cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characteristic energy loss structure of solids from x-ray photoemission spectra

Abstract Energy loss peaks in x-ray photoemission spectra of nine metals are presented. No strong evidence for intrinsic plasmon structure was observed. Spectra from the free electron-like metals, Al, Li, and Na under ultra-high vacuum (10 −11 torr) conditions show intense bulk plasmons and surface plasmons. Systematic variations in the characteristic energy losses are reported for the series Ag to Te. In addition to losses that may be attributed to plasma oscillations of the 5s5p bands, with N = 1 and 2 electrons, respectively, both Ag and Cd show additional high-energy losses that may arise through 4d-shell participation, with N = 11 and 12.
New fluorescence tools for investigating enzyme activity

Novel fluorescence-based enzyme-substrate probes have been fabricated which incorporate a unique utilization of chemically modified micron-sized particles in conjunction with a single-excitation dual-emission wavelength ratio technique. By chemically modifying micron-sized particles with both an enzyme-specific substrate and a reference fluorophore the effects of source intensity fluctuations, fluorophore diffusion, and variances in substrate loading inherent in in situ biological fluorescence assays can be reduced. Thus these probes have the potential to provide more sensitive and less invasive fluorescence detection of enzyme activity in solution, in microorganisms and in single cells. In addition, proper selection of particle size facilitates selective targeting of microorganisms through natural ingestion processes. Examples of source fluctuation and substrate loading corrections are provided for in in vitro experiments with a common esterase species. The in situ application of these probes in individual microorganisms which are used as biosensors is also discussed.
How is protein kinase C activated in CNS

Protein kinase C (PKC) enzyme family consists of the Ca(2+)-dependent and -independent subgroups of phospholipid/diacylglycerol (DAG)-stimulated serine/threonine protein kinases. These enzymes exhibit distinct cellular and subcellular localizations in CNS and subtle differences in their biochemical characteristics and substrate specificities. It is believed that each of these isoenzymes respond differently to different input signals. However, detailed mechanism for the functioning of these enzymes in vivo is largely unknown; this is in part due to the absence of specific activator, inhibitor, or substrate for each of these enzymes. Recent advances in biochemical, biophysical, and molecular characterizations have defined certain structural features important to confer the stimulatory responses of these enzymes to Ca2+, DAG or phorbol ester, and Zn2+; other features important for the binding of anionic phospholipids, Ca2+/phospholipid complexes, and cis-unsaturated fatty acids have not yet been characterized. Activation of PKC requires the increase in [Ca2+]i and DAG and/or cis-unsaturated fatty acids. Ca2+ promotes the interactions of the Ca(2+)-dependent subgroup of PKCs with membrane phosphatidylserine (PS) and the enzymes become partially active when simultaneously associated with phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate or fully active when DAG is available. Free fatty acids such as arachidonic acid, generated by the activation of phospholipase A2, could synergize with DAG to activate the enzyme maximally. The Ca(2+)-independent subgroup of PKCs also become active when associated with PS at elevated level of DAG. Sustained activation of PKCs leads to the conversion of these enzymes into membrane-inserted and membrane protein-associated forms, which may be responsible for certain long-term neural responses. Activation of PKC results in the phosphorylation of cellular proteins; among them, several calmodulin (CaM)-binding proteins are the prominent substrates of these kinases. Phosphorylation of these proteins by PKC favors the release of CaM, which is required for the Ca2+/CaM-dependent enzymes. Thus, activation of PKCs can lead to diverse cellular responses through such amplification steps. Future studies should be directed at the elucidation of the activation of each PKC isoform in vivo to correlate with the physiological responses.
The interrelationship between selective tau phosphorylation and microtubule association.

The purpose of this study was to examine the modulation of tau phosphorylation mediated by protein kinase A, a kinase with low intrinsic activity, and by the constitutively active glycogen synthase kinase, as well as to examine the subsequent effects on tau-microtubule association in differentiated human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. Activation of protein kinase A with forskolin and rolipram significantly increased tau phosphorylation at Ser262/356 only in the presence of okadaic acid, indicating that phosphates at these sites are normally turned over rapidly. In contrast, glycogen synthase kinase appears to maintain tau phosphorylation at Thr181 and Ser396/404 since inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase with lithium reduced phosphorylation at these sites. Lithium treatment also significantly decreased tau and tyrosinated α-tubulin levels. Perturbation of microtubules with nocodazole or taxol induced tau dephosphorylation at Tau-1 sites, Thr181 and Ser396/404, indicating that both constitutive kinase activity and microtubule state modulate tau phosphorylation at these sites. Nocodazole- or taxol-induced tau dephosphorylation was blocked by the protein phosphatase 2A/1 inhibitor okadaic acid, but not by the protein phosphatase 2B inhibitor cyclosporin A. In addition, osmotic stress, such as treatment with 20 mM NaCl, selectively increased tau phosphorylation at the Tau-1 epitope. To investigate the effect of phosphorylation on tau association with microtubules and microtubule stability in situ, a Triton X-100 extraction assay was utilized to separate the detergent-soluble cytosolic components from the detergent-insoluble cytoskeletal components. In control cells or cells treated with lithium very little tau was detected in the cytosolic fraction. Activation of protein kinase A in the presence of okadaic acid elevated tau levels in the detergent-soluble fraction, which contained all the tau phosphorylated at Ser262/356, and also decreased microtubule stability, as indicated by decreased acetylated α-tubulin levels. In conclusion, the phosphorylation state of tau in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells is regulated by glycogen synthase kinase, microtubule dynamics and osmotic stress at overlapping sites which apparently have little influence on tau-microtubule association. In contrast, phosphorylation of tau at Ser262/356 within the microtubule-binding, which was mediated in part by protein kinase A, prevented the association of tau with microtubules in situ.
Biological effects of long-term exposure of rats to 970-MHz radiofrequency radiation.

Rats (N . 16) exposed individually in circularly polarized waveguides to 970-MHz electromagnetic radiation (SAR . 2.5 mW/g, 22 h daily for 70 consecutive days) had significantly higher serum levels of triglycerides, albumin, and total protein compared with sham-irradiated controls. No difference was observed in the weights, hematologic profile, or in vitro lymphocyte responses to mitogens between these two groups. The higher serum levels of triglycerides in radiofrequency-radiation-exposed rats suggest a non-specific stress reaction.
What is the optimal treatment for obese patients with advanced ovarian carcinoma

Objective The purpose of this study was to compare primary debulking surgery (PDS) vs neoadjuvant chemotherapy with interval debulking surgery (NACT-IDS) among obese patients. Study Design Medical records of patients with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥30 kg/m 2 with ovarian/fallopian tube/primary peritoneal carcinoma between January 2005 and December 2010 were reviewed. Patients were separated by PDS or NACT-IDS. Preoperative characteristics, surgical procedures, and postoperative and oncologic outcomes were compared. Results Of 117 patients, 95 women (81.2%) underwent PDS, and 22 women (18.8%) underwent NACT-IDS. Patients who underwent NACT-IDS were more likely to have stage IV disease (63.6% vs 26.3%; P = .001) and a low surgical complexity score (n = 14; 63.6%). There were no other differences between groups with respect to preoperative characteristics or postoperative morbidity. Compared with the NACT-IDS group, the PDS group had an improved progression-free survival (PFS; 15 vs 11 months; P = .006) and overall survival (OS; 53 vs 32 months; P = .036). Seventy-eight patients (66.7%) had a BMI of 30-34.9 kg/m 2 . Within this subset of obese patients, the PDS group had an improved PFS (15 vs 10 months; P = .011) and OS (58 vs 32 months; P = .033), compared with the NACT-IDS group. Among patients with a BMI of ≥35 kg/m 2 , there was no difference in PFS (14 vs 12 months; P = .316) or OS (38 vs 32 months; P = .640) when the PDS and NACT-IDS groups were compared. Conclusion Patients with a BMI of 30-34.9 kg/m 2 who undergo PDS have improved oncologic outcomes, compared with those women who undergo NACT-IDS. Patients with a BMI of ≥35 kg/m 2 who undergo PDS have similar oncologic outcomes to those who undergo NACT-IDS. Complication rates were similar at all BMIs, regardless of treatment approach.
The Relationship of Spirituality and Depression to Health Among People with Spinal Cord Injury

This article evaluates the dynamics of spirituality in an aging sample of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). We found that the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapies—Spiritual (FACIT-SP), a commonly used measure of spirituality in other populations, is a valid instrument when used among people with SCI. Age and chronicity did not appear to be associated with spiritual well-being, which was predictive of perceived health status. FACIT-SP scores also explained a significant amount of the variance in scores on the Life Situation Index–Z (LSI-Z), a measure of global life satisfaction, incremental to that explained by measures of depression, perceived health status, and interpersonal support.
EARNINGS INEQUALITY, LABOUR SUPPLY AND SCHOOLING IN HUSBAND–WIFE FAMILIES

This paper describes the association between market work and earnings inequality across families over the life cycle and over calendar time with special attention to the different experiences of college-educated and high-school-educated people. A concise and effective accounting framework is developed that allows for an assessment of the effect of the growing market employment of married women on family earnings inequality. Applying this framework to pseudo-panel data from successive Current Population Surveys indicates that the increase in wives' employment has diminished the growth in family earnings inequality especially for well-educated couples. Inferences about the level and change in earnings inequality depend on the degree of labor market attachment of the people studied especially in the case of wives.
Characterization of coal maceral concentrates by curie-point pyrolysis mass spectrometry

Abstract A set of 30 maceral concentrates consisting of 5 exinites (sporinites), 14 vitrinites and 11 inertinites (fusinites and semifusinites) was analyzed by Curie-point pyrolysis mass spectrometry in combination with computerized multivariate statistical analysis techniques. Seventeen samples, representing sink/flotation concentrates of 7 different coals, were obtained through the British National Coal Board, whereas the remaining samples represent cesium-chloride density-gradient centrifugation fractions of two different U.S. coals prepared at the University of Utah. It is found that vitrinites, (semi)fusinites and, to some extent, sporinites show qualitatively similar rank-related changes, such as a decrease in dihydroxybenzene signals and an increase in napthalene signals with increasing rank. In fact, the overall pyrolysis MS patterns of inertinities show a close similarity to those of vitrinites of corresponding carbon content (as obtained from higher rank coals). Notwithstanding these similarities, however, the presence of basic differences in maceral structure is indicated by relatively minor but characteristic peak series in the liptinite (sporinite) as well as inertinite samples. Whereas inertinite spectra show relatively pronounced peak series at the high mass end of the spectrum which can be tentatively identified as representative of polynuclear aromatic compounds, sporinites are characterized by series of branched aliphatic and/or alicyclic polyenic hydrocarbons, possibly representing isoprenoids and related biomarker compounds.
Cellular redox status determines sensitivity to BNIP3-mediated cell death in cardiac myocytes

The atypical BH3-only protein Bcl-2/adenovirus E1B 19-kDa interacting protein 3 (BNIP3) is an important regulator of hypoxia-mediated cell death. Interestingly, the susceptibility to BNIP3-mediated cell death differs between cells. In this study we examined whether there are mechanistic differences in BNIP3-mediated cell death between neonatal and adult cardiac myocytes. We discovered that BNIP3 is a potent inducer of cell death in neonatal myocytes, whereas adult myocytes are remarkably resistant to BNIP3. When exploring the potential underlying basis for the resistance, we discovered that adult myocytes express significantly higher levels of the mitochondrial antioxidant manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) than neonatal myocytes. Overexpression of MnSOD confers resistance to BNIP3-mediated cell death in neonatal myocytes. In contrast, the presence of a pharmacological MnSOD inhibitor, 2-methoxyestradiol, results in increased sensitivity to BNIP3-mediated cell death in adult myocytes. Cotreatment with the mitochondria-targeted antioxidant MitoTEMPO or the MnSOD mimetic manganese (III) tetrakis (4-benzoic acid) porphyrin chloride abrogates the increased cell death by 2-methoxyestradiol. Moreover, increased oxidative stress also restores the ability of BNIP3 to induce cell death in adult myocytes. Taken together, these data indicate that redox status determines cell susceptibility to BNIP3-mediated cell death. These findings are clinically relevant, given that pediatric hearts are known to be more vulnerable than the adult heart to ischemic injury. Our studies provide important insight into why pediatric hearts are more sensitive to ischemic injury and may help in the clinical management of childhood heart disease.
Superconducting interaction charge in thallium-based high-TC cuprates: Roles of cation oxidation state and electronegativity

Abstract Superconductivity in the Tl-based cuprates encompasses a notably broad range of measured optimal transition temperatures T C0 , ranging from lowest in the charge-depleted Tl-1201 compounds (Tl 1– x (Ba/Sr) 1+ y La 1– y CuO 5– δ ), such as Tl 0.7 LaSrCuO 5 (37 K) and TlBa 1.2 La 0.8 CuO 5 (45.4 K), to highest in the Tl-1223 compound TlBa 2 Ca 2 Cu 3 O 9± δ (133.5 K). Seven Tl-based cuprates are considered and compared using the model of superconductive pairing via electronic interactions between two physically separated charge reservoirs, where T C0 ∝( ση / A ) 1/2 ζ −1 is determined by the superconducting interaction charge fraction σ , the number η of CuO 2 layers, and the basal-plane area A , each per formula unit, and the transverse distance ζ between interacting layers. Herein it is demonstrated that σ follows from the elemental electronegativity and the oxidation state of Tl, and other structurally analogous cations. The comparatively lower elemental electronegativity of Tl, in conjunction with its oxidation state, explains the higher σ and T C0 values in the Tl-based compounds relative to their Bi-based cuprate homologs. A derivation of σ is introduced for the optimal Tl 2 Ba 2 Ca η –1 Cu η O 2 η +4 (for η =1, 2, 3) compounds, which exhibit a Tl oxidation state at or near +3, obtaining the fundamental value σ 0 =0.228 previously established for YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6.92 . Also reported is the marked enhancement in σ associated with Tl +1 and analogous inner-layer cations relative to higher-valence cations. For a model proposition of σ = σ 0 , the fractional Tl +1 content of the mixed-valence compound, TlBa 2 Ca 2 Cu 3 O 9± δ , is predicted to be 1/3 at optimization, in agreement with existing data. Charge depletion is illustrated for the two Tl-1201 compounds, where σ σ 0 values are determined according to substitution of Ba +2 or Sr +2 by La +3 , and/or Tl depletion. Additionally, statistical analysis of calculated and experimental transition temperatures of 48 optimal superconductors shows an absence of bias in determining σ , A , and ζ .
PRINCIPLES OF MONOLITHIC WIDEBAND FEEDBACK AMPLIFIER DESIGN

Fundamental principles for wideband amplifier analysis and design are presented. Analytically simple small-signal models for bipolar and field-effect devices are discussed. A more complex model is presented to show the effects of device parasitics, and a method is developed for gain-bandwidth analysis using the models derived. This method is applied to a number of common wideband amplifier circuits. Compound transistors are introduced and their advantages and disadvantages over single transistors are discussed. Finally, a comparison is made of circuit configurations that use shunt feedback to obtain impedance matching.
Role of the Wnt Signaling Pathway and Lung Cancer

The Wnt pathway plays an important role in development and in regulating adult stem cell systems. A variety of cellular processes are mediated by Wnt signaling, including proliferation, differentiation, survival, apoptosis and cell motility.1 Loss of regulation of these pathways can lead to tumorigenesis and the Wnt pathway has been implicated in the development of several types of cancers, including colon, lung, leukemia, breast, thyroid, and prostate.2–6
Dendrochronological evaluation of ship timber from Charlestown Navy Yard (Boston, MA)

a b s t r a c t More than 200 ships were built, and thousands serviced, at Charlestown Navy Yard (Boston, MA) in its 174 years of service for the U.S. Navy (1800–1974 C.E.). Recent redevelopment of portions of the former yard revealed an historic timber pond where hundreds of unfinished naval-quality ship timbers were intentionally sunk and remained buried until ca. 2008. Many of these timbers were offered to the Henry B. du Pont Preservation Shipyard (Mystic Seaport, CT) for their restoration of Charles W. Morgan. Courtesy of Mystic Seaport, 38 specimens from the Charlestown yard (mostly Quercus sp.; including live [evergreen] oak and white oak) were selected for dendrochronological analysis. Most of the white oak specimens could be sourced with confidence to Ohio. Dates clustered in the late 1860s, suggesting late-Civil War or Reconstruction Era activities. This paper discusses the dates, origin, and other findings derived from this collection.
SOCIAL INTEGRATION, ECONOMIC HARDSHIP AND RATES OF PERSONAL VIOLENCE (SUICIDE AND HOMICIDE) : 1933-1970 IN THE USA

Stack (1981), using a time series analysis, found that measures of social integration (divorce and birth rates) and of economic hardship (unernployment rates) were positively related to suicide rates for the USA as a whole over the period 1933 to 1970. The present note provides an analysis of the association of these three variables to the homicide rate of the USA as a whole for the same time period (1933 to 1970). The rates of suicide, homicide, birth (per 1000 married women aged 15-44 yr.), divorce (per 1000 married women) and unemployment (as a percent of the civilian labor force) for the USA for each year from 1933 to 1970 came from the Bureau of the Census ( 1976). The results for suicide were identical to those of Stack (since the data were identical). Using second-order partial Pearson correlation coefficients, suicide was associated with the birth rate moderately (r = -0.56), strongly with the unemployment rate (r = 0.88), and more weakly with the divorce rate (r = 0.35). Homicide rates showed a parallel set of correlations with birth rate (r = -0.50), the unemployment rate (s = 0.62), and the divorce rate (r = 0.50). Ecological correlations over the states of the USA occasionally show opposite relationships for suicide and homicide (Lester, 1986), whereas this time series analysis shows similar relations. Theoretical reasons for this difference are not readily apparent.
Toward a Reconstruction of Social Education

Abstract This is the second of two articles dealing with the reconstructionist rational for social education. The first article provided an analysis of reconstruction-ism as expressed in the works of George Counts and Theodore Brameld (Stanley, 1981). These two authors developed a rationale for social education which differed significantly from those of their contemporaries who were often labeled as reconstructionists. The Counts-Bra meld rational will hereafter be referred to as radical reconstructionism. The first article explained the basic tenets of radical reconstructionism and outlined the radical reconstructionist rationale for social education. This article has two basic objectives. First, it examines the extent to which the tenets of radical reconstructionism are reflected in five dominant rationales for modern social education. Second, the basic tenets of radical reconstruction are used as criteria to analyze the adequacy of the five modern rationales.
Dynamical masses of pms stars in the taurus star formation region

Our preliminary orbital parameters for DF Tau, T Tau Sa-Sb, ZZ Tau and the Pleaides binary are presented in the paper Orbital Motion in Pre-Main Sequence Binaries by G.H. Schaefer, L. Prato, M. Simon, & J. Patience (2013, in prep. for AJ). In the few pages available here I present an overview of our motivation for this work and of our results. The slides and complete references for my talk at the Leuven conference are available at www.astro.sunysb.edu/msimon/public.
Frameless stereotactic radiosurgery for recurrent head and neck carcinoma.

The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and toxicity of stereotactic radiosurgery (CK-SRS) using the CyberKnife® Frameless Radiosurgery System (Accuray Inc., Sunnyvale, CA) in the management of recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck region (SCCHN). Between November 2001 and February 2004, 22 patients with recurrent, previously irradiated SCCHN were treated with CK-SRS. The following endpoints were assessed post-CK-SRS: local control (LC), cause-specific survival (CSS), overall survival (OS), symptom relief, and acute and late toxicity. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were used to estimate the LC, CSS, and OS rates. Clinical symptoms were graded as “improved,” “stable,” or “progressed” after CK-SRS. Acute and late toxicity were graded according to the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC) scale, version 2.0. Seventeen patients were followed until their death. The median follow-up in the remaining five patients was 19 months (range 11–40 months). The median surv...
Epithelial-mesenchymal cell transformation in the embryonic heart can be mediated, in part, by transforming growth factor β

Progenitor cells of the valves and membranous septa of the vertebrate heart are formed by transformation of a specific population of endothelial cells into mesenchyme. Previous studies have shown that this epithelial-mesenchymal cell transformation is mediated by a signal produced by the myocardium of the atrioventricular (AV) canal and transferred across the extracellular matrix. Data are presented here that transforming growth factor β (TGFβ1 or TGFβ2), in combination with an explant of ventricular myocardium, will produce an epithelial-mesenchymal transformation by cultured AV canal endothelial cells in vitro. Alone, neither component is capable of producing this effect. The factor provided by the ventricular explant cannot be substituted by either epidermal growth factor or basic fibroblast growth factor. Further experiments show that an antibody that blocks TGFβ activity is effective in preventing the epithelial-mesenchymal cell transformation normally produced by AV canal myocardium. Control antibodies are without effect. By immunological criteria, a member of the TGFβ family of molecules can be demonstrated in the chicken embryo and heart at the time overt valvular formation begins. Together, these data show that TGFβ1 can produce mesenchymal cell formation in vitro and provide evidence that a member of the TGFβ family is present and plays a role in the process of epithelial-mesenchymal cell transformation in the embryonic heart.
P-TEFb inhibitors interfere with activation of p53 by DNA-damaging agents.

Tumor suppressor p53 is stabilized in response to γ-irradiation or treatment with DNA-damaging agents, and as a result p53 transcriptionally activates its targets leading to cell-cycle arrest or apoptosis. P-TEFb (positive transcription elongation factor b) inhibitors such as flavopiridol or 4-amino-6-hydrazino-7-b-d-ribofuranosyl-7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]-pyrimidine-5-carboxamide (ARC) upregulate p53 protein levels, but inhibit the expression of its targets p21 and hdm2. DNA-damaging agents, doxorubicin and cisplatin are being used in combination with P-TEFb inhibitor flavopiridol in clinical trials for the treatment of some cancer patients. In this study, we found that P-TEFb inhibitors block the phosphorylation of p53 induced by doxorubicin. Furthermore, treatment of cells with P-TEFb inhibitors together with doxorubicin inhibits doxorubicin-induced binding of p53 to DNA and p53 transcriptional activity. These data suggest that P-TEFb inhibitors may antagonize the activation of p53 by DNA-damaging agents in tumors with wild-type p53.
Railroads in Nineteenth-century Minas Gerais

The growth of a transportation system in Minas Gerais, especially the construction of a rail network in the province's booming coffee region, the Zona da Mata (the Forest Zone) in the late Empire, is an important chapter in the state's history. A close look at railroads in the Mata and in Minas tells us much about politics and the power and influence of certain groups, particularly planters and planter-politicians. Conflicts over railroad concessions provoked much rivalry within the Mata, but all mineiros agreed that transportation was the most important issue of the day. Meanwhile, flumimnses and paulistas were more preoccupied with the labour crisis. Hindsight permits us to say that transportation is not the key to understanding the development of Minas, at least not to the extent that contemporaries thought it was. Ecological factors, labour conditions and the onset of the national overproduction crisis in 1896 had more to do with the rise and fall of coffee exports than did railroads. However, coffee planters from the wealthy Mata and other mineiros from the province's less prosperous regions always credited railroads with the good things that went with economic development.
Middle Miocene–Pliocene siliciclastic influx across a carbonate shelf and influence of deltaic sedimentation on shelf construction, Northern Carnarvon Basin, Northwest Shelf of Australia

Middle Miocene to Pliocene siliciclastics of the Bare Formation represent a long-lived (ca. 11 Myr) break in the otherwise carbonate-dominated shelf of the Northern Carnarvon Basin, Northwest Shelf of Australia. The quartz-sandstone interval is correlated with the appearance of spectacular clinoform sets mapped on 3D and dense 2D seismic data. Twenty-seven clinoform sets are interpreted as delta lobes primarily based on their plan-view morphology (strike-elongate to lobate features) and their 40–100-m-high clinoform amplitudes. The delta lobes were deposited on outer-shelf to shelf-edge positions, and the older deltas show evidence of a higher degree wave reworking than the younger deltas. Measurements of the along-strike (migration) and down-dip (progradation) movement of these deltas are compared with relative sea-level behaviour inferred from shelf-edge trajectory analysis. Delta lobes exhibit greater lateral shifting during relative sea-level rise, whereas delta lobes are more restricted to dip-oriented fairways during sea-level fall, although no major incised valleys have been identified. Long-term (cumulative) progradation of this delta system and subsequent backstepping correlates with long-term sea-level fall and rise during the late middle and late Miocene. In addition, a long-term northeastward migration trend for these delta lobes was likely a result of localized uplift of an inversion anticline in the Rosemary–Legendre Trend; the growth of this anticline probably steered the fluvial source for the delta system towards the northeast. The Bare Formation siliciclastic influx correlates with other middle Miocene increases in siliciclastic sediment supply worldwide. Global cooling and a shift to more arid conditions, negatively influencing vegetation cover, may have combined with more seasonally variable rainfall to generate the high sediment supply that built the deltas. Retreat of the siliciclastics could correlate with ice-sheet growth in the Northern Hemisphere and/or increase in the Indonesian Throughflow and Leeuwin Current (ca. 1.6 Ma), which might have modified climate regionally.
Normal organ volume assessment from abdominal CT

We determined the normal distribution of abdominal organ volumes measured from abdominal computed tomographic (CT) images. A total of 149 adult abdominal CT studies were selected, and 711 organs (388 from males, 323 from females) were outlined by hand on each CT image by using a computer. More than 18,000 organ outlines were traced. The organs studied included left and right kidneys, left and right adrenals, spleen, pancreas, and liver, and the first lumbar vertebrae was also evaluated. Using the known pixel size and section thickness, organ volumes were computed. Organ volumes were corrected for height and weight for each sex. The normal and cumulative normal distributions for each organ studied were computed, demonstrating the range of organ volumes for each sex that exist in the normal adult population. Organ volumes ranged from a mean of 4.4 mL (female left adrenal) to 1710 mL (male liver). Mean organ volumes were 64.4, 156.5, 179.8, and 1411 mL for the female pancreas, kidneys, spleen, and liver, respectively. Corresponding male volumes were 87.4, 193.1, 238.4, and 1710 mL, respectively. Tabular data are provided that indicate the relative size for each organ volume in terms of the cumulative probability distribution. Normative data are provided to allow physicians to estimate where in the normal range a particular organ volume lays. Organ volumes may be useful as quantitative indices of pathologic conditions.
Effect of cysteamine on somatostatin and neuropeptide Y in rat striatum and cortical synaptosomes.

Abstract Local injection of cysteamine into rat striatum results in a rapid but reversible reduction in somatostatin-like immunoreactivity (SLI). Since somatostatin and neuropeptide Y are co-localized in striatal and cortical neurons, we examined the effects of cysteamine in these areas. SLI and neuropeptide Y-like immunoreactivity (NPYLI) were measured following local injection of cysteamine into the striatum. In addition, we examined the effects of cysteamine on SLI and NPYLI in cortical synaptosomes. SLI was significantly reduced in both experiments, but NPYLI was unaffected. These results suggest that the mechanism by which somatostatin is depleted by cysteamine is one of specific biomedical modification, probably affecting the somatostatin disulfide both bond, rather than one affecting neuronal metabolism.
Interlayer pair hopping: Superconductivity from the resonating-valence-bond state.

Superconductivity in the high-${T}_{c}$ materials is interpreted as 〈${e}_{k}$${e}_{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}k}$〉 condensation of hole bosons. Coherent interlayer tunneling of boson pairs results in order-parameter equations which are quite different from those of the Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer theory. A model is presented which suggests how this condensation is affected by charge-carying boson interactions.
Pathophysiology of GHRH-growth hormone-IGF1 axis in HIV/AIDS

Aberrations in GHRH-GH -IGF-I axis are common in the complex of HIV, HAART and AIDS. There are 2 distinct mechanisms at play in HIV and AIDS. One is primarly associated with development of lipodystrophy and results in complications such as chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, lipid and metabolic abnormalities. HIV lipodystrophy is found especially in those on highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART). The various processes involved in lipodystrophy result in the suppression of pituitary GH production. The mechanism of low GH levels relates to increased somatostatin tone, decreased Ghrelin, increased free fatty acids (FFA) and insulin resistance. On the other hand in AIDS wasting syndrome; elevated GH and low IGF-1 levels are seen suggesting GH resistance. The GHRH analog-Tesamorelin is the only treatment option, which is FDA approved for use in reduction of excess abdominal fat in patients with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Although long-term clinical trials and experience is needed to further study the benefits and risks of Tesamorelin.
How to make a Quick$: using hierarchical clustering to improve the efficiency of the Dollar Recognizer

We present Quick$ (QuickBuck), an extension to the Dollar Recognizer designed to improve recognition efficiency. While the Dollar Recognizer must search all training templates to recognize an unknown symbol, Quick$ employs hierarchical clustering along with branch and bound search to do this more efficiently. Experiments have demonstrated that Quick$ is almost always faster than the Dollar Recognizer and always selects the same best-match templates.
Stimulation of DNA Synthesis in Isolated Chondrocytes by Sulfation Factor11

Growth hormone dependent serum factors (e.g. sulfation factor or SF) regulate both proliferation of chondrocytes and formation of matrix. Previous work in this field has generally employed explants of rat cartilage. We have investigated the action of sulfation factor on isolated chick chondrocytes. Pelvic rudiments from 15-day chick embryos were treated with collagenase and trypsin to liberate chondrocytes. Chondrocytes were then isolated by differential centrifugation. Aliquots containing about 300,000 cells were pipetted for subsequent incubations. Normal human serum (NHS) added to the medium stimulated incorporation of [3H]thymidine into the cold TCA ppt, as compared to serum from hypopituitary subjects. When a patient with low serum SF was treated with growth hormone the serum SF activity increased. In contrast, bovine growth hormone added in vitro did not have any significant effect, either alone or in the presence of 0.5% NHS. Pulse labeling after various periods of incubation demonstrated maximal s...
Membrane binding induces lipid-specific changes in the denaturation profile of bovine prothrombin. A scanning calorimetry study

Prothrombin denaturation was examined in the presence of Na2EDTA, 5mM CaCl2, and CaCl2 plus membranes containing 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-3-sn-phosphatidylcholine (POPC) in combination with either bovine brain phosphatidylserine (PS) or 1,2-dioleoyl-phosphatidylglycerol (DOPG). Heating denaturation of prothrombin produced thermograms showing two peaks, a minor one at approximately 59 degrees C previously reported to correspond to denaturation of the fragment 1 region (Ploplis, V. A., D. K. Strickland, and F. J. Castellino 1981. Biochemistry. 20:15–21), and a main one at approximately 57–58 degrees C, reportedly due to denaturation of the rest of the molecule (prethrombin 1). The main peak was insensitive to the presence of 5mM Ca2+ whereas the minor peak was shifted to higher temperature (Tm approximately 65 degrees C) by Ca2+. Sufficient concentrations of POPC/bovPS (75/25) large unilamellar vesicles to guarantee binding of 95% of prothrombin resulted in an enthalpy loss in the main endotherm and a comparable enthalpy gain in the minor endotherm accompanying an upward shift in peak temperature (Tm approximately 73 degrees C). Peak deconvolution analysis on the prothrombin denaturation profile and comparison with isolated prothrombin fragment 1 denaturation endotherms suggested that the change caused by POPC/PS vesicles reflected a shift of a portion of the enthalpy of the prethrombin 1 domain to higher temperature (Tm approximately 77 degrees C). The enthalpy associated with this high-temperature endotherm increased in proportion to the surface concentration of PS. By contrast, POPC/DOPG (50/50) membranes shifted the prethrombin 1 peak by 4 degrees C to a lower temperature and the fragment 1 peak by 5 degrees C to a higher temperature. The data lead to a hypothesis that the fragment 1 and prethrombin 1 domains of prothrombin do not denature quite independently and that binding of prothrombin to acidic-lipid membranes disrupts the interaction between these domains. It is further hypothesized that PS containing membranes exert the additional specific effect of decoupling the denaturation of two subdomains of the prethrombin 1 domain of prothrombin.
Optical implementation of quantum orienteering.

We present results from an optical implementation of quantum orienteering, a protocol for communicating directions in space using quantum bits. We show how different types of measurements and encodings can be used to increase the communication efficiency. In particular, if Alice and Bob use two spin-$1/2$ particles for communication and employ joint measurements, they do better than is possible with local operations and classical communication. Furthermore, by using oppositely oriented spins, the achievable communication efficiency is further increased. Finally, we discuss the limitations of an optical approach: our results highlight the usually overlooked nonequivalence of different physical encodings of quantum bits.
Absence of a Critical Period in Estrogen-Induced Release of LH in the Anestrous Ewe

Anestrous ewes were given a single LH occurred at 1920 hr, 0035 hr, or 0600 hr, all injection of oil at 0630 hr or of 50 μg estradiol approximately 12 hr following injection of EB. benzoate (EB) at 0600, 1200, or 1800 hr. Blood The LH peaks occurred at a specific interval fol-samples were collected at the time of injection and lowing EB injection rather than at a specific hour at 3-hr intervals for 27hr. Levels o LH in the of the day. Thesefindingsshow that the anestrous serum were determined by radioimmunoassay. Serum LH levels were significantly elevated within 6–12 hr after the injection of EB. Peak levels of LH occurred at 1920 hr, 0035 hr, or 0600 hr, all approximately 12 hr following injection of EB. The LH peaks occurred at a specific interval following EB injection rather than at a specific hour of the day. These findings show that the anestrous ewe lacks a circadian clock for regulating the timing of estrogen-induced release of LH. (Endocrinology 94: 918, 1974)
The study of urban crime

Ted Robert Gurr, Rogues, Rebels, and Reformers. A Political History of Urban Crime and Conflict (1977), xii+192 (Sage, Beverly Hills and London, £7.50)
Trapping and Steering a Magnetic Microbead Using 3D Magnetic Tweezers

The development of a magnetic micromanipulation system that is capable of trapping and steering a magnetic microbead in three dimensions is presented in this paper. Hexapole magnetic tweezers were designed and implemented to realize three-dimensional (3D) magnetic actuation. Because magnetic actuation is inherently unstable without feedback control, visual measurement based on computer processing of video images was employed to detect the displacement of the microbead, facilitating real-time feedback control. An analytical magnetic force model was developed to characterize the nonlinearity and position dependency of the magnetic force exerted on the magnetic bead by the hexapole magnetic tweezers. Its inverse model was then derived and employed in feedback linearization. A proportionalintegral controller along with feedback linearization was implemented and the motion of the magnetic bead was successfully stabilized. The control results in terms of 100-nanometer stepping and 3D motion steering were experimentally demonstrated.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Theoretical kinetic model for particulates disintegration processes that result in bimodal size distributions

Abstract Disintegration is described in terms of a breakage matrix, mass balance on the various size fractions, and expressions that relate the breakage frequency, and thus its rate, to the fraction's size. The main differences between the described and previously published models of this kind are that a large particle from which fines have been detached is allowed to remain, at least temporarily, in its original size slot, and that the breakage frequency of the particle population is described by a bimodal β-distribution. The advantage of these modifications is a more consistent and realistic account of disintegration in general and erosion-dominated processes in particular. The model capabilities are demonstrated in computer-simulated size distributions during disintegration processes dominated by shattering and erosion, and its usefulness is shown in the comparison of the behavior of agglomerated and freeze-dried instant coffees undergoing mechanical attrition.
GENETICS OF CHLAMYDOMONAS REINHARDTII DIPLOIDS I. ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION AND MEIOTIC SEGREGATION PATTERN OF A HOMOZYGOUS DIPLOID

A strain of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii has been investigated which, when mated with known wild-types, produces very few viable germination products and transmits its Mendelian markers to more than half of those products. Cytogenetic observations, fluorometric measurements of DNA and genetic data all suggest that the strain, d mt-ery-M3a sr-u-1 is a stable homozygous diploid. This strain has twice as many nuclear chromatin bodies at metaphase and twice as much DNA as its haploid progenitor, and the phenotypes of its meiotic progeny are consistent with predictions based on triploid meiosis. Data from crosses involving d mt-ery-M3a sr-u-1 and from crosses involving hybrid diploids indicate that the frequency of second division segregation increases in triploid zygotes and that mitotic segregation following triploid meiosis is a frequent event which may more often result from mitotic recombination than from chromosome loss.
The relation between classical and quantum mechanical rigid motion

Abstract Conditions are given on a quantum-mechanical system which effectively reduce the Hamiltonian to a rigid body Hamiltonian derived with classical mechanics.
Borrowing Constitutional Designs: Constitutional Law in Weimar Germany and the French Fifth Republic – By Cindy Skach

The author of this study brings a welcome comparative historical perspective to bear on the most popular form of democratic constitution adopted by new states in the wake of communism's collapse: s...
Sequential metal binding by the RING finger domain of BRCA1.

Analysis of the amino acid sequence encoded by the familial breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility gene, BRCA1 [Miki et al. (1994) Science 266, 66−71], revealed the presence of an amino-terminal RING finger domain, a zinc binding motif found in a variety of proteins. Previously determined structures of two RING finger peptides from other proteins revealed that each RING finger sequence forms a single domain that includes two interleaved metal binding sites. One is a four-cysteine site comprised of metal binding residues 1, 2, 5, and 6 (in terms of position along the amino acid sequence) (site 1) and the other is a three-cysteine, one-histidine site involving metal binding residues 3, 4, 7, and 8 (site 2). We have characterized the metal binding and metal-dependent folding properties of peptides encompassing the BRCA1 RING finger. Using cobalt(II) as a spectroscopic probe, we have found that metal binding is sequential, with site 1 becoming nearly fully occupied prior to metal binding to site 2. More det...
Aerobic fitness and cognitive function in midlife: An association mediated by plasma insulin

Insulin resistance in midlife increases the risk of dementia in late-life. In contrast, habitual aerobic exercise is an established strategy to ameliorate insulin resistance which may translate into better cognitive outcome. To determine the role of plasma insulin in mediating the relation between cardiorespiratory fitness and cognitive function, fifty-eight adults completed assessments of plasma insulin levels, maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max), and neuropsychological test performance. Endurance-trained subjects demonstrated better cognitive outcome (total composite z-score: 0.21 ± 0.08 versus −0.26 ± 0.10, P = 0.001) and lower concentrations of plasma insulin (12.6 ± 0.6 versus 21.3 ± 1.5 ulU/mL, P < 0.001) than sedentary subjects. Greater VO2max was significantly associated with higher memory performance (β = 0.37, P = 0.01) and lower plasma insulin levels (β = −0.68, P < 0.001). The significant association between VO2max and memory performance was abolished when the indirect effect of plasma insulin was statistically removed (β = 0.24, P = 0.19). Fitness-related cognitive enhancement may be mediated, at least in part, by plasma insulin levels.
Laser sintering of metal powders on top of sintered layers under multiple-line laser scanning

A three-dimensional numerical model for multiple-line sintering of loose powders on top of multiple sintered layers under the irradiation of a moving Gaussian laser beam is carried out. The overlaps between vertically deposited layers and adjacent lines which strengthen bonding are taken into account. The energy equation is formulated using the temperature transforming model and solved by the finite volume method. The effects of the number of the existing sintered layers, porosity and initial temperature coupled with the optimal combination laser intensity and scanning velocity are presented. The results show that the liquid pool moves slightly towards the negative scanning direction and the shape of the liquid pool becomes shallower with higher scanning velocity. A higher laser intensity is needed to achieve the required overlaps when the number of the existing sintered layers increases. Increasing porosity or initial temperature enhances the sintering process and thus less intensity is needed for the overlap requirement.
Clinical and pathologic features of oligodendrogliomas in two cats.

Two oligodendrogliomas in two domestic cats involved mainly the rostral brain stem, midbrain, fourth ventricle, and cerebellum. Both cats were aged neutered males presenting with clinical neurologic deficits suggestive of a brain stem lesion. Magnetic resonance imaging of both tumors demonstrated lesions with a pattern of heterogeneous contrast enhancement and multifocal lesions in one cat. Routine cerebrospinal fluid analysis was normal in one cat and suggestive of an inflammatory disease in the other. Oligodendroglioma cells were seen in cytospin preparations of cerebrospinal fluid from both cats. In each cat, the tumors occurred intraventricularly in the midbrain and fourth ventricle with aggressive intraparenchymal infiltration. There was extensive growth into the basilar subarachnoid space of the midbrain and brain stem in one cat. One tumor was well differentiated, and the other was an anaplastic subtype. Immunostaining for several myelin- and oligoden- droglia-specific antigens was negative with formalin-fixed tumors and with unfixed frozen samples from one cat. In both tumors, component cells of the intratumoral vascular proliferations were positive for human von Willebrand factor VIII antigen or smooth muscle actin. Immunocytochemical reactivity for glial fibrillary acidic protein identified both reactive astrocytes and a subpopulation of minigemistocytes in both tumors. Ultrastruc- turally, the tumor cells were unremarkable except for their prominent desmosomal junctions and paucity of microtubules.