cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Hastigerina pelagica: Foraminiferal Habitat for Planktonic Dinoflagellates

Hand-collection of specimens by SCUBA diving in the Florida Current revealed that the planktonic foraminiferan Hastigerina pelagica harbors on its surfaces 3 species of planktonic dinoflagellates: Pyrocystis fusiformis, P. noctiluca and, predominanty, Dissodinium elegans. Undamaged H. pelagica is unique in possessing a gelatinous, bubble-like capsule completely surrounding the test. While attached to the surface of this capsule, the dinoflagellates frequently reproduced asexually, and appeared healthy in all respects. They were not assimilated by the foraminifera. The number of D. elegans per foraminiferan increased with increased surface area of the gelatinous capsule, averaging approximately 6 dinoflagellates/foraminiferan, with a maximum of 79. Surface-space utilization per D. elegans remained constant with increased foraminiferan size. The use of the foraminifera in a facultative commensal or symbiotic association and the value of surfaces in that association is postulated.
BLACK HOLES AND COLLISION ENERGY IN THE CENTER-OF-MASS FRAME

It is shown that in the background of the Ayon–Beato–Garcia–Bronnikov (ABGB) black hole, the center-of-mass (CM) energy of collision for two charged particles falling freely from rest at infinity is infinite at the event horizon if one of the colliding particle has critical charge and the other one has any different value of the charge. For the Einstein–Maxwell-dilaton–axion (EMDA) black hole it is found that the CM energy of collision for two uncharged particles falling freely from rest at infinity remains finite. In the case of Banados–Teitelboim–Zanelli (BTZ) black hole the CM energy of collision for two uncharged particles falling freely from rest at infinity is infinite at the event horizon if there is no rotation. It is observed that in the case of the extremal rotating BTZ black hole, at the event horizon this CM energy remains finite.
The accuracy of Donnell's equations for axially-loaded, imperfect orthotropic cylinders

Abstract The accuracy of Donnell's equations for the buckling analysis of imperfect (limit point instability), circular, cylindrical, thin orthotropic shells under axial compression is investigated. This is accomplished by comparing critical loads obtained by employing Donnell-type kinematic equations with those based on the more accurate Sanders-type. For this purpose, a solution methodology is developed and described in the body of the paper. This methodology is then employed to generate critical loads for several orthotropic geometries, which cover a wide but practical range of parameters. These include cylinder length to radius ratios, radius to thickness ratios, two positions of the strong direction relative to the cylinder axis (θ=0 and 90°) and two shapes of the initial geometric imperfection, axisymmetric and symmetric. Classical simply supported boundaries are used for all configurations for which results are generated.
Personal reflections on efforts to reduce ischemic myocardial damage.

In the second half of the 19th Century, physiologists observed that ligation of a major coronary artery in the dog was immediately fatal. During that era, pathologists occasionally encountered thrombosis of such vessels and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) at autopsy, and considered this combination of findings to be quite uncommon and uniformly fatal. At the dawn of the twentieth century, Krehl, a Viennese physician, challenged these beliefs and reported that coronary thrombosis was actually compatible with survival [1]. In 1910, Obrastov and Strazheske [2], two Russian physicians, and in 1912, Herrick, a Chicago physician [3], described the clinical features of AMI, related them to the pathologic findings and distinguished AMI from angina pectoris. Herrick also adapted the then new technique of electrocardiography to the premorbid diagnosis of AMI, considered at the time to be a very uncommon condition. By the middle of the 20th Century, during my clinical training in internal medicine and cardiology at New York University, New York's Mount Sinai Hospital, and Johns Hopkins, it was clear that rather than being a curiosity, AMI was, in fact, the most common cause of death in the United States and western Europe. Arrhythmias and pump failure were the two major reasons for both the very high early (approximately 30% in 30 days) and late (approximately 50% in 1 year) mortality in patients who reached the hospital. The development of the coronary care unit in the early 1960s with continuous electrocardiographic monitoring and prompt external defibrillation by a trained team eliminated almost all early arrhythmic deaths in patients treated in such units, thereby reducing the early mortality by half [4], leaving pump failure associated with large infarction as a major challenge in cardiology. In 1951, as a medical student at New York University and Bellevue Hospital, I … * Tel.: +1-617-732-8989; fax: +1-617-975-0955. ebraunwald{at}partners.org
Reading, Pa.: Research on Community Uses

The experiment “demonstrates the potential for broadband communications to reinforce community consciousness and to reflect the distinct preferences and priorities of an age-based sub-group of the population.”
Emotions and sociopathy

Questions are raised about several issues discussed by Mealey: (1) the nature of the distinction between primary and secondary sociopaths, (2) some difficulties with a general arousal theory of criminality, and (3) the possible role of countervailing forces in the development of sociopathy. An important area that calls for attention is the patterning of different specific emotions in the lives of sociopaths as compared to other groups.
The metalloreductase Fre6p in Fe-efflux from the yeast vacuole.

The yeast vacuole is the storage depot for cellular iron. In this report we quantify the import-export balance in the vacuole because of the import of iron by Ccc1p and to export by the combined activity of Smf3p and the ferroxidase, permease pair of proteins, Fet5p and Fth1p. Our data indicate that the two efflux pathways are equally efficient in trafficking iron out of the vacuole. A major focus of this work was to identify the ferrireductase(s) that supplies the FeII for efflux whether by Smf3p or the Fet5p-Fth1p complex. Using a combination of flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry to quantify vacuolar and whole cell iron content and a reporter assay for cytoplasmic iron we demonstrate that Fre6p supplies FeII to both efflux systems, while Fre7p plays no role in Fe-efflux from the vacuole. Enzymatic assay shows the two fusions to have similar reductase activity, however. Confocal fluorescence microscopy demonstrates that Fre6:GFP localizes to the vacuolar membrane; in contrast, Fre7:GFP fusions exhibit a variable and diffuse cellular distribution. Demonstrating a role for a vacuolar metalloreductase in Fe-efflux supports the model that iron is stored in the vacuole in the ferric state.
Energy management for the chlor-alkali process with hybrid renewable energy generation using receding horizon optimization

This paper presents a methodology for the application of receding horizon optimization techniques to the problem of optimally managing the energy flows in the chlor-alkali process using a hybrid renewable energy system (HRES). The HRES consists of solar and wind energy generation units and fuel cells to supply electricity and heat. The HRES is also connected to the grid and allows for buying or selling electricity from and to the grid. Initially, detailed models of each system component are introduced as the basis for the simulation study. Energy management strategies are then developed to realize the objectives of meeting production requirements while minimizing the overall operating and environmental costs. Production demand response to maximize profits and load contracting to reduce uncertainties are also integrated into the proposed methodology.
Modern Portfolio Optimization: A Practical Approach Using an Excel Solver Single-Index Model

Modern investors face a daunting challenge when attempting to determine how to efficiently optimize their portfolios. Often these investors do not have access to portfolio optimization tools or the background to understand mathematical models that provide insight into efficient portfolio management. While Modern Portfolio Theory (MPT) provides excellent insights into which assets should be included in an investor9s optimal portfolio, understanding the underlying statistical techniques in portfolio optimization presents a rigorous challenge. Even the simplest of methods requires a substantial knowledge of statistical concepts. The investor9s knowledge of the theoretical basis of MPT presents a conceptual constraint on his/her ability to understand these required underlying constructs in determining which asset investment strategy will optimize his/her portfolio. This article presents a practical solution to the strategic asset allocation problem that investors face when attempting to construct an optimal portfolio from a given set of available mutual funds. The optimization model, developed in Excel, uses capital asset pricing model (CAPM) principles to determine security (fund) valuation and the Sharpe Ratio to identify an optimal or efficient combination of the available funds.
A quasi-elastic light scattering study of smooth muscle myosin in the presence of ATP.

We have investigated the hydrodynamic properties of turkey gizzard smooth muscle myosin in solution using quasi-elastic light scattering (QELS). The effects of ionic strength (0.05–0.5 M KCl) and light chain phosphorylation on the conformational transition of myosin were examined in the presence of ATP at 20 degrees C. Cumulant analysis and light scattering models were used to describe the myosin system in solution. A nonlinear least squares fitting procedure was used to determine the model that best fits the data. The conformational transition of the myosin monomer from a folded form to an extended form was clearly demonstrated in a salt concentration range of 0.15–0.3 M KCl. Light chain phosphorylation regulates the transition and promotes unfolding of the myosin. These results agree with the findings obtained using sedimentation velocity and electron microscopy (Onishi and Wakabayashi, 1982; Trybus et al., 1982; Trybus and Lowey, 1984). In addition, we present evidence for polymeric myosin coexisting with the two monomeric myosin species over a salt concentration range from 0.05 to 0.5 M KCl. The size of the polymeric myosin varied with salt concentration. This observation supports the hypothesis that, in solution, a dynamic equilibrium exists between the two conformations of myosin monomer and filaments.
Rat lens aldose reductase: rapid purification and comparison with human placental aldose reductase

Abstract Aldose reductase (alditol: NADP oxidoreductase EC.1.1.1.21), an enzyme in the sorbitol pathway which has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic complications, has been purified from rat lens (RLAR) by affinity chromatography with Amicon Matrex Gel Orange A and its properties have been compared to those of purified human placental aldose reductase (HPAR). The RLAR appears to be closely associated with α- and β-crystallin and has a higher affinity for the dye Matrex column than HPAR. The purified enzyme, obtained upon elution from the column, appears as a closely-spaced doublet of approximately 38 K MW on SDS-PAGE which does not immunologically cross-react with antibodies raised against the single 38 K MW HPAR. Antibodies raised against RLAR however do cross-react with HPAR. Kinetic studies indicated both enzymes to have a greater apparent affinity for aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes than for aldose sugars. Compared to dl -glyceraldehyde, RLAR displayed an 80-fold greater affinity for p -nitrobenzaldehyde and a 1000-fold decreased affinity for d -glucose while HPAR displayed a 15-fold greater affinity for p -nitrobenzaldehyde and 600-fold less affinity for d -glucose. Both enzymes displayed only trace activity with 200 m m l -gulonic acid.
Mass Rearing Pink Bollworms

The use of physical barriers between ¼-in. cubes of a semisynthetic diet allowed mass rearing of pink bollworms, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders). A layer of nonabsorbent cotton was the most effective barrier. A negative, highly significant correlation between number of larvae and percent moisture of medium was obtained for diets with 76 and 84% moisture. Medium containing 75% moisture produced the highest number of larvae. The most effective use of media and 1st instar larvae was obtained with 100 medium cubes and 100 larvae per 8-oz jar. Pink bollworms are now mass reared in 9-oz waxed-paper cups with ¼ in. cubes of medium scattered between layers of cotton.
Self-Assembly of Hybrid Dendrons into Doubly Segregated Supramolecular Polyhedral Columns and Vesicles

The synthesis and structural analysis of supramolecular dendrimers self-assembled from 3 libraries containing 20 first-generation hybrid dendrons are reported. Combinations of benzyl ether, naphthyl methyl ether, and biphenyl methyl ether repeat units with different alkyl carboxylates at the apex of the dendron decreased its molecular solid angle to values that led to the discovery of a new mechanism of self-assembly. This new self-assembly mechanism generated a diversity of unprecedented supramolecular assemblies, including hollow and nonhollow singly or doubly segregated supramolecular columns and vesicles exhibiting polyhedral shapes. The polyhedral shape of the self-organized supramolecular dendrimers was demonstrated to be an intrinsic characteristic of all the doubly segregated structures. The self-assembly mechanism elucidated here provides access to new strategies that will be used to fabricate complex supramolecular organizations.
Characterization of rf sputtered Sb 2 Te 3 thin films for back contacts to CdS/CdTe solar cells

We have studied the morphology and transport properties of magnetron sputtered Sb2Te3 films including their suitability as back contacts for sputtered CdS/CdTe solar cells. Sb2Te3 films were sputtered onto boro-aluminosilicate glass at temperatures from ~30 °C (room temperature) to 270 °C and characterized by X-ray diffraction, Hall-effect studies, and thermoelectric power measurements. Some films received post-deposition annealing up to 350 °C. Over these conditions, grain size reached 80 nm, hole carrier concentration 2 × 1020 cm−3, mobility 170 cm2/V s, and Seebeck coefficient 260 µV/K. Two-micron-thick CdS/CdTe solar cells completed with Sb2Te3/Mo back contacts yielded 10 % efficiency; however the addition of 3 nm of Cu after the Sb2Te3 yielded >12 % efficiency. Comparative results are also given for 300 h of accelerated life testing under one-sun illumination at 85 °C.
GEBT: A general-purpose nonlinear analysis tool for composite beams

Abstract Geometrically Exact Beam Theory (GEBT), a general-purpose tool for nonlinear analysis of composite slender structures, is developed to meet the design challenges associated with future engineering systems featuring highly-flexible slender structures made of composites. GEBT is based on the mixed formulation of the geometric exact beam theory which can capture all geometric nonlinearities due to large deflections and rotations, subject to the strains being small. Coupled with Variational Beam Sectional Analysis (VABS), a general-purpose cross-sectional analysis, GEBT can effectively analyze geometric nonlinear behavior of slender structures having arbitrary cross-sections made of arbitrary materials.
Bounds on the information propagation delay in interference-limited ALOHA networks

In a wireless network, the set of transmitting nodes changes frequently because of the MAC scheduler and the traffic load. Analyzing the connectivity of such a network using static graphs would lead to pessimistic performance results. In this paper, we consider an ad hoc network with half-duplex radios that uses multihop routing and slotted ALOHA for the network MAC contention and introduce a random dynamic multi-digraph to model its connectivity. We first provide analytical results about the degree distribution of the graph. Next, defining the path formation time as the minimum time required for a causal path to form between the source and destination on the dynamic graph, we derive the distributional properties of the connection delay using techniques from first-passage percolation and epidemic processes.We show that the delay scales linearly with the distance and provide asymptotic results (with respect to time) for the positions of the nodes which are able to receive information from a transmitter located at the origin. We also provide simulation results to support the theoretical results.
Fatigue damage detection in 2024 aluminum alloy by optical correlation

The use of optical correlation techniques to monitor fatigue damage in 2024-T3 aluminum alloy is described. Topographical information from the surface of a sheet specimen is recorded holographically and compared with the actual surface by measuring correlation intensity as fatigue damage accumulates. The hologram is recorded on a thermoplastic - photoconductor device that can be developed and erasedin situ, so that repeated recordings can be made easily during a fatigue test. The results are presented as curves of correlation intensity (I c) vs fatigue cycles(N) for unnotched specimens fatigued in tension-tension. The curves exhibit three regions, namely a decelerating loss of log Ic vs N over the first portion of the fatigue life (Region A), followed by a linear loss (RegionB), and finally by an accelerating loss over the final portion of the life (Region C). Changes in the initial surface finish of the specimen do not affect the general form of the correlation curve. Metallographic evidence indicates that the three regions correspond to fatigue-induced changes in the specimen surface, although dimensional changes in the specimen may also contribute to correlation losses. RegionA appears to correspond to a period of initial cyclic strain adjustment, and Region B to a period of crack initiation and/or early growth. RegionC corresponds to the presence of growing fatigue cracks, and the transition fromB to C occurs when the cracks exceed about 20 μm in length. Thus, the correlation intensity data provide a sensitive indication of accumulating fatigue damage and impending failure in individual specimens.
1326 ROUTINE SUCTIONING AND DOPPLER BLOOD FLOW ECHOES IN LOW BIRTHWEIGHT (LBW) NEONATES

We applied spectral analysis of Doppler echoes to describe cerebral artery characteristics in 14 stable 24-hr-old neonates (M. wt=1016gm;M.gest.age=27 wks) before(DB), 1 min. after 20% increase in FIO2 and ventilation AS), with each catheter passage (S 1-5), and at 1(PS1), 3(PS3), 5(PS5) and 10(PS10) min.after last passage. Mean peak-systolic(SBw) and end-diastolic(DBw) band-widths peak-systolic frequencies(PF), heart rate(HR), mean BP(mBP) and pulse pressure(PP) include:
Successful treatment of Zoon’s vulvitis with high potency topical steroid

Zoon’s vulvitis is a rare, chronic condition of the vulva that presents with burning, pruritus, and dysuria with characteristic lesions and histopathology. Several treatment options have been reported with limited success. A 63-year-old woman with Zoon’s vulvitis diagnosed on histopathology was treated with clobetasol propionate 0.05%. Complete resolution of her symptoms and lesions occurred in less than 1 week. No recurrence of her symptoms has occurred after 9 months. Zoon’s vulvitis may be successfully and expeditiously treated with high potency topical steroids.
The mean and standard deviation of the distribution of group assembly sums

An interesting problem in linear programming is the group assembly problem which is mathematically equivalent to the general transportation problem of economics. Computer programs designed for the determination of exact and approximate optimal group assemblies have been available for some time. This paper presents formulas for the mean and squared standard deviation of the distribution of all possible group assembly sums. Computational techniques are presented and the results are related to those of the analysis of variance of ak-factor problem withn levels of each factor.
A review of reflectance nomenclature used in remote sensing

Field and laboratory radiometers have long been used to characterize the multiangle reflectance properties of homogeneous surface targets. Within the last few years space‐based multiangle spectroradiometers have been deployed, including the Along‐Track Scanning Radiometer‐2 (ATSR), the Polarization and Directionality of the Earth's Reflectances (POLDER) instrument, and the Multiangle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR). Other scanning instruments, such as the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS) make use of successive passes to build up multiangle observations. With global monitoring from space, as well as the continuation of traditional observations in the field, advances are being made in research and applications which use these data. There comes a need, with this growth, to standardize reflectance terminology. Success in this endeavor will ensure the integrity of the data products, and facilitate the intercomparison of results. This paper reviews the reflectance terminology that is currently ...
Abstract 5300: Acetylation of alteration/deficiency in activation 3 (Ada3) is essential for its stability and function

In eukaryotes histone acetylation is one of the major epigenetic modifications by which gene expression is regulated. Acetylation of histones is mediated by histone acetyl transferases (HATs) that exist as multisubunit complex. The alteration/deficiency in activation 3 (Ada3) protein was discovered as an essential component of various HAT complexes and later on we identified Ada3 as a novel human papilloma virus E6 oncoprotein binding protein. We have previously demonstrated that Ada3 regulates the function of p53 by mediating its acetylation and recent findings from our laboratory show that Ada3 is a novel cell cycle regulator and is crucial for maintaining the genomic stability. Although Ada3 is an essential mediator of histone acetylation it does not have HAT activity per se and how Ada3 performs its function remains unresolved. Our recent studies demonstrate that Ada3 itself is acetylated by GCN5 and p300 both in in-vitro and in-vivo assays. Significantly, inhibition of acetylation by garcinol dramatically decreases Ada3 protein levels, suggesting that acetylation stabilizes Ada3 protein. Current studies are directed towards identification of potential acetylation sites in Ada3 through mutational analyses. Notably, inhibition of class III but not class I and II histone deacetylases (HDACs) enhanced Ada3 acetylation. Further investigation reveals that Ada3 specifically interacts with SIRT1, a member of class III HDAC, indicating that SIRT1 might deacetylate Ada3. Overall our findings suggest that Ada3 exists in dynamic balance of acetylation and deacetylation, and its cell cycle regulatory function may depend on Ada3 acetylation and deacetylation. Citation Format: Shashank Srivastava, Shakur Mohibi, Hamid Band, Vimla Band. Acetylation of alteration/deficiency in activation 3 (Ada3) is essential for its stability and function. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 5300. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-5300
Oligosaccharyltransferase activity is markedly increased during differentiation of a nonfusing myoblast cell line

We have studied several aspects of glycoprotein synthesis in myoblast differentiation by using a nonfusing myoblast cell line, BC3H1. Previous studies showed that transfer of proliferating undifferentiated BC3H1 cells to mitogen-depleted medium results in the cells' withdrawal from the cell cycle and induction of a variety of muscle-specific gene products [E. N. Olson, L. Glaser, J. P. Merlie, R. Sebane, and J. Lindstrom (1983) J. Biol. Chem. 258, 13946-13953]. Because cell surface glycoproteins have been implicated in myoblast differentiation, in the present study we measured the amount of oligosaccharyltransferase in microsomes isolated from BC3H1 cells at various stages of differentiation. By using an acceptor peptide containing the sequence-Asn-Leu-Thr-, enzyme activity was measured by formation of [3H]glycopeptide. In addition, active enzyme protein was measured with a 125I-labeled photoreactive derivative of the acceptor tripeptide. Both of these independent assay methods revealed a marked increase in oligosaccharyltransferase when differentiation was induced by serum depletion. Moreover, mitogenic stimulation of differentiated cells resulted in a return of oligosaccharyltransferase to near basal levels. This reversible increase in this key enzyme in protein glycosylation occurred despite the fact that both total protein and glycoprotein synthesis were depressed during differentiation. These data indicate that during myogenesis the level of oligosaccharyltransferase is regulated in parallel with a number of muscle-specific gene products. These results are discussed in the context of regulation of the pathway of glycoprotein synthesis.
Effect of N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide on murine mammary tumor cells in culture.

Abstract The effects of N‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (HPR), a synthetic analogue of vitamin A, on cell morphology, cell cycle kinetics, cytoplasmic matrix, and expression of murine mammary tumor virus (MuMTV) in MuMTV‐infected murine mammary tumor cells (GR‐3A) were determined. Cellular uptake of HPR was rapid and linear, with zero‐order kinetics, during the first 30 minutes of incubation. Flow cytometric analysis of cells treated with nontoxic levels of HPR (10 μM)for 48 hours revealed a reduction in percent cells in the DNA synthetic (S) phase of the cell cycle with a concomitant increase in percent cells in the G, phase of the cell cycle. Dexamethasone‐stimulated MuMTV expression was not affected after 48 hours of HPR exposure, whereas the virus expression was significantly reduced in cells treated with HPR for seven days. The reduction in MuMTV expression was preceded by changes in cell morphology (decreased cell‐cell contact and reduced cell flattening) and altered F‐actin aggregation. Continuous ex...
Metastatic Breast Cancer Mimicking Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Differences in Noninvasive Guidelines

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), unlike most solid tumors, can be diagnosed noninvasively. We present a case that highlights an important clinical difference between two established guidelines: National Cancer Comprehensive Network (NCCN) and Barcelona-2000 EASL Conference (European Association for the Study of the Liver). Our patient had a large liver mass extending into the right atrium with elevation of the alpha-fetoprotein to 1,130 ng/mL. The radiographic and laboratory evidence is sufficient using NCCN guidelines to initiate palliative treatment for HCC. The Barcelona-2000 EASL Conference guideline for noninvasive diagnosis is restricted to cirrhotic patients. Our patient did not have a history of chronic liver disease or active hepatitis, and a biopsy was performed that demonstrated breast cancer.
Context habituation and taste neophobia: evidence for a cross-modality contrast effect

Rats were habituated to isolation cages for either 5 or 25 days and either poisoned with cyclophosphamide or given a sham injection of isotonic saline prior to a two-bottle saccharin preference test. The animals habituated to the test environment for only 5 days showed a greater saccharin preference than the corresponding groups habituated to the test environment for 25 days. The results are discussed in terms of a cross-modality contrast effect between interoceptive and exteroceptive cues. It is suggested that discrepancies in the literature concerning the importance of neophobia and sensitized neophobia in the avoidance of novel-tasting solutions by rats are, in part, due to differences in apparatus habituation.
Springtime atmospheric mercury speciation in the McMurdo, Antarctica coastal region

Abstract This paper describes springtime atmospheric mercury (Hg) speciation and snow pack mercury concentration measurements in the McMurdo/Ross Island sea ice region of Antarctica. Near-surface gaseous elemental mercury (GEM) depletions (to concentrations below our detection limit, −3 ), similar to those shown to occur in the springtime Arctic, were observed and reactive gaseous mercury (RGM) and fine particulate mercury (FPM) were produced in significant quantities (average 116 and 49 pg(Hg) m −3 , respectively). GEM concentrations in the near-surface air were significantly enhanced during brief afternoon terrestrial snowmelt events. Snow pack total mercury was significantly elevated (40–430 ng l −1 ), with a maximum at the northern extent of the fast-ice (adjacent to the grease ice/freezing ocean surface), and lesser values towards the coast and on Ross Island, suggesting that, similarly again to recent Arctic results, marine halogens, released by the freezing sea surface, induce localized mercury depletion events. A possible secondary contributing source of local halogens and mercury are direct emissions from the active Ross Island volcano, Mt. Erebus.
Cardiovascular distribution of the calcium sensing receptor before and after burns

Due to up-regulation of the parathyroid gland calcium-sensing receptor (CaR), burned children have hypocalcemic hypoparathyroidism, and decreased myocardial contractility. Our aim was to localize the CaR in the heart and measure receptor density changes due to burns. Heart and aorta samples from sheep subjected to 40% burn or sham conditions were probed for CaR via fluorescence microscopy. CaR was localized to endocardial endothelium, myocardial microvasculature, and fibroblasts and vessels of the aortic adventitia. CaR was not found in cardiomyocytes or smooth muscle cells. No differences in density of CaR or beta-adrenergic receptors were noted. No differences in CaR distribution were seen in the myocardium or aorta, in contrast to the parathyroid where burn injury up-regulates CaR. We suggest that CaR has a local, tissue-specific role, and functions in vascular calcium sensing for intravascular calcium deposition or regulation of other calcium channels after trauma or burn.
RNA: yesterday, today and tomorrow

As part of celebrating the 20th anniversary of the RNA journal, we sought to identify an exemplar from recent advances in RNA research that integrates several fundamentals in molecular biology that have emerged since the genetic code was established 50 years ago. We then discuss an area where exploration in the near future will perhaps prove profitable for RNA biology.
What are daily maximum and minimum temperatures in observed climatology

Instrumental daily maximum and minimum temperatures are reported and archived from various surface thermometers along with different average algorithms in historical and current U.S. surface climate networks. An instrumental bias in daily maximum and minimum temperatures caused by surface temperature sensors due to the different sampling rates, average algorithms, and sensor's time constants was examined using a Gaussian-distributed function of surface air temperature fluctuations in simulation. In this study, the field observations were also included to examine the effects of average algorithms used in reporting daily maximum and minimum temperatures. Compared to the longest-recorded and standard liquid-in-glass maximum and minimum thermometers, some surface climate networks produced a systematic warming (cooling) bias in daily maximum (minimum) temperature observations, thus, resulting biases made the diurnal temperature range (DTR) more biased in extreme climate studies. Our study clarified the ambiguous concepts on daily maximum and minimum temperature observations defined by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in terms of sensor's time constants and average lengths and an accurate description of daily maximum and minimum temperatures is recommended to avoid the uncertainties occurred in the observed climatology. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society
STUDIES OF THE GENERALIZED SHWARTZMAN REACTION PRODUCED BY DIET III. PARTIAL PREVENTION BY ANTIBIOTICS

A 4-fold reduction in the death rate of pregnant rats subjected to a diet capable of inducing the generalized Shwartzman reaction was obtained by the administration of oral absorbable and non-absorbable antibiotics. The possible mechanisms of this partial protection have been discussed.
Microfabrication with ion beams

Abstract This paper covers recent research and development of new technologies—sometimes referred to as ‘directed (or focused) ion beam techniques (FIB)’ or ‘ion engineering’—where ion beams in vacuum or ions in plasma play the central role. The technologies are characterized by the action of accelerated ions which enhance surface or bulk chemical activities in the target (substrate) material. These include ion-beam lithography, ion-assisted etching and deposition and structure diagnosis with ion beams. The paper also covers the physical and engineering aspects of FIB technologies, including an evaluation of the fabrication techniques used to build three-dimensional microstructures and micromechanical devices.
Transient sodium boiling calculations

Abstract Presents methods and results of a theoretical investigation on sodium expulsion from a reactor core, due to boiling, using the basic equations of hdrodynamics and limited to transients which are slow enough so that coolant boiling occurs before the fuel surface or cladding melts. The results of calculations presented for power increase and flow decay transients in a typical oxide fueled fast breeder reactor coolant channel show that: (1) the two-phase coolant mixture is expelled from the exit of the channel at high velocities (2) the decrease of flow rate in the single-phase portion of the channel is rapid, and (3) the peak pressures generated in the transients studied are not excessively high.
Marine bacterial diversity as a resource for novel microbial products

Marine bacteria are an important and relatively unexplored resource for novel microbial products. In this review, we discuss a number of issues relevant to the industrial potential of marine microorganisms including how marine and terrestrial bacteria differ, both physiologically and taxonomically, and what constitute reasonable expectations of the biosynthetic capabilities of marine bacteria relative to terrestrial bacteria and to marine macroorganisms. Also discussed is the concept that bacterial associations with marine plants and animals, which range from casual encounters to obligate symbioses, provide unique opportunities for bacterial adaptation. It is proposed that some of these adaptations would not be selected for in the absence of environmental parameters associated with the host, and that these adaptations can include the biosynthesis of unique metabolic products.
Effect of extracellular potassium on ouabain-sensitive consumption of high-energy phosphate by crayfish giant axons: a study of the energy requirement for transport in the steady state.

Crayfish axons exposed to a high or low extracellular K+ concentration ([K+]o) maintain intracellular Na+ and K+ concentrations constant, for up to 3 h, by adjusting both the Na+/K+ transport "coupling ratio" and turnover rate in compensation for changes in ion fluxes due to altered electrochemical gradients. These findings give rise to the prediction that the steady-state consumption of high-energy phosphate (approximately P) [ATP and phospho-L-arginine (Arg-P)] is inversely proportional to the [K+]o, i.e., directly proportional to the product of membrane conductance and magnitude of the transmembrane electrochemical gradients for Na+ and K+. This investigation was designed to test this hypothesis. The [K+]o did not influence total approximately P consumption (Q approximately P) of the axon. For a [K+]o between 0.5 and 21.6 mM, Q approximately P averaged 52.8 +/- 4.7%/h (n = 44) of the initial [ATP] + [Arg-P]. Unlike total Q approximately P, the ouabain-sensitive portion of Q approximately P was markedly influenced by [K+]o. In 0.5 mM K+o, ouabain poisoning reduced Q approximately P to 8%/h, a result indicating that 85% of the total Q approximately P was ouabain sensitive. For 1.35 mM K+o, the ouabain-sensitive portion was 66%; at 5.4 mM K+o, 45%; and at 13.5 mM K+o, 41%. There was a small but significant increase in the ouabain-sensitive Q approximately P at 21.6 mM K+o, compared with Q approximately P at 5.4 mM K+o. The pattern of effect of [K+]o on Q approximately P was similar to its effect on the electrical power content of the Na+ and K+ electrochemical gradients. In contrast to the generally accepted Na+ flux (JNa)/approximately P stoichiometry of 3, an actual ratio of JNa/approximately P stoichiometry of approximately 33:1 was calculated for the experiments reported here, a result suggesting that cells in a zero-membrane current steady state utilize efficient energy conservation mechanisms that may not operate under non-steady-state conditions.
Acetylation by the Transcriptional Coactivator Gcn5 Plays a Novel Role in Co-Transcriptional Spliceosome Assembly

In the last several years, a number of studies have shown that spliceosome assembly and splicing catalysis can occur co-transcriptionally. However, it has been unclear which specific transcription factors play key roles in coupling splicing to transcription and the mechanisms through which they act. Here we report the discovery that Gcn5, which encodes the histone acetyltransferase (HAT) activity of the SAGA complex, has genetic interactions with the genes encoding the heterodimeric U2 snRNP proteins Msl1 and Lea1. These interactions are dependent upon the HAT activity of Gcn5, suggesting a functional relationship between Gcn5 HAT activity and Msl1/Lea1 function. To understand the relationship between Gcn5 and Msl1/Lea1, we carried out an analysis of Gcn5's role in co-transcriptional recruitment of Msl1 and Lea1 to pre-mRNA and found that Gcn5 HAT activity is required for co-transcriptional recruitment of the U2 snRNP (and subsequent snRNP) components to the branchpoint, while it is not required for U1 recruitment. Although previous studies suggest that transcription elongation can alter co-transcriptional pre-mRNA splicing, we do not observe evidence of defective transcription elongation for these genes in the absence of Gcn5, while Gcn5-dependent histone acetylation is enriched in the promoter regions. Unexpectedly, we also observe Msl1 enrichment in the promoter region for wild-type cells and cells lacking Gcn5, indicating that Msl1 recruitment during active transcription can occur independently of its association at the branchpoint region. These results demonstrate a novel role for acetylation by SAGA in co-transcriptional recruitment of the U2 snRNP and recognition of the intron branchpoint.
Fatigue crack growth behaviour in titanium aluminides

Abstract Fatigue crack growth behaviour of several titanium aluminides has been examined. With increase in Al content from 13 to 50 at.%, microstructures change from (α + β) to ( α 2 + β ) to ( α 2 + γ ) and finally to γ where α 2 is Ti 3 Al and γ is TiAl. The exact microstructure for a given alloy depends on the composition, presence of ternary elements that stabilize β, such as Nb, and heat treatment. The degrees of slip planarity and brittleness increase with increase in Al content as one proceeds from α to α 2 to equiatomic α. In addition, there is an increase in the propensity for faceted mode of crack growth with an increase in the degree of slip planarity. Fatigue threshold for a faceted crack growth depends on grain size or obstacle spacing. Hence crack growth rates can vary significantly for a given alloy depending on the microstructural scaling parameters, namely, equiaxed grain size or inter-obstacle spacing for Widmanstatten precipitates with basket-weave or lamellar structure. The load ratio effects have been analysed using the two parametric approach developed by the authors, and it is shown that the results can be explained without invoking an extraneous factor, namely crack closure.
RNAi-dependent formation of heterochromatin and its diverse functions

Expression profiling of eukaryotic genomes has revealed widespread transcription outside the confines of protein-coding genes, leading to production of antisense and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Studies in Schizosaccharomyces pombe and multicellular organisms suggest that transcription and ncRNAs provide a framework for the assembly of heterochromatin, which has been linked to various chromosomal processes. In addition to gene regulation, heterochromatin is crucial for centromere function, cell fate determination as well as transcriptional and posttranscriptional silencing of repetitive DNA elements. Recently, heterochromatin factors have been shown to suppress antisense RNAs at euchromatic loci. These findings define conserved pathways that probably have major impact on the epigenetic regulation of eukaryotic genomes.
Seven Strategies for Enabling Faculty Success in Distance Education

Abstract Many challenges associated with distance education and technology integration initiatives focus on faculty issues and concerns. This article analyzes these difficulties by identifying from the literature current trends affecting faculty, faculty motivators, and faculty challenges. Then, following this review and analysis, the article presents seven strategies for university administrators and faculty to consider as part of their own strategic plan to mitigate faculty concerns and ensure program success. The seven strategies discussed include the following: (1) enable colleges and departments to accept more responsibility for distance education activities; (2) provide faculty more information about distance education programs and activities; (3) encourage faculty to incorporate technology into their traditional classrooms; (4) provide strong incentives for faculty to participate in distance education; (5) improve training and instructional support for distance education faculty; (6) build a stronger distance education faculty community; and (7) encourage more distance education scholarship and research.
Frontoparietal Connectivity in Substance-naïve Youth with and without a Family History of Alcoholism

Frontoparietal connections underlie key executive cognitive functions. Abnormalities in the frontoparietal network have been observed in chronic alcoholics and associated with alcohol-related cognitive deficits. It remains unclear whether neurobiological differences in frontoparietal circuitry exist in substance-naive youth who are at-risk for alcohol use disorders. This study used functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging to examine frontoparietal connectivity and underlying white matter microstructure in 20 substance-naive youth with a family history of alcohol dependence and 20 well-matched controls without familial substance use disorders. Youth with a family history of alcohol dependence showed significantly less functional connectivity between posterior parietal and dorsolateral prefrontal seed regions (ps .34). Substance-naive youth with a family history of alcohol dependence show less frontoparietal functional connectivity in the absence of white matter microstructural abnormalities as compared to youth with no familial risk. This may suggest a potential neurobiological marker for the development of substance use disorders.
Defect-free zeolite thin film membranes for H2 purification and CO2 separation

Abstract ZSM-5 and Silicalite (Al-free ZSM-5) membranes have been grown on porous α-alumina supports via hydrothermal synthesis for H 2 purification and CO 2 sequestration from methane reforming processes. The optimized synthesis parameters for both types of membranes, including gel composition and ageing, seed composition and deposition techniques, temperature, time, and membrane calcination parameters are discussed. The permeation characteristics of several membranes for gases present during methane reforming processes (H 2 , CO 2 , O 2 , CH 4 , N 2 , and CO) were measured, as well as for the test gas He and SF 6 . The permeance of H 2 is higher than other gases through ZSM-5 films; CO 2 is higher than that of the other gases and is between two and three times higher than that of the smaller He atoms or H 2 molecules through silicalite membranes. Mixed gases have unique permeation selectivities. With Silicalite, the higher permeance of CO 2 is likely due to enhanced surface diffusion. Membranes showed a decrease in CO 2 permeation over time, which was regenerated after a heating cycle.
Discovery of a novel nidovirus in cattle with respiratory disease.

The family Coronaviridae represents a diverse group of vertebrate RNA viruses, all with genomes greater than 26 000 nt. Here, we report the discovery and genetic characterization of a novel virus present in cattle with respiratory disease. Phylogenetic characterization of this virus revealed that it clusters within the subfamily Torovirinae, in the family Coronaviridae. The complete genome consists of only 20 261 nt and represents the smallest reported coronavirus genome. We identified seven ORFs, including the canonical nidovirus ORF1a and ORF1b. Analysis of polyprotein 1ab revealed that this virus, tentatively named bovine nidovirus (BoNV), shares the highest homology with the recently described python-borne nidoviruses and contains several conserved nidovirus motifs, but does not encode the NendoU or O-MT domains that are present in other viruses within the family Coronaviridae. In concert with its reduced genome, the atypical domain architecture indicates that this virus represents a unique lineage within the order Nidovirales.
Vasopressin stimulates pyruvate utilization through a Ca2+-dependent mechanism and lactate formation by a protein kinase C-dependent mechanism in isolated rat hepatocytes

Abstract Vasopressin stimulates lactate production by hepatocytes from fed rats, an effect which has been attributed exclusively to Ca2+ activation of glycogenolysis. We provide evidence here for two further actions of vasopressin which affect lactate formation by rat hepatocytes. In the presence of 50 mM glucose, vasopressin inhibited lactate production by hepatocytes. The inhibition was relieved by the presence of α-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamate (α-CHC), which blocks mitochondrial pyruvate transport. This suggests that vasopressin stimulates pyruvate utilization in the presence of a high concentration of glucose. Epidermal growth factor (EGF), which also increases lactate formation by hepatocytes, did not similarly decrease lactate accumulation in the presence of high glucose, suggesting no stimulation of lactate and pyruvate utilization by this hormone. In cells depleted of Ca2+, vasopressin also stimulated lactate formation. Although vasopressin did not cause the apparent translocation of protein kinase C between cell spaces, phospholipase C treatment of hepatocytes did duplicate vasopressin stimulation of lactate formation, provided fatty acid oxidation was suppressed by the simultaneous presence of the inhibitor palmixorate. We conclude that three actions of vasopressin affect lactate and pyruvate formation; the calcium-linked activations of glycogenolysis and mitochondrial pyruvate utilization, and a stimulation of glycolysis likely mediated by protein kinase C.