cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Transform covariance differencing method for correlated sources under unknown symmetric Toeplitz noise

This paper proposes a method to find the direction of arrival angles (DOAs) from correlated sources under an unknown noise environment. This paper assumes a symmetric Toeplitz covariance matrix for the unknown noise. The proposed method has three advantages over the Prasad's method in S. Prasad et al. (1988). First, the numbers of sensors M in our method is just larger than the number of sources L , i.e., M > L, but the method in S. Prasad et al. (1988) requires M > 2L . Second, the number of peaks Np in the spectrum is equal to the number of sources L, i.e., L = Np, whereas the number of peaks of the method in S. Prasad et al. (1988) is 2Np , which requires a special selection algorithm to determine the true DOAs. Third, the proposed method can be applied for correlated sources but the method in S. Prasad et al. (1988) for only uncorrelated sources. The proposed method employs the covariance matrix difference between a transformed forward-backward average covariance matrix of the received signal and the transpose of the backward covariance matrix to completely eliminate the unknown noise. The numerical results verify that the proposed method gives a better performance with less computation than the method in S. Prasad et al. (1988)
Macropores as preferential flow paths in meander bends

Macropores are subsurface connected void spaces caused by processes such as fracture of soils, micro-erosion, and fauna burrows. They are common near streams (e.g. hyporheic and riparian zones) and may act as preferential flow paths between surface and groundwaters, affecting hydrologic and biogeochemical processes. We tested the hydrologic function of macropores by constructing an artificial macropore within the saturated zone of a meander bend (open macropore, ‘OM’) and later filling its upstream end (partially filled macropore, ‘PFM’). For each treatment, we injected saline tracer at an upgradient monitoring well within the meander and monitored downgradient hydraulics and tracer transport. Pressure transducers in monitoring wells indicated hydraulic gradients within the meander were 32% higher perpendicular to and 6% higher parallel to the macropore for the OM than for the PFM. Additionally, hydraulic conductivities measured via falling head tests were 29 to 550 times higher along the macropore than in nearby sediment. We used electrical conductivity probes in wells and electrical resistivity imaging to track solute transport. Transport velocities through the meander were on average 9 and 21% higher (per temporal moment analysis and observed tracer peak, respectively) for the OM than for the PFM. Furthermore, temporal moments of tracer breakthrough analysis indicated downgradient longitudinal dispersion and breakthrough tracer curve tailing were on average 234% and 182% higher for the OM, respectively. This suggests the OM enabled solute transport at overall shorter timescales than the matrix but also increased tailing. Our results demonstrate the importance of macropores to meander bend hydrology and solute transport. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biosynthesis of the peptidoglycan of bacterial cell walls. I. Utilization of uridine diphosphate acetylmuramyl pentapeptide and uridine diphosphate acetylglucosamine for peptidoglycan synthesis by particulate enzymes from Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus lysodeikticus.

Particulate enzymes have been obtained from Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus lysodeikticus which utilize UDP-acetylmuramyl-pentapeptide and UDP-acetylglucosamine to form a linear peptidoglycan consisting of alternating residues of acetylglucosamine and acetylmuramyl-pentapeptide. This product retains both of the d-alanine residues present in the uridine nucleotide precursor. The other reaction products have been identified as UMP and inorganic phosphate formed from UDP-acetylmuramyl-pentapeptide and UDP formed from UDP-acetylglucosamine. The synthesis of peptidoglycan is specifically inhibited by ristocetin and vancomycin at concentrations that are equivalent to the growth inhibitory concentrations of these antibiotics for the two organisms studied. Bacitracin also inhibits this synthesis at low concentrations, but the effects of this substance require further study. Penicillin G and novobiocin do not inhibit, except at concentrations which are far above the growth inhibitory concentrations. Some of the properties of the enzyme systems in the two organisms have been presented. The particulate enzyme prepared from cells of S. aureus after sonic disintegration is unusual in that it is inactive unless incubation mixtures containing it are spread on filter paper. Enzyme preparations obtained from S. aureus after alumina grinding or from M. lysodeikticus by either method are active in the usual assays.
Very rapid geomagnetic field change recorded by the partial remagnetization of a lava flow

[1] A new paleomagnetic result from a lava flow with a distinctive, two-part remanence reinforces the controversial hypothesis that geomagnetic change during a polarity reversal can be much faster than normal. The 3.9-m-thick lava (“Flow 20”) is exposed in the Sheep Creek Range (north central Nevada) and was erupted during a reverse-to-normal (R-N) geomagnetic polarity switch at 15.6 Ma. Flow 20 began to acquire a primary thermoremanence while the field was pointing east and down but was soon buried, reheated, and partially-remagnetized in a north-down direction by the 8.2-m-thick flow that succeeded it. A simple conductive cooling calculation shows that the observed remagnetization could not have occurred unless Flow 20 was still warm (about 150°C near its base) when buried and that the 53° change from east-down to north-down field occurred at an average rate of approximately 1°/week, several orders of magnitude faster than typical of secular variation.
Electrolytes for rechargeable lithium batteries

Recent advances in the liquid electrolyte area for high-energy lithium cathode systems are reviewed. Experimental work on the processing of solid thin-film polymer electrolytes using plasticizers such as polyethylene glycol dimethoxy ether (PEGDME) and conductivity and differential scanning calorimetry results for polymer film electrolytes are presented. The advantages and the disadvantages of polymer thin-film electrolytes are discussed. It is apparent from these studies that films processed with a plasticizer such as PEGDME show improved conductivity, possibly due to increased amorphous phase content. >
When Osama Became Saddam: Origins and Consequences of the Change in America's Public Enemy #1

In the days following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Osama bin Laden quickly became America's leading enemy. But as the Bush administration prepared its case for war against Iraq in the first half of 2002, officials began to avoid mentioning Osama bin Laden's name in public. At the same time, administration officials increasingly linked Saddam Hussein with the threat of terrorism in an effort to build public support for war. By the first anniversary of the 9/11 attacks it appeared that this public relations effort had produced results beyond all expectations: several polls released around the time of the anniversary revealed that majorities of Americans believed Saddam Hussein was personally responsible for 9/11.
Increased endothelial-derived microparticles in ventilator-induced lung injury

Ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI) is a consequence of mechanical ventilation and contributes to the pathophysiology of lung injury syndromes. The role of the vascular endothelium in VILI remains largely unknown. Endothelial microparticles (EMPs) are membrane vesicles shed by activated or apoptotic cells. We have previously demonstrated that human lung endothelial cells (EC) exposed to pathologic cyclic stretch (in vitro model of VILI) shed increased numbers of EMPs that mediate lung injury. In this study, we characterize EMPs in a murine model of VILI. C57BL/6J mice were subjected to high tidal volume (40mL/kg) mechanical ventilation (VILI). Spontaneously breathing (SB) mice served as control. After 4h, blood/BAL were collected and microparticles (MPs) were isolated by differential centrifugation. MPs were quantified after staining with a marker of endothelial activation, CD62E (Flow cytometry). Plasma MPs were also analyzed by immunoblotting for VE-cadherin. The purity and characteristics (size 0.1 to 1μm) of the isolated MP populations were confirmed by electron microscopy and flow cytometry. VILI-mice exhibited significant lung injury and increased circulating CD62E positive MPs (1.38-fold) compared to SB mice. In addition, MP lysates contained increased VE-cadherin levels in VILI-challenged mice compared to SB. We next determined the levels of EMPs in the alveolar space. CD62E(+) BAL MPs were increased by 1.87-fold in VILI-challenged mice compared to SB mice. Our results suggest that high levels of EMPs in blood and BAL during mechanical ventilation may represent VILI-induced endothelial dysfunction. EMPs are promising novel biomarkers and mediators of lung injury. Funding: AHA.
Renal tubular sites of increased phosphate transport and NaPi-2 expression in the juvenile rat.

To determine the tubular sites and mechanisms involved in enhanced renal phosphate (Pi) reabsorption seen in the juvenile animal, renal micropuncture experiments were performed in acutely thyropara...
Substrate concentration changes during pregnancy in the guinea pig studied under unstressed steady state conditions.

Summary: Weight gain and food intake were measured in unstressed nonpregnant and pregnant guinea pigs fed ad libitum. Nonpregnant females consumed 33.2 ± 0.5 g·day“−1 of pellet diet and did not demonstrate a consistent pattern of weight gain. The average daily food intake of pregnant animals increased linearly from 38 g·day−1 at 27 days to over 60 g·day−1 near term, and the average maternal weight gain was 13.3 g·day−1. Using sterile technique, polyvinyl catheters were inserted under anesthesia into the carotid and femoral arteries of these animals. Animals recovered spontaneously, and catheters remained patent for up to 4 wk. The effect of surgical and anesthetic stress was evaluated by measurement of food intake and metabolite levels after surgery. In the nonpregnant animals, blood glucose decreased immediately after surgery (4.76 ± 0.36 versus 5.65 ± 0.25; P < 0.05), whereas the pregnant animals responded with a substantial increase in blood glucose (7.57 ± 0.48 versus 5.87 ± 0.33; P < 0.05). Lactate was increased intraoperatively in both groups (1.76 ± 0.22 versus 1.11 ± 0.07, nonpregnant; 1.80 ± 0.17 versus 1.10 ± 0.08, pregnant). The pregnant animals differed from the nonpregnant animals with regard to the pattern of changes in blood ketones after surgery. The nonpregnant animals achieved steady state within 1 day after surgery, whereas the pregnant animals required 4 days for recovery. Food intake and maternal weight gain were markedly reduced during the recovery period for the pregnant animals. Blood metabolite levels were measured in well-fed, unstressed pregnant and nonpregnant guinea pigs. Using measurements made after the third postoperative day, the unstressed pregnant animals demonstrated a progressive decline in blood glucose levels, reaching levels significantly below those of nonpregnant animals at 55 to 60 and 60+ days. Arterial concentrations of lactate, pyruvate, β;-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and free fatty acids did not change consistently with gestation and were not significantly different from nonpregnant values. Speculation: In animal studies, it is frequently difficult to differentiate the effects of advancing gestation from the effects of acute sample collection. Extension of these techniques of chronic catheterization to other areas of guinea pig metabolism and to other small mammalian species may provide more uniform conditions for the study of the comparative physiology of gestation and fetal development.
Group B Streptococcus and Early-Onset Sepsis in the Era of Maternal Prophylaxis

Despite an era of marked success with universal screening, Group B Streptococcus (GBS) continues to be an important cause of early-onset sepsis, and thus remains a significant public health issue. Improved eradication of GBS colonization and disease may involve universal screening in conjunction with rapid diagnostic technologies or other novel approaches. Given the complications and potential limitations associated with maternal intrapartum prophylaxis, however, vaccines may be the most effective means of preventing neonatal GBS disease. The global utility of conjugated GBS vaccines may be hampered by the variability of serotypes in diverse populations and geographic locations. Modern technologies, such as those involving proteomics and genomic sequencing, are likely to hasten the development of a universal vaccine against GBS.
Cross-Reactive Conjugated Polymers: Analyte-Specific Aggregative Response for Structurally Similar Diamines

A single cross-reactive conjugated polymer (poly(thiophene) 1) generates unique spectral patterns in response to structurally similar diamines. Multivariate statistics are used to deconvolute subtle variations in these spectral responses, allowing for identification and quantification of the analytes with >99% accuracy.
Acute Kidney Injury Reduces Survival in Very Low Birth Weight Infants

Acute kidney injury (AKI) independently predicts mortality in children and adults. Our understanding of the epidemiology of AKI in very LBW (VLBW) infants is limited to retrospective studies. After adjustment for demographics, comorbidities, and interventions, infants with AKI have decreased survival compared with those without AKI. The study was conducted in regional quaternary care NICU of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. VLBW infants were followed prospectively and were classified into a serum creatinine (SCr)-based classification for AKI. Forty-one of 229 (18%) VLBW infants developed AKI. Those with AKI were more likely to have umbilical artery catheters, assisted ventilation, blood pressure medications, and lower 1-and 5-min Apgar scores. Of the infants with AKI, 17 of 41 (42%) died compared with 9 of 188 (5%) of those without AKI (p < 0.001). AKI was associated with mortality with a crude hazard ratio (HR) of 9.3 (95% CI, 4.1-21.0). After adjusting for potential confounders, those with AKI had higher chance of death as the adjusted HR was 2.4 (95% CI 0.95-6.04). AKI is associated with mortality in VLBW infants. Efforts to prevent and ameliorate the impact of AKI may improve the outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Effects of impurities on silver–(ZrO2)0.92(Y2O3)0.08 interface morphology in solid oxide cells

Abstract Material interactions at elevated temperatures are major contributors to long-term degradation in solid oxide cells (SOC). The use of silver in SOC electrodes is promising due to its good catalytic activity at reduced operating temperatures and chemical stability with other SOC materials. However, no significant studies have been conducted on the interfaces between silver-based electrodes and common SOC electrolyte materials such as yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ). A symmetric cell configuration with applied voltage bias has been used to investigate interfaces between silver-based electrodes and YSZ electrolytes at 750 °C. Surface porosity and undulations, as well as trace impurities were observed on the YSZ surfaces using electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The applied voltage bias enhances the migration of impurities from the electrodes to the silver–YSZ interfaces. The impurities affect the YSZ surface energy characteristics, leading to YSZ surface diffusion and undulation formation.
Malformations of ventral induction.

t o s t p o T f a Ventral induction occurs during 5-10 weeks of gestation. During this phase 3 primary vesicles (prosencephalon, esencephalon, and rhombencephalon) are differentiated to orm forebrain, midbrain, and hindbrain, respectively.1 Norally, early forebrain vesicles, prosencephalon, develop in he rostral end of the neural tube between 22 and 24 days of estation. The prosencephalon forms 2 laterally directed dierticula by 5-6 weeks and is divided into telencephalon future cerebrum) and diencephalon (future thalamus and ypothalamus). Diencephalon and telencephalon differentition occurs from the provesicle before the neural tube loses. Any insult during this phase affects the development f brain vesicles and the formation of the facial skeleton. cular and nasal anomalies are frequently associated with orebrain malformation because the optic placode and forerain develop at the same time, with subsequent formation of he olfactory vesicle 1 week later. The rhombencephalon diides into metencephalon (future pons and cerebellum) and yelencephalon (future medulla). Malformation of the hombencephalon is discussed in detail in this issue under Posterior Fossa Malformations.” The commonly seen forebrain ventral induction malforations are (1) holoprosencephaly, (2) atelencephaly, (3) lfactory aplasia, (4) agenesis of the corpus callosum, (5) genesis of the septum pellucidum (septo-optic dysplasia and avum vergae and pellucidum).
Personality characteristics of volunteers for medical research.

Thirty-seven inmates who had previously volunteered for phase I drug testing and 33 who had not were interviewed by a psychologist to obtain demographic and motivational data. Each inmate completed a standard psychopathology inventory (the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory), the Similarities and Picture Arrangement subtests of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, a test of normal personality variables (the Edwards Personality Scale), and Christie's Machiavellianism Scale. The data supported the conclusions that (1) inmates are in general free enough from psychopathology to be able to make rational choices about participating in medical research as long as preliminary screening for individuals with severely disordered thinking is carried out, (2) verbal communication skills of inmates appear to be well enough developed to allow them to give an informed consent, (3) while there are personality differences between volunteers and nonvolunteers, these appear to relate most directly to the fact that...
The ontogeny of substance P- and serotonin-like immunoreactivities in the sexually dimorphic cremaster nucleus of the rat spinal cord.

Abstract This study investigates the ontogeny of two transmitter systems which innervate the sexually dimorphic cremaster nucleus (CN). Since these transmitter systems arise from separate extra- and intraspinal sources, their ontological sequences differ. In males, substance P (SP) innervates CN motoneurons on postnatal day (P) 0, while serotonin (5-HT) is first observed on P2. SP reaches a mature innervation pattern on P20, while 5-HT maturation is prolonged to P40–60. It is suggested that part of the reason for the differing rates of development of 5-HT and SP within CN is due to the source of the innervating fibers; 5-HT descends from the brainstem while SP is of intraspinal origin. On P6, the SP innervation of the dorsal processes of the male CN is so advanced that the spinal cord may be ‘sexed’ according to the male presence, or the female ‘absence’, of this SP pattern. In developing and adult females, the 5-HT innervation of the CN is greater than the SP innervation. In addition, the 5-HT and SP innervation of the female CN is greater than the surrounding motor columns. Compared to surrounding ventral gray horn motor nuclei, the CN receives a slightly delayed SP and 5-HT innervation and this may be a reflection of the postnatal formation of the cremaster muscle.
Electrode coatings based on chitosan scaffolds.

Thin films of a biopolymer chitosan (CHIT) were cast on glassy carbon electrodes, modified by grafting Lucifer Yellow VS dye (LYVS) onto chitosan chains, and cross-linked with glutaric dialdehyde (GDI). The ion-transport and ion-exchange properties of such polymeric structures (CHIT, CHIT-LYVS, CHIT-LYVS-GDI) were studied using cyclic voltammetry, rotating disk electrode, and flow injection analysis. The results showed that the chitosan matrix supported a fast ion transport as demonstrated by aqueous-like values of the apparent diffusion coefficients of Ru(NH3)63+ and dopamine in the films. Anionic LYVS dye introduced a permselectivity against anions (e.g., Fe(CN)64-, ascorbate) into the CHIT-LYVS films. The cross-linking of such films with GDI further increased their permselectivity as well as their stability. A unique combination of high permselectivity and fast ion transport in the CHIT-LYVS-GDI films is discussed in terms of the mixed-transport mechanism involving both pore and membrane diffusion in a...
Systematics, phylogeny and zoogeography of genus Yoraperla (Plecoptera: Peltoperlidae)

Yoraperla Ricker, 1952 is revised and 4 nearctic and 3 oriental species are recognized. Three new species, X siletz, Y. han and Y. uchidai, are described and Y. nigrisoma (Banks, 1948) is removed from the synonymy of Y. brevis (Banks, 1907). Phylogenetic and zoogeographic analyses support the hypothesis of two disjunct clades isolated by an increase in sea level in the Bering Straits. The east Asian clade is consistently resolved with the two Korean species Y. han and Y. uchidai forming a sister group relationship apart from the Japanese species Y. uenoi, while resolution of the western North American clade is less secure. Yoraperla probably arose in the Sierra Nevada of North America and migrated to east Asia along an inland route including the Rocky Mts. Future collection and conservation suggestions are given.
Characterization of low-loss polymer modulators fabricated by laser ablation

Electro-optic (EO) channel waveguide polymer phase modulators made by laser ablation are described. The ablation technique is capable of forming low loss channel waveguides at rapid rates with endface quality suitable for fiber pigtailed devices. Loss measurements as well as SEM micrographs were taken to optimize this process. Optical losses of these channel waveguides (before poling) were measured to be 0.37 dB/cm (TM mode) and 0.33 dB/cm (TE mode) at 1.32 micrometers wavelength. The polymer used as poly(methyl methacrylate) with disperse Red 1 dye attached as a side chain at a concentration of 10 mole %. In the poled channel waveguide phase modulator, an EO coefficient (r33) of 10.5 pm/V was achieved with electrode poling and measured by a heterodyne detection system.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
A review of radiopharmaceutical development with short-lived generator-produced radionuclides other than 99mTc

Abstract In addition to the technetium generator there are approximately eight generators of short-lived radionuclides in which the daughter, in some chemical form, has seen human use. This article reviews progress in the development of imaging agents prepared with these eight short-lived radionuclides. The bulk of the report deals with 13mIn and 68Ga radiopharmaceuticals.
Photochemical conversion of 2,5-diiodothiophene condensed on substrates to oligothiophene and polythiophene thin films and micro-patterns

Abstract A simple and efficient photochemical process for in-situ fabrication of oligothiophene and polythiophene thin films and patterns is demonstrated. The process involves vapor deposition of monomeric precursor molecules, 2,5-diiodothiophene on a substrate followed by photodissociation of the C–I bond to produce monomer radicals that further react in the condensed phase to produce oligothiophene and polythiophene. The thienyl molecular structure of the precursor is preserved during the photochemical process, providing good π conjugation of the produced polymer. Alkyl and cross-linking defects are negligible in the produced film. The direct conversion of the adsorbed monomer to the conjugated polymer allows easy fabrication of thin films and micro-patterns of polythiophene.
The Role of Spirituality in Physician Recovery from Alcoholism

Spirituality is a key component of healing. Physicians in the United States have incorporated mind, body, and spiritual connections into their practice, but around the world it has had varying levels of acceptance and utilization by the medical community. When physicians become patients, they also find support and comfort through spirituality, especially those with alcohol use disorders. Physicians who participate in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or 12-Step Facilitation (TSF) therapy and experience a spiritual awakening are likely to have a sustained long-term recovery. Those who participate in physician health programs with mandatory AA meeting attendance have high rates of total abstinence.
Susceptibility to superinfection of simian cells transformed by SV40

Abstract Characterization of a stable line of African green monkey kidney cells (BSC-1) transformed by SV40 was undertaken to determine whether these cells were resistant to superinfection by the homologous virus. The transformed cells were shown to synthesize the SV40-specific tumor antigen, the surface antigen, and the transplantation rejection antigen; SV40 capsid antigen was not detected. Infectious SV40 could not be recovered even after fusion of the transformed cells with cells susceptible to SV40 replication. Human adenovirus types 2, 7, and 12 replicated in the cells (but not in the parental, nontransformed cells), indicating either that the portion of the SV40 genome which aids the replication of human adenoviruses in simian cells was present in the transformed cells or that an adenovirus-sensitive cell population had been selected. However, SV40 was unable to replicate in the transformed cells, although simian adenovirus 7 and herpes viruses types 1 and 2 replicated in both parental and transformed cells. A defective SV40 genome encapsidated in an adenovirus coat (PARA particle) was used to further analyze the ability of the transformed cell to replicate the superinfecting SV40 genome. Since replication of PARA particles occurred, a defective SV40 genome can be replicated in an SV40-transformed cell. Unresolved is the question concerning expression of late virus functions in these cells as PARA is defective in the ability to induce the synthesis of SV40 capsid protein.
Gene Replacement in Acid Maltase Deficiency Using DNA Viral Vectors. • 98

The lysosomal enzyme acid maltase catalyzes the breakdown of glycogen. Complete absence of this enzyme results in infantile Pompe's disease, characterized by hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, skeletal muscle weakness, and fatal heart failure by two years of age. To examine the feasibility and efficacy of gene replacement therapy in Pompe's disease, we have constructed an El-deleted recombinant adenovirus (Ad-GAA) and a recombinant adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector (AAV-GAA) that encode human acidα-glucosidase. AAV vectors are able to lead to sustained transduction of differentiated cells, particularly striated muscle, which is affected in Pompe's disease. Transduction of fibroblasts isolated from Pompe's disease patients demonstrates a dose-dependent increase in GAA expression and complete restoration of cellular GAA activity. A portion of the GAA protein is secreted and, therefore is transferable to nontransduced deficient cells. Appropriate subcellular targeting of GAA produced in Ad-GAA or AAV-GAA treated cells was confirmed by immunocytochemistry with a GAA-specific antibody and co-localization with lysosomal membrane associated protein (LAMP-1). In vivo expression was tested following intracardiac injection of 8 × 108 pfu of Ad-GAA in newborn rodents resulting in acid maltase activity in cardiac tissue of 10-fold the control activity. Following i.m. injection of 2 × 1010 particles of AAV-GAA in the tibialis anterior muscle of adult mice, the GAA activity in muscle was 4-fold control activities for up to 3 months following transduction. Protein blotting with human-specific antibody detects a 76 kDa species, consistent with the size of the fully processed lysosomal enzyme. These data demonstrate the feasibility of gene replacement for correction of the enzyme deficiency in Pompe's disease using DNA viral vectors. The authors have pending patent applications relating to AAV gene delivery and are entitled to related royalty payments.
Use of entrapment and high-performance affinity chromatography to compare the binding of drugs and site-specific probes with normal and glycated human serum albumin.

Protein entrapment and high-performance affinity chromatography were used with zonal elution to examine the changes in binding that occurred for site-specific probes and various sulfonylurea drugs with normal and glycated forms of human serum albumin (HSA). Samples of this protein in a soluble form were physically entrapped within porous silica particles by using glycogen-capped hydrazide-activated silica; these supports were then placed into 1.0 cm × 2.1 mm inner diameter columns. Initial zonal elution studies were performed using (R)-warfarin and l-tryptophan as probes for Sudlow sites I and II (i.e., the major drug binding sites of HSA), giving quantitative measures of binding affinities in good agreement with literature values. It was also found for solutes with multisite binding to the same proteins, such as many sulfonylurea drugs, that this method could be used to estimate the global affinity of the solute for the entrapped protein. This entrapment and zonal approach provided retention information with precisions of ±0.1–3.3% (± one standard deviation) and elution within 0.50–3.00 min for solutes with binding affinities of 1 × 104–3 × 105 M−1. Each entrapped-protein column was used for many binding studies, which decreased the cost and amount of protein needed per injection (e.g., the equivalent of only 125–145 pmol of immobilized HSA or glycated HSA per injection over 60 sample application cycles). This method can be adapted for use with other proteins and solutes and should be valuable in high-throughput screening or quantitative studies of drug–protein binding or related biointeractions.
A new approach to single-comparator instrumental neutron activation analysis

A new parametric approach to single-compar- ator instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) at the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) was investigated. A detailed MCNP steady-state model of the MURR core was developed using the latest neutron data libraries to compute the continuous-energy neutron flux distribution. Intrinsic reaction rates were predicted by coupling the computed local flux distribution to the isoto- pic (n, c) excitation functions for a range of elements present in standard reference materials (SRM). Using the predicted (n, c) reaction-rates, the concentrations for the various elements were determined. The method worked well for all nuclides tested, including those with cross sections that are not proportional to 1/v such as Lu and Eu with agreements for most elements within 5% of the ref- erence value.
Delta Opiates Increase Ischemic Tolerance in Isolated Rabbit Jejunum

UNLABELLED Mammalian hibernation is mediated by humoral agonists of the delta opioid receptor (DOR). Moreover, transfer of either humoral or synthetic DOR agonists to non-hibernators reportedly induces a state of improved myocardial ischemic tolerance. OBJECTIVE To determine whether the DOR agonist D-Ala 2, D-Leu 5, enkephalin (DADLE) similarly elicits protection in noncardiac-i.e., mesenteric-tissue. METHODS In Protocols 1 and 2, the authors developed and characterized an in vitro model of mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion in isolated rabbit jejunum by documenting the effect of increasing ischemic duration (0 to 120 minutes) and the relative importance of glucose and/or oxygen deprivation on the evolution of jejunal injury. In Protocol 3, jejunal segments were randomized to receive either no treatment (controls) or 15 minutes of pretreatment with 1 microM DADLE, followed by 60 minutes of simulated ischemia and 30 minutes of reperfusion. Jejunal injury was quantified by repeated, time-matched assessment of peak contractile force evoked by 1 microM acetylcholine (all protocols) and delineation of tissue necrosis (Protocol 1). RESULTS Development of significant jejunal injury required combined oxygen/glucose deprivation. Moreover, there was a direct relationship between ischemic duration and tissue injury, and a significant inverse correlation between reperfusion contractile force (% of baseline) and the extent of smooth muscle necrosis (r(2) = 0.87; p < 0.01). Most notably, mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion injury was attenuated by DADLE: reperfusion contractile force was 47 +/- 5% versus 36 +/- 5% in DADLE-treated versus control segments (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Treatment with the delta opioid agonist DADLE increases ischemic tolerance of isolated rabbit jejunum.
Genome-wide association studies of substance use: considerations regarding populations and phenotypes.

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS), such as the study by Gelernter et al. (1) in the present issue, have yielded several important advances in the identification of genetic variants influencing risk for psychiatric disorders. For example, largescale meta-analytic studies of smoking-related traits have reported genome-wide significant evidence of associations between smoking quantity and nicotine dependence and the chromosome 15 nicotinic receptor gene cluster, CHRNA5CHRNA3-CHRNB4, and other genes related to nicotine metabolism (2). More recently, the efforts of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium have led to the identification of more than 100 regions of the genome involved in the genetic risk for schizophrenia (3). As such efforts expand to include additional psychiatric traits, including a broader range of substance use phenotypes, we expect our understanding of how genetic influences contribute to the development of these disorders to grow substantially. The investigation of Gelernter et al. (1) in this issue represents an important contribution to the growing GWAS literature by identifying several novel genome-wide significant variants associated with smoking in a population selected for illicit drug use. Among the most promising results described by the authors were associated variants in C14orf28 on chromosome 14 and in DISC1 on chromosome 1, two regions previously associated with psychiatric phenotypes. Notably, these results highlight some of the complexities that require careful consideration when conducting cross-study GWAS analyses. This is particularly timely given that large-scale multisite GWAS are currently being organized for a number of substance use phenotypes as part of the proposed third phase of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (4), which is headed in part by one of the authors of the Gelernter et al. (1) study (JG). In the present commentary, we discuss three issues relevant to such cross-study efforts: 1) how study design can be used to identify risk loci specific to a given substance use disorder as well as risk loci that cut across substance use categories; 2) how phenotype definition can be used to identify loci related to different aspects of substance use and substance use disorders; and 3) how inclusion criteria such as ethnicity and drug exposure can be used to identify risk loci involved in different aspects and developmental stages of substance use disorders. The first issue raised by Gelernter et al. (1) focuses on the multifaceted nature of substance use disorders, which are hypothesized to manifest from a convergence of many genetic and environmental influences. In terms of their genetic etiology, multivariate twin studies have demonstrated that while specific genetic influences underlie each substance use disorder, substantial genetic influences are shared across all of them as well as the related externalizing disorders, conduct disorder and antisocial personality disorder (5). A number of
Combining Revealed and Stated Data to Examine Housing Decisions Using Discrete Choice Analysis

Abstract This paper uses stated preference and revealed preference data, separately and jointly, to examine individuals, housing choices. In particular, it combines an established revealed preference approach, discrete choice analysis of actual housing purchases, and a relatively new stated preference approach, choice-based conjoint analysis of hypothetical housing purchases, to provide us with a better understanding of the factors driving housing decisions. These methods are appropriately combined since they reflect the same decision process: households select the dwelling that provides the best combination of attributes from the feasible set of alternatives. In total, this paper analyzes three data sets: only actual housing purchases, only hypothetical housing purchases, and both types of purchases combined. Analysis finds that actual and hypothetical housing purchases are similar decision processes with respect to some attributes, yet are dissimilar with respect to other attributes. Nevertheless, combining the two types of data improves identification of both categories of attributes. Journal of Economic Literature Classification Number: R21.
Plasmodium berghei: Mechanisms and sites of resistance to sporogonic development in different mosquitoes

Abstract An experimental study of the mechanisms and patterns of resistance to Plasmodium berghei in different mosquito species revealed a diversity of factors which prevent or inhibit sporogonic development in its different phases and in different sites in the mosquito vector. The experiments showed that Culex salinarius was a totally resistant species in which exflagellation and ookinete formation are prevented. In Aedes aegypti, ookinetes in small or moderate numbers are formed but penetration of the mosquito midgut wall is blocked and oocysts are not formed. In the three experimental vectors, Anopheles quadrimaculatus, Anopheles aztecus, and Anopheles stephensi grades of enhanced susceptibility are recognized. They are expressed in lesser numbers of abnormal and degenerative oocysts, in higher numbers of sporozoites in the salivary gland, and greater viability and invasiveness of these sporozoites. In Anopheles dureni, the natural vector of rodent malaria, one observes both in nature and under experimental conditions the highest adaptation and most pronounced grade of susceptibility to P. berghei.
Liquid Chromatography at the Critical Condition Using Enhanced-Fluidity Liquid Mobile Phases

The use of enhanced-fluidity liquid mixtures of tetrahydrofuran (THF)/CO2 for liquid chromatography at the critical condition is described. For polystyrene polymers, the molecular weight range that can be analyzed at the critical condition was compared for using THF/CO2 and other common liquid mixtures. Because enhanced-fluidity liquids are highly compressible, it was possible to reach the critical condition by changing the pressure of the THF/CO2 mixture. Approaching the critical condition by pressure variation was compared to that possible with temperature changes. Pressure variation was a more accurate and reproducible means of reaching the critical condition than temperature variation. Finally, THF/CO2 mixtures were used as mobile phases at the critical condition for polystyrene to characterize copolymers of poly(styrene−methyl acrylate).
The intersection of sport management and sociology of sport research: A social network perspective

Abstract Numerous scholars have highlighted important connections between the sport management and sociology of sport disciplines. Heeding calls from scholars in both fields to utilize social network analysis as a lens of inquiry, the purpose of the current study was to empirically explore the relationship between sport management and sociology of sport via coauthorship patterns. Specifically, we analyzed coauthorship patterns in three of the oldest and most highly regarded journals in each field from 1987 to 2009. Through the use of social network analysis, the descriptive results present a view of coauthorship patterns in both fields and highlight influential actors in the network who appear to transcend and connect both disciplines. The information yielded by this research provides insight useful for exploring the historical development of the fields, assessing the current state of the fields, and imagining how the fields might grow and prosper in the future.
Ultraviolet effects and aging effects on etching characteristics of fission tracks in polycarbonate film

Abstract Studies on the influence of ultraviolet (u.v.) exposure in air showing significant increases on track etching rates of irradiated polycarbonate film, first reported by Humphrey and Crawford, have been extended to include other environmental gases, namely oxygen, carbon dioxide and nitrogen in addition to air. Detailed studies of the effects of ‘aging’ on etching characteristics are also reported. The processes of pore formation and growth have been monitored by measurement of the a.c. conductivity across an irradiated film during the etching process. This procedure has sensitivity enough to follow the breakthrough and enlargement of a single pore. The etching has been carried out at temperatures lower than heretofore reported. The investigation has demonstrated the following. (1) For a given condition of u.v. exposure, the presence of oxygen is essential and more benificial than air and the other gases. (2) Since the u.v.- oxygen treatment has little or no effect on the bulk general attack rate, V G , cone angles as small as 3 x10 -4 degrees have been observed for fission-fragment tracks at low temperatures of etching (6.4°C). These cone angles increase with increasing etching temperature. (3) Oxygen compared with air as the environmental gas during the u.v. exposure tends to stabilize tracks against undesirable ‘thermal’ effects below 100°C. (4) Etching at low temperature makes it possible to obtain smaller initial pore sizes ( ® polycarbonate film appear to be similar to those of Makrofol ® polycarbonate film. (8) Etching at low temperatures may be interrupted and resumed at the higher temperature—a process useful for obtaining pores of the micron-range size with small cone angles in an economical time.
Threshold of estimated toxicity for regulation of indirect food additives

In response to the objectives of this ATSDR workshop, 2 new procedures are described for assessing the safe use of indirect food additives. First, this workshop provided a timely forum in which to describe a newly proposed Threshold of Regulation (T/R) Policy under which the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) would exempt certain indirect food additives from the formal premarket petition process. Second, this workshop offered an opportunity to discuss 2 circumstances in which Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) methodologies might be utilized in the future to provide decision-support information for substances used in food-contact articles.
Catastrophic disturbance, logging and the ecology of mahogany (Swietenia macrophyllaKing): grounds for listing a major tropical timber species in CITES: Is there a future for mahogany?Edited by Andrew MacLellan

Abstract Recent debate on whether or not mahogany (Swietenia macrophyllaKing) is threatened by the international timber trade has focused on the breadth of its range and estimates of the remaining stock of mahogany trees. These data are inadequate to reveal the status of mahogany populations, both because they are incomplete in areal extent and because they do not reveal population parameters such as the existence or density of young trees smaller than commercial size. However, there is sufficient information on the regeneration ecology of mahogany to indicate that under natural conditions this species regenerates in essentially even-aged stands after catastrophic disturbances destroy many or most trees, and, in the case of fires and flooding, saplings and seedlings as well. Adult mahoganies tend to survive these events, and regenerate by shedding seed onto the resulting gaps or clearings. This ecological strategy makes mahogany vulnerable to logging, first because juvenile mahoganies are not found in the understorey, and secondly because logging operations shortcircuit mahogany regeneration processes by selectively removing almost all mahogany seed sources while leaving standing competing vegetation of other species. Listing of mahogany in CITES Appendix II could provide both a mechanism to fill in gaps in information and an incentive to change current practices in favour of silvicultural management to provide for regeneration of this valuable timber species in forests subjected to logging.
Structural paradox of polytene chromosomes.

Abstract The observation of thick chromatin fibers in interbands of Dipteran polytene chromosomes suggests that there should be 5 to 10 times more mass and DNA in interbands than is commonly thought to be present. To resolve this paradox, the chromatin content of interbands was estimated, using whole-mounted polytene chromosomes from Drosophila melanogaster. Densitometry of high voltage electron microscopic negatives provides an estimate of less than 4:1 for the average ratio of cross-sectional dry mass (or mass per unit chromosome length) of bands relative to interbands. This ratio, combined with an estimate of the length of chromosome composed of interbands, indicates that at least 26% of chromosome mass is contributed by interband chromatin. Since DNA comprises a similar proportion of chromatin mass in bands and interbands (Laird et al., 1980b), these data imply that DNA sequences in interbands represent at least 26% of the euchromatic genome of D. melanogaster. This result calls for reinterpretation of some of the genetic and molecular data from Diptera. The discrepancy between this higher estimate of interband mass and DNA, and previous estimates of 3–5%, is discussed. One possibility is that previous measurements were made on prominent interbands, which are proposed here to be in regions that are delayed in DNA replication. Such interbands would be reduced in polyteny and DNA content compared with the average interband region. The concept of local variations in polyteny is also used here to explain major differences in the cross-sectional mass of bands. This leads to a revised model of polytene chromosomes in which at least three levels of polyteny, rather than one or two levels, can be present within one euchromatic region.
Role of blend morphology in rubber-toughened polymers

The influence of blend morphology on mechanical behaviour of rubber-toughened polymers was investigated. Diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A epoxies toughnened by core-shell rubber particles were employed as the model systems. The blend morphology was varied by changing the composition of the shell of particles, the curing agent, and the extent of agitation prior to casting. It is shown that the most uniform dispersion of particles is obtained when the shell of the modifiers contains reactive groups. In the absence of the reactive groups and when a slow curing agent is employed, however, a highly connected microstructure is obtained. It was found that a blend with a connected microstructure provides significantly higher fracture toughness compared to a similar blend containing uniformly dispersed particles. The reason for this observation is that the connected morphology enables the shear bands to grow further from the crack tip and thus consume more energy before fracture occurs. Also, the yield strength in uniaxial tensile testing is significantly lower in the blend with the connected morphology. Therefore, it should contribute to a larger plastic zone size.