cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of social support on nocturnal blood pressure dipping

OBJECTIVE To determine if nocturnal blood pressure (BP) dipping among non-Hispanic blacks is influenced by social support. Non-Hispanic blacks have higher rates of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality from hypertension and are more likely to have ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) that remains high at night (nondipping). METHODS A total of 68 non-Hispanic black normotensive and 13 untreated hypertensive participants (age 72 +/- 10 years, 48% female) free of clinical cardiovascular disease completed 24-hour ABP monitoring and a questionnaire that included a modified version of the CARDIA Study Social Support Scale (CSSS). Nondipping was defined as a decrease of <10% in the ratio between average awake and average asleep systolic BP. Analyses were adjusted for age, gender, and systolic BP. RESULTS The prevalence of nondipping was 26.8% in subjects in the highest CSSS tertile versus 41.1% in the lowest CSSS tertile (p = .009). On adjusted analysis, CSSS was analyzed as a continuous variable and remained independently and inversely associated with nondipping (odds ratio 0.27, 95% Confidence Interval 0.08-0.94, p = .04). CONCLUSIONS Social support may be an important predictor of BP dipping at night. These findings suggest that social support may have positive health affects through physiologic (autonomic) pathways.
Evidence For Rotational Non-Equilibrium In The CH3I + N2F4 Chemical Laser

Abstract The experimentally determined relative energy distribution among the lasing HF vibration-rotation transitions of a CH 3 1 + N 2 F 4 chemical laser has been compared with the results of a detailed model calculation. It was found that the assumption of a Boltzmann rotational distribution in the calculations gave results that were in marked disagreement with the experimental data.
Testis-organizing H-Y antigen as a discrete protein; Its MHC restricted immune recognition and the genomic environment in which H-Y gene operates

Human H-Y antigen in solution demonstrates the high affinity, low capacity binding affinity to its specific receptor exclusively residing on the plasma membrane of gonadal somatic elements, and this interaction induced precocious testicular differentiation in XX embryonic indifferent gonads. This H-Y polypeptide is hydrophobic and made of 160 or so amino acid residues to which no more than 5 glucosamine residues are attached. Surprising similarities to interferons are noted with interest. The male determing part of the mouse Y chromosome DNA was recently identified by Singh et al. (in press) on sex reversed XX,Sxr/-male mice. We found this part to contain a 30 KBP long stretch in which neither a single Hae III restriction site GGCC nor a single Alu I restriction site AGCT resides. By contrast, the coding sequence for H-Y antigen should contain one ot two Hae III sites and three or four Alu I sites per 0.5 KBP. Thus, the Y-linked male determining gene is believed to represent a regulatory element rather than the H-Y antigen structural gene. We are thus forced to consider genetic regulatory mechanisms as they operate in mammals. In this respect, it is of utmost importance to realize the oft neglected peculiarity of the mammalian genome in which genes (coding sequences) are out-numbered nearly 50-to-1 by senseless junk or selfish DNA sequences. Even in the euchromatic region of chromosomes, the average distance between neighboring genes was estimated as 35 KBP. Being junk, these long stretches of intergenic spacers can not rely upon natural selection to eliminate deleterious consequences of randomly drifting mutational base changes; i.e., inadvertent generation of RNA polymerase II promotor sites as well as nonsense coding sequences in the midst of spacers. Intergenic spacers avoid these deleterious consequences by apparently starting as repeats of a specific short base sequence, such as the primordial sequence of 20 BP: (AGCTG) (AGCTG) (AGCTG) (GGGTG). Thus, repeated sequences within intergenic spacers do not appear to be concerned with regulation of genes downstream. On the other hand, the primordial sequence above is particularly vulnerable to frequent and inadvertent generation of the RNA polymerase III promotor sequence AGCAGGGT. Consequently, short RNAs are often transcribed from intergenic spacers. The regulatory significance of such short RNA is also doubtful. Evolutionary reasons as to why the immune system chooses to recognize not H-Y antigen per se but (H-Y + altered self MHC) antigen complexes are also discussed. Mistaken identification of certain other antigens as H-Y is inherent in this associative recognition.
Grammatical morpheme acquisition: An approximately invariant order?

The order of acquisition for 14 grammatical morphemes was studied in three children between MLU stages II and IV/V. Spontaneous language samples were recorded bimonthly in the children's homes for a period of 9 months. These samples were analyzed for correct use of the 14 morphemes, and the order of acquisition was compared to that reported by Brown (1973) for his three normal subjects. The correlation between the acquisition orders from the present study and the order from Brown's study was low, suggesting that the order of acquisition for these morphemes may not be “invariant”.
Antimicrobial effects of the combination of ceftibuten and an orally absorbed penem SCH 29482.

Abstract Ceftibuten is a new β-lactamase-stable 3-aminothiazolyl cephalosporin that lacks activity against staphylococci and group-B streptococci. We determined the effect of the combination of ceftibuten with SCH 29482, an orally absorbed penem. The combination of the two agents was additive for 25% or indifferent for 57% of the Gram-positive species, Haemophilus , and Moraxella tested with a mean fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) index of 0.75. The combination of ceftibuten and SCH 29482 was also indifferent for Bacteroides fragilis and other Bacteroides species, all of which were inhibited by ⩽2 μ g/ml of SCH 29482. Antagonism of the combination was found for 80% of Serratia marcescens and for 30% of Citrobacter freundii and Enterobacter cloacae . Overall, the combination of ceftibuten and SCH 29482 at concentrations that can be achieved in serum after ingestion of 400 and 50 μg/ml, respectively, provided antibacterial activity against most Gram-positive aerobic and anaerobic species that cause upper respiratory, intraabdominal, and urinary infections.
The design and development of bipolar junction transistor devices

The data confirm that a decrease in base dimension improves the performance of the bipolar junction transistor. In addition, modifications in design and procedures have improved the quantity and quality of the data collected. The devices produced in this project were functional but not ideal. Nevertheless, this project was able to produce a working BJT device with better performance characteristics than any BJT that has ever been produced in this lab. The designs and methods employed during this project, as well as data collected from this project, will improve the performance quality of future BJT devices produced in this lab.
The recovery of ant communities in regenerating temperate conifer forests

Although ants perform many critical functions in forested ecosystems, little is known about how they respond to timber harvesting, especially in temperate systems. We examined ground-foraging ant communities and 11 forest characteristics in temperate conifer forests of southwestern Oregon, USA that ranged in age from 5 to 427 years. Seven forest characteristics were related to stand age and were summarized using principal components analysis (PCA). In this case study, species richness was nearly three times higher in young clearcuts compared to closed-canopy and old stands, and worker number was highest in young stands, lowest in closed-canopy stands, and intermediate in old stands. Using stepwise multiple regression, we found that both species richness and worker number were significantly related to PCA axis 1, which represented the environmental changes that accompany stand development, and canopy variability. Though species richness was high in recently logged stands, our study suggests that, in this system, the ant community does not resemble those found in mature forests until over 100 years following disturbance. Because ants modify their environment and perform ecosystem functions like seed dispersal, the alteration of ant communities may cascade through other parts of ecosystems.
The interstellar N2 abundance towards HD 124314 from far-ultraviolet observations.

The abundance of interstellar molecular nitrogen (N2) is of considerable importance: models of steady-state gas-phase interstellar chemistry1,2, together with millimetre-wavelength observations3,4 of interstellar N2H+ in dense molecular clouds predict that N2 should be the most abundant nitrogen-bearing molecule in the interstellar medium. Previous attempts to detect N2 absorption in the far-ultraviolet5 or infrared6 (ice features) have hitherto been unsuccessful. Here we report the detection of interstellar N2 at far-ultraviolet wavelengths towards the moderately reddened star HD 124314 in the constellation of Centaurus. The N2 column density is larger than expected from models of diffuse clouds and significantly smaller than expected for dense molecular clouds1. Moreover, the N2 abundance does not explain the observed variations7 in the abundance of atomic nitrogen (N I) towards high-column-density sightlines, implying that the models of nitrogen chemistry in the interstellar medium are incomplete8.
Pulse Testing With Wellbore Storage and Skin Effects

A pulse test is conducted by creating a series of short-time pressure transients in an active (pulsing) well and recording the observed pressure response at an observation (responding) well. Using the pressure response and flow rate data, the transmissivity and storativity of the tested formation can be determined. Like any other pressure transient data, the pulse-test response is significantly influenced by wellbore storage and skin effects. Although these effects have been studied in the petroleum literature, at present there is no systematic study which accurately analyzes storage-dominated pulse-test data. This paper describes a mathematical model for pulse testing, and it examines the influence of wellbore storage and skin effects on pulse-test data. Two new correlations are presented for correcting the pulse response amplitude and time lag for wellbore storage effects. Using these correlations, it is possible to correct the storagedominated response amplitude and time lag to within 3-percent of the values expected without wellbore storage. The formation transmissivity and storativity can be determined using the corrected response amplitude and time lag. Worked examples are included to illustrate how to use the new correction techniques.
Effect of Ethanolamine and Certain Dietary Metabolites on the Storage Stability of Frozen Turkeys

Abstract INTRODUCTION THE stability of animal fat, insofar as it is affected by ante-mortem conditions, is generally considered to be a function of the fatty acid composition, and the content of phospholipids, tocopherols, and other naturally occurring antioxidants. Increased fat stabilities have been obtained with several species by adding large amounts of tocopherol to a tocopherol-low diet, but the value of reasonable levels of tocopherol added to a diet already nutritionally adequate in tocopherols is not well established (Criddle and Morgan, 1947; Lundberg et al., 1944; Watts et al., 1946). Kummerow and co-workers have recently investigated the possibility of stabilizing turkey fat by feeding various natural antioxidants, and other metabolites, such as choline or ethanolamine, which might modify the fat by either favoring the synthesis of stabilizing phospholipids, or by metabolizing and effectively removing the unstable unsaturated fatty acids contributed by the diet. Experiments with immature (13 week) turkeys (Kummerow et . . .
The Ultrafast Charge-Transfer-to-Solvent Dynamics of Iodide in Tetrahydrofuran. 1. Exploring the Roles of Solvent and Solute Electronic Structure in Condensed-Phase Charge-Transfer Reactions †

Although they represent the simplest possible charge-transfer reactions, the charge-transfer-to-solvent (CTTS) dynamics of atomic anions exhibit considerable complexity. For example, the CTTS dynamics of iodide in water are very different from those of sodide (Na-) in tetrahydrofuran (THF), leading to the question of the relative importance of the solvent and solute electronic structures in controlling charge-transfer dynamics. In this work, we address this issue by investigating the CTTS spectroscopy and dynamics of I- in THF, allowing us to make detailed comparisons to the previously studied I-/H2O and Na-/THF CTTS systems. Since THF is weakly polar, ion pairing with the counterion can have a substantial impact on the CTTS spectroscopy and dynamics of I- in this solvent. In this study, we have isolated "counterion-free" I- in THF by complexing the Na+ counterion with 18-crown-6 ether. Ultrafast pump-probe experiments reveal that THF-solvated electrons (e-THF) appear 380 +/- 60 fs following the CTTS excitation of "free" I- in THF. The absorption kinetics are identical at all probe wavelengths, indicating that the ejected electrons appear with no significant dynamic solvation but rather with their equilibrium absorption spectrum. After their initial appearance, ejected electrons do not exhibit any additional dynamics on time scales up to approximately 1 ns, indicating that geminate recombination of e-THF with its iodine atom partner does not occur. Competitive electron scavenging measurements demonstrate that the CTTS excited state of I- in THF is quite large and has contact with scavengers that are several nanometers away from the iodide ion. The ejection time and lack of electron solvation observed for I- in THF are similar to what is observed following CTTS excitation of Na- in THF. However, the relatively slow ejection time, the complete lack of dynamic solvation, and the large ejection distance/lack of recombination dynamics are in marked contrast to the CTTS dynamics observed for I- in water, in which fast electron ejection, substantial solvation, and appreciable recombination have been observed. These differences in dynamical behavior can be understood in terms of the presence of preexisting, electropositive cavities in liquid THF that are a natural part of its liquid structure; these cavities provide a mechanism for excited electrons to relocate to places in the liquid that can be nanometers away, explaining the large ejection distance and lack of recombination following the CTTS excitation of I- in THF. We argue that the lack of dynamic solvation observed following CTTS excitation of both I- and Na- in THF is a direct consequence of the fact that little additional relaxation is required once an excited electron nonadiabatically relaxes into one of the preexisting cavities. In contrast, liquid water contains no such cavities, and CTTS excitation of I- in water leads to local electron ejection that involves substantial solvent reorganization.
Psychoanalysis and the urban poor

This paper considers, from a psychoanalytic point of view, work with urban poor patients. A previous attempt, from an ego psychological perspective, to adapt psychoanalytic theory and technique for work with such patients is reviewed. An attempt is then made to elaborate an object relations perspective, based largely on the work of Fairbairn. The two approaches are compared and contrasted, especially with respect to common problems that arise in work with this group of people, such as missed appointments, crises, and requests for “concrete”; help. Finally, there is a review of how the structure and policies of the public clinics in which most poor patients are seen impact on analytically oriented work.
Differentiation in small group power relations under conditions of diminishing external reward contingencies

Abstract This article examines the effects of diminishing external rewards on the structured differentiation which occurs in groups. The article proposes a model which suggests that power structures in groups result from both the rates of directive activity and the rates of environmental rewards. Under declining external reward conditions groups become more discriminated. Such discrimination leads to the development and maintenance of structurally differentiated groups.
Intraoperative use of stents for the management of unacceptable distal internal carotid artery end points during carotid endarterectomy: Short-term and midterm results

Abstract Purpose: The management of unacceptable distal internal carotid artery (ICA) end points during carotid endarterectomy presents multiple dilemmas. The problem may be expeditiously solved by placement of an intraluminal stent, but reported clinical experience with this technique is limited. We retrospectively reviewed our experience with intraoperative stenting of the ICA for the correction of unacceptable distal ICA end points during carotid endarterectomy. We report our techniques and document the 30-day stroke morbidity-death rate and midterm outcomes of patients treated in this manner. Method: The records of 316 consecutive carotid endarterectomies performed by the authors from January 1997 through June 1999 were reviewed to identify those cases in which adjunctive intraoperative stenting of the distal ICA was used. For those patients treated with adjunctive ICA stents, we assessed technique, 30-day outcomes, and midterm outcomes. Results: The 30-day combined stroke and death rate for the entire group of 316 carotid endarterectomies was 1.9%. Adjunctive distal ICA stents were used in 13 cases—4.1% of the total carotid endarterectomy group—for the correction of unacceptable distal ICA end points. All patients were male; the average age was 70 years. Stents were used in 11 patients because in each of these cases the surgeon recognized an unacceptable end point and desired to limit further distal anatomic exposures and/or ischemia times. Stents were used in two patients to correct unexpected defects identified on intraoperative completion ultrasound scan. No 30-day periprocedural deaths, strokes, or transient ischemic attacks were observed. Average postoperative length of stay was 1.8 days (range, 1-5 days). All patients have been followed up with serial carotid duplex scans, and one patient has been studied by means of angiography. No patients have died, and all remain in active clinical follow-up. Mean length of follow-up has been 15 months. No significant asymptomatic recurrences have been observed, but one patient experienced an isolated episode of amaurosis fugax without demonstrable restenosis at 8 months postoperatively. Conclusion: Our experience suggests that the adjunctive use of stents for the correction of unacceptable distal ICA end points during carotid endarterectomy is safe and provides acceptable short-term and midterm outcomes. Continued follow-up will be required before this technique can be considered a primary choice rather than an expeditious secondary alternative in this infrequent clinical circumstance. (J Vasc Surg 2000;32:420-8.)
Distortion free interferograms in Fourier transform spectroscopy with nonlinear detectors.

A new method for removing the most important distortions from Fourier transform spectra recorded with nonlinear detectors is reported and illustrated with practical examples. The removal of these distortions is obtained with a two-output interferometer configuration. This essentially works because the resulting interferogram is made up of the difference between the signals of the two detectors and because these signals have the same amplitude and opposite phases. The proposed method leaves the detectors unchanged and makes use of their distorted signals. The correction is not restricted to the nonlinear effects of the only detectors but also of the entire electronic system amplifying each detector signal. It easily applies to absorption, emission, low and high resolution spectra, as well as spectra of short and long lifetime phenomena. The benefit of the method is not restricted to Fourier transform spectroscopy. It is even not restricted to techniques making use of detectors. Its advantages are available for any data treatment where the important information is made up of the difference between nonlinear functions (or signals) having similar amplitudes and opposite phases, whatever the number of pairs of such distorted functions (or signals) may be.
Stabex method for extension of α-polynomial hereditary classes

Abstract A class of graphs is called α-polynomial if there exists a polynomial-time algorithm for finding the stability number α(G) for all graphs G in the class. We define a set Stabex(F,v) associated with a graph F and a vertex v∈V(F). Let F be a minimal forbidden induced subgraph for an α-polynomial hereditary class P . It is shown that if we change F with Stabex(F,v) in the list of forbidden induced subgraphs for P , then we obtain an α-polynomial extension of P . We obtain a generalization of Sbihi’s theorem [Discrete Math. 28(3) (1980) 53] on the stability number problem in claw-free graphs. Also, a recent result of Lozin [Eur. J. Oper. Res. 125 (2000) 292] on stability in (P5,P)-free graphs is a corollary of our result.
Eight Novel Microsatellite Loci Developed from Vernal Pool Fairy Shrimp

Abstract We developed primer sets for eight di-, tri-, and tetranucleotide microsatellite loci for the threatened vernal pool fairy shrimp Branchinecta lynchi from CA, CAA, ATG, CAGA, and TAGA enriched genomic libraries. We tested primers in 74 individuals of B. lynchi from California, as well as 19 individuals from six other Branchinecta species: B. coloradensis, B. constricta, B. dissimilis, B. lindahli, B. mesovalensis, and B. oriena. The eight loci showed sufficient variability for investigations of B. lynchi evolution, population structure, and genetic diversity and may provide a new tool for assisting in delineation of management areas.
Near-infrared spectroscopy of 3:1 Kirkwood Gap Asteroids: (3760) Poutanen and (974) Lioba

Abstract A mineralogical assessment of 3:1 Kirkwood Gap Asteroids (3760) Poutanen and (974) Lioba, has been carried out from spectral data obtained May 21, 2008 (974) and May 25, 2009 (3760) UT using the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility. Results indicate (3760) Poutanen as a spinel-bearing asteroid. The spinel contained within this asteroid appears to be embedded in calcium aluminum inclusions ( CAIs ) much like that of the CV3 chondrite Allende . The preservation of the CAIs implies a lack of igneous processing and places further constraints on the heating that occurred within the early Solar System. This analysis suggests (3760) Poutanen originated in the general formation zone of the CV3 meteorites, but in a sub-region depleted in iron-rich matrix material and enriched in pyroxene-bearing clasts. Analysis of (974) Lioba indicates it is an S(IV) asteroid with a surface silicate assemblage consisting of olivine and orthopyroxene, (Fs 21(±5) Wo 8(±3) ), consistent with measured band centers, (0.96 ± 0.01 μm; 1.95 ± 0.02 μm), and the band area ratio (0.59 ± 0.15). The location, delivery efficiency ((24.5%) Farinella, P., Gunczi, R., Froeschle, Ch., Froeschle, C. [1993]. Icarus 101, 174–187), calculated mineralogy, and BAR strongly suggest (974) Lioba is a plausible parent body for the LL- or L-ordinary chondrites.
Synthesis, structural characterization and dioxygen reactivity of imidazole-ligated Cu(I) complexes

Abstract {Bis[(heterocycle)ethyl]amine}copper(I) complexes with a least one imidazole ligand react with 0.5 equiv. of dioxygen at −78 °C to give purple peroxo species. The dioxygen adduct of { N -2-[(2-pyridyl)ethyl]- N -2-[1-butyl- 2-imidazolyl)ethyl]amine}copper(I) tetrafluoroborate having one imidazole and one pyridine donor has absorption maxima at 332, 435 and 538 nm and is unreactive toward acid and triphenylphosphine at low temperature, characteristics that have been ascribed to μ-η 2 ,η 2 coordination. {Bis[2-(1-methyl-2-imidazolyl)ethyl]amine}copper(I) tetrafluoroborate ( 11 ) has been structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography and has the expected T-shape. Crystal data for 11 : monoclinic, a =9.2181(21), b =11.638(3), c =14.914(4) A; β=92.059(19)°; Z =4; space group= P 2 1 / c ; 1748 independent non-zero ( I >2.5σ( I ) reflections with 2θ between 2 and 50°; R =6.5%; R w =8.5%.
Earnings Management Surrounding Top Executive Turnover in Japanese Firms

This study examines the patterns of four discretionary financial variables surrounding president turnovers in Japanese firms. A new theory for earnings management, the coaching hypothesis, and three previously tested theories, the horizon, cover-up, and big bath hypotheses, are investigated. Our empirical results reinforce the importance of controlling for firm performance when testing earnings management. For routine turnovers, the evidence is consistent with the coaching hypothesis, which predicts mutual interests between incoming and outgoing presidents to portray a triumphant transition. We also find evidence for the horizon hypothesis, in that outgoing presidents in routine turnovers attempt to increase earnings during their last years, but the extent of the horizon problem may be curtailed by incentives to preserve a successful transition, the coaching hypothesis. For non-routine turnovers, we find little evidence of outgoing presidents attempting to cover up poor performance by employing income-increasing strategies. We also find weak support for the big bath hypothesis, which predicts incoming presidents of non-routine turnovers to decrease earnings in the transition year in order to report improved earnings in the following year.
A direct fluorometric assay of benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase.

Abstract The fluorescence of benzo[a]pyrene is greatly enhanced upon binding to microsomes. The excitation and emission maxima are 387 and 407 nm, respectively. At this wavelength setting, the fluorescence of the benzo[a]pyrene metabolites is very low. Therefore, the oxidative metabolism of benzo[a]pyrene can be assayed by following the NADPH-dependent deerease in fluorescence with a recording spectrofluorometer. Under optimal conditions, the decrease in fluorescence follows first-order kinetics and the rate of the reaction is proportional to the amount of microsomes in the assay system. The rate of metabolism of some benzo[a]pyrene derivatives can also be assayed by a similar method. In comparison with the commonly used benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase assay, this direct fluorometric assay employs lower substrate concentrations (0.1–2.0 μ m benzo[a]pyrene) and reveals a larger difference between the activities of control and 3-methylcholanthrene-induced microsomes. The method is also easier and allows the entire course of the reaction to be measured.
Biochemistry of heparin antithrombin interactions, and the physiologic role of this natural anticoagulant mechanism

A small fraction of plasma antithrombin is normally bound to a specific population of heparan sulfate proteoglycans synthesized by macrovascular and microvascular endothelial cells. This permits the protease inhibitor to be selectively activated at blood-surface interfaces where enzymes of the intrinsic coagulation cascade are commonly generated. Thus, antithrombin is critically placed to neutralize these hemostatic enzymes and thereby protect natural surfaces against thrombus formation. Furthermore, the catalytic nature of this specific set of heparan sulfate proteoglycans ensures the continual regeneration of the nonthrombotic properties of the endothelial cell layer. Alterations in the synthesis and/or placement of the anticoagulantly active heparan sulfate proteoglycans on the surface of microvascular and macrovascular endothelial cells could be responsible for arterial and venous thrombotic disease in humans.
On the basis set dependence of reported limitations in predictions from electrostatic potentials

Abstract Recent conclusions regarding molecular geometries and the apparent failure of electrostatic potentials to predict protonation sites, were obtained because unwarranted significance was given to small numerical differences. It is shown that these conclusions can be fully reversed by calculations with a larger basis set.
A fluorescence study of type I and type II receptors of bone morphogenetic proteins with bis-ANS (4, 4'-dianilino-1, 1'-bisnaphthyl-5, 5' disulfonic acid).

Abstract Crystallography studies on several members of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) receptors suggested that hydrophobic regions in these proteins play an important role in their structure and function. In the present study, the environment sensitive fluorescent probe 4, 4′-dianilino-1, 1′-bisnaphthyl-5, 5′ disulfonic acid (bis-ANS) was used to study the hydrophobic regions of the extracellular domain of the type I and II receptors for bone morphogenetic proteins (ecBMPR-IB and ecBMPR-II). A single bis-ANS binding site per receptor molecule was found for both receptors, but the two receptors interacted with bis-ANS with distinctive characteristics. A significant shift in the emission maximum from 498 to 510 nm was detected when bis-ANS binds ecBMPR-IB, but a negligible change in the emission maximum was observed when the dye binds ecBMPR-II. Under identical reaction conditions, the maximum fluorescence intensities of the probe (Imax) for the ecBMPR-IB and -II are 4.0 and 6.2 × 104 arbitrary units, respectively. The probe binds to ecBMPR-IB and -II with Kd = 11.0 and 17.5 μM, respectively. The bis-ANS modified site on both receptor types was not readily accessible to acrylamide quenching. Fluorescence energy transfer experiments further revealed close proximity between the tyrosine (in ecBMPR-IB) and the tryptophan residue (in ecBMPR-II) and the respective bis-ANS binding site in these receptors. The binding of bis-ANS did not alter the ligand binding activity of ecBMPR-IB, but enhanced that of ecBMPR-II. These results show that the bis-ANS-modified hydrophobic site on the ecBMPR-IB and -II molecules plays a different functional role.
Computerized and networked government information

Abstract Internet voting has received a significant amount of attention in the aftermath of the 2000 U.S. presedential election. Internet voting is defined as the casting of a secure and secret ballot that is transmitted to election officials using the Internet. This column reviews recent developments in electronic voting, including on-site and remote Internet voting, the National Science Foundation study of “e-Voting,” voting standards from the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology and the Federal Election Commission. Congressional review of voting technologies as well as state government inititives to test e-voting technologies are also discussed.
Hydrologic, geomorphic and climatic processes controlling willow establishment in a montane ecosystem

Willow communities dominate mid-elevation riparian areas throughout the Rocky Mountains of North America. However, many willow stands are rapidly declining in aerial cover and individual plants in stature. A poor understanding of the processes that control willow establishment hinders identifying the causes of this decline. We analysed the processes that have facilitated or limited willow establishment over the last half of the 20th century on two large floodplains in Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado by addressing two questions: (1) How does hydrologic regime control willow establishment on different fluvial landforms? (2) How might climate-driven variations in hydrologic regime affect future willow establishment? We precisely aged willows on the three most common fluvial landforms, stream point bars, drained beaver ponds, and abandoned channels, and statistically related establishment dates to patterns of annual stream peak flow. The role of peak flow on willow establishment varied significantly by landform. Willow recruitment had occurred nearly every year on point bars. In former beaver complexes, most willows had established following dam breaches, whereas willows had established on abandoned channels for several years following channel avulsion. Establishment on point bars and abandoned channels was driven by peak flows of 2- to 5-year return intervals, whereas in abandoned beaver ponds most establishment was associated with flow events of >5-year return interval. Models of climate change suggest that temperatures will increase and precipitation seasonality will shift over the coming decades in the Rocky Mountains, leading to earlier spring runoff, lower summer and fall flows, decreased snowpack and decreased soil moisture. Such changes are likely to diminish opportunities for willow establishment. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Histamine blocking agents in healthy and asthmatic subjects.

We compared the effects of two histamine receptor blocking agents, chlorpheniramine (H 1 ) and cimetidine (H 2 ) on the airways of healthy and asthmatic subjects Eleven healthy subjects and ten asthmatic patients underwent histamine aerosol challenge. A threshold dose (T) for response to histamine was determined for each subject using maximal expiratory flow rates on partial expiratory flow volume curves (MEF40 %[P]). On subsequent study days, the subjects were pre-treated with 8 mg of chlorpheniramine, 300 mg of cimetidine or a lactose placebo. Histamine challenge was performed two hours later with the individual's own T dose and doses one dilution below (T-1) and one dilution above (T+1) that dose. In both asthmatic and healthy subjects chlorpheniramine significantly reduced the bronchoconstrictor responses to histamine (p
NUMBER AND NATURE OF THE SULPHYDRYL GROUPS OF β-GALACTOSIDASE FROM KLUYVEROMYCES FRAGILIS

Theβ-galactosidase from Kluyveromyces fragilis contains 6 sulphydryl groups, all of which are modified by 5,5-dithiobis (2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB) before all activity is lost. Activity losses can be largely (> 70%) reversed by dithiothreitol when the number of sulphydryls reacted is 4 or less. Kinetic studies with DTNB suggest that none of the sulphydryls are in the active site, but that their modification leads to changes in the tertiary structure of the enzyme and hence gradual loss of activity.
Factors affecting properties of precooked-frozen pork sausage patties made with various NaCl/phosphate combinations

Whole hog sausage patties made with (1) no phosphate, (2) 0.375% sodium tripolyphosphate (STP) and (3) 0.441% Lem-O-Fos® in combination with salt levels of 1.5, 1.0, 0.5, and 0.0% NaCl were frozen and packaged. Use of phosphates decreased off-flavor and rancidity development, improved binding, and increased pH values, cooking yields and scores for saltiness and juiciness. The prooxidant effect of NaCl was masked by the antioxidant properties of STP and Lem-O-Fos®. Extended periods of frozen storage reduced cooking yields, juiciness and texture scores and enhanced development of off-flavor and rancidity. However, use of phosphates or vacuum packaging exhibited an antioxidant effect during extended periods of frozen storage.
Characterization of a honey bee Toll related receptor gene Am18w and its potential involvement in antimicrobial immune defense

Toll receptors are involved in intracellular signal transduction and initiation of insect antimicrobial immune responses. Here we report the isolation and characterization of a novel gene (Am18w) from honey bee Apis mellifera, which encodes for the Toll-like receptor and shares a striking 51.4% similarity with Bombyx mori 18-wheeler, 46.6% with Drosophila Toll-7 receptor and 42.5% with Drosophila 18-wheeler. The sequence analysis of the deduced 18W protein revealed a conserved Toll- Interleukin-Resistance signaling domain (TIR) characteristic of signal transducing receptors found in Toll and mammalian interleukin 1 (IL-1) receptors. The expression profiles of the honey bee Toll-like receptor gene Am18w were examined in all developmental stages, before and after immune challenge. Here we demonstrate that injection of a dsRNA probe into honey bee larvae successfully disrupts the endogenous mRNA of the target gene and allows us to examine the effects of Am18w gene silencing (RNAi) on the expression level of antimicrobial peptides. Toll receptor / gene silencing / antimicrobial peptides / immune response / honey bee / Apis mellifera
Physician referrals to physical therapists for the treatment of spine disorders

Abstract Background context Individuals with spine disorders often seek care from physical therapists (PTs). Because most insurance plans will reimburse only for PT services prescribed by a physician, physicians play an important role in access to and the appropriate use of PTs. Problems with access to or inappropriate use of PTs may affect the quality and cost of care received by patients with spine problems. Purpose To identify factors associated with physician referrals to PTs for the treatment of spine disorders. Study design/setting Cross-sectional analysis of data collected at 20 US spine centers (1998–2002). Patient sample A total of 30,255 patients with spine disorders who were seen for an initial evaluation. Outcome measure Whether the physician made a PT referral. Methods A logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with physician referrals to PTs. Explanatory variables included health-related characteristics, compensation-related characteristics, past provider use, demographics, and patient expectations. Center effects were also accounted for in the analysis. Results Of the total sample, 38% was referred to a PT. Although several health-related variables explained variation in PT referral, other variables were also associated with PT referral. Patients who were older or male were less likely to be referred. Patients who were more educated were more likely to be referred. There was also significant center-to-center variation in PT referral. Conclusions Variation in PT referral, as a result of factors other than health and need, may be indicative of problems with access to or inappropriate use of PT.
Algebraic classifiers: a generic approach to fast cross-validation, online training, and parallel training

We use abstract algebra to derive new algorithms for fast cross-validation, online learning, and parallel learning. To use these algorithms on a classification model, we must show that the model has appropriate algebraic structure. It is easy to give algebraic structure to some models, and we do this explicitly for Bayesian classifiers and a novel variation of decision stumps called HomStumps. But not all classifiers have an obvious structure, so we introduce the Free HomTrainer. This can be used to give a "generic" algebraic structure to any classifier. We use the Free HomTrainer to give algebraic structure to bagging and boosting. In so doing, we derive novel online and parallel algorithms, and present the first fast cross-validation schemes for these classifiers.
Misjudging Islamic terrorism: The academic community's failure to predict 9/11

Most academic experts within the International Relations (IR) community and other, more specialized disciplines, failed to predict or warn government policymakers and the public of the possibility that events of 9/11 magnitude could take place on the U.S. homeland. Given that long-term investigation of trends in world affairs is one of the sources that has always informed policy analysis, this represents an interesting question to examine. The analysis contained in this assessment suggests that the ontological, methodological, and conceptual problems within and between the disciplines, combined with a skewed absorption with the prospect of developments in Asia, created a gap in the knowledge about Islamic terrorism and groups like Al Qaeda, which in turn caught most of the academic community unaware on 9/11. This article performs a quantitative study to determine the nature and scope of this apparent analytical failure on the part of academics in IR and other specialized disciplines to predict 9/11 and ai...
Influence of Egg Size, Eggshell Quality, and Posthatch Holding Time on Broiler Performance

Abstract Effect of egg size, eggshell quality, and posthatch holding time in the hatcher on broiler performance was studied in two experiments. Eggs from commercial broiler breeders with similar genetic backgrounds (stock within an experiment was obtained from a single primary breeder) were divided into two groups by egg size (47 to 54 g and 58 to 66 g) in Experiment 1 and by specific gravity (≤1.070 and ≥1.080) in Experiment 2 and incubated. The hatching sequence was divided into four periods such that 25% of the chicks hatched in each period. After all dry chicks in each period were removed and weighed, half of each group was returned to the hatcher and the rest held in chick boxes for 6 hr prior to placement in floor pens. All chicks, including those previously returned to the hatcher, were removed at 21.5 days, weighed, held for 6 hr in chick boxes, and then placed in floor pens. Broilers from large eggs were significantly heavier (2080 vs 1889 g) and had greater livability through 49 days of age than broiler, from small eggs. Feed efficiency was significantly better for broilers from small eggs (.549) than from large eggs (.518) at 49 days of age. The two specific gravities used in the second experiment had no effect on body weight or feed efficiency. Chicks held in incubator trays from 14 to 32 hr posthatch weighed 5 to 12% less than chicks removed an average of 7 hr after hatch, and the reduction persisted to 49 days of age. Body weight at 49 days was reduced by 1 to 2% in Experiment 1 and by 3 to 4% in Experiment 2 for chicks held in the hatcher compared with those removed earlier. No difference in feed efficiency or in mortality was found between hatch periods or between removal schedules.
Finite-time stabilization in the large for uncertain nonlinear systems

We consider the problem of finite-time stabilization for nonlinear systems. In the previous work, it was proved that global finite-time stabilizability of uncertain nonlinear systems that are dominated by a lower-triangular system could be achieved by non-Lipschitz continuous state feedback. The proof was based on the finite-time Lyapunov stability theorem and the nonsmooth feedback design method proposed in, for the control of nonlinear systems that are impossible to be dealt with by any smooth feedback. A simpler design algorithm is given for the construction of a non-Lipschitz continuous, global finite-time stabilizer as well as a C/sup 1/ positive definite and proper Lyapunov function that guarantees finite-time stability.
Discovering Relationships among Word Senses

The direction that future development of natural language processing systems will take is toward increased semantic capability. Systems will need to behave as though they understand the texts that they process. An important prerequisite for this type of behavior is the creation of lexical knowledge bases in which word senses are clearly identified, endowed with appropriate lexical information, and correctly related to one another. This paper discusses issues that arise in creating such a knowledge base, paying particular attention to the process of discovering relationships among the word senses it contains.
RNase-L regulates the stability of mitochondrial DNA-encoded mRNAs in mouse embryo fibroblasts

Abstract Accelerated decrease in the levels of mitochondrial DNA-encoded mRNA (mt-mRNA) occurs in neuronal cells exposed either to the excitatory amino acid, glutamate or to the sodium ionophore, monensin, suggesting a role of mitochondrial RNase(s) on the stability of mt-mRNAs. Here we report that in mouse embryo fibroblasts that are devoid of the interferon-regulated RNase, RNase-L, the monensin-induced decrease in the half-life of mt-mRNA was reduced. In monensin (250 nM)-treated RNase-L+/+ cells the average half-life of mt-mRNA, determined after termination of transcription with actinomycin D, was found to be 3 h, whereas in monensin-treated RNase-L−/− cells the half-life of mt-mRNA was >6 h. In contrast, the stability of nuclear DNA-encoded β-actin mRNA was unaffected. Induction of RNase-L expression in mouse 3T3 fibroblasts further decreased the monensin-induced reduction in mt-mRNA half-life to 1.5 h. The results indicate that the RNase-L-dependent decrease in mtDNA-encoded mRNA transcript levels occurs through a decrease in the half-life of mt-mRNA, and that RNase-L may play a role in the stability of mt-mRNA.
Kinetics of the Formation and Dissolution of Ni Precipitates in a Gibbsite/Amorphous Silica Mixture

Abstract There have been a number of studies that have examined metal precipitation reactions on an array of natural soil materials. While many of these investigations have focused on model single-component systems, recent research has appeared on metal precipitation on soils and clay fractions of soils. However, few studies have explored mixed model component systems, which may lead to a better understanding of metal reactions on soils and clay fractions. Furthermore, only a few studies have appeared on the stability of the metal surface precipitates. In light of this, we investigated Ni sorption and dissolution kinetics and mechanisms on a mixture of gibbsite and amorphous silica by combining macroscopic studies with X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) and diffuse reflectance spectroscopies (DRS), and high-resolution thermogravimetric analysis (HRTGA). Batch sorption experiments were conducted at pH 7.5 and at different reaction times to elucidate the sorption process and to study the role of residence time on metal precipitate stability. Spectroscopic and HRTGA investigations revealed α-Ni(OH)2 precipitates formed on the gibbsite/silica mixture initially and over time evolved to a Ni phyllosilicate. The available Si source was derived from partial dissolution of the sorbent during Ni sorption. With increasing residence time, the precipitate phases drastically increased in stability, as shown by decreasing amounts of Ni release as effected by nitric acid (HNO3) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) treatments. This aging effect may be explained by the silicate-for-nitrate exchange during the first days of reaction and subsequently by silicate polymerization and partial grafting onto the hydroxide layers to form a phyllosilicate precursor phase (R. G. Ford, A. C. Scheinost, K. G. Scheckel, and D. L. Sparks, Environ. Sci. Technol.33(18), 3140–3144, 1999).
On the comparison of fuzzy interpolation and other interpolation methods in high accuracy measurements

The paper provides a comparison between a novel technique used for the pose error measurements and compensations of robots based on a fuzzy error interpolation method and some other popular interpolation methods. By using the proposed fuzzy error interpolation technique, the accuracy of the pose-error compensation can be improved, which has been confirmed by the simulation results given in this paper, compared with other interpolation methods. A comparison study among various interpolation methods, such as trilinear, cubic spline, and the fuzzy error interpolation technique is also made and discussed via simulation. The simulation results show that more accurate measurement and compensation results can be achieved using the fuzzy error interpolation technique compared with its trilinear and cubic spline counterparts.
Selective sodium-dependent glucose transporter 1 inhibitors block glucose absorption and impair glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide release

GSK-1614235 and KGA-2727 are potent, selective inhibitors of the SGLT1 sodium-dependent glucose transporter. Nonclinical (KGA-2727) and clinical (GSK-1614235) trials assessed translation of SGLT1 i...