cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
"The Powers of the Heavens Shall Eat of My Smoke": The Significance of Scalping in Pawnee Warfare

This study examines the cultural significance of scalping among the Pawnee Indians. Pawnee warriors took scalps to obtain spiritual power. When sacrificed in a special ceremony, scalps ensured the vitality and well-being of the Pawnee people. Sacrificing scalps also raised the status of men in Pawnee society and improved their prospects for marriage. Scalps were also taken to avenge the killing of tribal members by enemies, to strengthen diplomatic ties, or to end the mourning period of people who had lost a friend or relative. The quest for scalps could be a reason to launch military expeditions.
Hierarchical scaffolding of an ERK1/2 activation pathway

Scaffold proteins modulate cellular signaling by facilitating assembly of specific signaling pathways. However, there is at present little information if and how scaffold proteins functionally interact with each other. Here, we show that two scaffold proteins, caveolin-1 and IQGAP1, are required for phosphorylation of the actin associated pool of extracellular signal regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) in response to protein kinase C activation. We show by immunofluorescence and proximity ligation assays, that IQGAP1 tethers ERK1/2 to actin filaments. Moreover, siRNA experiments demonstrate that IQGAP1 is required for activation of actin-bound ERK1/2. Caveolin-1 is also necessary for phosphorylation of actin-bound ERK1/2 in response to protein kinase C, but is dispensible for ERK1/2 association with actin. Simultaneous knock down of caveolin-1 and IQGAP1 decreases total phorbol ester-induced ERK1/2 phosphorylation to the same degree as single knock down of either caveolin-1 or IQGAP1, indicating that caveolin-1 and IQGAP1 operate in the same ERK activation pathway. We further show that caveolin-1 knock down, but not IQGAP1 knock down, reduces C-Raf phosphorylation in response to phorbol ester stimulation. Based on our data, we suggest that caveolin-1 and IQGAP1 assemble distinct signaling modules, which are then linked in a hierarchical arrangement to generate a functional ERK1/2 activation pathway.
Structure and activity of glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchors of Plasmodium falciparum

The glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchors of Plasmodium falciparum are thought to be etiologic agents of malaria based on their ability to induce proinflammatory cytokine production by macrophages and cause symptoms that resemble severe malaria illness in animals. This review summarizes the published information on the structures of P. falciparum GPIs, structure-activity relationship, and anti-GPI antibodies in the host.
X-Ray crystal structure of trimethylsilylmethyllithium

Abstract The solid state structure of trimethylsilylmethyllithium has been determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction techniques. The compound crystallizes in the monoclinic system, space group P 2 1 / n . Cell dimensions were determined as follows: a 10.931(3), b 18.397(6), c 21.490(8) A, β 96.0(2)°, V 4298(2) A 3 , Z = 4, and a final R f 5.1% based on 2203 data with σ( I ) ≥ 2.5σ( I ). The compound is formed by hexameric units, {LiCH 2 Si(CH 3 ) 3 } 6 , with two distinct classes of LiLi distances of 2.46 and 3.18 A. There are also two LiC distances av 2.20 and 2.27 A. The LiH distances to the methylene H atoms have been determined and are short varying between 2.0 and 2.3 A to the closest lithium atom. The structure, including possible LiH interactions, is discussed and compared with the other known hexameric aggregates.
Cigarette smoke augments asbestos-induced alveolar epithelial cell injury: role of free radicals

Cigarette smoke augments asbestos-induced bronchogenic carcinoma by mechanisms that are not established. Alveolar epithelial cell (AEC) injury due to oxidant-induced DNA damage and depletion of glutathione (GSH) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) may be one important mechanism. We previously showed that amosite asbestos-induces hydroxyl radical production and DNA damage to cultured AEC and that phytic acid, an iron chelator, is protective. We hypothesized that whole cigarette smoke extracts (CSE) augment amosite asbestos-induced AEC injury by generating iron-induced free radicals that damage DNA and reduce cellular GSH and ATP levels. Asbestos or CSE each caused dose-dependent toxicity to AEC (WI-26 and rat alveolar type I-like cells) as assessed by 51chromium release. The combination of asbestos (5 microg/cm2) and CSE (0.O1-0.1%) caused synergistic injury whereas higher doses of each agent primarily had an additive toxic effect. Asbestos (5 microg/cm2) augmented CSE-induced (0.01-1.0%) AEC DNA damage over a 4 h exposure period as assessed by an alkaline unwinding, ethidium bromide fluorometric technique. These effects were synergistic in A549 cells and additive in WI-26 cells. Asbestos (5 microg/cm2) and CSE (0.5-1.0%) reduced A549 and WI-26 cell GSH levels as assessed spectrophotometrically and ATP levels as assessed by luciferin/luciferase chemiluminescence but a synergistic interaction was not detected. Phytic acid (500 microM) and catalase (100 microg/ml) each attenuated A549 cell DNA damage and depletion of ATP caused by asbestos and CSE. However, neither agent attenuated WI-26 cell DNA damage nor the reductions in GSH levels in WI-26 and A549 cells exposed to asbestos and CSE. We conclude that CSE enhance asbestos-induced DNA damage in cultured alveolar epithelial cells. These data provide additional support that asbestos and cigarette smoke are genotoxic to relevant target cells in the lung and that iron-induced free radicals may in part cause these effects.
Moment-by-moment variation in experts' analytic and intuitive cognitive activity

Moment-by-moment variation in the use of intuitive and analytical cognition by experts engaged in a complex judgment task is analyzed. Six highway engineers were asked to think aloud while producing formulas that expressed their knowledge of how highway aesthetics, safety, and capacity are determined by sets of relevant factors. Each engineer's statements were measured with multiple indices of the use of intuitive or analytical cognition, thus producing a moment-by-moment measure of the engineer's cognitive activity. Measures reflecting the rate of alternation between intuition and analysis, as well as patterns of change over time, were derived from this. The subtask the engineer was engaged in at each moment was also measured. >
Early development and composition of the human primordial plexiform layer: An immunohistochemical study.

The early expression of reelin, calcium-binding proteins (calretinin, calbindin, and parvalbumin), and neurofilament proteins have been explored in the developing central nervous system of human embryos and fetuses during the first trimester of gestation. Our objective has been to determine further the nature, developmental roles, and contributions of the early neurons and fibers of the original subpial neuropil, i.e., the primordial plexiform layer (PPL). In young embryos (4-5 weeks old), neurofilament protein-labeled fibers run through the subpial neuropil of the caudal portion of the neural tube, reaching the mesencephalon rostrally. At this age, calretinin-immunoreactive and calbindin-immunoreactive neurons are also found among cells already detached from the ventricular zone. The expression of neurofilament protein, calretinin, and calbindin follows an ascending caudorostral gradient, reaching the cerebral vesicles by the 6th-7th week of gestation. In the cerebral cortex, this timing coincides with the initial expression of reelin in the PPL. The reelin immunoreactivity throughout the most superficial cellular population of the cortical PPL supports the early genesis of Cajal-Retzius cells, around the 6th week of gestation. After the splitting of the PPL by the formation of the cortical plate (7-8 weeks of gestation), reelin-immunoreactive cells remain only in the newly established layer I. This study proposes that an initial PPL may be a universal feature of the developing central nervous system.
Coming Out Issues of Gay and Lesbian Mental Health Professionals in Voluntary and Involuntary Settings

Abstract Mental health professionals are increasingly called upon to provide consultation and treatment in settings different from the traditional outpatient and hospital inpatient settings. This paper provides an overview of the unique problems posed when considering self-disclosure by gay or lesbian mental health professionals working with institutionalized populations. A review of literature concerning self-disclosure to patients in outpatient settings is provided and applied to institutionalized settings. Benefits of, as well as cautionary notes regarding, self-disclosure of homosexuality by mental health staff are reviewed.
Evaluation of a risk scoring system as a predictor of preterm birth in an indigent population.

Abstract A risk scoring system designed to predict spontaneous preterm birth was implemented in a large, indigent population as part of a multicenter trial of preterm birth prevention. A total of 7478 women with singleton gestations were screened and followed up prospectively at the Birmingham project center. Patients who had an indicated preterm delivery or a fetal anomaly were excluded from the study population. Analysis by assigned risk score and parity showed that, whereas the sensitivity and positive predictive value were better in multiparous women than in nulliparous women, overall the values were low. Logistic regression analyses of the multiparous and nulliparous populations showed independent sets of significant ( p ≤ 0.05) risk variables. A history of preterm delivery and a low prepregnancy weight were the most predictive risk factors in the multiparous and nulliparous models, respectively. We conclude that the clinical usefulness of a risk scoring system to predict spontaneous preterm birth in an indigent population is limited.
Low-dose epinephrine supports plasma glucose in fasted elderly patients with type 2 diabetes

Recent studies inidicate that endogenous epinephrine provides protection against hypoglycemia in fasted elderly patients with type 2 diabetes treated with sulfonylureas. To establish a dose-response relationship and further characterize this hormonal action, 10 subjects with type 2 diabetes aged 67 ± 1.3 years and receiving glyburide 20 mg daily were studied on 3 separate occasions. Saline placebo, half dose epinephrine ([Epi] 0.375 μg/min), and full dose Epi (0.75 μg/min) were infused during the final 10 hours of a 28-hour fast in a peired, randomized single-blind study to simulate physiologic epinephrine levels. Substrate and hormonal parameters and glucose production (R a ), disposal (R d ), and metabolic clearance rates were determined every 30 minutes. In the placebo study, the mean decline in plasma glucose during the final 10 hours of fasting was −2.7 ± 0.6 mmol/L, compared with −0.3 ± 0.3 mmol/L in the half dose Epi study and an acutal increase in glucose of 1.0 ± 0.8 mmol/L in the full dose Epi study ( P a in all 3 studies, and the glucose R d was not significantly different among the 3 study conditions. The baseline-adjusted metabolic clearance rate of glucose was significantly decreased during the epinephrine studies compared with the placebo study ( P = .01). The concentration of other counterregulatory hormones did not differ between the studies. We conclude that low physiologic concentrations of epinephrine prevent the progressive decline in plasma glucose observed during fasting in elderly sulfonylurea-treated patients with type 2 diabetes. This finding may be attributable to a relative insulin resistance induced by epinephrine, resulting in a decreased rate of glucose clearance by cells.
Deposition of apatite in mineralizing vertebrate extracellular matrices: A model of possible nucleation sites on type I collagen

The positions of charged residues in the primary sequence of amino acids comprising the molecular model of type I collagen, the major extracellular protein found in vertebrate tissues, have been earlier characterized by Chapman and Hardcastle [Chapman, J.A., and Hardcastle, R.A. (1974). The staining pattern of collagen fibrils. II. A comparison with patterns computer-generated from the amino acid sequence. Connect. Tissue Res. 2:151–159]. When the sequence of residues is packed in the quarter-staggered arrangement described originally by Hodge and Petruska [Hodge, A.J., and Petruska, J.A. (1963). Recent studies with the electron microscope on ordered aggregates of the tropocollagen macromolecule. In Aspects of Protein Structure, G.N. Ramachandran (ed.) pp. 289–300. New York: Academic Press] in two dimensions and in the quasi-hexagonal model of microfibrillar assembly and molecular packing structure in three dimensions detailed recently by Orgel et al. (Orgel, J.P.R.O., Miller, A., Irving, T.C., Fischetti,...
2020 computing: a two-way street to science's future.

To view the relationship between computing and science as a one-way street is mostly untrue today, argues Ian Foster, and will be even less true by 2020. This week's forward-looking science and computing special takes 2020 as the iconic future date. If the rate of progress in the computing industry is any guide, within 15 years nano-scale circuits will be a reality. And 2020 is now seen as possible for what was unimaginable until recently, the practical quantum computer. Another imminent revolution is ‘smart dust’: tiny sensors that monitor everything everywhere. Stephen Muggleton welcomes the data bonanza generated by automation, but argues that science is an essentially human activity and that progress brings its dangers. Hugo-award-winning novelist Vernor Vinge ponders a future we can barely imagine. Alexander Szalay and Jim Gray argue that we are nearing the limit of what one research group can achieve in data handling. Roger Brent and Jehoshuah Bruck ask what computer science can contribute to biological research and Ian Foster reviews the two-way relationship between science and computing.
Central thoracic lesions treated with hypofractionated stereotactic body radiotherapy

Abstract Purpose To investigate the toxicity and outcome after moderately hypofractionated stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for central thoracic lesions. Methods Fifty-three patients undergoing 63 courses of SBRT for central thoracic lesions were retrospectively reviewed. Ninety-eight lesions received 30–63 Gy in 2.5–5.0 Gy fractions using the Novalis ExacTrac® patient positioning platform. Results The 2-year lesion local control was 73%. Larger lesion volume was associated with poorer local control. The 2-year overall survival of patients with Stage I NSCLC, Stages II–III NSCLC and limited metastatic disease was 72%, 12% and 49%, respectively. There were four patient deaths from pulmonary causes, potentially grade 5 toxicities, though three had comorbid pulmonary conditions which may have contributed to the cause of death. One patient died from hemoptysis after undergoing two courses of SBRT to a mediastinal lesion. Most other deaths were attributable to metastatic progression. Conclusions Moderately hypofractionated SBRT to central thoracic lesions is effective with respect to local control and toxicity. Further dose escalation can provide an opportunity for better tumor control. Even with less aggressive dose fractionation, pulmonary deaths can occur, though it is difficult to ascertain the extent to which SBRT contributed to the death of patients with comorbid pulmonary conditions.
5.5.2 Foundations Of A Human Systems Theory and Systems Engineering

Human beings and the dynamics of human interaction are central features of systems engineering. Since engineers are often technically oriented, understanding and dealing with this human dimension can become problematic. Built upon the technical foundations of General Systems Theory and cybernetics, a human systems theory may provide systems engineers a more rigorous way to understand themselves, other team members, and stakeholders. This paper gives the historical development and general description of human systems theory with examples to help communicate meaning. This theory can give systems engineers a better understanding of the human dimension of systems engineering, thereby enabling rigorous management of the system.
Receptors as Microprocessors: Pharmacological Nuance on Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors 1α

G protein–coupled receptors have revealed themselves to be complex information-processing units that may be exploited for subtle therapeutic signaling effects. Thus, ligands may not only turn receptors on and off, but may also select from their repertoire of signaling effects to further refine drug response.
Feed Additives for Control of Lesser Mealworm (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) in Poultry Broiler Houses

In laboratory tests, lesser meal worm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer), larvae were fed chicken rations containing one of six benzoylphenylurea compounds, thuringiensin, cyromazine, or ivermectin. The more active compounds were incorporated into the feed of broiler chicks housed in small pens to which adult lesser meal worms had been introduced. After 8 wk, essentially no lesser mealworm larvae could be found in the pens to which penfluron; 2,6-difluoro- N -[[[4-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl]amino]carbonyl]benzamide; N-[[[3,5- dichloro-4-[[3-chloro-5-(trifluoromethyl)-2-pyridinyl] oxy]phenyl]amino]carbonyl]-2,6-difluorobenzamide; N -[[[3,5-dichlor-4-(1,1,2,2-tetra fluoroethoxy) phenyl]amino]car bonyl]-2,6-difluorobenzamide; or ivermectin had been added to the feed at a level of ≤2.5 ppm.
Human Gene Therapy: A Biopolitical Overview and Analysis

ABSTRACT The benefits, risks, and social consequences arising from human gene therapy have received substantial citation in the literatures of medical, biological, ethical, and legal commentary. I argue that the question of what “public policy garb” best fits the parameters of human gene therapy in the United States and around the world is a quintessential political question, best understood under the microscope of political science analytic inquiry. I describe the nature of that inquiry, apply its insights to the various ends and means of human gene therapy, and posit empirical models of “political success” for the salient purposes of the craft. I focus particularly on the track record of the National Institutes of Health's Recombinant DNA Advisory Committee (RAC) in orchestrating the process by which human gene therapy protocols achieve official sanction.
‘Where the money is’: A case report of the successful removal of a large number of coins by esophagogastroduodenoscopy utilizing a Roth net

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the use of a Roth net and to determine the maximum number of coins that can be removed per net. METHODS: During esophagogastroduodenoscopy, a Roth net was passed multiple times in order to retrieve 49 ingested coins without the use of an over tube. RESULTS: Removal of 49 coins of various sizes was accomplished. The largest of the coins was 2.4 cm. Because of damage to the nets during the withdrawal past the gastroesophageal junction, several nets were required. But, there was minimal trauma to the esophageal mucosa and no complications. CONCLUSIONS: Removal of ingested foreign objects requires individually tailored treatment. From an extensive literature search, there does not appear to be consensus for standard of care based on the variability of presentation and multiple modalities available for removal.
Theory of high field transport and impact ionization in III-Nitride semiconductors

High field electron and hole transport in wurtzite phase GaN is studied using an ensemble Monte Carlo method. The model includes the details of the full band structure derived from nonlocal empirical pseu-dopotential calculations. The nonpolar carrier-phonon interaction is treated within the framework of the rigid pseudoion approximation using ab initio techniques to determine the phonon dispersion relation. The impact ionization transition rate is computed based on the calculated electronic structure and the corresponding wave-vector dependent dielectric function. The complex band structure of wurtzite GaN requires the inclusion of band-to-band tunnelling effects that are critical at high electric fields. The electric-field-induced interband transitions are investigated by the direct solution of the time-dependent multiband Schroedinger equation. The multiband description of the transport predicts a considerable increase of the impact ionization coefficients compared to the case in which tunnelling is not considered.
Filamentary Tracks Formed in Transparent Optical Glass by Laser-Beam Self-Focusing. III. Filament Formation

Electrostrictive laser-beam self-focusing was simulated on a digital computer according to my previous derivation. The results show the beam focusing itself into a long thin filament a few wavelengths of light in radius, propagating with nearly constant radius up to several centimeters, and diverging again. The filament radius decreases throughout the pulse. It also decreases with increasing pulse power. The filament length varies approximately as the square root of the input power above threshold. Growth upstream and downstream is initially at ${10}^{7}$ to ${10}^{8}$ cm/sec. The maximum extent is reached before the peak of the incident laser pulse, but the maximum intensity is achieved after the peak. Computer "streak diagrams" are very similar to recent streak photographs of track formation. The filamentary theory is more attractive than the moving-focus theory presented previously as no rapidly responding (fast) self-focusing mechanism is required to explain track-growth spurts with rapidly temporally modulated pulses. The trapping threshold for an arbitrary combination of fast and electrostrictive self-focusing mechanisms is presented. The predominance of a fast mechanism would contradict the experimental variation of the trapping threshold with initial beam-waist radius. The results suggest much of the nonlinear response previously measured by others for BK-7 glass is caused by electrostriction rather than fast mechanisms.
Historical development of CIE recommended color difference equations

In 1976 the CIE recommended two colour difference formulae, the CIELAB and CIELUV formulae, to promote uniformity of practice pending the development of a better formula. While some of the arguments in favour of the recommendation were political, there were also sound technical reasons for choosing the two formulae. The discussions leading to the recommendation and the reasons that led the CIE to its decision are reviewed. In particular the reasons for the modification of the 1964 (U*, V*, W*) formula to arrive at the CIELUV formula are given, and the derivation of the constants (116, 16, 500 and 200) in the CIELAB formula is explained. Most of the data presented are taken from CIE Committee minutes and correspondence.
Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor presenting as periapical disease

Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor commonly occurs in association with the crowns of unerupted teeth. An extrafollicular variant, radiographically in relationship to root apices, has been reported. However, clear association with the root apices at surgery has not been demonstrated. We report a case of adenomatoid odontogenic tumor in the anterior mandible in a 21-year-old woman that presented radiographically at the root apices and at surgery as a radicular cyst. We believe this represents the first reported case of adenomatoid odontogenic tumor presenting as periapical disease both clinically and radiographically. The diagnosis of adenomatoid odontogenic tumor should be considered when the clinician is presented with a corticated radiolucency in the anterior jaw, especially in teens and young adults.
Explicit diagram illustrations of the evolution of astrophysical maser line shapes

The astrophysical maser line shape is an important ingredient in analyzing the properties of astrophysical maser sources. Based on a newly developed theory, this paper shows new, detailed, and explicit diagram illustrations of those line shapes and their evolutions.
Transition wear behavior of SiC-particulate- and SiC-whisker-reinforced 7091 Al metal matrix composites

Abstract The wear behavior of unreinforced and reinforced 7091 Al, the latter containing either 20 vol.% SiC particulates (SiC p ) or 20 vol.% SiC whiskers (SiC w ), was studied as a function of sliding distance and sliding velocity under unlubricated conditions. At sliding velocities below 1.2 m s −1 , SiC reinforcement does not affect wear resistance. Wear debris produced from both the unreinforced and reinforced materials was predominantly metallic and was small in dimension and dark in color. The mechanism of wear under these conditions was surface-fatigue-related surface cracking. At sliding velocities greater than 1.2 m s −1 , the wear rates of the reinforced materials were lower than for the unreinforced matrix. Both the unreinforced alloy and the SiC-reinforced composites exhibited elevated wear rates during the initial period of sliding, the mechanism of wear under these conditions, i.e high velocity and short sliding distance, being controlled by subsurface-cracking-assisted adhesive transfer and by abrasion. During steady state sliding, these elevated wear rates were maintained by the unreinforced alloy, reduced wear rates being observed in the reinforced composites. The initial wear rates of the composites depend strongly upon reinforcement orientation, the highest wear rates being observed the perpendicularly oriented SiC w composite. However, the steady state wear rates of the composites were generally independent of reinforcement geometry (particulate vs. whiskers) and orientation (perpendicular vs. parallel) with the exception of wear at 3.6 m s −1 where the parallel-oriented SiC w composite was superior.
Analysis of Infrared Interference Filters by Means of an Analog Computer

An earlier simulator is modified to make any dc analog computer suitable for calculating multilayer filter characteristics. The analog is used to investigate special effects in bandpass filters containing more than one multiple-half-wave layer including effects of errors in thickness, changing the order of a multiple-half-wave layer, and increasing the number of layers. A five-layer low-pass filter is studied by investigating the effects of changing the substrate index and thickness of one layer. The transmittance of an experimental low-pass filter is given and shown to be in good agreement with theory.
OBSERVATIONAL LIMITS ON A DISTANT COLD KUIPER BELT

Almost all the more than 500 known Kuiper belt objects (KBOs) have been discovered within 50 AU of the Sun. One possible explanation for the observed lack of KBOs beyond 50 AU is that the distant Kuiper belt is dynamically very cold and thus thin enough on the sky to have slipped between previous deep survey fields. We have completed a survey designed to search for a dynamically cold distant Kuiper belt near the invariable plane of the solar system. In 2.3 deg2 we have discovered a total of 33 KBOs and 1 Centaur, but no objects in circular orbits beyond 50 AU. We find that we can exclude at 95% CL the existence of a distant disk inclined by i ≤ 1° to the invariable plane and containing more than 1.2 times as many D > 185 km KBOs between 50 and 60 AU as the observed inner Kuiper belt, if the distant disk is thinner than σ = 175.
A large volume high purity germanium radiation detector

Abstract The successful fabrication of a 32 cm 3 planar high purity Ge radiation detector is reported. Characteristics of the crystal and procedures for contact making are described. Detector characteristics at 4500 V bias are found to be as follows: leakage current 60 Co are shown.
The identification of a serum viability factor for SV3T3 cells as biotin and its possible relationship to the maintenance of Krebs cycle activity.

Abstract A low-molecular weight-factor (“Peak III”) from calf serum, which enhances the viability (and hence growth) of simian virus 40-transformed 3T3 (SV3T3), but not 3T3, cells when grown in low-serum (0.15–0.30%, v v ) Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium, has been identified as the vitamin biotin. The extraction procedure involved acidification of the serum to pH 4.5, boiling, ultrafiltration of the supernatant through a Pellicon membrane, and Sephadex G-25 chromatography. Peak III was identified as biotin for the following reasons. (i) The viability/growth activity was completely retained on an avidin-Sepharose but not a Sepharose column. (ii) Peak III preparations contained a compound which reacted with the cyclic ureide-specific reagent, p-dimethyl-aminocinnamaldehyde, and which migrated on thin-layer chromatography with the same Rf as biotin. (iii) Peak III and biotin had the same biological effects on SV3T3 cells, including a reduction in the number of dead cells, a lowering of the amount of lactic acid accumulated, and a synergism with iron in stimulating growth. (iv) They were not additive in their effects at saturating doses. To test the hypothesis that at least part of the biotin viability/growth effect may be due to the maintenance of Krebs cycle intermediate levels through the activation of pyruvate carboxylase, Krebs cycle intermediates were added singly to cells in low-serum medium without biotin. Malate, citrate, isocitrate, and fumarate (but not oxaloacetate, α-ketoglutarate, and succinate) were growth stimulatory for SV3T3 but not 3T3 cells. When added in combinations they were no more effective than alone.
Comparison of spot and wide beam implanters for making SOI wafers by layer transfer

the quality of silicon-on-insulator (SOI) wafers manufactured with either spot beam implanter or wide beam implanter are compared. The comparison shows similar quality wafers and a potential advantage of wide beam implanters in throughput.
Karyotypic Variation in the Pocket Mice Perognathus amplus and P. longimembris

We studied the karyotypic variation of Perognathus amplus and P. longimembris in Arizona and adjacent Nevada and Utah. We extend the distribution of previously known fundamental-number (FN) variants. C-banded karyotypes showed that the FN variants do not result from addition or deletion of heterochromatic arms. We hypothesize that karyotypic evolution in these pocket mice proceeded in three directions from a presumed ancestral FN = 88 karyotype shared by both species. In both P. longimembris and P. amplus , parallel decreases in FN led to low-FN populations. In P. amplus , a separate lineage is characterized by increasing FN. The short-term cell-culture technique we used was superior to in vivo-colchicine, hypotonic methods for the production of chromosome spreads from pocket mice.
MR-guided conformal heating of canine prostate using interstitial applicators

MRI compatible, multi-element ultrasound applicators were fabricated using cylindrical piezoceramic transducers sectored to 180 degrees to provide angular directional heating. The applicators were designed to be inserted into standard 13 or 14 gage brachytherapy catheters integrated with water-cooling. Two applicators were inserted transperinealy into the posterior region of a canine prostate. Power output ranged from 5-15 W per element during the 15 minute heating period. Phase-sensitive gradient-recalled MR imaging was used to monitor the treatment in real-time on a 0.5 Tesla MRT system. Gadolinium-enhanced T1 weighted images and diffusion-weighted images were obtained to view the regions which had been ablated during the heating procedure. Upon euthanasia, the prostate was removed, axially sectioned, and stained with TTC to reveal any regions of remaining viable tissue. Results from this study indicated a large volume of ablated tissue within the prostate which was highly correlated to the regions in the T1-weighted and diffusion-weighted images which had decreased intensity, and to the 52C contour displayed in the images obtained during the treatment. This study demonstrates the ability to control thermal coagulation within a targeted tissue volume while protecting surrounding tissue from thermal damage.
Accruals and the naïve out-of-sample prediction of operating cash flow

Abstract Recent evidence indicates that a naive no-change out-of-sample forecast of operating cash flow is as accurate as regression model forecasts. The current study uses this evidence to compare the accuracy of two naive cash flow forecasts: 1) a pure no-change forecast and 2) a no-change forecast which includes adjustments for changes in accounts receivable, inventory and accounts payable. The size- and accrual-matched results indicate that the naive cash flow forecast with accruals is notably more accurate than the naive forecast without accruals. Moreover, the results indicate that large sums of positive accruals are more useful for cash flow prediction than large sums of negative accruals. Overall, the study provides creditors, analysts and other members of the financial community with an efficient and effective protocol for cash flow prediction.
Raman spectrum of solid glyoxal

The Raman spectrum of solid glyoxal has been recorded from 100 to 3500 cm−1. Fundamental frequencies were observed at 2882, 1729, 1364, 1078, 1050, and 551 cm−1 and assigned as the C—H stretching, C=O stretching, C—H in-plane bending, C—C stretching, C—H out-of-plane bending and COH rocking modes, respectively. The infrared spectrum of the solid has been investigated from 33 to 4000 cm−1, and the values observed for the fundamentals are compared with those previously reported from studies of the vapor. The unusual frequency shifts upon solidification are discussed. A comparison of the infrared and Raman bands in the crystal shows that the mutual exclusion principle is operative. It is concluded from this alternate forbiddance that the molecule has a centrosymmetric structure in the crystal and that each molecule occupies a C i (¯1) site. The factor group of the crystal is believed to be eitherC2h (2/m) orD2h (mmm) with two or four molecules per primitive unit cell.
Local amplification of Rayleigh waves in the continental United States observed on the USArray

Abstract We develop a method based on ratios of amplitudes measured at adjacent stations to determine local amplification of surface waves across an array of seismic stations. We isolate the effects of local structure from those of the earthquake and propagation by systematic averaging of ratios corresponding to many sources. We apply the method to data recorded on the USArray for the years 2006–2011 and determine amplification factors at each station of the array for Rayleigh waves at periods between 35 s and 125 s. Local amplification factors are spatially coherent and display variations of ±10% at a period of 125 s and greater variations at shorter periods. Maps of local amplification exhibit spatial correlation with topography and geologic structures in the western and central United States. At long periods, the observed amplification factors correlate well with predictions from a regional crust and mantle model of North America. At short periods, correlations are weaker, suggesting that the local amplification factors can be useful for constraining shallow structure better.
A bio-NanoRobot design for drosophila therapeutic cloning

To investigate Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT), we choose the Drosophila cloning based on a recent experiment (Haigh, MacDonald, Lioyd, Gen. V.169,1165, 2005) to be improving the adulthood rate in 2-week turn-around time. Original 1% success rate might be due to three less certain key steps: (i) The double membranes of a nucleus has at its pore led to the attached Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (ER), passing the genetic instruction to assemble amino acids, proteins and lipid at its smooth end. Also, any mismatch of nucleus with mitochondria (MT) having own small genome for energy production had led to reprogramming failure. (D. Wallace, UC Irvine, Nature,Vol. 439, pp.653). We ask "whether a guest DNA shall come with its servants, ER, MT, etc or not." It seemed to be logical to have a whole package replaced the embryonic host cell, equipped with all housekeeping, energy production and mitosis functionalities except the genetic information. To answer this hypothesis, we design a bio-NanoRobot having a surgical precision in removing the desired nucleus with or without its attached ER and MT material. The design is based on a real-time multiplexing principle of combining both the soft-contact-vision of the Nobel Laureate Binning called Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) and the hard-grasp-action called NanoRobot TM by Xi and Szu, 2004. However, applying it, we must re-design a new bio-NanoRobot, consisting of two parts: (a) multiple resolution analysis (MRA) using AI to control a dual-resolution vision system: the soft-contact-vision AFM co-registered with a on-contact high resolution imaging; and (b) two cantilever arms capable to hold and enucleate a cell. The calibration and automation are controlled by AI Case-Based reasoning (CBR) together with AI Blackboard (BB) of the taxonomy, necessary for integrating different tool's tolerance and resolution at the same location. Moreover, keeping the biological sample in one place, while a set of tools rotates upon it similar to a set of microscopic lenses, we can avoid the non-real-time re-imaging, and inadvertent contamination. Applying an imposing electrical field, we can take the advantage of structure differences in smooth nuclear membranes inducing Van der Waal's forces versus random cytoplasm. (ii) The re-programming of transplanted cells to the ground state is unclear and usually relies on electrochemical means tested systematically in a modified 3D Caltech micro-fluidics. (iii) Our real-time MRA video-manipulator can elucidate the mitosis's tread-mill assembly mechanism in the development course of pluripotent stem cell differentiation into specialized tissue cell engineering. Such a combination bio-NanoRobot and micro-fluidic massive parallel assembly-line approach might not only replace the aspirating pipette with a self- enucleating Drosophila embryonic eggs, but also genetically reproduce a large amount of cloning embryonic eggs repeatedly for various re-programming hypotheses.
Influence of parallel vs. perpendicular source geometry on cathodic: Arc efficiency and film quality for generation of ZnO thin films

ZnO films have been grown on Si (111) substrates using a modified PAMBD (pulsed arc molecular beam deposition) reactive cathodic arc source employing either O2, N2, or NH3 as carrier gas. Utilizing new source geometry, a two to three fold improvement in source efficiency has been realized. Scanning electron microscopy analysis confirms that this new source configuration gives a significant reduction in marcoparticle contamination and exhibits good crystalline properties for room temperature deposition. ZnO films were grown with this new source and characterized using X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Identification of a Novel Allele of SIR3 Defective in the Maintenance, but Not the Establishment, of Silencing in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Using a screen for genes that affect telomere function, we isolated sir3-P898R, an allele of SIR3 that reduces telomeric silencing yet does not affect mating. While sir3-P898R mutations cause no detectable mating defect in quantitative assays, they result in synergistic mating defects in combination with mutations such as sir1 that affect the establishment of silencing. In contrast, sir3-P898R in combination with a cac1 mutation, which affects the maintenance of silencing, does not result in synergistic mating defects. MATa sir3-P898R mutants form shmoo clusters in response to alpha-factor, and sir3-P898R strains are capable of establishing silencing at a previously derepressed HML locus with kinetics like that of wild-type SIR3 strains. These results imply that Sir3-P898Rp is defective in the maintenance, but not the establishment of silencing. In addition, overexpression of a C-terminal fragment of Sir3-P898R results in a dominant nonmating phenotype: HM silencing is completely lost at both HML and HMR. Furthermore, HM silencing is most vulnerable to disruption by the Sir3-P898R C terminus immediately after S-phase, the time when new silent chromatin is assembled onto newly replicated DNA.
Proton affinity of uracil. A computational study of protonation sites.

Relative stabilities of uracil tautomers and cations formed by gas-phase protonation were studied computationally with the B3LYP, MP2, QCISD, and QCISD(T) methods and with basis sets expanding from 6–31G(d,p) to 6–311+G(3df,2p). In accordance with a previous density functional theory study, the dioxo tautomer 1a was the most stable uracil isomer in the gas phase. Gibbs free energy calculations using effective QCISD(T)/6-311+G(3df,2p) energies suggested >99.9% of 1a at equilibrium at 523 K. The most stable ion isomer corresponded to N-1 protonated 2,4-dihydroxypyrimidine, which however is not formed by direct protonation of 1a. The topical proton affinities in 1a followed the order O-8 > O-7 > C-5 > N-3 > N-1. The thermodynamic proton affinity of 1a was calculated as 858 kJ mol−1 at 298 K. A revision is suggested for the current estimate included in the ion thermochemistry database.
Evaluation of reliability and metallurgical integrity of wire bonds and lead free solder joints on flexible printed circuit board sample modules

Abstract This paper presents a study of the optimization of the gold plating thickness for the use of both wire bonding and soldered interconnects on a flexible printed circuit board sample module. Wire bondability is typically better, when the gold plating thickness is greater than 30 μin.; however, the risk of problems with solder joint embrittlement becomes a concern with thick gold plating. In order to better understand the effect of the gold plating thickness on wire bondability and solder joint embrittlement, an evaluation was performed on samples with three ranges of gold plating thicknesses (10–20 μin., 20–30 μin., and 30–45 μin.), on flexible printed circuit board (PCB), substrates. Mechanical shear testing and metallurgical analyses were conducted on chip component solder joints in this three thickness gold study. Thermal shock and drop testing were conducted to evaluate the reliability of the sample modules. Drop testing is especially critical for determining the reliability of the sample modules, which are used in portable consumer electronics products. Reliability testing and metallurgical analyses have been performed to characterize the effect of gold embrittlement on the mechanical integrity of the solder joints with a gold content ranging from 1 to 4 wt.%.
Risk of Symptomatic DVT Associated With Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters

Background Previous studies undertaken to identify risk factors for peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC)-associated DVT have yielded conflicting results. PICC insertion teams and other health-care providers need to understand the risk factors so that they can develop methods to prevent DVT. Methods A 1-year prospective observational study of PICC insertions was conducted at a 456-bed, level I trauma center and tertiary referral hospital affiliated with a medical school. All patients with one or more PICC insertions were included to identify the incidence and risk factors for symptomatic DVT associated with catheters inserted by a facility-certified PICC team using a consistent and replicated approach for vein selection and insertion. Results A total of 2,014 PICCs were inserted during 1,879 distinct hospitalizations in 1,728 distinct patients for a total of 15,115 days of PICC placement. Most PICCs were placed in the right arm (76.9%) and basilic vein (74%) and were double-lumen 5F (75.3%). Of the 2,014 PICC insertions, 60 (3.0%) in 57 distinct patients developed DVT in the cannulated or adjacent veins. The best-performing predictive model for DVT (area under the curve, 0.83) was prior DVT (odds ratio [OR], 9.92; P 1 h (OR, 1.66; P = .10). Conclusions Prior DVT and surgery lasting > 1 h identify patients at increased risk for PICC-associated DVT. More importantly, increasing catheter size also is significantly associated with increased risk. Rates of PICC-associated DVT may be reduced by improved selection of patients and catheter size.
Atomic mechanism of shear localization during indentation of a nanostructured metal

Shear localization is an important mode of deformation in nanocrystalline metals. However, it is very difficult to verify the existence of local shear planes in nanocrystalline metals experimentally. Sharp indentation techniques may provide novel opportunities to investigate the effect of shear localization at different length scales, but the relationship between indentation response and atomic-level shear band formation has not been fully addressed. This paper describes an effort to provide direct insight on the mechanism of shear localization during indentation of nanocrystalline metals from atomistic simulations. Molecular statics is performed with the quasi-continuum method to simulate the indentation of single crystal and nanocrystalline Al with a sharp cylindrical probe. In the nanocrystalline regime, two grain sizes are investigated, 5 nm and 10 nm. We find that the indentation of nanocrystalline metals is characterized by serrated plastic flow. This effect seems to be independent of the grain size. Serration in nanocrystalline metals is found to be associated with the formation of shear bands by sliding of aligned interfaces and intragranular slip, which results in deformation twinning.
Using Wii Fit to reduce fatigue among African American women with systemic lupus erythematosus: A pilot study

Fatigue and physical deconditioning are common, difficult to treat conditions among patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a home-based exercise program using the Wii Fit system in patients with SLE. Fifteen sedentary African American women with SLE experiencing moderate to severe fatigue participated in a home exercise program using the Wii Fit 3 days a week for 30 minutes each for 10 weeks. A one-group pretest-post test design was used to evaluate the effectiveness of this program. Primary outcome measure was severity of fatigue. Secondary outcome measures were body weight, waist circumference, fatigue-related symptoms of distress, activity level, and physical fitness. At the completion of the 10-week Wii Fit exercise program, participants perceived fatigue severity as measured by the Fatigue Severity Scale to be significantly decreased (p = 0.002), and body weight and waist circumference were significantly reduced (p = 0.01). In addition, anxiety level, as measured by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and overall intensity of total pain experience, as measured by Short-form of the McGill Pain Questionnaire, were also significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Findings provide preliminary evidence that the Wii Fit motivates this population to exercise, which leads to alleviation of fatigue and reduced body weight, waist circumference, anxiety level, and overall intensity of total pain experience.
Variogram Model Selection via Nonparametric Derivative Estimation

Before optimal linear prediction can be performed on spatial data sets, the variogram is usually estimated at various lags and a parametric model is fitted to those estimates. Apart from possible a priori knowledge about the process and the user's subjectivity, there is no standard methodology for choosing among valid variogram models like the spherical or the exponential ones. This paper discusses the nonparametric estimation of the variogram and its derivative, based on the spectral representation of positive definite functions. The use of the estimated derivative to help choose among valid parametric variogram models is presented. Once a model is selected, its parameters can be estimated—for example, by generalized least squares. A small simulation study is performed that demonstrates the usefulness of estimating the derivative to help model selection and illustrates the issue of aliasing. MATLAB software for nonparametric variogram derivative estimation is available at http://www-math.mit.edu/~gorsich/derivative.html. An application to the Walker Lake data set is also presented.