a and 2b in a 1:1 ratio, were identified. The conformers are packed in stacks of similar molecules, with a system of intermolecular hydrogen bonds involving all hydroxyl, ammonium, and carboxyl groups. The structural data indicate that the sugar portion of acyclic 2 adopts conformations similar to those proposed for the parent d-xylulose.
The origin of the non-mare mascon gravity anomalies in lunar basins

Abstract Many lunar basins are characterized by prominent positive gravity anomalies over the basin interiors, referred to as mass concentrations or mascons. While a significant fraction of some near-side mascon anomalies can be explained as a result of the flexural support of the mare basalts within the basins, a number of basins, including Orientale, exhibit mascons in excess of those that can be plausibly ascribed to the mare. Some basins exhibit mascons but lack mare altogether. Lunar gravity and topography data are used to map the isostatic anomaly, or the height of the surface above or below its isostatic level. Orientale is representative of the majority of lunar basins, in which the super-isostatic basin center is surrounded by a sub-isostatic annulus of comparable magnitude but greater area. The basin structure as a whole is found to be strongly sub-isostatic. High-resolution crustal thickness models of Orientale confirm that it is surrounded by an annulus of thickened but sub-isostatic crust. It is proposed that the flexural uplift of the annulus causes the uplift and positive gravity anomalies within the basin center. Finite element models are used to examine the flexural uplift of the sub-isostatic annulus and the basin center for a range of lithosphere thicknesses both outside the basin and in the basin interior. The uplift of the basin center can exceed 2 km, increasing the central gravity anomaly by ∼200 mGal. This annular uplift explains a significant fraction of the Orientale mascon, and is likely a dominant cause of non-mare mascons globally.
Vitrinite reflectance anisotropy as a tectonic fabric element

The anisotropy of the coal maceral vitrinite was analyzed in relation to the tectonic setting of a coal from the Southern Anthracite Field in Pennsylvania. For the coal studied, the maximum-intermediate reflectance plane essentially paralleled the axial plane of the synclinorium (N66°E strike, 64°SE dip).
Effects of Reserpine on Hepatic Glycogen and Plasma Free Fatty Acids of Thyroidectomized-Adrenodemedullated Rats.

SummaryReserpine increased hepatic glycogen in normal, hypothyroid, and adrenodemedullated rats but not in adrenalectomized or hypophysectomized rats. The elevation in plasma free fatty acids in fasted rats was impaired in reserpinized rats without adrenal medullas.
Effect of epinephrine and norepinephrine on the electrocardiogram of 100 normal subjects.

Abstract Electrocardiograms were registered during infusions of epinephrine and norepinephrine, 0.2 to 0.3 μg. per kg. per minute, in 100 normal young adults. Epinephrine caused increase of heart rate (a decrease occurred when the hypertensive effect was great), lower voltage of the T wave, elevation and earlier appearance of the U wave, and depression of the S-T segment. Inversion of the T wave in lead II and sometimes also in leads V 4 to V 6 occurred in about 10 per cent of the subjects, while in about 10 per cent the elevated U waves showed fusion with the T waves, resulting in a combination wave which resembled a wide, elevated T wave. This effect is explained on the basis of change in repolarization velocity seen in ventricular action potentials. Norepinephrine infusion caused decrease of heart rate and usually elevation of the T wave, but after atropine was given its effect became similar to that of epinephrine. Ectopic rhythms appeared after norepinephrine administration only at high blood pressure levels and at low heart rates, while after epinephrine administration they appeared at all rates. The differences between the effects of these two substances are attributed largely to partial counteraction of the direct effect of norepinephrine on the heart by reflex vagal excitation and sympathetic inhibition originating in the pressoreceptor areas.
The influence of advertising on tobacco consumption: some problems with Chetwynd et al.'s analysis.

Summary In a recent study of the relationship between cigarette advertising and the aggregate consumption of cigarettes in New Zealand between 1973 and 1985, Chetwynd et al. (1988) argue that quarterly data suggest that advertising affects overall consumption of cigarettes with an elasticity of +0.07. In addition, they argue that advertising has a ‘carry over’ effect of about four quarters on current consumption. These results are potentially important for two reasons. Although the evidence is mixed, the conventional view is that cigarette advertising affects brand choice among smokers but not aggregate demand for cigarettes. Chetwynd et al.'s results, (hereafter, Chetmynd) contradict this traditional view. Secondly, if advertising does increase the aggregate demand for cigarettes, then a public policy banning cigarette advertising might reduce aggregate demand for cigarettes. Unfortunately, the Chetwynd, study is sufficiently flawed with conceptual and econometric problems that their inference that advertising increases cigarette demand is questionable. Certainly cigarette advertising may increase or decrease cigarette consumption. The point we wish to make is that, any inference one way or the other based on the results of Chetwynd, cannot be viewed as well-grounded in either scientific methodology or statistical principles.
Effects of Body Armor Design on Upper Body Range of Motion

Body armor for law enforcement personnel is critical in ensuring the safety and protection of these individuals, though literature on the impact of body armor design on task performance is not readily available in the public domain. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of body armor design on range of motion for the shoulder, neck, and back. Three armor configurations (no armor (Baseline), concealable body armor (CBA), and external body armor (EBA)) were studied. Results indicated that for most measurements, the EBA condition resulted in significantly lower ranges of motion that the other configurations and most measurements were similar between the baseline and CBA condition. Specific differences in the body armor designs (e.g., the presence of shoulder protectors) may be responsible for many of these findings. Therefore, changes to current armor designs should carefully consider the impacts of additional coverage elements on human movement. Language: en
Outcome based staging for clinically localized adenocarcinoma of the prostate.

ABSTRACTPurpose: Some patients with clinically localized prostate cancer are not cured after radical prostatectomy because of the presence of occult systemic disease. The American Joint Commission on Cancer staging classification for prostate cancer does not reliably distinguish between clinically localized patients who are likely or unlikely to be cured after local therapy. This project was undertaken to develop a staging system capable of predicting long-term outcome after radical prostatectomy on the basis of the clinical parameters obtained routinely during the standard workup for patients with adenocarcinoma of the prostate.Materials and Methods: A total of 688 clinically localized prostate cancer patients managed with a radical retropubic prostatectomy for adenocarcinoma of the prostate between 1989 and 1996 was evaluated for clinical features predictive of time to prostate specific antigen (PSA) failure using a Cox regression multivariate analysis. A recently defined clinical factor called the calc...
Vulnerabilities in Yersinia pestis caf Operon Are Unveiled by a Salmonella Vector

During infection, Yersinia pestis uses its F1 capsule to enhance survival and cause virulence to mammalian host. Since F1 is produced in large quantities and secreted into the host tissues, it also serves as a major immune target. To hold this detrimental effect under proper control, Y. pestis expresses the caf operon (encoding the F1 capsule) in a temperature-dependent manner. However, additional properties of the caf operon limit its expression. By overexpressing the caf operon in wild-type Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium under a potent promoter, virulence of Salmonella was greatly attenuated both in vitro and in vivo. In contrast, expression of the caf operon under the regulation of its native promoter exhibited negligible impairment of Salmonellae virulence. In-depth investigation revealed all individual genes in the caf operon attenuated Salmonella when overexpressed. The deleterious effects of caf operon and the caf individual genes were further confirmed when they were overexpressed in Y. pestis KIM6+. This study suggests that by using a weak inducible promoter, the detrimental effects of the caf operon are minimally manifested in Y. pestis. Thus, through tight regulation of the caf operon, Y. pestis precisely balances its capsular anti-phagocytic properties with the detrimental effects of caf during interaction with mammalian host.
The sequence of formation of fatty acids in developing soybean seeds

Excised Lincoln soybean stems bearing pods and leaves were supplied with C14 labeled-sucrose for brief periods, and the subsequent appearance of radio-activity in the different fatty acids was observed up to 18 days. The individual fatty acids were separated as their 2,4-dinitrobenzenesulfenyl chloride derivatives and the specific activity of the different fractions were determined.
Metabolic liver disease in the young adult.

Abstract This chapter describes the gene mutations, phenotypes, diagnosis and therapy of the common metabolic liver diseases in young adulthood: haemochromatosis, Wilson disease, α 1 -anti-trypsin deficiency and cystic fibrosis. The remarkable variability of the phenotypical expression of the mutated genotypes makes screening recommendations and the establishment of prognosis for these liver disorders in young adults problematical. The diagnosis and therapy of the young adult with metabolic liver disease is discussed, with an emphasis on maintaining quality-of-life and balancing the importance of early intervention with the stigmatization of the diagnosis of potentially life-threatening liver disease. There is a critical need for the development of biochemical markers that would predict the risk of expression of clinical phenotypes and prognosis.