cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A psychotherapeutic computer application: Modification of technological competence

The increasing sophistication of computer technology, combined with increased specification of therapeutic interventions, has facilitated development of computer programs that have achieved marked success in the psychotherapeutic treatment of circumscribed populations. This paper briefly reviews the history of computerized psychotherapy and examines several successful therapeutic computer applications in depth. These applications have attempted to replace the therapist with a computer. Another possible, as yet unexplored, application is the use of the computer as a vehicle for modification of an individual’s perceived competence to effectively operate on his or her environment. Using a computer to successfully manipulate one’s environment can provide a personal mastery experience that has the potential to contribute significantly to an increase in perceived self-competence, an essential component of positive therapeutic change. A study that would provide empirical support for this type of computer application is proposed.
Dequaternization of Curare Bases with Sodium Thiophenoxide and Ethanolamine

To prepare (+)-tubocurine and O,O-dimethyl-(+)-tubocurine, the commonly used dequaternization procedures with sodium thiophenoxide and ethanolamine were investigated. The quaternary compounds were (+)-tubocurarine chloride and the chloride and iodide salts of O,O-dimethyl-(+)-chondocurarine. The results obtained with ethanolamine indicate that Hofmann elimination is a major pathway and that N-demethylation is minor. The elimination products of O,O-dimethyl-(+)-chondocurarine iodide with ethanolamine were identified as O,O-dimethyltubocurinemethine, O,O-dimethyltubocurineisomethme, and O,O-dimethyltubocurinedimethine. N-Demethylation was the primary reaction with sodium thiophenoxide. Thus, dequaternization of (+)-tubocurarine chloride with sodium thiophenoxide provided (+ Itubocurine which, on diazomethylation, yielded 0,O-dimethyl-(+)-tubocurine, identical to the compound obtained by N-demethylation of O,O-dimethyl-(+)-chondocurarine chloride with the same reagent.
Electrospun Poly(ε-caprolactone) Microfiber and Multilayer Nanofiber/Microfiber Scaffolds: Characterization of Scaffolds and Measurement of Cellular Infiltration

The physical and spatial architectural geometries of electrospun scaffolds are important to their application in tissue engineering strategies. In this work, poly(e-caprolactone) microfiber scaffolds with average fiber diameters ranging from 2 to 10 μm were individually electrospun to determine the parameters required for reproducibly fabricating scaffolds. As fiber diameter increased, the average pore size of the scaffolds, as measured by mercury porosimetry, increased (values ranging from 20 to 45 μm), while a constant porosity was observed. To capitalize on both the larger pore sizes of the microfiber layers and the nanoscale dimensions of the nanofiber layers, layered scaffolds were fabricated by sequential electrospinning. These scaffolds consisted of alternating layers of poly(e-caprolactone) microfibers and poly(e-caprolactone) nanofibers. By electrospinning the nanofiber layers for different lengths of time, the thickness of the nanofiber layers could be modulated. Bilayered constructs consisting ...
η6-arene and carbonyl derivatives of the [PhP(CH2CH2PPh2)]Mo0 moiety

Abstract The synthesis of the η6-arene complex [(triphos)Mo(η6-4- CH3OC6H4)P-(C6H4OCH3-in4)2] (I, where triphos  Php(CH2CH2PPh2)2) is reported as well as reactions of trans-Mo(N2)2(triphos)[P(C6,H4OCH3-4)3] with carbon monoxide to give trans- and cis-dicarbonyl- and fac-tricarbonyl-phosphine complexes of molybdenum(0).
Development of a finite element analysis tool for fixture design integrity verification and optimisation

Machining fixtures are used to locate and constrain a workpiece during a machining operation. To ensure that the workpiece is manufactured according to specified dimensions and tolerances, it must be appropriately located and clamped. Minimising workpiece and fixture tooling deflections due to clamping and cutting forces in machining is critical to machining accuracy. An ideal fixture design maximises locating accuracy and workpiece stability, while minimising displacements.
Effects of diltiazem, dipyridamole, and their combination on hemostasis

Calcium channel blockers and antiplatelet agents, alone and in combination, have been reported to induce bleeding in patients undergoing surgery. Since diltiazem and dipyridamole influence platelet function in vitro and in vivo, their influence on hemostasis was examined in five normal men given diltiazem, 90 mg by mouth, followed by 60 mg every 6 hr for 48 hr, or dipyridamole, 75 mg by mouth every 8 hr for 48 hr. At 24 hr, the alternate drug was added to the regimen to assess effects of the combination on hemostasis. Platelet aggregation, serum thromboxane B2 and 6-keto-PGF1α concentrations (stable metabolites of thromboxane A2 and prostacyclin), bleeding time, prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and serum diltiazem concentrations were measured. Diltiazem and dipyridamole alone and in combination had no significant effect on bleeding time, prothrombin time, or partial thromboplastin time. Platelet aggregation induced by threshold concentrations of adenosine diphosphate, epinephrine, and calcium ionophore A 23187 were inhibited by dilitazem and dipyridamole alone and in combination. The only change in prostaglandin concentrations was a slight increase in serum 6-keto-PGF1α after diltiazem. Despite influences on platelet function, neither diltiazem nor dipyridamole alone or in combination induced clinically relevant changes in hemostasis. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (1984) 36, 641–644; doi:10.1038/clpt.1984.234
Thermoluminescence and the origin of the dark matrix of Fayetteville and similar meteorites

The paper presents measurements of the induced thermoluminescence properties and carbon contents of the dark matrix and light clasts of six regolith breccias. For all of the meteorites, the dark matrix has a lower mean thermoluminescence sensitivity than the light clasts; the extent of the difference depends on the meteorite. The data suggest the formation of the dark matrix by comminution of the light clasts with the addition of a component, perhaps CM-like chondrites, with thermoluminescence properties distinct from those of ordinary chondrites.
Diminishing morbidity with the increased use of sentinel node biopsy in breast carcinoma.

Abstract Background Sentinel lymph node biopsy has largely replaced axillary node dissection in the staging of women with clinically negative axillas. The aim of this study was to compare the morbidity of sentinel node biopsy only, sentinel node biopsy followed by axillary dissection, and axillary node dissection only. Methods Retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy, axillary lymph node dissection, or both between June 1996 and August 2008 was performed. The incidence of postoperative complications, including arm cellulitis, diminished shoulder range of motion, axillary hematoma, intercostal brachial nerve injury, pulmonary embolus or deep-vein thrombosis, lymphocele requiring aspiration, wound dehiscence, and wound infection, was compared among the 3 groups using Fisher's exact test. Results Of the 6,847 axillary operations performed, 2,745 (40%) were sentinel node biopsy only, 1,825 (27%) were sentinel lymph node biopsy followed by completion axillary dissection, and 2,277 (33%) were axillary dissection only. The mean node retrieval was 2 for sentinel node biopsy, 13 for sentinel node biopsy and completion axillary dissection, and 14 for axillary dissection. The mean age was 58 years. The overall complication rate was higher during the first half of the study period than during the second half (9.9% vs 3.9%, P P P P = .02). No difference was seen in incidence of postoperative pulmonary embolus or deep-vein thrombosis, arm cellulitis, intercostal brachial nerve injury, or wound dehiscence. Conclusions Sentinel lymph node biopsy is less morbid than sentinel node biopsy followed by completion axillary dissection and axillary node dissection alone. The morbidity of axillary surgery has decreased over time.
Episodic rewetting enhances carbon and nitrogen release from chaparral soils

The short-term pulse of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) mineralization that accompanies the wetting of dry soils may dominate annual C and N production in many arid and semi-arid environments characterized by seasonal transitions. We used a laboratory incubation to evaluate the impact of short-term fluctuations in soil moisture on long-term carbon and nitrogen dynamics, and the degree to which rewetting enhances C and N release. Following repeated drying and rewetting of chaparral soils, cumulative CO2 release in rewet soils was 2.2–3.7 times greater than from soils maintained at equivalent mean soil moisture and represented 12–18% of the total soil C pool. Rewetting frequency did not affect cumulative CO2 release but did enhance N turnover, and net N mineralization and nitrification increased with rewetting in spite of significant reductions in nitrification potential. Litter addition decreased inorganic N release but enhanced dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) from dry soils, indicating the potential importance of a litter-derived pulse to short-term nutrient dynamics.
Consumption, Ecological Footprints and Global Inequality: A Lesson in Individual and Structural Components of Environmental Problems.

As evidence of the growing ecological crisis mounts, it is imperative that sociolo gists speak to this social problem and incor porate a sociological perspective on envi ronmental issues into the curriculum. Cen tral to understanding how social issues re late to environmental problems is an exami nation of the ties between consumption and its ecological consequences. The lesson described here encourages students to criti cally reflect on their behavior by examining the ecological impact of their own consump tion habits relative to consumption patterns in the less developed world. Structural forces facilitating consumption are con trasted with the ability of individuals to ex ercise agency over consumption choices, thus demonstrating the magnitude of the challenges we face as we seek to create a world that is both ecologically sustainable and socially just. Popular presentations of environmental issues often avoid discussion of the signifi cance of excessive consumption. To the extent that consumption is raised in connec tion with these issues, we are often told how switching to different types of con sumption (not reducing consumption) can help to achieve ecological sustainability. Consumer products based on new, more efficient technologies, such as hybrid vehi cles or compact fluorescent light bulbs, are presented as the answer to our environ mental problems. We are told that if con sumers simply make more environmentally
Micromanipulation of Chromosomes in PTK2 Cells Using Laser Microsurgery (Optical Scalpel) in Combination with Laser-Induced Optical Force (Optical Tweezers)

An optical scalpel and optical tweezer have been combined to perform intracellular microsurgery and micromanipulation in vivo. When only laser microsurgery was performed on metaphase chromosomes, the dissected sister chromatid fragments drifted off to either the side of the spindle or completely off the spindle. At anaphase the fragments separated and the two arms generally moved to their respective daughter cells. When the chromosome arm was cut during anaphase A and B, the distal chromosome fragment separated from the rest of the chromosome and moved toward the pole, following the proximal chromosome fragment. Distal chromosome fragments laser-dissected during metaphase were held together throughout anaphase using the optical trap. Optical trapping of dissected chromosome fragments during anaphase A and B inhibited movement of the chromosome fragment to its pole. As a result, the trapped chromosome fragments were (1) incorporated into the opposite daughter cell, (2) lost in the cleavage furrow during cytokinesis, or (3) eventually incorporated into the correct daughter cell. These results indicate that optical traps are effective in holding laser-dissected chromosome fragments throughout mitosis. This new tool should be useful for studies on chromosome movement and cell genetics.
Recruitment and retention: factors that affect pericyte migration

Pericytes are critical for vascular morphogenesis and contribute to several pathologies, including cancer development and progression. The mechanisms governing pericyte migration and differentiation are complex and have not been fully established. Current literature suggests that platelet-derived growth factor/platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β, sphingosine 1-phosphate/endothelial differentiation gene-1, angiopoietin-1/tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin-like and EGF-like domains 2, angiopoietin-2/tyrosine kinase with immunoglobulin-like and EGF-like domains 2, transforming growth factor β/activin receptor-like kinase 1, transforming growth factor β/activin receptor-like kinase 5, Semaphorin-3A/Neuropilin, and matrix metalloproteinase activity regulate the recruitment of pericytes to nascent vessels. Interestingly, many of these pathways are directly affected by secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC). Here, we summarize the function of these factors in pericyte migration and discuss if and how SPARC might influence these activities and thus provide an additional layer of control for the recruitment of vascular support cells. Additionally, the consequences of targeted inhibition of pericytes in tumors and the current understanding of pericyte recruitment in pathological environments are discussed.
Contractarianism, Other‐regarding Attitudes, and the Moral Standing of Nonhuman Animals

Contractarianism roots moral standing in an agreement among rational agents in the circumstances of justice. Critics have argued that the theory must exclude nonhuman animals from the protection of justice. I argue that contractarianism can consistently accommodate the notion that nonhuman animals are owed direct moral consideration. They can acquire their moral status indirectly, but their claims to justice can be as stringent as those among able-bodied rational adult humans. Any remaining criticisms of contractarianism likely rest on a disputable moral realism; contractarianism can underwrite the direct moral considerability of nonhuman animals by appealing to a projectivist quasi-realism.
Computer modeling and simulation of solid-state sintering: A phase field approach

Abstract A phase field model of solid-state sintering is developed. The model treats multiple concurrent physical processes, i.e., rigid-body translation and rotation of powder particles, grain growth through boundary migration, and various diffusion mechanisms including surface diffusion, grain boundary diffusion, volume diffusion, and vapor transport through evaporation and condensation. The approach of centers of particles through rigid-body motions plays a key role in the densification of sintered powder compacts. The effective treatment of particle translation and rotation in phase field formalism is a necessary and critical step in developing a phase field sintering model. A scheme of particle translation and rotation is formulated based on a new formula of grain boundary force. The rigid-body motion modifies both the Cahn–Hilliard nonlinear diffusion equation and the Ginzburg–Landau (Allen–Cahn) structural relaxation equation by introducing advection terms. Computer simulations are presented.
Dietary essential amino acids are highly anabolic in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis

Background Current nutritional approaches have been partially successful in Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Essential amino acids mixtures with high Leucine levels (EAA) have anabolic properties in catabolic conditions, however data in CF are lacking.
VIP-targeted Cytotoxic Nanomedicine for Breast Cancer.

Cancer chemotherapy is hampered by serious toxicity to healthy tissues. Conceivably, encapsulation of cytotoxic drugs in actively targeted, biocompatible nanocarriers could overcome this problem. Accordingly, we used sterically stabilized mixed micelles (SSMM) composed of biocompatible and biodegradable phospholipids to solubilize paclitaxel (P), a hydrophobic model cytotoxic drug, and deliver it to breast cancer in rats. To achieve active targeting, the surface of SSMM was grafted with a ligand, human vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) that selectively interacts with its cognate receptors overexpressed on breast cancer cells. We found that even in vitro cytotoxicity of P-SSMM-VIP was 2-fold higher that that of free paclitaxel (p < 0.05). Given the unique attributes of P-SSMM and P-SSMM-VIP, most notable small hydrodynamic diameter (∼15 nm) and stealth properties, biodistribution of paclitaxel was significantly altered. Accumulation of paclitaxel in breast tumor was highest for P-SSMM-VIP, followed by P-SSMM and Cremophor-based paclitaxel (PTX). Importantly, bone marrow accumulation of paclitaxel encapsulated in both SSMM-VIP and SSMM was significantly less than that of PTX. Administration of clinically relevant dose of paclitaxel (5 mg/kg) as P-SSMM-VIP and P-SSMM eradicated carcinogen-induced orthotopic breast cancer in rats, whereas PTX decreased tumor size by only 45 %. In addition, a 5-fold lower dose (1 mg/kg) of paclitaxel in actively targeted P-SSMM-VIP was associated with ∼80 % reduction in tumor size while the response to PTX and P-SSMM was significantly less. Hypotension was not observed when VIP was grafted onto SSMM. Based on our findings, we propose further development of effective and safe VIP-grafted phospholipid micelle nanomedicines of anti-cancer drugs for targeted treatment of solid tumors in humans.
The Effect of Hygroscopic Particles on the Backscattered Power from a Laser Beam

Abstract The growth with increasing relative humidity of hygroscopic particles common in the atmosphere was calculated using Kohler's equations; two types of hygroscopic particles were considered, continental and maritime. By means of the Mie scattering equations, calculations were made of the attenuation and backscattering properties of a sample of hygroscopic particles with a Junge size distribution as a function of relative humidity. These calculated properties were applied to model aerosol atmospheres. The results show that measurements of spatial concentrations of particles from the backscattered power from a laser beam are significantly affected by hygroscopic particle growth. In particular, it is found that the growth of maritime hygroscopic particles has a much greater effect on the backscattered power from an aerosol atmosphere than that of continental hygroscopic particles.
Purification and characterization of a soluble form of mammalian adenylyl cyclase

An engineered, soluble form of mammalian adenylyl cyclase has been expressed in Escherichia coli and purified by three chromatographic steps. The enzyme utilizes one molecule of ATP to synthesize one molecule of cyclic AMP and pyrophosphate at a maximal specific activity of 12.8 µmol/min/mg, corresponding to a turnover number of 720 min−1. Although devoid of membrane spans, the enzyme displays all of the regulatory properties that are common to mammalian adenylyl cyclases. It is activated synergistically by Gsα and forskolin and is inhibited by adenosine (P-site) analogs with kinetic patterns that are identical to those displayed by the native enzymes. The purified enzyme is also inhibited directly by the G protein βγ subunit complex. After adenovirus-mediated expression in adenylyl cyclase-deficient HC-1 cells, the enzyme can be stimulated synergistically by Gs-coupled receptors and forskolin.
Determining Computing Science's Role

Computing science's commercialization has powerful implications for society and the profession.
Biomechanics of peripheral nerve repair

Nerve regeneration requires a suitable environment, with many factors beyond the control of the surgeon (nature of injury, age of patient, etc). Biomechanics of the repair represent one area that the surgeon can influence directly. Nerve stretch over 10% results in ischemia and poor functional results. Techniques of nerve mobilization in situ are described here which can reduce this risk. In addition, length of time to repair should be minimized, appropriate suture size selected, and postoperative therapy tailored to the specific repair in order to increase the likelihood of a successful outcome.
The Heparin-Like Action of Treburon in Abolishing Alimentary Lipemia in Normal Individuals

The effectiveness of Treburon in clearing alimentary lipemia in young adults has been studied. It is shown that the optical density of plasma at 650 mµ is a satisfactory measure of "physical" lipemia. A significant difference was noted in the extent of alimentary lipemia of young malesand females.
On the noise caused by diffusion and surface recombination

Abstract A critical discussion is given of various theories concerning noise in semiconductors resulting from surface generation and recombination of carriers and the associated diffusion to and from the surface. It is shown that critique by Champlin on the earlier papers by Hyde and by van Vliet and van der Ziel is unjustified and for the onedimensional geometry, used both by Champlin and by Lax and Mengert, complete agreement is established with the aforementioned earlier papers.
Columnar cell lesions of the breast: pathological features and clinical significance

Abstract Columnar cell lesions of the breast represent a spectrum of alterations, all of which have columnar epithelial cells that line variably dilated terminal duct lobular units, ranging from those that show little or no cytological or architectural atypia to those that show sufficient cytological and architectural features to warrant a diagnosis of atypical ductal hyperplasia or ductal carcinoma in situ. These lesions are being encountered with increasing frequency in breast biopsies performed because of the presence of mammographic microcalcifications. This article reviews the diagnostic features and current understanding of the clinical significance of these lesions.
Temporal changes in blood lead levels of hazardous waste workers in New Jersey, 1984-1987.

The blood lead levels of 568 New Jersey hazardous waste workers were determined at least once in the period 1984–1987. Workers almost always wore protective clothing in the field, which should have prevented exposure to lead. Therefore, despite their occupation, these workers are probably representative of the New Jersey suburban population in the mid-1980s. Blood lead levels ranged from 2.0–20.7 µg/dL, with an arithmetic mean value of 5.8 µg/dL, representing a decline from levels measured a decade earlier, but there was no clear change over the four years of the study. Blood lead levels increased with age of the worker up to age 60. Women showed lower levels than men in every age group.
Examining the Perceptions of Grandparents who Parent in Formal and Informal Kinship Care

Child welfare workers are increasingly seeking formal kinship placements with grandparents when the child's biological parents can no longer provide a stable environment. Using a non-probability purposive sample (N = 55), this study explores whether or not caregiver well being is effected by the type of kinship care arrangement (formal vs. informal). The findings suggest that grandparents in formal kinship care arrangements experienced feelings of depression less often, were more satisfied with their parenting experiences and were observed to have a greater sense of satisfaction with life. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Isopycnic centrifugation of chromatin in renografin solutions.

Solutions of Renografin (30–60%) can be centrifuged to form density gradients in the range from 1.0 g/cm3 to 1.4 g/cm3 or, alternatively, preformed gradients can be made which under appropriate conditions of centrifugation have an indefinite stability. Such solutions have a low viscosity and a relatively low ionic strength. The density of DNA in such solutions is surprisingly low (∼1.14 g/cm3). Crude chromatin can be sedimented to an equilibrium position in such gradients, corresponding to a density of 1.24 g/cm3, or slightly lower, depending on the method of preparation. The complex is shown to contain DNA, RNA, protein, and possibly some lipoprotein. Most of the RNA can be removed with RNase without any significant effect on the density of the chromatin.
New factors in investigation of the ionosphere

The ionized upper atmosphere was originally conceived as a single ionized region or ion-bank existing above about 80 km to explain phenomena of terrestrial-magnetic variation and long-distance radio-wave propagation. Following direct experimental evidence of the existence of such a region, it was found that the ionization-pattern was much more complex than originally imagined. Experiment showed that reflections observed with different radio frequencies fell into two or more classifications with respect to virtual height, and lead to the conclusion that these represented major regions of ionization in the upper atmosphere.
Spatial and temporal distributions of zooplankton in Tampa Bay, Florida, including observations during a HAB event

This study describes spatial and temporal distributions of the zooplankton community in Tampa Bay, including their distributions during a bloom of the toxic dinoflagellate Pyrodinium bahamense. Three sites in the bay were sampled 30 times from April 2002 to April 2003. Abundances of holoplankton (copepod nauplii included), meroplankton and microzooplankton were determined using light microscopy. This is the first observation of microzooplankton in Tampa Bay. Phytoplankton composition, temperature, salinity, Secchi depth, total nitrogen, total phosphorus and chlorophyll a were also determined. Generally, the inner bay had higher zooplankton abundances than the mid- and outer regions of the bay. The dominant holoplankton species were copepod nauplii, Oithona colcarva, Acartia tonsa and the larveacean Oikopleura dioica. Bivalve larvae were the most abundant meroplanktonic taxa and tintinnids the most abundant microzooplankton. A major bloom of P. bahamense was observed in the inner bay during the summer. During the bloom, numerical abundances of O. colcarva and A. tonsa declined, while abundances of O. dioica mimicked the pattern of P. bahamense abundance. Picoplankton and diatom concentrations also decreased during the bloom. Spatial patterns and temporal trends in zooplankton distribution suggest that regional differences in water residence times, salinity regimes and grazing pressures are important driving factors in the composition and abundance of zooplankton in Tampa Bay. The results of the study are discussed within the context of historical observation of the zooplankton community.
Improved predictions of transcription factor binding sites using physicochemical features of DNA

Typical approaches for predicting transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs) involve use of a position-specific weight matrix (PWM) to statistically characterize the sequences of the known sites. Recently, an alternative physicochemical approach, called SiteSleuth, was proposed. In this approach, a linear support vector machine (SVM) classifier is trained to distinguish TFBSs from background sequences based on local chemical and structural features of DNA. SiteSleuth appears to generally perform better than PWM-based methods. Here, we improve the SiteSleuth approach by considering both new physicochemical features and algorithmic modifications. New features are derived from Gibbs energies of amino acid–DNA interactions and hydroxyl radical cleavage profiles of DNA. Algorithmic modifications consist of inclusion of a feature selection step, use of a nonlinear kernel in the SVM classifier, and use of a consensus-based post-processing step for predictions. We also considered SVM classification based on letter features alone to distinguish performance gains from use of SVM-based models versus use of physicochemical features. The accuracy of each of the variant methods considered was assessed by cross validation using data available in the RegulonDB database for 54 Escherichia coli TFs, as well as by experimental validation using published ChIP-chip data available for Fis and Lrp.
The Hamiltonian approach to Yang–Mills (2+1): Expansion scheme and corrections to string tension

Abstract We carry out further analysis of the Hamiltonian approach to Yang–Mills theory in 2 + 1 dimensions which helps to place the calculation of the vacuum wave function and the string tension in the context of a systematic expansion scheme. The solution of the Schrodinger equation is carried out recursively. The computation of correlators is re-expressed in terms of a two-dimensional chiral boson theory. The effective action for this theory is calculated to first order in our expansion scheme and to the fourth order in a kinematic expansion parameter. The resulting corrections to the string tension are shown to be very small, in the range −0.3% to −2.8%, moving our prediction closer to the recent lattice estimates.
Determination of K+-Channel Relaxation Times in Squid Axon Membrane by Hodgkin-Huxley and by Direct Linear Analysis

An assumption in the use of the Hodgkin-Huxley (HH) formulation (A.L. Hodgkin and A.F. Huxley, J. Physiol. 117 (1952) 500) to extract kinetic parameters from ion conductance responses to step voltage changes across biological membranes is that estimates obtained from such an analysis are equivalent to those obtained by direct, small-perturbation analysis. Comparison of the estimates of the K+-conductance relaxation time, r., derived from HH vs rapid, complex admittance determinations in the same squid giant axons shows significant differences for the same step changes over a 60 mV range from holding (-65 mV). The admittance determinations (2.5-5000 Hz) are shown to satisfy criteria of linear analysis (i.e., estimates are equivalent to a small-step analysis and are time invariant). The discrepancies between the two methods arise from the fact that the HH power-law description for a constant power does not yield a best fit of data over the voltage range examined and thus best estimates of T. are power dependent. Furthermore, the large step changes in membrane voltage may excite nonlinear modes unrelated to conductance gating that contaminate the data to which the nonlinear formulation is applied to estimate linear kinetic parameters. Thus, the long-standing assumption that application of the HH methodology and empiricism is equivalent to a direct linear analysis is not substantiated. This result suggests that in comparisons between microscopic and macroscopic conduction data, microkinetic parameters derived from analysis of single ion-channel data should not be compared to macrokinetic parameters from a large population of the channel derived by HH analysis.
The salvage of the litton launching platform

The sinking of the Litton launching platform while undocking the USS SPRUANCE (DD 963) jeopardized the Ingalls Division's entire shipbuilding program. Under the direction of the U.S. Navy Supervisor of Salvage, an intensive salvage operation was successfully conducted to raise the platform as expediently as possible for subsequent restoration and return to use. The structural limitations of the dock and hydrostatics of the situation presented the salvors with a unique and formidable challenge which was ultimately to be overcome by an innovative salvage technique employing simultaneous pumping and blowing with air.
“Place” as Prepolitical Grounds of Democracy An Appalachian Case Study in Class Conflict, Forest Politics, and Civic Networks

This article argues for democratization as the crafting of democratic public space. Through ethnography of grassroots contestation in Appalachia, the article examines the social substrate of collective mobilization on environmental issues. It proposes shared stewardship of “place” as important grounds for democratization—helping to overcome divisions of class, culture, and ideology and to encourage integrative deliberation and knowledge. Collective labors to steward particular places create understandings of a shared world arising from civic and environmental commons. Place-stewardship can engender integrative forms of knowledge—multicausal, multiscalar, multitemporal—as people deliberate about complex ecological and social phenomena over time. However, citizens typically face an environmental policy system that displaces integrated, community-centered perspectives into specialized government mandates and scholarly expertise. Against this fragmenting political terrain, civil society develops “counterexper...
Reconstitution of lysosomal NAADP-TRP-ML1 signaling pathway and its function in TRP-ML1(-/-) cells.

It is well known that the mutation of TRP-ML1 (transient receptor potential-mucolipin-1) causes mucolipidosis IV, a lysosomal storage disease. Given that lysosomal nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP)-Ca2+ release channel activity is associated with TRP-ML1, the present study was designed to test the hypothesis that NAADP regulates lysosome function via activation of TRP-ML1 channel activity. Using lysosomal preparations from wild-type (TRP-ML1+/+) human fibroblasts, channel reconstitution experiments demonstrated that NAADP (0.01–1.0 μM) produced a concentration-dependent increase in TRP-ML1 channel activity. This NAADP-induced activation of TRP-ML1 channels could not be observed in lysosomes from TRP-ML1−/− cells, but was restored by introducing a TRP-ML1 transgene into these cells. Microscopic Ca2+ fluorescence imaging showed that NAADP significantly increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration to 302.4 ± 74.28 nM (vs. 180 ± 44.13 nM of the basal) in TRP-ML1+/+ cells, but it had no effect in TRP-ML1−/− cells. If a TRP-ML1 gene was transfected into TRP-ML1−/− cells, the Ca2+ response to NAADP was restored to the level comparable to TRP-ML1+/+ cells. Functionally, confocal microscopy revealed that NAADP significantly enhanced the dynamic interaction of endosomes and lysosomes and the lipid delivery to lysosomes in TRP-ML1+/+ cells. This functional action of NAADP was abolished in TRP-ML1−/− cells, but restored after TRP-ML1 gene was rescued in these cells. Our results suggest that NAADP increases lysosomal TRP-ML1 channel activity to release Ca2+, which promotes the interaction of endosomes and lysosomes and thereby regulates lipid transport to lysosomes. Failure of NAADP-TRP-ML1 signaling may be one of the important mechanisms resulting in intracellular lipid trafficking disorder and consequent mucolipidosis.
Use of Statistical Entropy and Life Cycle Analysis to Evaluate Global Warming Potential of Waste Management Systems

The statistical entropy (SE) function has been applied to waste treatment systems to account for dilution or concentration effects on metals. We later extended it to account for carbon flows, especially in waste management systems involving thermal treatment. Now, a simple lifecycle “net energy” metric ‐ encompassing the “lost energy” that would have been gained when high-calorific materials are landfilled rather than combusted with energy recovery ‐ is introduced to account for additional influxes of carbon when using landfilling as the primary disposal method. When combining net energy calculations and long terms effects of landfilling, waste to energy (WTE) becomes a more attractive option for dealing with non-recycled municipal solid waste (MSW). A greenhouse gasforcing factor is also introduced to account for the entropy generating effects of methane. When incorporating forcing and lost energy, WTE performs notably better than landfills with respect to entropy generation and carbon.
Triglycerides as a risk factor for coronary artery disease

Triglyceride has not traditionally been considered the cornerstone of lipid risk factors for coronary artery disease. Yet emerging evidence from epidemiologic, clinical, cellular, genetic, and molecular studies suggests otherwise, namely, that levels of triglyceride and triglyceride-rich lipoproteins such as very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) are indeed independent risk factors for coronary artery disease. Further, triglyceride metabolism is associated with atherogenesis, and diminishing triglyceride levels is pivotal in decreasing the incidence of coronary artery disease, particularly in early-evolving atherosclerotic lesions.
Phenytoin in Wound Healing

Objective To describe a patient with a massive Grade IV pressure ulcer that responded rapidly to treatment with topical phenytoin and to review the literature supporting the use of this therapy. Case summary A 55-year-old morbidly obese white man (266 kg), with respiratory failure secondary to obesity-hypoventilation syndrome and heart failure, developed pressure ulcers on his lower back and sacrum with the first 2 weeks of hospitalization. Traditional methods of treatment were unsuccessful, and by day 79, the wound involved the entire lumbosacral area and buttocks, and had extensive undermining and sinus tract formation. Within 2 days of applying topical phenytoin, fresh granulation was apparent. After 54 days of treatment, nearly all the sinus tracts were healed. Four months after treatment with topical phenytoin had facilitated the healing of the wounds, even though the patient's multiple underlying medical problems had not resolved. Discussion Phenytoin has been used in the healing of pressure sores, venous stasis and diabetic ulcers, traumatic wounds, and burns. Many of the existing clinical studies have methodologic flaws, such as inappropriate statistical analysis, inadequate control groups, and the absence of randomization and double-blinding. Nevertheless, all the studies have reported enhancement of wound healing, with insignificant adverse effects. Phenytoin may promote wound healing by a number of mechanisms, including stimulation of fibroblast proliferation, facilitation of collagen deposition, glucocorticoid antagonism, and antibacterial activity. Conclusions Phenytoin promoted the healing of a massive necrotizing soft tissue wound that was unresponsive to conventional treatment. Clinical success in this difficult case and the other reports in the literature suggest that phenytoin is effective in would healing and deserves further investigation.
Integration of Configuration Management and Hypermedia for Managing Changes in Database Applications

Existing version control approaches in database management systems (DBMSs) are still limited to providing version control functionality for the rollback to a previous state of the database itself and/or database schemas. The interrelations between changes to software artifacts produced during a database development process such as specifications, design diagrams, documentation, and database itself are not well managed by an DMBS. This paper presents an integrated approach that combines the structure-oriented software configuration management (SCM) and versioned hypermedia to control logical changes to software artifacts including entity-relationship diagrams (ERDs) and schema constructs, and to maintain consistent configurations among those constructs and versions of data. Logical connections among specifications and elements of an ERD are represented as hyperlinks and versioned as well.
Evaluation of microwave sensors for landmine detection

Landmines and improvised explosive devices (IED) continue to be a leading cause of death and injury to civilians and military personnel abroad. The detection and removal of these devices before detonation is necessary to improve safety. This work proposes the use of microwave radiometry for long-range monitoring and microwave coplanar sensors for short-range monitoring. The sharp contrast between the thermal and electrical properties of IEDs and the surrounding medium (soil and air) can be utilized to detect their presence. The feasibility of using planar transmission lines as landmine and IED detectors is explored. This will create a safe environment for the indigenous population and security personnel overseas.
Practical Application of Dilution Analysis for Estimating Groundwater Quality Effects Due to Coal Slurry Injection into Underground Mine Voids

Wet coal cleaning produces fine coal slurry, which is commonly disposed of in surface impoundments. Following impoundment failures in the early 1970s, regulatory agencies encouraged placement of coal slurry in underground mine voids. That option was not without environmental risk, since it placed slurry in direct contact with mine water, a major component of local groundwater systems. We studied analytical data from coal slurry injection into two Central Appalachian underground coal mines with regards to potential water quality impacts on surface and groundwater. A dilution analysis model was used to predicted exceedances of surface and groundwater standards. The model proved useful for discriminating the effects of slurry injection and background pollutants, such as those generated in mines independent of slurry injection. The data did not identify a link between slurry injection in either of the two studied mines and exceedances of primary drinking water standards for arsenic, lead, or selenium in the mine pool water down-gradient of slurry injection. Contaminants associated with alkaline mine drainage (aluminum, iron, manganese, sulfate, and total dissolved solids) often exceeded secondary drinking water standards up-gradient in the slurry liquids and down-gradient of slurry injection. The results indicate that the liquid fraction, more than the solid fraction, of contaminants determines the effect of coal slurry injection on water quality. The study concluded that no public health problem attributable only to the coal slurry could be documented from the available data.
Structure and Dynamics of a [1:1] Drug-DNA Complex: Analysis of 2D NMR Data Using Molecular Mechanics and Molecular Dynamics Calculations

1D/2D NMR studies are reported for a [1:1] complex of d(GA4T4C)2 and Dst2 (an analogue of distamycin A). Full-Matrix NOESY Simulations, Molecular Mechanics and Molecular Dynamics Calculations are performed to analyze the NMR data. Results show that drug-DNA complex formation is driven by static features like H-bonding and steric interactions in the minor-groove of DNA. As a consequence of drug binding, a non-linear oscillatory mode is activated. In this mode the molecule samples equilibrium structural states of different degrees of bending. It is noted that these structures belong to three distinctly different energy wells that satisfy the same NMR data.
Voronoi rasterization of sparse point sets

Point-based representations are becoming increasingly common in computer graphics, especially for visualizing data sets where the number of points is large relative to the number of pixels involved in their display. When dealing with sparse point sets, however, many traditional rendering algorithms for point data perform poorly, either by generating blurry or non-occluding surface representations or by requiring extensive pre-processing to yield good results. In this paper we present a novel method for point-based surface visualization that we call Voronoi rasterization. Voronoi rasterization uses modern programmable graphics hardware to generate occluding surface representations from sparse, oriented point sets without preprocessing. In particular, Voronoi rasterization clips away overlapping flaps between neighboring splats and generates an approximation of the Voronoi diagram of the points under the surface's geodesic distance. To approximate smooth shading and texturing on top of this clipped surface, our method uses existing techniques to construct a smoothly blended screen-space attribute field that implicitly accounts for neighborhood relations between points.
Salicylate and catechol levels are maintained in nahG transgenic poplar.

Metabolic profiling was used to investigate the molecular phenotypes of a transgenic Populus tremula · P. alba hybrid expressing the nahG transgene, a bacterial gene encoding salicylate hydroxylase that converts salicylic acid to catechol. Despite the efficacy of this transgenic approach to reduce salicylic acid levels in other model systems and thereby elucidate roles for salicylic acid in plant signaling, transgenic poplars had similar foliar levels of salicylic acid and catechol to that of non-transformed controls and exhibited no morphological phenotypes. To gain a deeper understanding of the basis for these observations, we analyzed metabolic profiles of leaves as influenced by transgene expression. Expression of nahG decreased quinic acid conjugates and increased catechol glucoside, while exerting little effect on levels of salicylic acid and catechol, the substrate and product, respectively, of the nahG enzyme. This suggests a biological role of elevated constitutive salicylic acid levels in Populus, in contrast to other plant systems in which nahG dramatically reduces salicylic acid levels.
Gatifloxacin in combination with rifampicin in a murine tuberculosis model.

Objectives: Gatifloxacin previously demonstrated good in vitro and in vivo activities against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Several regimens of gatifloxacin in combination with rifampicin were compared with isoniazid plus rifampicin in a mouse tuberculosis model. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were infected intranasally with 10 6 viable M. tuberculosis organisms. Treatment with various regimens of gatifloxacin plus rifampicin was started 1 week post-infection and was administered for 4‐12 weeks. Mice were euthanized at the end of therapy and their right lungs were removed and cell counts were determined. Results: Gatifloxacin 100 mg/kg plus rifampicin 10 mg/kg has activity similar to that of isoniazid plus rifampicin in the 12 week treatment model. Gatifloxacin 300 mg/kg plus rifampicin 20 mg/kg yields a non-cultivatable state after 12 weeks of therapy and approaches but does not achieve a durable cure. Conclusions: Gatifloxacin in combination with rifampicin is a promising combination for potential evaluation in human clinical trials. Gatifloxacin plus rifampicin regimens had activities similar to or better than isoniazid plus rifampicin. A quinolone plus rifampicin combination may provide the foundation for shorter course regimens than the current isoniazid plus rifampicin-based regimen.
Biomarker and histopathologic responses in flatfish following site remediation in Eagle Harbor, WA

Abstract Eagle Harbor is a designated Superfund site due to high sediment concentrations of creosote-derived polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) released chronically from a nearby creosoting facility. Studies with English sole Pleuronectes vetulus from this site (1984–1986) demonstrated high prevalences of toxicopathic liver lesions including neoplasms in resident sole. Inducibility of neoplasia-related lesions by injections of a PAH-rich fraction extracted from Eagle Harbor sediment has also been shown. Further studies (1986–1988) also sampled starry flounder Platichthys stellatus and rock sole Lepidopsetta bilineata, and incorporated biomarkers of PAH exposure and effect, including hepatic CYP1A expression, biliary fluorescent aromatic compounds (FACs), and hydrophobic DNA adducts in liver. Hepatic lesion prevalences and biomarker values in these species from Eagle Harbor were among the highest found at Puget Sound sites. A cap of uncontaminated sediment was placed (September 1993–March 1994) over the most contaminated portions of Eagle Harbor in an attempt to sequester PAH-contaminated sediments. Lesion prevalences and biomarker values just before capping began were generally reduced compared to historical data, consistent with creosoting facility closure and site-based source controls. Similar data from fish collected immediately after capping, and, at 3, 6, 12, 16, 19, 21, 31, 44, and 49 months after cap completion, are presented to determine the efficacy of the capping in ameliorating PAH exposure and associated effects in resident flatfish species.