cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
GPX: A Tool for the Exploration and Visualization of Genome Evolution

Ever since Darwin the Tree of Life has provided a framework to study the evolution of organisms. However, comparative genome analyses of microorganisms have shown that genomes are mosaics where different parts have different histories. This is due to horizontal gene transfer that transforms the Tree of Life into a Web of Life where different parts of a genome possess different evolutionary histories. Clustering gene families based on the phylogenetic information they retain allows extracting a majority consensus for the genomes' evolution, and the determination of genes that have a conflicting phylogeny. The latter is of interest in the context of comparative genomics of prokaryotes because these conflicts point towards possible horizontal transfers of genes and metabolic pathways between divergent organisms. We have created a web-based tool gene phylogeny eXplorer, GPX (http://www.bioinformatics.cs.uri.edu/gpx/) that facilitates comparative genome analysis of different species. GPX displays results as an interactive map that allows users to explore and interpret genomic data representing gene evolution. It allows the visualization of consensus and conflicting evolutionary histories of genes which in turn supports the visual identification of possible horizontal gene transfer events. The novel aspect of our approach is that we do not try to analyze DNA sequences directly but instead use self-organizing maps to find structure (clusters) in a space spanned by all possible evolutionary relationships between the genomes in questions.
Molecular-level descriptions of surface chemistry in kinetic models using density functional theory

Electronic structure calculations based on Density Functional Theory (DFT) are increasingly used to probe reaction mechanisms on catalyst surfaces. These calculations provide information about geometries, stabilities, and reactivities of adsorbed species on various surfaces. Conducting microkinetic analysis in conjunction with DFT calculations forms a powerful combination of methodologies to allow quantitative information to be derived about catalytic reactions at the molecular level. Specifically, whereas the microkinetic approach does not make any a priori assumptions about which steps may be rate controlling or which species may be abundant on the surface, there is usually not sufficient information to extract values of all kinetic parameters from experimental data. In contrast, results from DFT calculations alone cannot be used to assess the relative rates of various pathways, because these rates depend on reaction conditions. Instead, the results from DFT calculations form initial estimates of parameters for the microkinetic model, and the microkinetic model is used to predict rates of elementary steps and surface coverages under various reaction conditions, thereby forming a bridge with reaction kinetics data and surface spectroscopic measurements. In this paper, we outline some of the concepts useful for understanding DFT calculations and for using the results of these calculations in reaction modeling. We also introduce key concepts in microkinetic analysis, and we illustrate how microkinetic models are used to probe reaction pathways, reaction orders, and surface coverages for the decomposition of methanol on platinum.
Overamplification of macronuclear linear DNA molecules during prolonged vegetative growth of Oxytricha nova.

Abstract During prolonged vegetative growth of a clonal line of Oxytricha nova, several macronuclear linear DNA molecules increased greatly in copy number over the rest of the approx. 24 000 kinds of molecules comprising the macronuclear genome. One of the amplified sequences was the linear DNA molecule encoding rRNA (rDNA). We have cloned and sequenced the other, smaller, amplified molecules and found that they comprise a gene family, with different allelic versions of one of the family members being amplified. Thus, increased replication is a general property of the molecules comprising this gene family. To date, no function has been assigned to these genes; thus, whether the amplification of these sequences has functional significance is unknown. The rDNA molecule and the two small amplified sequences increased 11-, 24- and 107-fold, respectively, during clonal growth of this line, eventually comprising up to 15% of the macronuclear DNA molecules. Seven other macronuclear DNA molecules did not vary substantially in copy number at different times during the clonal growth of this strain. Analysis of cell-to-cell differences in copy numbers in this clonally aged strain indicated more extensive variation than is evident when large populations from different times are compared.
Analysis of low-voltage mixed-signal circuits under device variations

Aggressive supply voltage scaling has become the most effective way to reduce power dissipation in today's mobile battery-powered electronic circuits. However, extreme sensitivity to device variations in low-voltage electronics has made design of such systems extremely complicated. In this paper, a new analytical model for device variations is derived. Based on the new model, the impact of device variations on low-voltage analog and digital circuits in a projected 22nm process technology is investigated.
Competent patient care is dependent upon attending to empathic opportunities presented during interview sessions.

Abstract Objective Core competencies in surgical education and clinical care rely on effective patient-physician communication. We aim to develop quantitative and empirical tools for understanding critical communication tasks during patient interviews. Methods Residents in surgical training and attending physicians were separately video recorded during stressful, first visit oncology patient interview sessions. Taped sessions (n = 16) were analyzed in detail to identify and label patient-initiated actions (PIAs), or “empathic opportunities,” that call for recognition or action from the caregiver. Doctor-responsive actions (DRAs) were labeled as matching to, or missing from, each empathic opportunity. Missed empathic opportunities occurred when a PIA did not have an associated DRA. Presession and postsession surveys queried the patient's perception of how well their health-care needs were met. Results Resident trainees and attending physicians missed 70% of 160 clearly identified empathic opportunities. There was no clear association with the level of physician training. This pilot study did not have enough power to discern differences in patient satisfaction. Conclusions Physicians are often not very attentive to empathic opportunities offered by patients. Individual feedback and training regarding empathic opportunities in recorded patient communication encounters may improve resident and physician core competencies. These improvements may affect patient satisfaction related to these encounters.
Hedgehog Signaling in Tumor Cells Facilitates Osteoblast-Enhanced Osteolytic Metastases

The remodeling process in bone yields numerous cytokines and chemokines that mediate crosstalk between osteoblasts and osteoclasts and also serve to attract and support metastatic tumor cells. The metastatic tumor cells disturb the equilibrium in bone that manifests as skeletal complications. The Hedgehog (Hh) pathway plays an important role in skeletogenesis. We hypothesized that the Hh pathway mediates an interaction between tumor cells and osteoblasts and influences osteoblast differentiation in response to tumor cells. We have determined that breast tumor cells have an activated Hh pathway characterized by upregulation of the ligand, IHH and transcription factor GLI1. Breast cancer cells interact with osteoblasts and cause an enhanced differentiation of pre-osteoblasts to osteoblasts that express increased levels of the osteoclastogenesis factors, RANKL and PTHrP. There is sustained expression of osteoclast-promoting factors, RANKL and PTHrP, even after the osteoblast differentiation ceases and apoptosis sets in. Moreover, tumor cells that are deficient in Hh signaling are compromised in their ability to induce osteoblast differentiation and consequently are inefficient in causing osteolysis. The stimulation of osteoblast differentiation sets the stage for osteoclast differentiation and overall promotes osteolysis. Thus, in the process of developing newer therapeutic strategies against breast cancer metastasis to bone it would worthwhile to keep in mind the role of the Hh pathway in osteoblast differentiation in an otherwise predominant osteolytic phenomenon.
A new electron gun for picture display with low-drive signals

The paper discribes an approach to the problem of picture tube guns for small signal service. A Pierce-type cathode delivers a collimated parallel beam of 1600 microamperes at 250 volts (microperveance: 0.4). This beam is injected into a cylindrical cavity of appreciable length (3/4-inch long, 1/4-inch diameter). It is focused upon a small aperture at the far end using a parabolic axis potential. This axial focusing field is approximated by three cylinder segments at two intermediate voltages. To modulate the beam by lateral deflection, the cavity is again bisected through an axial plane and signal voltage is set up between half cylinders. This modulation by two crossed-electrostatic fields ("CFM" modulation) has been successfully applied in transistorized television, using a seven-volt video signal on a beam of 900 microamperes.
Improving stability in the double-cantilever-beam fracture test

Abstract The double-cantilever-beam test is typical of traditional fracture tests used to determine critical stress intensity factor or critical energy release rates. In its basic fixed-grip configuration, it should allow a number of data points to be taken during a slow controlled crack propagation. Machine compliance and initial machined-notch bluntness may, however, cause the crack to propagate catastrophically in brittle materials. This letter deals with the use of externally applied closure forces to improve the crack growth stability in brittle materials.
Magnesium borohydride as a hydrogen storage material: Properties and dehydrogenation pathway of unsolvated Mg(BH4)2

The decomposition of crystalline magnesium borohydride upon heating was studied using thermal desorption, calorimetry, in situ X-ray diffraction, and solid state NMR. Hydrogen release from Mg(BH4)2 occurs in at least four steps via formation of several polyborane intermediate species and includes an exothermic reaction yielding crystalline MgH2 as an intermediate. The decomposition products may be only partially recharged after the very first step and also via hydrogenation of Mg metal. The intermediate formation of amorphous MgB12H12, was confirmed by 11B NMR. A four-stage pathway for the thermal decomposition of Mg(BH4)2 is proposed.
The Egyptian movement for change: Intellectual antecedents and generational conflicts

The aim of this article is to account for the origins, to analyze the character and, to some extent, assess the significance of the recently increasing coordination among these various oppositional elements in Egypt that had in many respects backed themselves into an ideological corner by the shrill character, as well as sheer volume, of discourse aimed at criticizing, discrediting, even demonizing their political opponents. While much of the focus here is on the groups that that are often grouped with the now well known Egyptian Movement for Change, or Kifaya, is not only the existence of this ideologically diverse grouping, but the links it has created with the country’s largest opposition group, the Muslim Brotherhood, that reveals the most about the changing landscape of Egyptian politics.
Sorghum grain processing and buffer addition for early lactation cows

Abstract Thirty-six early lactation cows (51 DIM) were used in an 8-wk trial (3 × 2 factorial) to compare sorghum grain processed by dry rolling or steam flaking to .40 or .27 kg/L bulk density in TMR with or without 1% buffer (sodium sesquicarbonate). Mixed diets (16% CP) contained 42% sorghum grain with alfalfa hay as the forage source. When grain was steam flaked to .40 kg/L (31 lb/bu), milk yield was increased, and efficiency was improved, without decreasing intake or milk fat percentage. Further processing of the grain to a flake density of .27 kg/L (21 lb/bu) depressed intake and milk fat percentage, and inclusion of buffer in the diet did not alleviate these problems. Steam flaking sorghum grain increased DM, OM, starch, and CP digestibilities; lowered ruminal ammonia and acetate to propionate ratio; and increased fecal pH. The sodium sesquicarbonate buffer did not influence diet digestibility, milk fat percentage, or ruminal pH, but it increased acetate to propionate ratio in ruminal fluid. Cows fed the buffered diets consumed less feed, which resulted in increased gross efficiency. Compared with dry rolling, steam flaking the sorghum grain to .40 kg/L improved performance, but the lowest flake density was detrimental, and effects were not alleviated by inclusion of 1% buffer in the diet.
Strategic planning for power system restoration

This paper considers the power system restoration planning problem (PSRPP) for disaster recovery, a fundamental problem faced by all populated areas. PSRPPs are complex stochastic optimization problems that combine resource allocation, warehouse location, and vehicle routing considerations. Furthermore, electrical power systems are complex systems whose behavior can only be determined by physics simulations. Moreover, these problems must be solved under tight runtime constraints to be practical in real-world disaster situations. This work is three fold: (1) it formalizes the specification of PSRPPs; (2) introduces a simple optimization-simulation hybridization necessary for solving PSRPPs; and (3) presents a complete restoration algorithm that utilizes the strengths of mixed integer programming, constraint programming, and large neighborhood search. This paper studied a novel problem in the field of humanitarian logistics, the Power System Restoration Problem (PSRPP). The PSRPP models the strategic planning process for post disaster power system recovery. The paper proposed a multi-stage stochastic hybrid optimization algorithm that yields high quality solutions to real-world benchmarks provided by Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). The algorithm uses a variety of technologies, including MIP, constraint programming, and large neighborhood search, to exploit the structure of each individual optimization subproblem. The experimental results on hurricane disaster benchmarks indicatemore » that the algorithm is practical from a computational standpoint and produce significant improvements over existing relief delivery procedures.« less
Charge-induced asymmetric phonon broadening in C60.

We observed photoinduced splittings of the triply degenerate infrared-active mode associated with radial motion at 527 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ due to the coupling of phonons to the band excitations (electrons and holes) in ${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$. Furthermore, we found a remarkable temperature-dependent asymmetric linewidth broadening on the high-frequency-side lobe of the 576.7-${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ mode with an onset at T\ensuremath{\approxeq}30 K, suggesting an additional frequency-dependent damping mechanism involving the phonon-electron scattering at low temperatures.
Toward the "ideal" inhibitor of NETs.

In this issue of Blood , Rossaint et al provide new mechanistic insights into how activated platelets signal to polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs), trigger neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation, and contribute to inflammatory tissue damage. 1
In situ study of the hydrogenation of quinoline over a Ni-Mo supported catalyst

Abstract In situ EXAFS measurements were performed on a Ni-Mo supported catalyst. This catalyst consisted of 13.5% Mo and 2.6% Ni on γ-alumina and was sulfided prior to the measurements. The hydrogenation of quinoline at 420°C was studied using a specially designed high temperature and pressure reactor for EXAFS and XANES measurements. The local environments of Ni and Mo were studied using their respective K edges. The measurements were made inside the reactor, before, during and after the reactions. Significant changes occur in the local structure around the Mo atoms during the reactions. There is evidence of migration of Ni atoms during the reactions. The Ni atoms move to the edges of MoS 2 slabs and distance characteristics of Mo-Ni are observed. In addition NiAl 2 O 4 and NiO are identified.
An experiment to change medical education and medical care in Argentina (A personal essay)

Abstract In 1959, an innovative medical program was launched in Argentina, which gradually evolved into a demonstration project encompassing three distinct but interrelated programs: (a) a graduate program for advanced training in internal medicine, (b) an undergraduate program in community medicine and behavioral sciences, and (c) a program designed to organize and test the feasibility of a prepaid group practice health plan based on a teaching hospital. Although differing in scope and immediate objectives, the three programs shared the single purpose of furthering the advancement of medicine and promoting a needed change in the patterns of delivery of care and medical education. For those who planned and developed this program, the goal was to create a coherent organization, integrating mutually interacting elements. By this standard, the threefold experiment must be reckoned a failure. Yet, some changes were achieved which in Argentina were considered important. Some of the factors involved, of course, were essentially local, prescribed by the political, economical and social circumstances prevailing in Argentina at the time. On the other hand, the experience and fate of the program may contain more universal meaning. In spite of its failure to achieve the stated major goals, there was achieved a limited demonstration of the feasibility of change in Argentina's current approach to health care and medical education. The primary task of this paper will be to describe this demonstration project, called CEMIC (Centro de Educacion Medica e Investigaciones Clinicas). In recapitulating the history of CEMIC, some critical analysis will be attempted especially with reference to its meaning for the organization and delivery of health care and medical education, but the main effort will be on reproducing the essential elements of the experience.
C3v Symmetric Receptors Show High Selectivity and High Affinity for Phosphate

The binding of phosphate to tripodal metalloreceptors 1 and 2 is reported. Receptors 1 and 2 are C3v symmetric, designed to complement three sides of a tetrahedron. The receptors derive from tripodal ligands that are preorganized through binding to a central Cu(II) atom. These metalloreceptors demonstrate high selectivity and affinity for the molecular recognition of phosphate in aqueous media at neutral pH. The binding of phosphate and other anions to the cavities of receptors 1 and 2 was monitored by UV/vis titration techniques. Binding algorithms were used to determine the affinity of phosphate to 1 and 2 with association values (Ka) of 2.5 × 104 and 1.5 × 104 M-1, respectively.
Using SP-Frames for Error Resilience in Optimized Video Streaming

SP-frame is a new picture type of H.264 that can identically reconstruct a picture using any one of several reference frames. In this paper, we discuss how this property can be exploited for controlling error propagation caused by packet losses. We first illustrate the benefits of the scheme through example. We then present results for optimized streaming where PSNR performance of a proposed usage of SP-frames is compared to that of P-frames only. Results show that using SP-frames can noticeably reduce distortion caused by burst packet losses compare to schemes based on P-frames only.
UV/VUV radiometric calibrations at SURF II

Since 1981 more than 150 instrument calibrations have been performed on the radiometric instrumentation calibration beamline at the Synchrotron Ultraviolet Radiation Facility (SURF II) at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, Maryland. This 300 MeV electron storage ring operates routinely at electron currents greater than 250 mA. The spectrometer calibration beamline provides a continuum of radiation from 4 nm through the visual spectral region in the form of an intense beam with total angular divergence of 1.2 mrad. The probable uncertainty for the flux ranges from about 5 percent at 4 nm to less than 2 percent above 20 nm. The new system will radiometrically trace to SURF II, and thus is expected to reduce the calibration uncertainty for diodes in this region by a factor of five to the 1-2 percent level.
Integrated micro-optical fluorescence detection system for microfluidic electrochromatography

The authors describe the design and microfabrication of an extremely compact optical system as a key element in an integrated capillary-channel electrochromatograph with laser induced fluorescence detection. The optical design uses substrate-mode propagation within the fused silica substrate. The optical system includes a vertical cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) array, two high performance microlenses and a commercial photodetector. The microlenses are multilevel diffractive optics patterned by electron beam lithography and etched by reactive ion etching in fused silica. Two generations of optical subsystems are described. The first generation design is integrated directly onto the capillary channel-containing substrate with a 6 mm separation between the VCSEL and photodetector. The second generation design separates the optical system onto its own module and the source to detector length is further compressed to 3.5 mm. The systems are designed for indirect fluorescence detection using infrared dyes. The first generation design has been tested with a 750 nm VCSEL exciting a 10{sup -4} M solution of CY-7 dye. The observed signal-to-noise ratio of better than 100:1 demonstrates that the background signal from scattered pump light is low despite the compact size of the optical system and meets the system sensitivity requirements.
Extreme anisotropy of wave propagation in two-dimensional photonic crystals

We demonstrate that electromagnetic waves propagating in square and hexagonal photonic crystals can have fundamentally different anisotropy properties. The wave frequency and group velocity can be functions of the propagation direction even for vanishingly small wave numbers (near the gamma-point). This anisotropy, present in square but absent in hexagonal lattices, can be so extreme that the group velocity can be either parallel or antiparallel to the phase velocity depending on the propagation direction. An analytic explanation of this effect based on the k.p perturbation theory and group-theoretical considerations is confirmed by electromagnetic simulations. One manifestation of the extreme anisotropy is the divergent van Hove singularity in the density of photonic states at the gamma-point. New applications, including surface-emitting quantum cascade lasers, are proposed.
Recent progress in color center lasers

Recent progress in the stabilization of laser-active color centers, the discovery of new color center lasers, and the development of new femtosecond sources in the infrared is discussed. The use of impurities such as oxygen to stabilize the F 2 + center is described, followed by a description of the recently discovered N-center laser. Finally, the use of color center lasers to produce femtosecond pulses in the 1.5 μm region is reviewed.
Anomie and Strain: Context and Consequences of Merton's Two Theories

Robert Merton presented two, not always clearly differentiated theories in his seminal explorations on the social-structure-and-anomie paradigm: a strain theory and an anomie theory. A one-sided focus on Merton's strain theory in the secondary literature has unnecessarily restricted the power and effectiveness of Merton's anomie theory. For although structural strain is one way to explain why deviance occurs in the context of anomie, it is not the only way. We contend that scholars who are critical of strain theory should not automatically discard Merton's anomie theory, because the perspective of anomie is compatible with several other theories of crime and delinquency. Offering examples of previous integration efforts, we maintain that Merton's theoretical model can benefit from the input of other theories of crime and deviance as much as these other theoretical perspectives can fine-tune their models and explanations.
Novel peptide sequence ("IQ-tag") with high affinity for NIR fluorochromes allows protein and cell specific labeling for in vivo imaging.

Background Probes that allow site-specific protein labeling have become critical tools for visualizing biological processes. Methods Here we used phage display to identify a novel peptide sequence with nanomolar affinity for near infrared (NIR) (benz)indolium fluorochromes. The developed peptide sequence (“IQ-tag”) allows detection of NIR dyes in a wide range of assays including ELISA, flow cytometry, high throughput screens, microscopy, and optical in vivo imaging. Significance The described method is expected to have broad utility in numerous applications, namely site-specific protein imaging, target identification, cell tracking, and drug development.
Immune regulation of immunoglobulin production in IgA-nephropathy.

Abstract Serum immunoglobulin concentrations, percentage surface IgA-positive peripheral blood lymphocytes, and PWM- and Con A-stimulated immunoglobulin production in vitro were evaluated in patients with IgA nephropathy and normal controls. Elevated levels of serum IgA and IgM were present in 46 and 62% of patients, respectively, but the absolute concentrations of IgA1 and IgA2 were not different from normal values. In comparison with controls, patients with IgA nephropathy demonstrated similar numbers of surface IgG- and IgA-positive peripheral blood lymphocytes and after stimulation with PWM and Con A their lymphocytes produced similar amounts of IgG, IgA, and IgM. Separate analysis of a subgroup of patients with severe disease demonstrated significantly higher IgG and IgM production after PWM stimulation. However, serum immunoglobulin levels were not different. The number of Ig-bearing lymphocytes and the in vitro production of IgA is normal in IgA nephropathy. Excessive production of IgG and IgM in vitro is limited to patients with severe disease.
Design and Fabrication of MOSFETs with a Reverse Embedded SiGe (Rev. e-SiGe) Structure

A novel device structure containing a SiGe stressor is used to impose tensile strain in nMOSFET channel. 400MPa of uniaxial tensile stress is induced in the Si channel through elastic relaxation/strain of the SiGe/Si bi-layer structure. This strain results in 40% mobility enhancement and 15% drive current improvement for sub-60nm devices compared to the control device with no strain.
Hemiballismus following closed head injury.

Received 19 January 1995; accepted 15 April 1995 Movement disorders are relatively rare after closed head injury (CHI), but when present they can be unrecognized if clinicians are not aware of their occurrence. We are presenting a case of hemiballismus which was not recognized over 3 years and was labelled as malingering or as psychosomatic. The symptoms have responded significantly to pharmacological intervention. The SPECT scan of the brain showed the lesions in the subthalamic areas while MRI, CT scans of brain and EEGs were reported normal. It is concluded that one should be aware of the existence of movement disorders after mild to moderate CHI, and that SPECT scan of the brain should be considered if a patient is symptomatic and other neuroimaging studies prove 'normal'.
Interaction of the "back" of yeast iso-1-cytochrome C with yeast cytochrome C oxidase.

Abstract The 102-S-(2-thiopyridyl) and 102-S-(4-azidophenacyl) derivatives of yeast iso-1-cytochrome c have been prepared, both containing one mole of label per mole of cytochrome c. When the 102-S-(2-thiopyridyl) cytochrome c is allowed to interact with purified, detergent-solubilized yeast cytochrome oxidase, covalent crosslinked products are formed containing 0.9 to 0.98 moles of cytochrome c per oxidase. When the 102-S-(4-azidophenacyl) cytochrome c is exposed to the oxidase in the presence of ultraviolet light, covalently crosslinked products containing 0.2 to 0.35 moles of cytochrome c per oxidase are formed. SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of these crosslinked products reveals the formation of a new band of apparent molecular weight 38,000 Daltons and the concurrent disappearance of subunit III (a crosslink of subunit III and cytochrome c). These affinity and photoaffinity crosslinking results are interpreted as evidence that the “backside” of yeast iso-1-cytochrome c interacts with subunit III of yeast cytochrome oxidase.
Finding maximum G-criterion values for central composite designs on the hypercube

For quadratic regression on the hypercube, G—efficiencies are often used in the selection process of an experimental design. To calculate a design's G—efficiency, it is necessary to maximize the prediction variance over the experimental design region. However, it is common to approximate a G—efficiency. This is achieved by calculating the prediction variances generated from a subset of points in the design space and taking the maximum to estimate the maximum prediction variance. This estimate is then applied to approximate the G—efficiency. In this paper, it will be shown that over the class of central composite designs (CCDs) on the hypercube. the prediction variance can be expressed in a closed-form. An exact value of the maximum prediction variance can then be determined by evaluating this closed-form expression over a finite subset of barycentric points. Tables of exact G—efficiencies will be presented. Design optimality criteria, quadratic regression on the hypercube, and the structures of the design...
Synthesis and properties of cell-targeted Zn(II)-phthalocyanine-peptide conjugates.

Two Zn−Pc−peptide conjugates bearing either a short linker or a long PEG−linker between the macrocycle and a bifunctional peptide containing the nucleoplasmin and HIV-1 Tat 48−60 sequences have been synthesized in order to increase the Pc cell-targeting ability and to evaluate the effect of the linker. The presence of the peptide chain increased the water solubility of the Pc macrocycle and, consequently, its fluorescence in aqueous solutions. The highest fluorescence quantum yields were observed at low pH (5.0) for both conjugates and were always higher for the conjugate bearing the short linker. Both conjugates were found to have low dark cytotoxicity toward human HEp2 cells (IC50 > 77 μM) but were highly phototoxic (IC50 < 2 μM at 1 J cm-2). The conjugate bearing the long PEG−linker accumulated the most within cells (26 times more than the unconjugated Zn−Pc), followed by the short linker conjugate (17 times more than the unconjugated Zn−Pc). Both conjugates were found to localized preferentially withi...
Performance characteristics of an orthovoltage x-ray therapy machine

Performance characteristics sufficient to provide physical data base specific to the Siemen’s Stabilipan 2 orthovoltage x‐ray therapy machine are presented. Operating conditions covering the working range of the unit from 100 to 300 kVp are selected. Beam quality, output, the central axis depth dose, relative output factors, field flatness, uniformity index, and filtration characteristics of the beams are studied. Selected results are reported.
Cooperative effects in plasmonics: Superfluorescence near metal nanostructures

We develop a theory of cooperative emission of light by an ensemble of emitters, such as fluorescing molecules or semiconductor quantum dots, located near a metal nanostructure supporting surface plasmon. The primary mechanism of cooperative emission in such systems is resonant energy transfer between emitters and plasmons rather than the Dicke radiative coupling between emitters. We identify two types of plasmonic coupling between the emitters, (i) plasmon-enhanced radiative coupling and (ii) plasmon-assisted nonradiative energy transfer, the competition between them governing the structure of system eigenstates. Specifically, when emitters are removed by more than several nm from the metal surface, the emission is dominated by three superradiant states with the same quantum yield as a single emitter, resulting in a drastic reduction of ensemble radiated energy, while at smaller distances cooperative behavior is destroyed by nonradiative transitions. The crossover between two regimes can be observed in distance dependence of ensemble quantum efficiency. Our numerical calculations incorporating direct and plasmon-assisted interactions between the emitters indicate that they do not destroy the plasmonic Dicke effect.
Drosophila stretchin-MLCK is a novel member of the Titin/Myosin light chain kinase family.

Abstract Members of the titin/myosin light chain kinase family play an essential role in the organization of the actin/myosin cytoskeleton, especially in sarcomere assembly and function. In Drosophila melanogaster , projectin is so far the only member of this family for which a transcription unit has been characterized. The locus of another member of this family, a protein related to Myosin light chain kinase, was also identified. The cDNA and genomic sequences published explain only the shorter transcripts expressed by this locus. Here, we report the complete molecular characterization of this transcription unit, which spans 38 kb, includes 33 exons and accounts for transcripts up to 25 kb in length. This transcription unit contains both the largest exon (12,005 nt) and the largest coding region (25,213 nt) reported so far for Drosophila . This transcription unit features both internal promoters and internal polyadenylation signals, which enable it to express seven different transcripts, ranging from 3.3 to 25 kb in size. The latter encodes a huge, titin-like, 926 kDa kinase that features two large PEVK-rich repeats, 32 immunoglobulin and two fibronectin type-III domains, which we designate stretchin-MLCK. In addition, the 3′ end of the stretchin-MLCK transcription unit expresses shorter transcripts that encode 86 to 165 kDa isoforms of stretchin-MLCK that are analogous to vertebrate Myosin light chain kinases. Similarly, the 5′ end of the Stretchin-Mlck transcription unit can also express transcripts encoding kettin and Unc-89-like isoforms, which share no sequences with the MLCK-like transcripts. Thus, this locus can be viewed as a single transcription unit, Stretchin-Mlck (genetic abbreviation Strn-Mlck ), that expresses large, composite transcripts and protein isoforms (sequences available at http://www.academicpress.com/jmb), as well as a complex of two independent transcription units, the Stretchin and Mlck transcription units ( Strn and Mlck , respectively) the result of a “gene fission” event, that encode independent transcripts and proteins with distinct structural and enzymatic functions.
A ray of hope? Another look at the Italian textile industry

Despite increasing competition from newly industrializing countries, Italy’s textile industry has continued to be an important contributor to the domestic economy. Many observers attribute this resilience to the industry’s focus on quality. Here, we take note of that view but also examine production and cost relationships to explore the existence of returns to scale and the interrelationships among inputs to gain additional insights about the future prospects for this industry. The findings are consistent with constant returns to scale and a substitute relationship between all input pairs except for domestic capital and foreign intermediate goods. The results also suggest some increasing flexibility in the labor market, perhaps including informal sector arrangements, greater responsiveness of labor demand to the price of capital, and more international production sharing arrangements. An increasing elasticity over time of the demands for domestic capital and domestic intermediate goods with respect to the price of foreign substitutes was also observed. Since further economies of scale do not exist, maintaining the Italian textile industry’s reputation for outstanding quality will likely be an important survival strategy for some products. For others, production sharing may be necessary to maintain international competitiveness.
Magnetic resonance first-pass myocardial perfusion imaging: clinical validation and future applications.

Clinical studies suggest that magnetic resonance first-pass (MRFP) perfusion imaging is comparable to current diagnostic tests that are used clinically for the assessment of myocardial perfusion. In addition, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) perfusion imaging is a noninvasive method for determining myocardial blood flow. The spatial resolution (in-plane spatial resolution < 3 mm) is sufficient to differentiate between subendocardial perfusion and subepicardial perfusion. The measurement can be repeated regularly without any adverse effects for the patient. MRI perfusion measurements can be combined with the evaluation of global function and regional wall thickening. Currently, there is no other imaging technique that offers similar advantages. The MRI perfusion measurements can be carried out during baseline conditions and during maximal hyperemia induced with either adenosine or dipyridamole. The ratio of the measured myocardial blood flows provides an estimate of the absolute and relative myocardial perfusion reserve. The perfusion reserve determined with MRFP imaging is a quantitative measure for the assessment of the collateral-dependent myocardial flow. Based on the available data using MRFP perfusion imaging, the current clinical first-line perfusion imaging tests are going to be challenged in the near future. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 1999;10:676–685. © 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Influence of particulate fillers on the indentation hardness of a glassy cross-linked polymer

The indentation hardness of a glassy cross-linked network was decreased to a minimum value by a low volume fraction (0.03 to 0.05) of each of six fillers having rigid particles varying in size and surface. This “minimum” effect was eliminated after specimens were more highly cross-linked by prolonged exposure to γ-rays. These results are consistent with an earlier suggestion that filler particles act as stress concentrators which may cause increased localized plastic deformation and hence a decreased indentation hardness. In the case of larger particles, morphological evidence of localized plastic deformation was obtained by fractography.
Assessing Early Intervention Outcomes: Beyond Program Variables.

THE EARLY INTERVENTION field is witnessing some major shifts in the focus of efficacy research. The traditional preoccupation with the question as to whether early intervention works is giving way to greater concern with understanding how programs make their impact. While this is seen as a progressive shift, much of the focus has so far been placed on how specific dimensions of the intervention process contribute to outcomes. Little attention has been paid to extra‐program variables which impinge upon or interact with the intervention process to shape outcomes. This paper presents the perspective that an intervention program is only one of many factors with potential influence on child and family functioning. Consequently program efficacy must be assessed in relation to both program and extra‐program variables. A framework outlining five classes of “independent” variables and two classes of outcomes to be considered in efficacy research is presented. Regression and path analytic techniques are presented a...
Airflow measurements: theory and utility of findings.

Summary The biomechanical movements of vocal structures are shown to control flow of expiratory air for the production of speech sounds. Laminar and turbulent air flow are discussed as they relate to sound generation. Theoretic and therapeutic utility of air flow profiles in differentiating linguistic contrasts and vocal characteristics are discussed along with considerations of relative utility and accuracy for various flow-measuring devices and strategies.
Neural activation for conceptual identification of correct versus incorrect tool–object pairs

Appropriate tool-object pairing is a natural part of our lives. When preparing to clean our teeth, we know that a toothbrush is useful, but not a screwdriver. The neural correlates of this pairing process remain unclear. We recorded 64-channel electroencephalography to determine neural correlates of identification of tool-object matches and mismatches. Subjects were shown a target tool (e.g. spoon) later paired with an object that was either a conceptual match (e.g. bowl) or mismatch (e.g. wood). To verify that activity was not related to general concept of match-mismatch, in a second condition subjects saw non-tool environmental items (e.g. bird) later paired with a conceptual match (e.g. nest) or mismatch (e.g. spider web). Analysis was focused on time bins after each picture, using standardized low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA). Tool-object match versus mismatch revealed significant differences in the posterior cingulate, precuneus, left insula and superior temporal gyrus. These patterns were not present for environmental match versus mismatch. This work suggests a specific network in comprehending tool-based pairings, but not extensive to other pairings. The posterior cingulate, precuneus, insula and superior temporal gyrus preferentially differentiates tool-object matching and mismatching, identifying a potential locus related to impairments in comprehending appropriate and inappropriate tool-object relationships that arise after neural injury.
Distorted-wave approach to reference-beam x-ray diffraction in transmission cases

The conventional distorted-wave theory for x-ray scattering from surfaces is expanded to account for phasesensitive reference-beam diffraction in bulk crystals. The expanded theory, presented here for the transmission geometry that is suitable for biological specimens, provides a simple intensity formula with an explicit dependence on the phases of the structure factors. Numerical results show excellent agreement with full dynamical calculations. Based on this theory, a universal optimal condition is proposed for maximizing the referencebeam interference effects in an experiment.
Analysis of ion charge states in solar wind and CMEs

We discuss needs in dielectronic recombination data motivated by recent work directed at a quantitative understanding of ion charge states of various elements observed in situ in the solar wind and CMEs. The competing processes of ionization and recombination lead to departures from collision ionization equilibrium. The use of this as a diagnostic of acceleration and heating processes of the solar wind and CMEs is sensitive to the accuracy of the atomic rates in a way that steady state ionization equilibrium plasmas are not. The most pressing need is dielectronic recombination rates for ions Fe8+-12+. These are among the dominant species observed in various regions of the solar wind and CMEs, and in remotely sensed EUV spectra.
Large scale preparation of homogeneous bacteriorhodopsin.

Abstract Homogeneous bacteriorhodopsin was obtained preparatively (100 mg batches) from purple membrane of Halobacterium halobium cells. The homogeneity of the protein was considerably affected by variations in the growth conditions of the bacteria. Fully maturated bacteriorhodopsin having a blocked N-terminus and a homogeneous C-terminus, was reproducibly obtained when cells were grown in a sufficiently aerated medium.
What Does the Sky Tell Us about the Camera

As the main observed illuminant outdoors, the sky is a rich source of information about the scene. However, it is yet to be fully explored in computer vision because its appearance depends on the sun position, weather conditions, photometric and geometric parameters of the camera, and the location of capture. In this paper, we propose the use of a physically-based sky model to analyze the information available within the visible portion of the sky, observed over time. By fitting this model to an image sequence, we show how to extract camera parameters such as the focal length, and the zenith and azimuth angles. In short, the sky serves as a geometric calibration target. Once the camera parameters are recovered, we show how to use the same model in two applications: 1) segmentation of the sky and cloud layers, and 2) data-driven sky matching across different image sequences based on a novel similarity measure defined on sky parameters. This measure, combined with a rich appearance database, allows us to model a wide range of sky conditions.
An extended unifying approach to multi-target tracking

By means of global modeling of multitarget tracking (MTT), data-association and maneuver-estimation problems can be simultaneously solved using system identification techniques. With this approach, previously developed single-target tracking-acceleration estimation techniques can also be directly used for the MTT problem. In particular multiple-model (adaptive) Kalman filtering (MMKF) can be used to obtain the optimal solution. For computational considerations, one can apply some suboptimal solutions of MMKF such as one-step conditional maximum likelihood or maximum posteriori estimation. >
Direct one step preparation and 13C-NMR spectroscopic characterization of alpha-ferrocenyl carbocations derived from ferrocene and carbonyl compounds in trifluoroacetic acid medium1a

Reaction of aldehydes and ketones with ferrocene, in the presence of trifluoroacetic acid, afforded a series of stable long lived a-ferrocenylalkyl carbocations which were characterized by 13C-NMR spectroscopy. When this reaction was attempted using tetraphenylcyclopentadienone, quite unexpectedly the corresponding dihydro derivative 3 was isolated, in very good yield. Formation of this compound may require ferrocene acting as a reducing agent.
Rational targeting of Notch signaling in breast cancer.

Recent evidence indicates that Notch signaling plays an important oncogenic role in breast cancer. Furthermore, a number of reports show that Notch regulates the fate of breast cancer stem cells as...
Everybody's Life is Like a Spiral: Narrating Post-Fordism in the Lifestyle Movement of the 1970s

What has been variously termed the post-Fordist turn in the social and economic organization of Western societies describes (among other things) the demise of a middle class professional culture and the emergence of a new lifestyle morality of expressive self realization. This study examines the role played by selection of lifestyle innovators in this process: through an interpretive study of narratives of moral change, the shift from the old professional morality to the new lifestyle morality is interpreted as a story of learned relaxation and impulsive release. Drawing material from over 83 lifestyle publications and 34 open-ended biographical interviews, the importance of this vanguard lifestyle movement is related to a wider historical consideration of the moral culture of the American middle class, and to an overview of theories of the post-Fordist turn.