cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Membrane Adenosine Triphosphatase from Streptococcus faecalis MOLECULAR WEIGHT, SUBUNIT STRUCTURE, AND AMINO ACID COMPOSITION

Abstract In the preceding paper we describe the purification to homogeneity of the membrane adenosine triphosphatase from Streptococcus faecalis. Here we report some of the molecular characteristics of this enzyme. The molecular weight of the native enzyme and its subunits was determined by the Yphantis high speed sedimentation equilibrium method. In addition, the amino acid composition was determined, and the enzyme was examined by gel electrophoresis in 8 m urea and by electron microscopy. The partial specific volume, calculated from the amino acid composition, is 0.735 ml per g; a value of 0.742 ml per g was obtained from the comparison of sedimentation equilibria in D2O and H2O. The native enzyme has a molecular weight of 385,000 and s020,w of 13.4. From these two values a frictional ratio of 1.35 could be calculated. From the specific activity of our most highly purified preparations and the molecular weight, a maximal turnover number of 18,000 per molecule per min could be estimated. The molecular weight of the subunits, determined by sedmentation equilibrium in 6 m guanidine hydrochloride, is 33,000. This value is in good agreement with a minimal molecular weight of 32,800 calculated from the amino acid composition. It is thus concluded that the enzyme consists of 12 subunits. Electrophoretic analyses in 7% polyacrylamide gels containing 8 m urea indicate that the enzyme consists of two kinds of subunits, designated α and β. No free NH2-terminal amino acids could be detected by the 3H-fluorodinitrobenzene method. Electron micrographs of a negatively stained preparation of the ATPase show particles of uniform size with a substructure that suggests a planar, hexagonal array of 6 globules. A model of the enzyme with a formula α6β6 is proposed, consisting of a hexagonal arrangement of 6 globules, each of which is made up of an α and a β subunit.
Comparing low‐frequency and intermittent variability in comprehensive climate models through nonlinear Laplacian spectral analysis

[1] Nonlinear Laplacian spectral analysis (NLSA) is a recently developed technique for spatiotemporal analysis of high-dimensional data, which represents temporal patterns via natural orthonormal basis functions on the nonlinear data manifold. Through such basis functions, determined efficiently via graph-theoretic algorithms, NLSA captures intermittency, rare events, and other nonlinear dynamical features which are not accessible through linear approaches (e.g., singular spectrum analysis (SSA)). Here, we apply NLSA to study North Pacific SST monthly data from the CCSM3 and ECHAM5/MPI-OM models. Without performing spatial coarse graining (i.e., operating in ambient-space dimensions up to 1.6 × 105after lagged embedding), or seasonal-cycle subtraction, the method reveals families of periodic, low-frequency, and intermittent spatiotemporal modes. The intermittent modes, which describe variability in the Western and Eastern boundary currents, as well as variability in the subtropical gyre with year-to-year reemergence, are not captured by SSA, yet are likely to have high significance in a predictive context and utility in cross-model comparisons.
Quantifying vorticity in magnetic particle suspensions driven by symmetric and asymmetric multiaxial fields

We recently reported two methods of inducing vigorous fluid vorticity in magnetic particle suspensions. The first method employs symmetry-breaking rational fields. These fields are comprised of two orthogonal ac components whose frequencies form a rational number and an orthogonal dc field that breaks the symmetry of the biaxial ac field to create the parity required to induce deterministic vorticity. The second method is based on rational triads, which are fields comprised of three orthogonal ac components whose frequency ratios are rational (e.g., 1 : 2 : 3). For each method a symmetry theory has been developed that enables the prediction of the direction and sign of vorticity as functions of the field frequencies and phases. However, this theory has its limitations. It only applies to those particular phase angles that give rise to fields whose Lissajous plots, or principal 2-d projections thereof, have a high degree of symmetry. Nor can symmetry theory provide a measure of the magnitude of the torque density induced by the field. In this paper a functional of the multiaxial magnetic field is proposed that not only is consistent with all of the predictions of the symmetry theories, but also quantifies the torque density. This functional can be applied to fields whose Lissajous plots lack symmetry and can thus be used to predict a variety of effects and trends that cannot be predicted from the symmetry theories. These trends include the dependence of the magnitude of the torque density on the various frequency ratios, the unexpected reversal of flow with increasing dc field amplitude for certain symmetry-breaking fields, and the existence of off-axis vorticity for rational triads, such as 1 : 3 : 5, that do not have the symmetry required to analyze by symmetry theory. Experimental data are given that show the degree to which this functional is successful in predicting observed trends.
Adverse reactions to potassium chloride.

Of 16,048 consecutive patients monitored in a drug surveillance programme, 4921 (31%) received potassium chloride. The major indication for this drug was prophylaxis against electrolyte depletion and the frequency of use varied widely from hospital to hospital. Adverse reactions attributed to potassium chloride were reported in 283 (5.8%) patients, the most common being hyperkalaemia. Adverse reactions culminated in the death of seven patients and threatened the lives of a further 21. Hyperkalaemia was more frequent in elderly patients, in those with uremia, in those who received potassium both orally and parenterally, and in those who died during the monitored admission. In addition, hyperkalaemia was reported significantly more often in patients who received potassium chloride along with diuretics. The findings suggest that potassium supplements should be used with caution in the elderly, in those with uremia and in patients receiving diuretics. Wide variations in the frequency of potassium use amongst the monitored hospitals suggest that this drug may be used more than is necessary and that a reduction in its use in hospitals might lead to a decreased mortality and morbidity, particularly among elderly individuals.
Histologic and Morphologic Comparison of Experimental Aneurysms with Human Intracranial Aneurysms

PURPOSE Vein pouch aneurysms are the most commonly created experimental lesions in neuroendovascular research. We sought to determine whether an experimental aneurysm that is derived from a pancreatic elastase-digested arterial sac (EDASA) models the histology and morphology of human cerebral aneurysms more accurately than the vein pouch aneurysm does. METHODS EDASAs were created in the common carotid arteries of four rabbits, and vein pouch aneurysms were created in the common carotid arteries of four pigs. Five recently ruptured human cerebral aneurysms were obtained at autopsy. Identical histologic preparations were made for all specimens, and a vascular pathologist performed blinded histologic analyses. Morphologic dimensions were measured with a micrometer at 40-fold magnification. RESULTS In each human cerebral aneurysm, there was complete absence of internal elastic lamina and tunica media, and none showed evidence of mural inflammation or neointimal proliferation. Average wall thickness was 51 microm. All vein pouch aneurysms had a well-developed internal elastic lamina and tunica media, and all exhibited profound inflammation and neointimal proliferation. Average wall thickness was 290 microm. EDASAs were devoid of internal elastic lamina, their tunica medias were mildly atrophic, and the sac walls contained only mild inflammation and neointimal proliferation. Average wall thickness was 46 microm. CONCLUSIONS EDASAs model the morphologic and histologic characteristics of human cerebral aneurysms more accurately than vein pouch aneurysms do.
100% Efficient Converter, Is This Possible?

The power losses inside a typical DC/DC converter is studied in detail by obtaining accurate models for today's trench power MOSFET and package parasitics. A novel methodology is proposed to “realize” the futuristic device and package parasitics. The effect of the futuristic technology on the improvement of converter efficiency is studied. It is found that a 3% efficiency improvement is possible if the device Figure-Of-Merit (Qgd∗Rdson) improves 100 times, and a 5% efficiency improvement is possible when the parasitics are reduced 100 times at Iout=10A at 750 kHz. However, 9.4% efficiency improvement could be achieved by combining these two improvements in devices and parasitics as well as reducing the dead-time. Converter efficiency approaching 100% will be within reach if these technology progresses can be realized.
Waveform toolbox for MIMO radar

A method for generating diverse waveforms is necessary for future radar systems. In general, waveform diversity refers to adaptively changing transmitted waveforms based on the target and interference environment. The project team investigated the utility of diverse waveforms for better radar performance. The team also sought a process for generating mutually orthogonal, high performance waveform families for MIMO radar employment. The team developed an easy-to-use Matlab® “Waveform Toolbox” for generating waveform families suitable for employment on MIMO radar systems. The tool used the Matlab® Optimization toolbox to create waveform families. A scoring function was used to evaluate the utility of waveforms using the optimization algorithm.
Reactions associated with acrylic denture base resins

Abstract It is not uncommon for patients with new dentures to report soreness, burning sensation, salivation, or dryness of the oral mucosa. In most instances, these conditions will subside after a few days. The residual monomer in the denture is probably the causative factor. Tumors have been produced by implanting methyl methacrylate disks in laboratory animals. Both the pure clear resin polymer and the commercially prepared denture base polymer have been known to produce tumors when implanted in laboratory animals. When tumors were present, they were always found adjacent to, but never adherent to the implant. With the absence of tumors, the polymer was encapsulated. It would appear that there is a definite correlation between the size of the implant and its ability to produce a tumor. Also, the time factor is decreased with the larger implants. When he used a fine granular polymer, Spealman was unable to produce tumors in laboratory animals over a nine month period. Trauma of the oral mucosa due to ill-fitting dentures is a potential factor in the production of oral cancer.
hnRNA in HeLa cells: Distribution of transcript sizes estimated from nascent molecule profile

In HeLa cells, about half the hnRNA is synthesized from transcription units which are less than 5000 bases in length, although over 80% is larger than the average mRNA. This conclusion was derived from a quantitative analysis of the nascent chain sedimentation profile.
Development and demonstration of a higher temperature PEM fuel cell stack

Abstract Research and development was conducted on a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell stack to demonstrate the capabilities of Ionomem Corporation's composite membrane to operate at 120 °C and ambient pressure for on-site electrical power generation with useful waste heat. The membrane was a composite of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), Nafion ® , and phosphotungstic acid. Studies were first performed on the membrane, cathode catalyst layer, and gas diffusion layer to improve performance in 25 cm 2 , subscale cells. This technology was then scaled-up to a commercial 300 cm 2 size and evaluated in multi-cell stacks. The resulting stack obtained a performance near that of the subscale cells, 0.60 V at 400 mA cm −2 at near 120 °C and ambient pressure with hydrogen and air reactants containing water at 35% relative humidity. The water used for cooling the stack resulted in available waste heat at 116 °C. The performance of the stack was verified. This was the first successful test of a higher-temperature, PEM, fuel-cell stack that did not use phosphoric acid electrolyte.
A Fifty Year Mortality Follow-up Study of Veterans Exposed to Low Level Chemical Warfare Agent, Mustard Gas

Abstract PURPOSE: To determine if there is an increased risk of any cause specific mortality associated with low level mustard gas exposure among World War II Navy veterans. METHODS: A retrospective mortality follow-up study was conducted comparing the mortality of World War II Navy veterans who received low-level non-lethal exposures of mustard gas to that of World War II Navy veterans who were not exposed. This study identified 1545 Navy recruits stationed at Bainbridge, Maryland, between 1944–1945, who voluntarily participated in mustard gas chamber tests. These veterans were exposed to mustard gas while wearing protective clothing and masks. Control veterans consisted of 2663 Navy veterans who served at the same location and time as the exposed, but did not participate in chamber tests. Cause specific mortality risks associated with mustard gas exposure and level of mustard gas exposure were examined using adjusted and unadjusted relative risk estimates. RESULTS: There was no excess of any cause specific mortality associated with varying levels of mustard gas exposures among Navy veterans subject to the chamber tests. CONCLUSIONS: The levels of mustard gas exposures experienced by World War II veterans, which were sufficient to cause skin reactions (erythema, vesicles, and ulceration), were not associated with any increased risk of cause specific mortality.
Autonomic and EEG patterns during eyes-closed rest and transcendental meditation (TM) practice: the basis for a neural model of TM practice.

In this single-blind within-subject study, autonomic and EEG variables were compared during 10-min, order-balanced eyes-closed rest and Transcendental Meditation (TM) sessions. TM sessions were distinguished by (1) lower breath rates, (2) lower skin conductance levels, (3) higher respiratory sinus arrhythmia levels, and (4) higher alpha anterior-posterior and frontal EEG coherence. Alpha power was not significantly different between conditions. These results were seen in the first minute and were maintained throughout the 10-min sessions. TM practice appears to (1) lead to a state fundamentally different than eyes-closed rest; (2) result in a cascade of events in the central and autonomic nervous systems, leading to a rapid change in state (within a minute) that was maintained throughout the TM session; and (3) be best distinguished from other conditions through autonomic and EEG alpha coherence patterns rather than alpha power. Two neural networks that may mediate these effects are suggested. The rapid shift in physiological functioning within the first minute might be mediated by a "neural switch" in prefrontal areas inhibiting activity in specific and nonspecific thalamocortical circuits. The resulting "restfully alert" state might be sustained by a basal ganglia-corticothalamic threshold regulation mechanism automatically maintaining lower levels of cortical excitability.
Abstract SS01-04: Objective and perceived risk of cervical cancer risk among Appalachian women.

Objectives: Appalachia is a geographic area with elevated cervical cancer incidence rates, yet little research has examined the accuracy of the cervical cancer risk perceptions of women living in this region. We examined the accuracy of Appalachian women's cervical cancer risk perceptions and identified factors correlated with accurate risk perceptions. Methods: Completed in 2006, we surveyed women (n=411) from Appalachian Ohio for the Community Awareness Resources Education (CARE) study. We calculated women's actual cervical cancer risk using the CARE Risky Sexual Behavior Index (classified as high, medium, or low risk), and women indicated their perceived risk of cervical cancer (classified as higher than, about the same as, or lower than other women). We used multivariate logistic regression to identify factors correlated with women accurately classifying their risk. Results: About 38% of women had high actual risk of cervical cancer, 31% had medium risk, and 31% had low risk. Most women (56%) perceived their risk of cervical cancer to be about the same as other women. About 38% of women accurately classified their cervical cancer risk. Women ages 31-50 (OR=1.77, 95% CI: 1.03-3.05; compared to women ages 51 and older) and those with a prior abnormal Pap test (OR=1.56, 95% CI: 1.01-2.39) were more likely to accurately perceive their cervical cancer risk. Conclusions: Most Appalachian women do not accurately perceive their risk of developing cervical cancer. This may be particularly true for older women and those who have no history of abnormal Pap tests. Education efforts are needed to help Appalachian women better understand their risk for cervical cancer, which may in turn help improve cervical cancer screening rates among this population. Citation Format: Electra D. Paskett, Nicolas P. Bons, Paul L. Reiter. Objective and perceived risk of cervical cancer risk among Appalachian women. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Fifth AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2012 Oct 27-30; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2012;21(10 Suppl):Abstract nr SS01-04.
Early detection of cisplatin ototoxicity selected case reports

A recently developed high frequency auditory measurement technique was applied to a sample of patients receiving the antineoplastic agent cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum II (cisplatin [CDDP, DDP]). Ototoxicity as a result of cisplatin administration is well documented. The ability to detect ototoxicity, however, varies with the methods and instrumentation utilized, and the criteria by which ototoxicity is defined. The auditory function of subjects receiving cisplatin for genitourinary tumors and head and neck cancers was serially monitored with conventional audiometry and with a high frequency testing system. Results reveal a high incidence of nonreversible cochlear toxicity with a predilection for involvement of the higher frequencies. Cochlear toxicity was detected earlier with the high frequency evaluation system than with conventional audiometry. The case reports presented are characteristic of the type and magnitude of auditory changes observed.
Patterns for online discussions

Nowadays, online education is very popular. Almost every school has developed at least a few online courses in order to be competitive in the education market. The main interaction for online courses is based on online discussions.Also, numerous schools are developing and conducting blended or hybrid courses focusing on a combination of online and traditional-classroom learning that emphasizes virtual constant correspondence. Other schools are using a Learning Management System with a component for online discussions, as part of the curriculum for a traditional classroom setting. This virtual academic presence mirrors businesses 24/7 accessibility.Conducting and evaluating online discussions may be a difficult task for novice teachers who lack experience in their conduction and evaluation. Patterns for Online Discussions have emerged as a tool to conduct and evaluate online discussions and offers solutions to evaluate online discussions. This paper uses an adaptation of the Alexandrian pattern structure as the core for online discussions.
Bulk and surface floppy modes

Abstract In this paper most of the ideas that have been put forward over the past ten years on constraint counting and the resultant floppy modes in random networks are collected together. It is shown how model systems can help us understand the phenomena via rigidity percolation. These ideas have been tested experimentally in bulk glasses where the most illuminating experiments involve low frequency phonons as seen by inelastic neutron scattering in chalcogenide glasses. Other experiments, such as measurements of the elastic moduli, have been disappointing in that the effects are not resolved. Marginal cases where the instability is caused by the surface, leading to the number of floppy modes scaling with the surface area, are also examined. These effects may be important in porous silica, zeolites and possibly biological systems.
Interview: Chronic myeloid leukemia: two decades that changed a disease

Michael Deininger speaks to Hannah Branch, Assistant Commissioning Editor: I have a long-standing interest in the biology and therapy of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). I have trained as a clinician in Nuremberg (Germany), clinical investigator in hematologic malignancies in Leipzig (Germany), Portland (OR, USA) and Salt Lake City (UT, USA), and as a bench scientist in molecular and cellular biology at Imperial College (London, UK). For the past 17 years, starting with my PhD work on imatinib at Imperial College London, I have studied the effects of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) on CML, both in the laboratory and as an investigator on numerous clinical trials. My laboratory at Oregon Health & Science University (OR, USA) and at The University Of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute (UT, USA) has contributed to the understanding of TKI resistance in CML, including the role of mutations in the kinase domain of BCR–ABL1. We have developed assays to predict resistance mutations and established biomarkers to pre...
An expert system approach to AIDS intervention and prevention

Abstract The increased involvement of information systems in Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) intervention and prevention (AIP) leads to increased demand for expert systems. This paper presents an expert system that extracts data from the database and then screens AIDS-risky behaviors and schedules follow-up assessments by using mathematical models, as intelligent as an AIP expert would. The application results have been compared with AIP expert's judgement that presents evidence of the usefulness of the system.
Decreased creatine kinase activity in cultured Duchenne dystrophic muscle cells.

Muscle cells were cultured from six patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and nine normal subjects. Protein and myosin content and pyruvate kinase (PK) activity were similar in normal and Duche...
The effect of risk on the effect of a land tax: A simulation

Abstract The inelastic supply of land suggests that taxation of land might be neutral. Feldstein (1977) suggests otherwise, in that taxation reduces risk, and this may raise demand among risk-averse lenders. We simulate the effect of this demand increase and find that the impact in the aggregate is neutral, because many households are risk-loving in housing assets. The effects on individuals are less negligible.
Subfractionation of cell populations by partitioning in dextran-poly (ethylene glycol) aqueous phases. "Discriminating" and "nondiscriminating" systems.

Partitioning of cells in dextran-poly(ethylene glycol) aqueous two-phase systems depends on the interaction between the surface properties of the cells and the physical properties of the phases. The latter can be manipulated to a considerable extent by selection of polymer concentrations and ionic composition and concentration. If salts (e.g., phopshate) are used that have an unequal affinity for the two phases, an electrostatic potential difference between the phases results and, at appropriately high polymer concentrations, the partition coefficient of cells is determined predominantly by membrane charge-associated properties. By “balancing” the magnitude of the electrostatic potential difference against that of the interfacial tension (primarily a function of polymer, but also phosphate, concentrations) one can obtain phase systems that give usable partition coefficients for most cell populations (1).
Analysis of some organochlorine pesticides in seafood samples by solid-phase extraction—Gas chromatography

The use of the solid-phase extraction technique for the rapid sample preparation of organochlorine pesticides is described. Samples were simultaneously extracted, cleaned, and fractionated by the solid-phase extraction method and a further separation and determination of extracted fractions was carried out by gas chromatography with either an electron capture or a Hall electrolytic conductivity detector. The percent recovery of the extracted seven pesticides was compared to that of the conventional liquid-liquid extraction method. The analytical figures of merit., chromatograms, and statistic data are reported. The application of this method was demonstrated by a real fish sample determination with mass spectra for confirmation of Kepone detection.
Is American Public Administration Detached From Historical Context?: On the Nature of Time and the Need to Understand It in Government and Its Study

The study of public administration pays little attention to history. Most publications are focused on current problems (the present) and desired solutions (the future) and are concerned mainly with organizational structure (a substantive issue) and output targets (an aggregative issue that involves measures of both individual performance and organizational productivity/services). There is much less consideration of how public administration (i.e., organization, policy, the study, etc.) unfolds over time. History, and so administrative history, is regarded as a “past” that can be recorded for its own sake but has little relevance to contemporary challenges. This view of history is the product of a diminished and anemic sense of time, resulting from organizing the past as a series of events that inexorably lead up to the present in a linear fashion. To improve the understanding of government’s role and position in society, public administration scholarship needs to reacquaint itself with the nature of time.
Dynein and the actin cytoskeleton control kinesin-driven cytoplasmic streaming in Drosophila oocytes

Mass movements of cytoplasm, known as cytoplasmic streaming, occur in some large eukaryotic cells. In Drosophila oocytes there are two forms of microtubule-based streaming. Slow, poorly ordered streaming occurs during stages 8-10A, while pattern formation determinants such as oskar mRNA are being localized and anchored at specific sites on the cortex. Then fast well-ordered streaming begins during stage 10B, just before nurse cell cytoplasm is dumped into the oocyte. We report that the plus-end-directed microtubule motor kinesin-1 is required for all streaming and is constitutively capable of driving fast streaming. Khc mutations that reduce the velocity of kinesin-1 transport in vitro blocked streaming yet still supported posterior localization of oskar mRNA, suggesting that streaming is not essential for the oskar localization mechanism. Inhibitory antibodies indicated that the minus-end-directed motor dynein is required to prevent premature fast streaming, suggesting that slow streaming is the product of a novel dynein-kinesin competition. As F-actin and some associated proteins are also required to prevent premature fast streaming, our observations support a model in which the actin cytoskeleton triggers the shift from slow to fast streaming by inhibiting dynein. This allows a cooperative self-amplifying loop of plus-end-directed organelle motion and parallel microtubule orientation that drives vigorous streaming currents and thorough mixing of oocyte and nurse-cell cytoplasm.
A more robust unscented transform

The unscented transformation is extended to use extra test points beyond the minimum necessary to determine the second moments of a multivariate normal distribution. The additional test points can improve the estimated mean and variance of the transformed distribution when the transforming function of its derivatives have discontinuities.
Assessing the Economic Value of Traditional Medicines from Tropical Rain Forests

In recent years, increasing attention has been given to the value of the tropical rain forest as a source of nontimber market products. Although estimates exist for the value of select forest products (Peters et al. 1989; Tobias and Mendelsohn 1990), many have yet to be quantified. One important class of products that has not yet been valued is tropical pharmaceuticals. Several recent essays have noted that tropical forests are a rich source of unknown chemicals that may eventually prove useful to medicine (Abelson 1990; Oldfield 1989). In addition, traditional medicines are currently the basis for much of the primary health care delivered in tropical nations (Farnsworth et al. 1985). For example, traditional practitioners provide up to 75% of the primary health care needs of rural people in Belize (R. Arvigo, personal communication). Local forests are the source of the plants processed into therapies used in traditional medical systems (Balick 1990). In this paper, we quantify the value of the forests for their therapeutic products, using data from Belize, Central America. Current methods for the harvest of medicinal plants from forests and fallows involve both destructive and nondestructive practices. For example, destructive methods of harvest include stripping a tree completely of its bark, or cutting it to facilitate harvest. Removing the roots or tubers from a woody or herbaceous plant
Multi-Beam Ion Microscopy

Over the past fifty years the scanning electron microscope (SEM) has established itself as the most versatile and productive tool for imaging and microanalysis in many areas of science and technology, and some seventy-thousand instruments generate millions of micrographs every day. Scanning electron microscopes do, however, have one fundamental limitation in that the only experimental variable available to the operator is the choice of the accelerating voltage. Although the ability to vary beam energy is both necessary and important, it is an unfortunate fact that changing the beam energy also alters many aspects of performance: imaging resolution, relative strength of different signal components, depth of beam penetration, capabilities of the various analytical systems, and the severity of charging and beam-induced damage. This makes it difficult or impossible to optimize the interaction of interest.
Effects of vicarious reward and punishment on social imitation in chronic psychotics

Abstract Despite considerable evidence that modeling procedures provide effective methods for the acquisition and change of behavior, there is very little research on the effects of vicarious reward, and none on the effects of vicarious punishment, on social imitation in chronic psychotics. Two studies (Goldstein et al. , 1973: Gutride, Goldstein and Hunter, 1973) demonstrated the superiority of vicarious reward over no-treatment with adult psychotics. However, in neither study was a model no-consequences group included in order to control for the effects of observation per se ; therefore, such findings cannot be clearly attributed to vicarious reinforcement (Thelen and Rennie, 1972). The only other study known to bear on this issue revealed no differences in initial learning between a model-rewarded and a model no-consequences group (Olson, 1971). The present study included model no-consequences control groups in an attempt to examine the effects of vicarious reward and punishment on subsequent interview behavior in chronic psychotics. Drawing on the larger body of vicarious learning research (Bandura, 1969). it was hypothesized that such patients demonstrate higher levels of socially appropriate behavior after observation of a model who is (a) rewarded for appropriate behavior or (b) punished for inappropriate responses, and lower levels of appropriate behavior after exposure to a model who is (c) rewarded for inappropriate behavior or (d) punished for appropriate responses, relative to conditions in which the same modeled behaviors elicit no contingent consequences.
Can treatment for pure alexia improve letter-by-letter reading speed without sacrificing accuracy?

An experimental treatment study designed to improve both the accuracy and the speed of reading was administered to a patient with pure alexia and impaired letter naming. The study focused on the use of letter-by-letter reading. A two-stage approach was employed. The first stage implemented a tactile-kinesthetic strategy to improve accuracy. The second stage concentrated on speed. At the end of the treatment, patient DL was reading both trained and untrained words more accurately and with considerably greater speed than prior to treatment. Accuracy and speed of reading at the sentence level improved as well.
Giant epignathus tumor associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation: A case report and literature review

Epignathus is a rare congenital head and neck tumor (1 in 35,000-200,000 live births) with many associated complications. We report a rare association of giant epignathus associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation. To our knowledge, only one case of this association has been reported so far. A review of different clinical presentations of epignathus, classification, its reported associations and available management strategies is included.
A short-run general equilibrium model for a small, open economy

Abstract This paper introduces some features observed in developing countries into a CGE model. In particular, quantitative restrictions on exports and imports are incorporated and quota-derived rents are included as a source of income. The economy is assumed to be small only on the import side, such that export prices are endogenous. A distinction between traded and treadeable goods is introduced, together with the possibility of ‘water in the tariff’. Thus, the law of one price need not hold. Another key feature is the modelling of supply with unutilized capacity. Thus, excess demands clear by price changes, output adjustments, or imports, depending on the degree of capacity utilization, the tradeability of the good, and the trade regime. An empirical application of the model shows that in a GE context, import quotas can worsen the trade balance while lowering real income and the real wage rate.
Precipitation of iron, sodium, and potassium impurities from synthetic solutions modeling spent acid streams from a chemical coal cleaning process

ABSTRACT Experiments on treating model spent acid streams from a chemical coal cleaning process by double salt precipitation indicated that simple heating of solutions containing Fe2(SO4)3, Na2SO4, and K2SO4 caused jarosite (KFe3(SO47)2(OH)6) to form preferentially to natrojarosite (NaFe3(SO4)2(OH)6), and precipitate yields were higher than when Na2SO4 was the only alkali sulfate present. Virtually all of the K, about 90% of the Fe, and about 30% of the SO4 2− could be precipitated at 95°C, while little or no Na was removed. However, simply heating Fe2(SO4)3/Na2SO4 solutions up to 95°C for <12 hours did not produce adequate precipitate yield's. When Na was the only alkali metal present, the Fe concentration in the solution had to be increased to avoid formation of undesirable iron compounds. Increasing the Fe concentration to about 6 g/L by adding excess Fe2(SO4)3 suppressed the formation of undesirable iron salts and increased natrojarosite yields significantly, but the amount of precipitate obtained was...
Are DNA transcription factor proteins maxwellian demons

Transcription factor (TF) proteins rapidly locate unique target sites on long genomic DNA molecules—and bind to them—during gene regulation. The search mechanism is known to involve a combination of three-dimensional diffusion through the bulk of the cell and one-dimensional sliding diffusion along the DNA. It is believed that the surprisingly high target binding rates of TF proteins relies on conformational fluctuations of the protein between a mobile state that is insensitive to the DNA sequence and an immobile state that is sequence-sensitive. Since TFs are not able to consume free energy during their search to obtain DNA sequence information, the Second Law of Thermodynamics must impose a strict limit on the efficiency of passive search mechanisms. In this article, we use a simple model for the protein conformational fluctuations to obtain the shortest binding time consistent with thermodynamics. The binding time is minimized if the spectrum of conformational fluctuations that take place during the search is impedance-matched to the large-scale conformational change that takes place at the target site. For parameter values appropriate for bacterial TF, this minimum binding time is within an order-of-magnitude of a limiting binding time corresponding to an idealized protein with instant target recognition. Numerical estimates suggest that typical bacteria operate in this regime of optimized conformational fluctuations.
Rational therapy for relapsing multiple sclerosis

The surface expression of 41 integrin (VLA-4) and LFA-1 is increased after T-cell activation. Expression of VCAM-1—the major ligand for 41 integrin—is increased on luminal endothelial-cell surfaces in active CNS plaques, as is the expression of ICAM-1, the main ligand for LFA-1. The ability of 41 integrin or LFA-1 to bind to VCAM-1 or ICAM-1, respectively, and to initiate the migration of activated T cells and monocytes into the CNS can be inhibited by various methods: drugs that reduce the expression of LFA-1 (eg, statins); 8 monoclonal antibodies that directly block the interaction of 41 integrin with VCAM-1 or the availability of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 on the endothelial-cell surface; and antagonist peptides that simulate binding regions of 41 integrin to VCAM-1. 9
Genome evolution in the mosquitoes and other closely related members of superfamily Culicoidea

Karyotypes and nuclear DNA amounts of 36 species belonging to twelve genera of mosquitoes and other closely related taxa in the superfamily Culicoidea (Dixidae, Chaoboridae, and Culicidae) were studied. The results showed an eight-fold range in haploid DNA amounts and a 4.5-fold range in total chromosomal lengths. It is concluded that the evolutionary trend in this superfamily has been an overall increase in total haploid DNA amounts from the primitive Dixidae to the highly evolved Culcidae, with a concomitant increase in overall chromosome sizes.
Induction of hepatic testosterone A-ring reductase by medroxyprogesterone acetate.

Administration of medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) to male rats causes a significant (2-3-fold) increase in the activity of hepatic testosterone A-ring reductase. This was demonstrated by employing assays that measured an increase in disappearance of testosterone and/ or an increase in its reduced metabolites. Progesterone and its derivatives were also capable of increasing the reductase activity. Fasting or fed state, castration or adrenalectomy did not interfere with the effect of MPA, nor did the administration of phenobarbital or cortisol cause a rise in the reductase level. MPA also significantly increased the rate of reduction of Δ4-androstenedione, cortisol, progesterone and MPA itself (all Δ4-3-ketosteroids) when used as substrates in vitro. Cytoplasmic fractionation revealed that the MPA stimulated increase in reductase activity is restricted to the microsomes, indicating that only the Sa-oxidoreductase activity is affected. Simultaneous administration of actinomycin-D with MPA resulted in a com...
Lead-lead age of the Bondoc meteorite.

Abstract The concentration of lead in a portion of the Bondoc meteorite was determined by the isotopic dilution technique to be 0.071 ± 0.005 ppm. Isotopic ratios of the lead in the meteorite were found to be Pb 206 Pb 204 = 20.11 , Pb 207 Pb 204 = 18.53 , and Pb 208 Pb 204 = 39.12 . The Pb 207 Pb 204 ratio is quite high relative to the Pb 206 Pb 204 ratio, indicating a possible lead-lead age of 4.94 × 109 years. This calculation is based on the assumption that the present U 238 U 235 ratio in this meteorite is 137.7.
An Assessment of Novelty-Seeking Behavior in Alcohol-Preferring and Nonpreferring Rats

Abstract This study examined novelty-seeking behavior in rat populations selectively bred for high and low alcohol-drinking behavior. In Experiment 1, and “odor-enhanced” novel environment produced greater behavioral activation in P compared to NP rats. In Experiment 2, the activity of high alcohol-drinking P and HAD rats was enhanced to a greater extent following the presentation of novel odors in a familiar arena, compared to the NP and LAD rats. The results suggest that, when measuring locomotor activity, alcohol-preferring rats are more reactive to novelty than their nonpreferring counterparts. Experiments 3 and 4, however, did not support the hypothesis that novelty seeking is associated with genetic vulnerability to high alcohol-drinking behavior. When measuring nose-poking behavior in response to novel odors and preference for a novel vs. a familiar chamber, behavior of the preferring lines did not differ from that of the nonpreferring lines, although P rats were more active in the place-preference paradigm. The overall results indicate that the relationship between novelty and alcohol drinking is only modestly associated, and is observed under specific conditions. Moreover, this study underscores the importance of using multiple measures when assessing complex behaviors such as novelty seeking.
Angular and torsional forces via quantum mechanics

First the applications of angular and oscillatory radial forces that are derived quantum mechanically for metals are reviewed, emphasizing the “Μ4” methods of generating angular forces. The dominant conclusion from several applications that are discussed is that bcc transition metals will often sacrifice bond-length constraints in order to obtain an energetically favorable angular environment. Then the derivation of angular and torsional forces for polymers such as proteins, in which chemical bonds remain fairly intact, are discussed. The derivation of the Μ4 methodology is briefly reviewed, and it is shown that the earlier Μ4 analysis of the angular forces can be understood in terms of overlap repulsion between bond orbitals. This overlap repulsion is used to develop simplified forms for angular interactions in well-bonded systems. These angular interactions are consistent with the structures of P and S. A result of this analysis is that some of the “improper” torsion terms that are typically used in polymer simulations may be unnecessary. It is then shown that torsional forces in polymers can be understood by a second-order perturbation analysis, in which one takes into account the interaction between hybridized bond orbitals on one atom with hybridized antibond orbitals on other atoms. The resulting torsional forces are consistent with the structures of elemental S and the ethane molecule.
Exciton dispersion in silicon nanostructures formed by intense, ultra-fast electronic excitation

The intense, ultra-fast electronic excitation of clean silicon (100)–(2×1) surfaces leads to the formation of silicon nanostructures embedded in silicon, which photoluminesce in the yellow-green (∼2-eV band gap). The silicon surfaces were irradiated with slow, highly charged ions (e.g. Xe44+ and Au53+) to produce the ultra-fast electronic excitation. The observation of excitonic features in the luminescence from these nanostructures has recently been reported. In this paper we report the dispersion of the excitonic features with laser excitation energy. A phonon-scattering process is proposed to explain the observed dispersion.
Research Resource: Nuclear Receptor Atlas of Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells: Potential Relevance to Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells play a vital role in retinal physiology by forming the outer blood-retina barrier and supporting photoreceptor function. Retinopathies including age-related macular degeneration (AMD) involve physiological and pathological changes in the epithelium, severely impairing the retina and effecting vision. Nuclear receptors (NRs), including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor and liver X receptor, have been identified as key regulators of physiological pathways such as lipid metabolic dysregulation and inflammation, pathways that may also be involved in development of AMD. However, the expression levels of NRs in RPE cells have yet to be systematically surveyed. Furthermore, cell culture lines are widely used to study the biology of RPE cells, without knowledge of the differences or similarities in NR expression and activity between these in vitro models and in vivo RPE. Using quantitative real-time PCR, we assessed the expression patterns of all 48 members of the NR family plus aryl hydrocarbon receptor and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator in human RPE cells. We profiled freshly isolated cells from donor eyes (in vivo), a spontaneously arising human cell line (in vitro), and primary cell culture lines (in vitro) to determine the extent to which NR expression in the cultured cell lines reflects that of in vivo. To evaluate the validity of using cell culture models for investigating NR receptor biology, we determined transcriptional activity and target gene expression of several moderately and highly expressed NRs in vitro. Finally, we identified a subset of NRs that may play an important role in pathobiology of AMD.
Conjugate Heat Transfer Using Liquid Metals and Alloys for Enclosures With Solid Conducting Blocks

A validated computational model was created to simulate the heat transfer from a heated surface using liquid metals and alloys during conjugate heat transfer. This model explores the effect of the Rayleigh number, Prandtl number, thermal conductivity ratio, and aspect ratio on the Nusselt number along the hot surface. The data will show how to keep the temperature sensitive components along the hot wall cool by maximizing the amount of heat removed from the hot wall. The data show three distinct regions that occur as a function of the Rayleigh number for a fixed k * and d * . The data also show that the thermal conductivity ratio between the fluid and the solid conducting block has little effect on the Nusselt number at a fixed Rayleigh number. However, when examining the effect of the aspect ratio on the Nusselt number, two distinct regions can be seen. The results demonstrate that in order to keep the temperature sensitive components cool along the hot wall, one would want to have large Rayleigh and Prandtl numbers. The easiest way to achieve large Rayleigh numbers is by increasing the height of the enclosure. Large Prandtl numbers can be achieved by choosing a fluid that is highly conductive. In addition, the choice of material for the center solid conducting block does not impact the amount of heat removed from the hot wall. However, increased cooling can be achieved by decreasing the spacing between the hot and the cold wall.
Penile block timing for postoperative analgesia of hypospadias repair in children

AbstractPurpose: It has been well established that a dorsal penile nerve block immediately after surgery decreases postoperative pain in children undergoing hypospadias repair. However, to our knowledge the efficacy of a penile block immediately before versus immediately after surgery for postoperative pain control has not been previously studied in such children.Materials and Methods: We evaluated 98 healthy boys 6 months to 12 years old undergoing hypospadias repair. General anesthesia was induced and maintained in a standard fashion. Patients were randomly assigned to receive a penile block with the same total dose of bupivacaine at the completion of surgery, before the incision or before and at the completion of surgery. No other analgesic was administered intraoperatively. Pain was assessed using a modified objective pain-discomfort scale at 15 minutes, and 3, 12 and 24 hours after surgery. The number of doses of acetaminophen required to control postoperative pain was also recorded.Results: Pain sco...