cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Microbial Assimilation of Hydrocarbons: Cellular Distribution of Fatty Acids

The distribution of cellular fatty acids in defined lipid classes was analyzed in Micrococcus cerificans after growth on specified hydrocarbons. Neutral lipid, phospholipid, and cell residue fatty acids were qualitatively and quantitatively determined for M. cerificans grown on nutrient broth, tetradecane (C(14)), pentadecane (C(15)), hexadecane (C(16)), and heptadecane (C(17)), respectively. Percentage of total cellular fatty acid localized in defined lipid classes from cells grown on the above growth substrates was (i) neutral lipid-11.8, 1.81, 7.74, 23.1, and 2%; (ii) phospholipid-74.5, 65, 66.43, 62.1, and 86%; (iii) cell residue lipid-13.5, 33.29, 25.82, 14.78, and 11.9%. Phospholipid fatty acid chain length directly reflected the carbon number of the alkane substrate, with 40, 84, 98, and 77% of the fatty acids being 14, 15, 16, and 17 carbons when cells were grown on C(14), C(15), C(16), and C(17)n-alkanes, respectively. The bound lipids of the cell residue after chloroform-methanol extraction were characterized by 2-hydroxydodecanoic and 2-hydroxytetradecanoic acids plus a broad spectrum of fatty acids ranging from C(10) to C(17) chain length. An increase in total unsaturated fatty acid localized in the phospholipids was noted from cells grown on alkanes greater than 15 carbons long. An extracellular accumulation of free fatty acid (FFA) was demonstrated in hexadecane-grown cultures that was not apparent in non-hydrocarbon-grown cultures. Identification of extracellular FFA demonstrated direct derivation from hexadecane oxidation. Studies supporting inhibition of de novo fatty acid biosynthesis in relationship to extracellular FFA and hexadecane oxidation are described. The ability to alter the fatty acid composition of membrane polar lipids in a predictable manner by the alkane carbon source provides an excellent model system for the investigation of membrane structure-function relationships in M. cerificans.
The dielectric constant of polar hard dumb-bells

We present Monte Carlo simulation results for the dielectric constant of the polar hard dumb-bell fluid. The Ewald sum technique is used to take account of the long range nature of the electrostatic interactions. The results for the dielectric constant are found to be sensitive to the choice of the dielectric constant of the continuum which surrounds the simulation sample. We include comparisons with experimental results on chloromethane and the predictions of an analytically solvable approximation for the polar hard dumb-bell fluid.
Overview of: “Community‐driven violence reduction programs

Research Summary We assessed the effect of the One Vision One Life program on violence by comparing target areas with comparison areas constructed by propensity scores and by program staff recommendations, and by examining areas adjacent to the target areas. We found the program was not associated with changes in homicide but was associated with increases in aggravated and gun assaults. Whereas aggravated assaults increased in one spillover area and decreased in another, gun assaults increased in one spillover area and did not statistically change in the other. Policy Implications The findings raise several critical issues for similar and future initiatives. Among others, these include the transferability of success in programs elsewhere and elements missing in the Pittsburgh implementation. Successful results from similar programs suggest the promise of these programs, whereas the Pittsburgh results suggest the need for continued rigorous evaluation.
A statistical model for angle of arrival in indoor multipath propagation

Multiple antenna systems are a useful way of overcoming the effects of multipath interference, and can allow more efficient use of spectrum. In order to test the effectiveness of various algorithms such as diversity combining, phased array processing, and adaptive array processing in an indoor environment, a channel model is needed which models both the time and angle of arrival in indoor environments. Some data has been collected indoors and some temporal models have been proposed, but no existing model accounts for both time and angle of arrival. This paper discusses existing models for the time of arrival, experimental data (form the 6.75-7.25 GHz band) that were collected indoors, and a proposed extension of the Saleh-Valenzuela model (1987), which accounts for the angle of arrival. Model parameters measured in two different buildings are compared with the parameters presented in the paper by Saleh and Valenzuela, and some statistical validation of the model is presented.
A 20 MHz fully-balanced transconductance-C filter in 2 /spl mu/m CMOS technology

The design of a third-order elliptic low-pass LC ladder filter based on operational transconductance amplifiers (OTAs) which have good linearity over a large input range is presented. The design considerations are focused on high-frequency response, large signal-to-noise ratio, and notch depth, parameters which are all affected by parasitics. The filter is laid out with careful placement and routing to reduce parasitics, and is fabricated in 2-/spl mu/m CMOS technology through MOSIS. The measured results show that the cutoff frequency of the filter is 20 MHz, the signal-to-noise ratio is 70 dB, the notch depth is 60 dB, and the total harmonic distortion is less than 1% over a 2-V peak-to-peak input range. >
Electronic dephasing and electron–phonon coupling of aluminum phthalocyanine tetrasulphonate in hyperquenched and annealed glassy films of ethanol and methanol over a broad temperature range

The electronic dephasing (spectral dynamics) and electron–phonon coupling of aluminum phthalocyanine tetrasulphonate (APT) in glassy films of ethanol and methanol were investigated by nonphotochemical hole burning over a broad temperature range, ∼5–100 K. Films formed by hyperquenching (∼106 K s−1) at 4.7 K were studied as well as films that were subsequently annealed at temperatures up to ∼170 K. Results are compared against those for APT in glassy water [Kim et al., J. Phys. Chem. 99, 7300 (1995); Reinot et al., J. Chem. Phys. 104, 793 (1996)]. As in the case of water, the linear coupling is weak with a Huang–Rhys factor S∼0.4 but the mean phonon frequencies for ethanol and methanol of 26 and 17 cm−1 are considerably lower than the 38 cm−1 value for water. These modes are assigned as pseudolocalized with significant amplitude (libration) localized on APT. Below about 8 K, the electronic dephasing/spectral diffusion is dominated by coupling to the tunneling intrinsic two-level systems of the glass. At hi...
Knee Dislocation from Minor Trauma in Morbidly Obese Patients

Objectives: To present a series of atraumatic knee dislocations in obese and morbidly obese patients.
Quarkonium production in p-A collisions

Quarkonium production provides a sensitive window for the study of the gluon structure of nucleons and its modification in nuclei. It also provides a very important means of studying the hot-dense conditions created in high-energy collisions of heavy nuclei and a critical probe to look for deconfinement in this hot-dense matter. I will review, from an experimental point of view, the physics issues as seen in current experimental results for quarkonium production and try to point out the remaining puzzles and how future measurements, along with more theoretical work, can resolve those puzzles. I will discuss production issues including the predicted, but un-observed, J/\(\psi\) polarization. Then I will show results from fixed target experiments and discuss cold nuclear matter effects including gluon shadowing, parton energy loss and transverse momentum broadening, and final-state absorption of bound states of heavy quarks (\(c\bar{c}\), \(b\bar{b}\)). In addition, I will highlight the importance of understanding all these effects in cold nuclear matter as a baseline for the search for deconfinement.
Motivational deficits in individuals at-risk for psychosis and across the course of schizophrenia

Motivational impairment is a critical factor that contributes to functional disability in schizophrenia and undermines an individual's ability to engage in and adhere to effective treatment. However, little is known about the developmental trajectory of deficits in motivation and whether these deficits are present prior to the onset of psychosis. We assessed several components of motivation including anticipatory versus consummatory pleasure (using the Temporal Experience of Pleasure Scale (TEPS)), and behavioral drive, behavioral inhibition, and reward responsivity (using the Behavioral Inhibition Scale/Behavioral Activation Scale (BIS/BAS)). A total of 234 participants completed study measures, including 60 clinical high risk (CHR) participants, 60 recent-onset schizophrenia participants (RO), 78 chronic schizophrenia participants (SZ) and 29 healthy controls (HC) age matched to the CHR group. CHR participants endorsed greater deficits in anticipatory pleasure and reward responsivity, relative to HC comparison participants and individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Motivational deficits were not more pronounced over the course of illness. Depressed mood was uniquely associated with impairments in motivation in the CHR sample, but not the schizophrenia participants. The results suggest that CHR individuals experience multiple contributors to impaired motivation, and thus multiple leverage points for treatment.
Some threshold results for models of myelinated nerves

Abstract A model of a myelinated axon is constructed, and some threshold conditions are derived using Lyapunov and comparison theorem techniques. The model takes the form of a nonlinear differential-difference system, and the threshold conditions show the rest state to be locally, but not globally, stable.
A variation principle for energy differences between states of two different Hamiltonians

A modification of a variation principle due to Delves, is derived which permits the direct calculation of energy differences between states of two different Hamiltonians: [Δ ℋ] = 〈X0| ℋx – Wx|X1〉 – 〈Y0|ℋy – Wy|y1〉 + 〈X0| Δ ℋ|Y0〉 · 〈X0| Y0〉−1. Δ ℋ = ℋy – ℋx, |X0〉 and |Y0〉 are the wave functions for the X and Y states and |X1〉 and |Y1〉 are functions defined in the text. The principle is applied to a few simple examples. On deduit une modification d'un principe variationnel dǔ a Delves, qui permet le calcul direct de differences d'energie entre les etats de deux Hamiltoniens Differents: [Δ ℋ] = 〈X0| ℋx – Wx |X1〉 – 〈Y0| ℋy – Wy|y1〉 + 〈X0| Δ ℋ |Y0〉 · 〈X0| Y0〉−1. Δ ℋ = ℋy – ℋx, |X0〉 et |Y0〉 sont les fonctions d'onde des etats X et Y; les fonctions |X1〉 et |Y1〉 sont definies dans le texte. Le principe resultant est applique a quelques cas simples. Es wird eine Modifizierung eines von Delves herruhrenden Variations-prinzips hergeleitet, dei direkte Berechnung von Energiedifferenzen zwischen Zustanden zwei verschiedener Hamiltonoperatoren erlaubt: [Δ ℋ] = 〈X0| ℋx – Wx |X1〉 – 〈Y0| ℋy – Wy|Y1〉 + 〈X0| Δ ℋ |Y0〉 · 〈X0| Y0〉−1. Δ ℋ = ℋy – ℋx, |X0〉 und |Y0〉 sind die Wellenfunktionen der X- und Y-Zustande wahrend |X1〉 und | Y1〈 im Text erklart sind. Das Prinzip wird mit einiger einfachen Beispielen illustriert.
Anterior resection and primary anastomosis following high dose preoperative irradiation for adenocarcinoma of the recto‐sigmoid

Preoperative irradiation for adenocarcinoma of the rectum and sigmoid does not always limit the surgery to an abdominoperineal resection. From 1960 to 1976 anterior resection and primary anastomosis of the bowel has been performed in 13 patients with adenocarcinoma of the rectum and sigmoid whose tumor had been irradiated with 5000 rads with small pelvic fields. The inferior surgical resection line was within or very near the edge of the radiation field in 10 patients. In no instance was the superior resection line irradiated. Compared to a group of 79 patients treated with anterior resection only, the preoperatively irradiated patients had lower incidence of pelvic and anastomotic tumor recurrence, but a higher incidence of anastomotic leak and subsequent adhesions and intestinal obstruction. We stress that if irradiated rectum is considered for forming the anastomosis, a temporary "protective colostomy" should be strongly considered at the time of the surgery.
Inhibition of glycolysis enhances cisplatin-induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells

Objective Up-regulation of glycolysis has been demonstrated in multiple tumor types and is believed to originate as an adaptive response to the selective pressure of the tumor microenvironment. We hypothesized that ovarian cancer cells are dependent on the glycolytic pathway for adenosine triphosphate generation and that this phenotype could be exploited for therapeutic intervention. Study Design Expression of glucose transporter 1 (Glut1), phosphorylated protein kinase B (pPKB/pAkt), and phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (pmTOR) was assessed in ovarian carcinoma tumors and cell lines. Cells were incubated with 2-deoxyglucose and rapamycin; growth inhibition, viability, and mechanism of cell death were determined. Results Ovarian carcinoma cells overexpress Glut1, pAkt, and pmTOR compared with benign ovarian epithelial cells. 2-deoxyglucose and rapamycin markedly enhance apoptotic and nonapoptotic cell death in ovarian cancer cells. Conclusion The glycolytic phenotype of ovarian cancer cells can be targeted for therapeutic intervention. Combined treatment modalities that target multiple cellular pathways hold promise for the treatment of chemoresistant ovarian cancer cells.
Abstract 2482: Key tumor suppressor genes inactivated by promoter methylation and somatic mutations in head and neck cancer

The number of known mutations and specific mutational hotspots in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas (HNSCCs) only partially explain their biological complexity and limit the development of novel diagnostic markers and therapeutic agents. Tumor suppressor genes (TSGs) are commonly inactivated by somatic mutation and/or promoter hypermethylation yet recent high throughput genomic studies have not identified key TSGs inactivated by both mechanisms. Our aim was to perform a detailed genome wide analysis of the HNSCC methylome to study expression alterations associated with differential methylation patterns in the greater promoter region, focusing on key TSGs also inactivated by somatic mutations. Methylation Binding Domain Sequencing (MBD-seq), 450K Methylation arrays, whole exome sequencing and whole genome gene expression arrays in 41 primary HNSCC tumors and 16 matched uvulopalatopharyngoplasty tissue samples (UPPPs) were assessed. Results were validated in an independent cohort of 76 tumors and 19 UPPPs using quantitative methylation specific PCR (qMSP) and Sanger sequencing. A second external validation using 279 samples from the TCGA project was also performed. The integrated molecular analysis identified 186 downregulated genes harboring cancer specific promoter methylation including PAX1 and PAX5 and 10 key tumor suppressor genes inactivated by both promoter methylation and/or somatic mutation. PAX1, ZIC4, PLCB1 and PAX5 were selected for validation. Methylation frequencies in all of them could distinguish tumor from UPPP samples (PAX1, p To our knowledge, our study consist the first detailed genome wide analysis of the HNSCC methylome covering expression alterations associated with differential methylation patterns in the greater promoter region, on key TSGs also inactivated by somatic mutations. Characterization of the complete HNSCC methylome has contributed insights into the clustering of specific genetic and epigenetic events, and highlights the importance of understanding the relative contribution of each to the overall frequency of TSG inactivation. Understanding the complete contribution of genomic and epigenomic alterations to specific genes and pathways in cancer will reveal novel high frequency specific markers for better risk assessment and can highlight the true frequency of therapeutic pathways to better target the disease at the molecular level. Citation Format: Rafael Guerrero-Preston, Christina Michailidi, Luigi Marchionni, Curtis Pickering, Mitchell Frederick, Jeffrey Myers, Srinivasan Yegnasubramanian, Tal Hadar, Maartje Noordhuis, Elana Fertig, Nishant Agrawal, William Westra, Wayne Koch, Joseph Califano, Victor Velculescu, David Sidransky. Key tumor suppressor genes inactivated by promoter methylation and somatic mutations in head and neck cancer. [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 2482. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-2482
Limitations on a combined phonon-non-phonon mechanism for superconductivity in Bi2Sr2Ca1Cu2Ox

Abstract Despite the large number of theories proposed to explain high-temperature superconductivity, no clear explanation of its origin exists. Experimental data such as the isotope effect α and the gap ratio 2Δ k B T c can be used to constrain possible models for high -temperature superconductivity. We consider a class of models which contain contributions to pairing from phonons and also from another unspecified boson, and place limitations on such models in light of these experimental data and recent results derived from photoemission data for Bi2Sr2Ca1Cu2Ox.
Lysosomal enzymes and initiation of breast cancer

Lysosomes and lysosomal enzymes are known to be involved in cancer processes. However, integrated biochemical and cell biology studies are necessary to understand how lysosomal enzymes could initiate cancer. Most breast cancer is initiated in the milk ducts. The hypothesis presented here is that lysosomal enzymes are exocytosed into the milk ducts where these hydrolytic enzymes damage cells leading to the initiation of cancer. Lysosomal enzymes include: many cathepsins, acid phosphatases, DNAases, ribonucleases, sulfatases, glucuronidase, lipases, neuramidase, lysozyme, fucosidase, phosphodiesterases, glucosidases, galactosidases, mannosidase, and glucosaminidase. Risk factors for breast cancer that could initiate activity of lysosomal enzymes include: ionizing radiation, oxidative stress, estrogen, environmental toxicants and dietary components. Measurements of multiple lysosomal enzyme activities and their biochemical pathways are vital to the understanding of protectors to inhibit lysosomal enzyme activities that might be leading to breast cancer. Non-invasive screening assays could be developed to measure in vivo milk duct lysosomal enzyme activities. Lysosomal enzyme activities may be precursors to the onset of other kinds of cancer with other similar non-invasive screening techniques possible.
ELECTRON EMISSION FROM TUNGSTEN UNDER PROTON BOMBARDMENT

The yield of electrons from clean polycrystalline tungsten under bombardment by protons at normal incidence has been measured as a function of proton energy in the range 50 to 225 keV. The maximum value of the yield is 1.65\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.03 electrons per proton at a proton energy of 125 keV. The tungsten surface was cleaned by flash heating a tungsten ribbon to 2400\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K in a vacuum chamber in which the total pressure was about 2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}10}$ Torr. The yield was measured with the surface at room temperature, about two minutes after the surface was cleaned, while the time for a monolayer of residual gases to form on the surface was greater than two hours.
Adsorption of oxygen on Pt(111) and its reactivity to hydrogen and carbon monoxide

Oxygen was found to adsorb on Pt(111) with an initial sticking coefficient of 0.048 +- 0.006 and linear adsorption kinetics. The surface saturated at an oxygen to platinum ratio of 1:4. The reactivity of adsorbed oxygen to hydrogen and CO was determined from steady-state oxygen coverages for H/sub 2/-O/sub 2/ and CO-O/sub 2/ mixtures. From the reactivity data which show reaction probabilities of 1.0 for CO and 1/2 for H/sub 2/ over a wide range of oxygen coverages, it is concluded that both H/sub 2/ and CO are reactive in mobile states which may be the precursors to adsorption.
Forecasting non-incumbent presidential elections: Lessons learned from the 2000 election

Abstract As the 2008 election approaches, we offer a reexamination of the 2000 election — its place in history, political science, and presidential forecasting models. This is especially relevant since 2008, like 2000, will be an election without a president seeking reelection. How should forecasting models deal with such elections? Looking carefully at 2000 we evaluate the utility of “weighting” candidates in non-incumbent elections. Using Bayesian Model Averaging, we find that weighting helps to better predict 2000, but also produces a poorer model fit over a wider set of elections. For other non-incumbent elections, weighting only improves predictions for the 1960 election. Moreover, we find that the 2000 election is anything but ordinary; attempts by forecasters to change the specification of models to better fit the 2000 election are ultimately harmful to the forecasting exercise. We conclude that presidential forecasts are best when they ignore whether or not an incumbent is running.
Free convection over a vertical porous plate with transpiration

The problem of free convection over an isothermal vertical porous plate with transpiration is studied both numerically and experimentally. Numerical solutions to the variable-property transpired free-convection boundary layer equations have been obtained using the finite difference procedure of Patankar and Spalding (1967). The effects of uniform transpiration on heat transfer and on temperature and velocity profiles are predicted. Interferometrically measured nondimensional temperature profiles for the uniform wall temperature and transpiration case agreed closely with these numerical predictions.
Aleuas and Alea

The significance of the name of the goddess worshipped at Mantinea and at Tegea, Athena Alea, is correctly interpreted by M. Fougeres in B.C.H. 16 (1892), p. 573. “ Alea Athena,” he says, “signifie la deesse A1ea, qui ressemble a Athena. Par cette addition on a voulu marquer les rapports entre la deesse Protectrice d'Arcadie et la deesse tutelaire d'Athenes.” He calls attention to the fact that in the language of Homer and Hesiod the Greek word άλέα denotes ‘la protection qui eloigne le mal.’
A soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, BAY 41-8543, preserves right ventricular function in experimental pulmonary embolism

Abstract Pulmonary embolism (PE) increases pulmonary vascular resistance, causing right ventricular (RV) dysfunction, and poor clinical outcome. Present studies test if the soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator BAY 41-8543 reduces pulmonary vascular resistance and protects RV function. Experimental PE was induced in anesthetized, male Sprague–Dawley rats by infusing 25 μm polystyrene microspheres (1.95 million/100 g body wt, right jugular vein) producing moderate PE. Pulmonary artery vascular resistance, estimated as RVPSP/CO, increased 3-fold after 5 h of PE. Treatment with BAY 41-8543 (50 μg/kg, I.V.; given at the time of PE induction) normalized this index by reducing RVPSP and markedly increasing CO, via preservation of heart rate and stroke volume. Ex vivo RV heart function showed minimal changes at 5 h of PE, but decreased significantly after 18 h of PE, including peak systolic pressure (PSP, Control 39 ± 1 mmHg vs. 19 ± 3 PE), +d P /d t (1192 ± 93 mmHg/s vs. 444 ± 64) and −d P /d t (−576 ± 60 mmHg/s vs. −278 ± 40). BAY 41-8543 significantly improved all three indices of RV heart function (PSP 35 ± 3.5, +d P /d t 1129 ± 100, −d P /d t −568 ± 87). Experimental PE produced increased PVR and RV dysfunction, which were ameliorated by treatment with BAY 41-8543. Thus, there is vasodilator reserve in this model of experimental PE that can be exploited to reduce the stress upon the heart and preserve RV contractile function.
Natural taxonomy in light of horizontal gene transfer

We discuss the impact of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) on phylogenetic reconstruction and taxonomy. We review the power of HGT as a creative force in assembling new metabolic pathways, and we discuss the impact that HGT has on phylogenetic reconstruction. On one hand, shared derived characters are created through transferred genes that persist in the recipient lineage, either because they were adaptive in the recipient lineage or because they resulted in a functional replacement. On the other hand, taxonomic patterns in microbial phylogenies might also be created through biased gene transfer. The agreement between different molecular phylogenies has encouraged interpretation of the consensus signal as reflecting organismal history or as the tree of cell divisions; however, to date the extent to which the consensus reflects shared organismal ancestry and to which it reflects highways of gene sharing and biased gene transfer remains an open question. Preferential patterns of gene exchange act as a homogenizing force in creating and maintaining microbial groups, generating taxonomic patterns that are indistinguishable to those created by shared ancestry. To understand the evolution of higher bacterial taxonomic units, concepts usually applied in population genetics need to be applied.
A Novel Semi-Active Multi-Modal Vibration Control Law for a Piezoceramic Actuator

In this paper, a novel semi-active energy rate multi-modal vibration control technique is developed for a piezoceramic actuator coupled to a switching resistor/inductor shunt. The technique works by briefly connecting a resistor/inductor shunt to a piezoceramic actuator in order to apply the necessary signed charge to allow energy dissipation. The switch timing is determined by a control scheme that observes the rate of energy change in controlled modes. The control scheme is developed in the paper, and is simplified to enable practical implementation. This new multi-modal control law is applied to both a simple numerical and an experimental test structure. The results from the numerical and experimental tests show that the energy rate multi-mode control law is able to dissipate energy from one, two and three modes of the flexible structures using a single actuator.
Internet shopping, consumer search and product branding

Recent interest in the Internet as a medium for commerce has raised questions about the usefulness of branding on the World Wide Web. Examines whether consumers use brands as sources of information when shopping on the Internet. Applying theory from the economics of information, predicts that recent adopters of the Internet will be less proficient at searching for product information and will rely more on brands. As they gather more experience on the Internet, their search proficiency should rise and their brand reliance should fall. These hypotheses are tested and confirmed using usage and opinion survey data from the Internet community. The results suggest that branding can facilitate consumers’ acceptance of electronic commerce.
Time-dependent whole-body fluorescence tomography of probe bio-distributions in mice.

We present a fast scanning fluorescence optical tomography system for imaging the kinetics of probe distributions through out the whole body of small animals. Configured in a plane parallel geometry, the system scans a source laser using a galvanometer mirror pair (τswitch~1ms) over flexible source patterns, and detects excitation and emission light using a high frame rate low noise, 5 MHz electron multiplied charge-coupled device (EMCCD) camera. Phantom studies were used to evaluate resolution, linearity, and sensitivity. Time dependent (δt=2.2 min.) in vivo imaging of mice was performed following injections of a fluorescing probe (indocyanine green). The capability to detect differences in probe delivery route was demonstrated by comparing an intravenous injection, versus an injection into a fat pocket (retro orbital injection). Feasibility of imaging the distribution of tumor-targeted molecular probes was demonstrated by imaging a breast tumor-specific near infrared polypeptide in MDA MB 361 tumor bearing nude mice. A tomography scan, at 24 hour post injection, revealed preferential uptake in the tumor relative to surrounding tissue.
A Resonant Influence

Having followed Prof. Kenneth R. Laker and his work rather closely for more than three decades, I am delighted to write about his teaching, research, and other accomplishments. Ken has an imposing personality. He stands tall and big, and this, in addition to his characteristic laughter (buried in deep, periodic breathing), makes him adorable and charming. Needless to say, he is a world-class technician and a visionary. His achievements had their roots in his outstanding educational background. Ken received his B.E. degree in electrical engineering from Manhattan College and his M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from New York University.
Pressure and thermal regimes and systems in the sedimentary sequence of central and eastern Saudi Arabia

Reservoir pressure data in central and eastern Saudi Arabia reveals the presence of two normally pressured (NPR 1and NPR 2) and two overpressured (OPR 1 and OPR 2) regimes. The NPR 1 comprises the sequence from the Saq through the lower Jilh Formations, from outcrops to 15,000 ft below ground. The NPR 2 comprises the sequence from the upper Jilh through the Dammam Formations and extends from outcrops to 14,000 ft. The OPR 1 comprises the sequence from the Saq through the Khuff Formations at depths from 12,000 to 19,000 ft. Overpressures in the OPR 1 are a result of reduced porosity and permeability, and gas generation from the Qusaiba shale. The OPR 2 comprises the lower Jilh Formation at depths between 10,000 and 13,000 ft. Compaction and/or hydrocarbon charging from the Qusaiba shale could be the reason for overpressures in the OPR 2. The NPR 1, NPR 2, and OPR 1 are divided into pressure systems by stratigraphic seals, but these are locally breached by unconformities or faults forming local anomalies. Geothermal gradients illustrate shallow and deep thermal regimes (STR and DTR) separated by a high thermal conductivity zone (HTCZ). The STR extends from land surface to 8000 ft., with low and high gradients in the up-dip and down-dip areas, respectively. The DTR extends from 10,000 to 19,000 ft., with no differences in gradients between the up-dip and down-dip areas. The HTGZ lies between 8000 and 10,000 ft., with low gradients.
Identifying residues that cause pH-dependent reduction potentials.

The pH dependence of the reduction potential E° for a metalloprotein indicates that the protonation state of at least one residue near the redox site changes and may be important for its activity. The responsible residue is usually identified by site-specific mutagenesis, which may be time-consuming. Here, the titration of E° for Chromatium vinosum high-potential iron–sulfur protein is predicted to be in good agreement with experiment using density functional theory and Poisson–Boltzmann calculations if only the sole histidine undergoes changes in protonation. The implementation of this approach into CHARMMing, a user-friendly web-based portal, allows users to identify residues in other proteins causing similar pH dependence.
What Is the RUC

SUMMARY: We describe a crucial but little-known constituent of the Medicare payment system.
Effects of isoflurane, ketamine, and fentanyl/N2O on concentrations of brain and plasma catecholamines during near-complete cerebral ischemia in the rat.

UNLABELLED We postulated that adrenergic responses to global cerebral ischemia are anesthetic-dependent and similar in both brain and arterial blood. Rats were anesthetized with isoflurane (1.4%), ketamine (1 mg x kg(-1) x min(-1)), or fentanyl (25 microg x kg(-1) x h(-1))/70% N2O. The carotid arteries were occluded for either 20 min with mean arterial pressure (MAP) 50 mm Hg (incomplete ischemia) or 10 min with MAP 30 mm Hg (near-complete ischemia). Norepinephrine was measured in hippocampal microdialysate. Norepinephrine and epinephrine were measured in arterial plasma. In both hippocampus and plasma, basal norepinephrine was similar among anesthetics. During incomplete ischemia, hippocampal norepinephrine was twofold greater with fentanyl/N2O than with isoflurane (P = 0.037), but plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine were similar and unchanged among all three anesthetics. During near-complete ischemia, hippocampal norepinephrine was threefold greater with ketamine than fentanyl/N2O (P = 0.005), whereas plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine were markedly greater with fentanyl/N2O than with ketamine (P < 0.0005) or isoflurane (P = 0.05). There was no correlation between norepinephrine concentrations in hippocampus and plasma for either incomplete or near-complete ischemia. This study demonstrates that adrenergic responses to global ischemia are anesthetic-dependent, particularly during more severe insults. The absence of a correlation between plasma and brain catecholamine concentrations indicates that adrenergic responses to ischemia are independent in brain and blood. IMPLICATIONS It has been proposed that anesthetics modulate cerebral ischemic outcome by influencing peripheral adrenergic responses to ischemia. This experiment demonstrates that anesthetics differentially modulate adrenergic responses to ischemia but that effects in plasma and brain are independent. This suggests that events detected in the peripheral circulation do not implicate direct mechanisms of action of catecholamines at the neuronal/glial level.
Evaluation of Capsaicin's Use in Analgesic Medicine

ABSTRACT Capsaicin, trans-methyl N-vanillyl-nonenamide, is the major pungent compound derived from the hot pepper plant. Regular and cumulative topical applications of capsaicin cream has been shown to produce analgesic effects in many painful medical conditions. This effect is mediated by a neuronal mechanism which involves the depletion of substance P from C-fiber sensory neurons. The elucidation of a receptor-mediated mechanism at the vanilloid receptor has further explained the biochemical events observed with capsaicin use. Use of capsaicin in the therapeutic setting is desirable due to its non-narcotic non-steroidal properties. Toxcity symptoms are evident only in large doses. This review includes research on capsaicin's use as an analgesic in three painful medical conditions: postherpetic neuralgia, osteoarthri-tis and postmastectomy pain syndrome. All report some degree of improvement in pain with capsacin use. Although only a small sample of medical conditions are represented here, a variety of o...
Gaussian basis sets for use in correlated molecular calculations. VI. Sextuple zeta correlation consistent basis sets for boron through neon

Abstract The family of correlation consistent polarized valence basis sets (cc-pVXZ) has been extended to include sextuple zeta sets (cc-pV6Z) for the atoms boron through neon. Potential energy functions have been calculated with these sets for the electronic ground states of N2 and HF using a number of correlated wave functions: MP2, MP3, MP4, CCSD, CCSD(T) and CAS+1+2. Spectroscopic constants have been calculated for each level of theory and have been compared with experiment. Combining these results with those of prior studies, complete basis set limits have been estimated for Ee, De and re. It is found that the cc-pV6Z basis sets yield dissociation energies that are within 0.6–0.8 kcal mol−1 (N2) and 0.1 kcal mol−1 (HF) of the estimated CBS limits. Adding core-core and core-valence contributions to the CCSD(T) CBS limits yields De's that are within 0.1 kcal mol−1 of the experimental values.
On Gödel incompleteness and finite combinatorics

Abstract Godel's paper on formally undecidable propositions [3] raised the possibility that finite combinatorial theorems could be discovered which are independent of powerful axiomatic systems such as first-order Peano Arithmetic. An important advance was made by J. Paris in the late 1970's; building on joint work with L. Kirby, he used model-theoretic techniques to investigate arithmetic incompleteness and proved theorems of finite combinatorics which were unprovable in Peano Arithmetic [11]. The Paris-Harrington paper [13] gives a self-contained presentation of the proof that a straightforward variant of the familiar finite Ramsey Theorem is independent of Peano Arithmetic. In this paper, we consider a simple finite corollary of a theorem of infinite combinatorics of Erdos and Rado [1] and show it to be independent of Peano Arithmetic. This formulation avoids the Paris-Harrington notion of relatively large finite set and deals with a generalized notion of partition. This shift of focus also provides for simplifications in the proofs and directly yields a level-by-level analysis for subsystems of Peano Arithmetic analogous to that in [12]. We have tried to provide a treatment of the proof whose organization and brevity make it suitable for expository purposes. These results were first discussed in 1982, and almost all the details worked out by a year later. We would like to thank Peter Clote for his later interest and involvement in this web of ideas.
Debye-Waller effects in atom-surface scattering

Abstract The temperature sensitivity of helium atom reflection from NaF ranges from slight in the quantum regime (long wavelength, near-glancing incidence) to considerable in the classical regime (short wavelength, near-normal incidence). The latter is describable by the Debye-Waller theory only over a limited range of angles. In this range, no Beeby well-depth correction is required. The surface Debye temperature of the NaF is found to be 425 ± 20 K.
Visual Detection of Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism with Hairpin Oligonucleotide-Functionalized Gold Nanoparticles

We report a simple, fast, and sensitive approach for visual detection of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) based on hairpin oligonucleotide-functionalized gold nanoparticle (HO−Au-NP) and lateral flow strip biosensor (LFSB). The results presented here expand on prior work (Mao, X., Xu, H., Zeng, Q., Zeng, L., and Liu, G. Chem. Commun. 2009, 3065−3067.) by providing new approach to prepare HO−Au-NP conjugates with a deoxyadenosine triphosphate (dATP) blocker, which shortens the preparation time of the conjugates from 50 to 8 h and lowers the detection limit 500 times. A hairpin oligonucleotide modified with a thiol at the 5′-end and a biotin at the 3′-end was conjugated with Au-NP through a self-assembling process. Following a blocking step with dATP, the hairpin structure of HO and dATP embed the biotin groups, and make the biotin groups in close proximity to the Au-NP surface, leading to the biotins being “inactive”. The strategy of detecting SNP depends on the unique molecular recognition properties ...
Hydrogen production by methanol reforming in a non-thermal atmospheric pressure microplasma reactor

Abstract On board reforming of hydrocarbons for fuel cell feed has become an attractive research topic due to the low energy densities of batteries. The implementation of a microplasma as a means for reforming the liquid fuel methanol is explored in this work. Hydrocarbon reforming is commonly accomplished through catalysis, but catalysts have a number of limitations such as poisoning, coking, coarsening, long start-up times and excessive costs. Published studies have shown the viability of plasma reforming but none have succeeded in achieving suitable system efficiencies for portable applications. Non-thermal microplasmas are particularly attractive for reforming due to their extremely high electron and power densities and the scale of microplasma devices make them well suited for portable applications. This study describes experimental microplasma reactors reforming methanol. The reactors are based on the microhollow cathode discharge (MHCD) structure fabricated with microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) fabrication techniques. Through modeling the reaction for all five experiments, conversions within the microchannel were found to be nearly 100%. Despite the variations in the five experiments due to input electrical power, flow rate and concentration, the model was validated in each test. The experiments discussed in this work show the promise of a portable, non-thermal microplasma reformer that generates hydrogen for fuel cells for portable power.
Ram extrusion of high-density polyethylene and polypropylene in solid state: Process conditions and properties

Highly oriented high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP) were obtained by solid state extrusion near, but below, the melting temperature. Draw ratios of 6 and 11 were obtained using properly designed dies, preformed billets and lubrication for different extrusion temperatures. Orientation induced significant changes in properties and morphology that are related to the final draw ratio. The draw ratio was observed to decrease with an increase in extrusion speed due to the molecular relaxation occurring because of local heating during deformation. An increase in the degree of crystallinity was observed for the oriented polymers as well as a large improvement in the tensile modulus. Significant molecular relaxation and elastic recoil were observed during processing. Extrusion speed strongly increases the extent of relaxation, and, consequently, reduces many of the mechanical properties.
Elastic-plastic finite element analyses of stable crack growth and fracture instability in a girth welded pipe

Abstract Detailed elastic-plastic finite element fracture mechanics analyses were conducted on a 16 inch diameter Type 304 stainless steel pipe containing a circumferential through-wall crack located in a girth weld. Calculations were performed to analyze the welded pipe treated as (1) a monolithic pipe entirely composed of the base metal, and (2) a composite of base metal and weldment. In the latter, each constituent was assigned distinct mechanical and fracture properties. In both solutions applied J values were calculated for a fixed axial load combined with a monotonically increasing applied bending moment. The material J -resistance curves appropriate for the two problems were each used to initiate and grow the initial crack in a stable manner until fracture instability occurred under load control. It was found that the extent of stable crack growth and the applied loads at fracture instability are distinctly different in the two analyses. It is concluded that more precise fracture mechanics approaches than those now in current use are required for accurate assessments of weld cracking problems.
Asphalt Parking Lot Runoff Nutrient Characterization for Eight Sites in North Carolina, USA

The objectives of this study were to characterize asphalt parking lot runoff quality and determine factors influencing nutrient concentrations and loads. Event mean concentrations (EMCs) and loads were measured from eight asphalt parking lots in North Carolina using automated flow meters and rain gauges. The number of water quality samples collected varied from 11 to 26 per site. EMCs and loads were statistically analyzed for six nutrient forms: total nitrogen, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, ammonia-nitrogen, nitrate-nitrogen, total phosphorus, and ortho-phosphate. The mean EMCs (in mg/L) were 1.57, 1.19, 0.32, 0.36, 0.19 and 0.07, respectively. Nitrogen species’ concentrations were slightly lower than those from highway runoff found in the literature; whereas, phosphorus EMCs were similar to those in highway runoff. Current load prediction models, generally based on highway or roadway nutrient concentrations, are therefore expected to over-estimate nitrogen loads from asphalt parking lots. Spring and summer pr...
Predisposition to self-administer amphetamine: the contribution of response to novelty and prior exposure to the drug

The present experiment examined the contribution of locomotor response to novelty and prior exposure to amphetamine to rats’ predisposition to self-administer a low dose of the drug. Rats were screened for their locomotor response to a novel environment and divided into high (HR) or low (LR) responders based on whether their locomotor scores were above or below the median activity level of the subject sample. Animals were then pre-exposed to nine daily injections of either saline (1 ml/kg, IP) or amphetamine (1.5 mg/kg. IP). Starting 1 week after pre-exposure, animals in the four different groups (HR pre-exposed to saline or amphetamine; LR pre-exposed to saline or amphetamine) were given the opportunity, in each of ten daily sessions, to lever press for a low dose of amphetamine (10 µg/kg per infusion) in a two lever (active versus inactive) continuous reinforcement operant task. Initial lever press performance revealed no difference in active versus inactive lever pressing between amphetamine and saline pre-exposed animals. However, in agreement with previous reports, with successive test sessions amphetamine pre-exposed rats maintained higher levels of active versus inactive lever pressing for drug while saline pre-exposed rats showed a progressive decrease in the pressing of either lever. Interestingly, this enhanced active lever pressing was observed in HR but not LR rats pre-exposed to amphetamine. In addition, HR saline pre-exposed animals showed initial active versus inactive lever pressing equivalent to that of HR amphetamine pretreated rats but this enhanced responding for drug diminished over days and by the last day of self-administration was indistinguishable from that of LR animals having been pre-exposed either to amphetamine or saline. These findings confirm that prior exposure to amphetamine promotes the subsequent self-administration of the drug and suggest that response to novelty may be a predictor more closely linked to an animal’s propensity to become sensitized to the facilitatory effects of the drug rather than to an animal’s current sensitization state and predisposition to self-administer the drug.
Voting Turnout in American Cities

Writing about local elections in 1968, Charles R. Adrian and Charles Press report that, “It is not known whether … state and national voting-population characteristics fit municipal voting, too.” Although a number of important studies of politics and elections in individual communities have emerged in recent years, the data are far from sufficient to permit more than the most speculative generalizations about the nature of the local electorate. This study draws back the curtain, albeit only a bit, on one aspect of local political participation—voting turnout. The data presented constitute, so far as we know, the first attempt at a comprehensive comparison among American cities with respect to turnout. As will be suggested and become obvious, the breadth of the data is not matched by their depth; data were received from only 80 percent of the 729 cities above 25,000 population in 1962, and we were able to utilize comparative turnout figures from only 282 of these. While relationships are suggested between turnout, political and governmental structure, and characteristics of the population, these relationships must be regarded more as leads to future research, than as clear and unambiguous findings. Previous work by the present authors has pointed to the importance of the political and social variables included in this analysis of American cities. Lee suggested in a study of nonpartisan elections and politics in California cities that nonpartisanship might tend to reduce voter participation. In a study of American cities, this hypothesis was confirmed in a preliminary analysis of the same data used in this article.