cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Watermarking via optimization algorithms for quantizing randomized image characteristics

We introduce a novel approach for blind and semi-blind watermarking and apply it to images. We derive randomized robust semi-global features of images in a suitable transform domain (wavelets in case of images) and quantize them in order to embed the watermark. Quantization is carried out by embedding to the host a sequence computed by solving an optimization problem whose parameters are known to the information hider, but unknown to the attacker. We experimentally identify some conditions (our randomization is aimed at achieving them) satisfied by our parameters, which formally and experimentally imply the robustness of our algorithm against malicious optimal estimation attacks. Furthermore, we experimentally show the robustness of our algorithm against many generic benchmark attacks for a large number of images.
On the Mechanism of the Shape Memory Effect in Ni-Ti Alloy

Several alloys have been known to exhibit a mechanical shape memory effect associated with a thermoelastic martensitic-type phase transformation. Of particular interest is the alloy NiTi near the equiatomic composition. Experimental results are presented on the deformation modes in the early stages of 55.4 wt percent Ni (50.3 at. percent) alloy in a partially transformed state. Wires from this same batch of material have been put through more than 10/sup 7/ cycles of shape recovery in a new type of heat engine.
Analysis of factors influencing the in vitro developmental pattern of p-aminohippurate transport by rabbit kidney.

Abstract The ability of rabbit renal cortical tissue to accumulate p -aminohippurate was low at two weeks, increased to a peak at four weeks and then declined to an intermediate value in adult tissue. These differences are not due to differences in the metabolism of p -aminohippurate, tissue composition or tissue viability but reflect real differences in the ability of the tissue to transport or retain p -aminohippurate. The estimated maximal rate of p -aminohippurate transport into slices increased to four weeks and declined whereas runout from tissue was greatest in adult tissue. Both of these changes could contribute to the decline in the slice to medium (S/M) concentration ratio after four weeks. p -Aminohippurate S/M ratio from tissue of all ages was enhanced by acetate. Inasmuch as the p -aminohippurate S/M ratio was greatest in adult tissue in the presence of acetate, the data suggest that the decline normally seen after four weeks reflects the presence of an inhibitor or changes in metabolic requirements in the tissue rather than a decline in intrinsic transport capacity. Preventing contact with solid food during development appeared to retard development of maximal transport capacity. Neomycin was without effect. These data suggest that substances in the diet might serve as substrates to “trigger” the development of anion transport in normal newborn kidneys. Conformation of this suggestion awaits experimental verification.
Association of human papillomavirus type 31 variants with risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grades 2–3

Although the lineages of human papillomavirus type 31 (HPV31) variants are recognized, their clinical relevance is unknown. The purpose of our study was to examine risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia Grades 2–3 (CIN2/3) by HPV31 variants. Study subjects were women who participated in the atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion Triage Study and who had HPV31 infections detected at one or more visits. They were followed semi-annually over 2 years for detection of HPV DNA and cervical lesion. HPV31 isolates were characterized by DNA sequencing and assigned into 1 of 3 variant lineages. CIN2/3 was histologically confirmed in 127 (27.0%) of the 470 HPV31-positive women, 83 diagnosed at the first HPV31-positive visit and 44 thereafter. The odds ratio for the association of 2-year cumulative risk of CIN2/3 was 1.7 (95% CI: 1.0–2.9) for infections with A variants and 2.2 (95% CI: 1.2–3.9) for infections with B variants as compared to those with C variants. Among women without CIN2/3 at the first HPV31-positive visit, the risk of subsequent CIN2/3 was 2.2-fold greater for those with A variants (95% CI: 1.0–4.8) and 2.0-fold greater for those with B variants (95% CI: 0.9–4.9) as compared to those with C variants. Similar associations were observed when CIN3 was used as the endpoint. The findings from our study help to tag HPV31 variants that differ in risk of CIN2/3 and to explain in part why some HPV31 infections regress spontaneously and others lead to disease progression.
Partial oxidation of methane to syngas over Co/MgO catalysts. Is it low temperature?

Co/MgO catalysts with high Co-loading (>28 wt%) are able to initiate the reaction of methane with oxygen at temperatures around 500 °C. High conversions of methane (∼ 70%) and very high selectivities for hydrogen and carbon monoxide (∼ 90%) are obtained at very high reactant gas space velocities (105–106 h−1). The temperature of the catalyst at the conditions of partial oxidation of methane to form syngas was found to be extremely high (1200–1300 °C); it is about 600–850 °C higher than that previously reported by others. At these temperatures, high temperature homogeneous reactions may prevail. It is suggested that combustion of methane to carbon dioxide occurs on the catalyst with major heat release and that methane and water, respectively methane and carbon dioxide are reformed thermally in an endothermic reaction leading to syngas.
What Do Reliquaries Do for Relics

This article introduces prominent issues that surround the Christian use of reliquaries, first discussing examples from Trier made by the renowned Archbishop Egbert in the tenth century, then turning to early Christian texts to investigate the beginnings of relic practice and belief. Of special interest are the letters and poems of Paulinus of Nola, but also the commentaries of Augustine, Ambrose, Victricius of Rouen and others that flesh out an understanding of how reliquaries were essential to the project of creating an appropriate reverentia for relics (Peter Brown’s term). The materiality of reliquaries, their creation of social relations, particular issues of enclosure and beauty, and questions of potential visibility are given special consideration.
Choosing a Cancer Surgeon: Analyzing Factors in Patient Decision Making Using a Best–Worst Scaling Methodology

Background Surgeon experience has been shown to influence outcomes for many types of cancer. The factors that patients consider when selecting a hospital or surgeon for cancer treatment remain poorly defined.
Superplastic deformation of Al2O3/Y-TZP particulate composites and laminates

Abstract Al 2 O 3 /Y-TZP particulate composites and particulate laminates with varying compositions and ratios of layer thickness were fabricated by tapecasting, lamination, and sintering. Tensile strain-rate-change (SRC) tests were conducted on the particulate composites and particulate laminates at a temperature of 1350 °C and compared to previous results where tests were conducted in compression. Stress exponents for particulate composites and laminates were measured to be approximately two in both tension and compression. The observed similarity of SRC data suggests that a common deformation mechanism exists in tension and compression. Elongation-to-failure tests were also conducted at 1350 °C at a constant true-strain rate of 10 −4 s −1 . It was found that the elongation-to-failures of particulate laminates are lower than for particulate composites with similar overall compositions because of interlayer constraint in the particulate laminates which induces cavitation in the harder layer. The increase in flow stress from dynamic grain growth was used to determine that flow stress depends on grain size to approximately the 1.5 power. Elongations for fine grained particulate composites produced by pressureless sintering were similar to those described in the literature for hot-pressed particulate composites of similar composition, but with slightly coarser grain sizes.
The dopamine D3 receptor antagonist NGB 2904 increases spontaneous and amphetamine-stimulated locomotion.

Abstract The dopamine D3 receptor is believed to play an important role in regulation of rodent locomotor behavior, and has been proposed as a therapeutic target for substance abuse, psychotic disorders, and Parkinson's disease. One model of dopamine D3 receptor function, based on studies utilizing D3 receptor knockout mice and D3 receptor-preferring agonists, proposes that D3 receptor stimulation is inhibitory to psychostimulant-induced locomotion, in opposition to the effects of concurrent dopamine D1 and D2 receptor stimulation. Recent progress in medicinal chemistry has led to the development of highly-selective dopamine D3 receptor antagonists. In order to extend our understanding of D3 dopamine receptor's behavioral functions, we determined the effects of the highly-selective dopamine D3 receptor antagonist NGB 2904 on amphetamine-stimulated and spontaneous locomotion in wild-type and dopamine D3 receptor knockout mice. NGB 2904 (26.0 μg/kg s.c.) enhanced amphetamine-stimulated locomotion in wild-type mice, but had no measurable effect in dopamine D3 receptor knockout mice. Of a range of doses (0.026 μg–1.0 mg/kg) given acutely or once daily for seven days, the highest dose of NGB 2904 (1.0 mg/kg) stimulated spontaneous locomotion in wild-type mice, but was without measurable effect in dopamine D3 receptor knockout mice. These behavioral effects of NGB 2904 contrast with those described for other highly D3 receptor-selective antagonists, which have not previously demonstrated an effect on spontaneous locomotor activity. In combination, these data add to the behavioral profile of this novel D3 receptor ligand and provide further support for a role for dopamine D3 receptor inhibitory function in the modulation of rodent locomotion.
Myocardial phospholipase A of microsomal and mitochondrial fractions.

Abstract 1. 1. Phospholipase A1 and Ag2 activities of mitochondria and microsomes of myocardial tissue have been determined using exogenous [14C]phosphatidyl ethanolamine and [14C]phosphatidyl choline. Mitochondrial phospholipase A2 had a pH optimum of 9.5, required 2.0 mM Ca2+ for optimal activity and was markedly inhibited by 1.0 mM EDTA. Microsomal phospholipase A1 and A2 activities were optimal at pH 7.5 in the presence of 2.0 mM Ca2+ and were minimally inhibited by 1.0 mM EDTA. 2. 2. Incubations with 3H-14C mixed labeled phosphatidyl ethanolamine further confirmed the above observations and implicated lysophospholipase activity in the microsomal fractions. 3. 3. Phosphatidyl ethanolamine was preferred to phosphatidyl choline as substrate. 4. 4. This endogenous phospholipase A activity in the microsomal membranes of the myocardium may have relevance to in vitro studies of Ca2+ permeability and Ca2+-dependent ATPase changes previously noted during snake venom phospholipase A treatment of muscle membranes.
A picture (in the microscope) is worth a thousand words

Many of us (especially the old-timers) went into hematology with the realization that this was a unique opportunity to correlate “bedside medicine” with the picture portrayed in the microscope. Not many other subspecialties of medicine permit the chance to evaluate a patient by history and
COH-SR4 reduces body weight, improves glycemic control and prevents hepatic steatosis in high fat diet-induced obese mice.

Obesity is a chronic metabolic disorder caused by imbalance between energy intake and expenditure, and is one of the principal causative factors in the development of metabolic syndrome, diabetes and cancer. COH-SR4 (“SR4”) is a novel investigational compound that has anti-cancer and anti-adipogenic properties. In this study, the effects of SR4 on metabolic alterations in high fat diet (HFD)-induced obese C57BL/J6 mice were investigated. Oral feeding of SR4 (5 mg/kg body weight.) in HFD mice for 6 weeks significantly reduced body weight, prevented hyperlipidemia and improved glycemic control without affecting food intake. These changes were associated with marked decreases in epididymal fat mass, adipocyte hypertrophy, increased plasma adiponectin and reduced leptin levels. SR4 treatment also decreased liver triglycerides, prevented hepatic steatosis, and normalized liver enzymes. Western blots demonstrated increased AMPK activation in liver and adipose tissues of SR4-treated HFD obese mice, while gene analyses by real time PCR showed COH-SR4 significantly suppressed the mRNA expression of lipogenic genes such as sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (Srebf1), acetyl-Coenzyme A carboxylase (Acaca), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparg), fatty acid synthase (Fasn), stearoyl-Coenzyme A desaturase 1 (Scd1), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1a (Cpt1a) and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (Hmgcr), as well as gluconeogenic genes phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase 1 (Pck1) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G6pc) in the liver of obese mice. In vitro, SR4 activates AMPK independent of upstream kinases liver kinase B1 (LKB1) and Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase kinase β (CaMKKβ). Together, these data suggest that SR4, a novel AMPK activator, may be a promising therapeutic compound for treatment of obesity, fatty liver disease, and related metabolic disorders.
An investigation of psychoeducational interventions about therapy

Abstract This study assessed the effects of psychoeducational interventions on undergraduates’ expectations and fears about psychotherapy. Block randomization was used to determine intervention assignment: a multimedia program, information-only presentation, or a no-intervention control group. Pre- and postintervention scores from the Expectations About Counseling–Brief Form (EAC-B) and Thoughts About Psychotherapy Survey (TAPS) were assessed for changes in expectations and fears. Results showed that the multimedia and information-only interventions significantly reduced fears about therapy, although the reduction in fears by the multimedia program was more significant compared with the information-only intervention. The multimedia program also significantly and positively influenced 3 EAC-B subscales, Client Characteristics, Client Attitudes and Behaviors, and Counseling Process and Outcome, compared with the other 2 conditions. Clinical implications of using educational interventions are discussed.
Evolvability, Dispositions, and Intrinsicality

In this paper I examine a dispositional property that has been receiving increased attention in biology, evolvability. First, I identify three compatible but distinct investigative approaches, distinguish two interpretations of evolvability, and treat the difference between dispositions of individuals versus populations. Second, I explore the relevance of philosophical distinctions about dispositions for evolvability, isolating the assumption that dispositions are intrinsically located. I conclude that some instances of evolvability cannot be understood as purely intrinsic to populations and suggest alternative strategies for resolving this difficulty.
Pharmacological aspects of human and canine narcolepsy

Narcolepsy-cataplexy is a disabling neurological disorder that affects 1/2000 individuals. The main clinical features of narcolepsy, excessive daytime sleepiness and symptoms of abnormal REM sleep (cataplexy, sleep paralysis, hypnagogic hallucinations) are currently treated using amphetamine-like compounds or modafinil and antidepressants. Pharmacological research in the area is facilitated greatly by the existence of a canine model of the disorder. The mode of action of these compounds involves presynaptic activation of adrenergic transmission for the anticataplectic effects of antidepressant compounds and presynaptic activation of dopaminergic transmission for the EEG arousal effects of amphetamine-like stimulants. The mode of action of modafmil is still uncertain, and other neurochemical systems may offer interesting avenues for therapeutic development. Pharmacological and physiological studies using the canine model have identified primary neurochemical and neuroanatomical systems that underlie the expression of abnormal REM sleep and excessive sleepiness in narcolepsy. These involve mostly the pontine and basal forebrain cholinergic, the pontine adrenergic and the mesolimbic and mesocortical dopaminergic systems. These studies confirm a continuing need for basic research in both human and canine narcolepsy, and new treatments that act directly at the level of the primary defect in narcolepsy might be forthcoming.
Modeling and Simulation of Wave Propagation Based on Atomistic Field Theory

Motivated by the need for a more efficient simulation of material behavior at both larger length scale and longer time scale than direct molecular dynamics simulation, an atomistic field theory (AFT) for modeling and simulation of multiphase material systems has been developed. Atomistic formulation of the multiscale field theory and its corresponding finite element implementation are briefly introduced. By virtue of finite element analysis of classical continuum mechanics, we show the existing phenomena of spurious wave reflections at the interfaces between regions with different mesh sizes. AFT is employed to investigate the wave propagation in magnesium oxide from the atomistic region to the continuum region without any special numerical treatment. Unlike some other atomistic/ continuum computational methods, AFT has demonstrated the capability to display both acoustic and optic types of wave motion. Numerical results show that AFT has the capability to significantly reduce the wave reflections at the interface. This work provides a more fundamental understanding of wave reflections at the atomistic/continuum interface.
High Fat Feeding and Dietary L-arginine Supplementation Differentially Regulate Gene Expression in Rat White Adipose Tissue

Dietary L-arginine (Arg) supplementation reduces white-fat gain in diet-induced obese rats but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. This study tested the hypothesis that Arg treatment affects expression of genes related to lipid metabolism in adipose tissue. Four-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed a low-fat (LF) or high-fat (HF) diet for 15 weeks. Thereafter, lean or obese rats continued to be fed their same respective diets and received drinking water containing 1.51% Arg-HCl or 2.55% L: -alanine (isonitrogenous control). After 12 weeks of Arg supplementation, rats were euthanized to obtain retroperitoneal adipose tissue for analyzing global changes in gene expression by microarray. The results were confirmed by RT-PCR analysis. HF feeding decreased mRNA levels for lipogenic enzymes, AMP-activated protein kinase, glucose transporters, heme oxygenase 3, glutathione synthetase, superoxide dismutase 3, peroxiredoxin 5, glutathione peroxidase 3, and stress-induced protein, while increasing expression of carboxypeptidase-A, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)-alpha, caspase 2, caveolin 3, and diacylglycerol kinase. In contrast, Arg supplementation reduced mRNA levels for fatty acid binding protein 1, glycogenin, protein phosphates 1B, caspases 1 and 2, and hepatic lipase, but increased expression of PPARgamma, heme oxygenase 3, glutathione synthetase, insulin-like growth factor II, sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor, and stress-induced protein. Biochemical analysis revealed oxidative stress in white adipose tissue of HF-fed rats, which was prevented by Arg supplementation. Collectively, these results indicate that HF diet and Arg supplementation differentially regulate gene expression to affect energy-substrate oxidation, redox state, fat accretion, and adipocyte differentiation in adipose tissue. Our findings provide a molecular mechanism to explain a beneficial effect of Arg on ameliorating diet-induced obesity in mammals.
The Accuracy of Teacher Reports in the Identification of Middle School Students With Depressive Symptomatology.

This investigation examined the ability of teachers to identify depressive characteristics among middle school students. Participants were 356 students and 52 teachers. Teachers' perceptions of students' depressive characteristics were obtained via Likert ratings and nominations of students the teachers judged to be depressed. The depressive status of students was evaluated with a multiple-gating procedure using the Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale (Reynolds, 1987) as an initial measure and the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children, Edition IV as a final measure. A correlation of .22 (p < .001) was obtained between teachers' ratings of student depression and students' self-reported depressed moods. Further analyses examined teachers' ability to identify high-depression students, as well as the impact of teacher and student variables on teachers' ability to discern students' depressed moods. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Psychol Schs 41: 379–389, 2004.
Child gender and the transition to marriage.

We estimate the effect of a child’s gender on the mother’s probability of marriage or remarriage using data from the PSID Marital History and Childbirth and Adoption History Files. We find that the birth of a son speeds the transition into marriage when the child is born before the mother’s first marriage. A competing-risks analysis shows that the positive effect of a son is stronger for marriages to the child’s biological father than for other marriages. We find no significant effect of child gender on the mother’s remarriage probabilities when the children are born within a previous marriage. These results are consistent with a marital-search model in which sons, more than daughters, increase the value of marriage relative to single parenthood.
Poliovirus antibody in urban school children

9. ques de 67 cas observe a 1' Hopital Sainte-Justine, Union Med. Can. 101: 2407, t972. Toivanen, P., Toivanen, A., Olkonen, L., and Aantaa, S.: Hospital outbreak of Yersinia enterocolitica infection, Lancet 1: 801, 1973. Ahvonen, P., and Rossi, T.: Familial occurence of Yersinia enterocolitica infection and acute arthritis, Acta Paediatr. Scand. Suppl. 206: 121, 1970. 10. Sedgwick, A. K., and Triton, R. C.: Biochemical and serological characteristics of a Yersinia enterocolitica isolate, Appl. Microbiol. 21: 383, 1971. 11. The spectacular rise of Yersinia enterocolitica, Can. Med. J. 108: 1097, 1973. 12. Toma, S., Lior, H., Quin-Hill, M., Sher, N., and Walker, W. A.: Yersinia enterocolitica infection: Report of two cases, Can. J. Pub. Health 63: 433, 1972.
Proliferative vitreoretinopathy as a late complication of blunt ocular trauma

Abstract Background Blunt ocular trauma to the eye can manifest in many ways. However, it is unknown how long patients are at risk for certain complications after the initial injury. Proliferative vitreoretinopathy is one possible complication of ocular trauma. This condition generally results from severe ocular trauma, chronic retinal detachment, or retinal surgery. The nidus for proliferation is unclear; however, once formed, proliferative membranes create traction at the vitreoretinal surface, leading to further complications and ocular morbidity. Case report A 34-year-old man presented emergently with decreased vision in the left eye for 3 weeks and pain for 3 days. The patient denied any recent trauma or systemic disease but did report trauma to his left eye approximately 5 years earlier. His best-corrected acuities were 20/20 in the right eye and light perception in the left eye. The anterior segment evaluation found a nearly complete hyphema, iris neovascularization, and superior uveal prolapse through scleral perforation of the left eye. Retinal detachment and proliferative vitreoretinal disease were also discovered, necessitating surgical repair. Conclusion Proliferative vitreoretinopathy is associated with severe ocular trauma. In this case, the patient had a markedly delayed onset of proliferative retinopathy resulting from blunt trauma with partial perforation 5 years before. Clinicians should be aware of the potential for the development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy as a long-term complication of blunt ocular trauma as well as the treatment options for this disease.
Co-metabolism of m-chlorobenzoate by natural microbial populations grown under co-substrate enrichment conditions.

Tha degradation of chlorinated benzoates by natural microbial populations has been reported to occur in the ~bsence of additional carbon and/or energy sources by a co-metabolic process (HORVATH 1973; HO~VATH 1972a; HORVATH 1972b; HORVATH 1971). However, use of the co-substrate enrichment technique (HORVATH 1973) clearly restated in an increased rate of mineralization by the microorganisms present o In view of the complete degradation of m-chlorobenzoate by microorganisms present in co-substrate enrichment systems, it seemed logical to determine the pathway by which this compound was degraded and the effect that this pathway had on the total cell crop obtained in this system~ The results of this investigation establish the role of co-metabolism in the initial attack on m-chlcrobenzoate and the degradation of this compound to inorganic ~hloride and organic intermediates which ~ventually can serve as carbon and energy so~rces for m~cvobiel growth.
Efficient Implementation of Chemistry in Computational Combustion

For hydrocarbon fuels, detailed chemical kinetics typically involve a large number of chemical species and reactions. In a high-fidelity combustion calculation, it is essential, though challenging, to incorporate sufficiently detailed chemical kinetics to enable reliable predictions of thermo-chemical quantities, especially for pollutants such as NO x and CO. In this paper, we review the recent work on efficient implementation of chemistry at Cornell, specifically: the invariant constrained equilibrium-edge pre-image curve dimension-reduction method for the reduced description of reactive flows; the transport-chemistry coupling in the reduced description; the computationally efficient operator-splitting schemes for reactive flows; and, recent developments in the storage/retrieval algorithm in situ adaptive tabulation.
Astrocytic Connectivity in the Hippocampus

Little is known about the functional connectivity between astrocytes in the CNS. To explore this issue we photo-released glutamate onto a single astrocyte in murine hippocampal slices and imaged calcium responses. Photo-release of glutamate causes a metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR)-dependent increase in internal calcium in the stimulated astrocyte and delayed calcium elevations in neighboring cells. The delayed elevation in calcium was not caused by either neuronal activity following synaptic transmission or by glutamate released from astrocytes. However, it was reduced by flufenamic acid (FFA), which is consistent with a role for adenosine triphosphate (ATP) release from astrocytes as an intercellular messenger. Exogenous ligands such as ATP (1 µM) increased the number of astrocytes that were recruited into coupled astrocytic networks, indicating that extracellular accumulation of neurotransmitters modulates neuronal excitability, synaptic transmission and functional coupling between astrocytes.
Trade-Off Analysis for Multiobjective Optimization in Transportation Asset Management by Generating Pareto Frontiers Using Extreme Points Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II

Investment decision making in transportation asset management is typically characterized by a wide diversity of asset types for purposes of optimization at overall system level. To enhance investment analysis and decision making for these multiobjective problem types, the analysis of trade-offs associated with different performance measures can be illuminating and informative. This paper provides techniques for efficient trade-off analysis as part of multiobjective-optimization for transportation asset management. The multiobjective-optimization problem is first formulated by establishing the objectives expressed in terms of network-level performance measures underlying the analysis of trade-offs. Then, the Extreme Points Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA II) technique, an improvement over traditional NSGA II, is applied to generate Pareto frontiers that illustrate the trade-offs. Using candidate projects from a varied range of asset types as a case study, the paper successfully conducts the trade-offs between performance objectives and cost, and then among the performance objectives. The paper also shows that Extreme Points NSGA II has a faster convergence speed and yields a distribution that is superior to the traditional NSGA II.
Huckel I-V 3.0: a self-consistent model for molecular transport and its applications

Huckel I-V 3.0 can be a very useful model in explaining many different physical characteristics of molecular conductors that have been experimentally observed. The authors apply this model to investigate the origin of asymmetry in the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics observed in a recent break junction measurement for a symmetric molecule. We achieve good agreement between theoretical and experimental I-V characteristics, both in shape as well as overall magnitude. We conclude that such asymmetry arises due to unequal coupling with the contacts which generates asymmetry in charging. We also study alkanethiol I-V characteristics observed in a recent nanopore experiment. We achieve an excellent match between calculated and experimental results. One of the main features of Huckel I-V 3.0 is that a third terminal (as a gate) can be added to the system with relative ease. In order to showcase this strength of our model we perform three terminal calculations on single molecules. We study both alkanethiol chains and conjugated molecules as a molecular transistor and observe that alkanethiol molecules show better transistor performance.
The reaction of yeast hexokinase with sulfhydryl reagents.

Abstract The spectrophotometric assay of sulfhydryl groups by p- chloromercuribenzoate (PCMB) revealed approx. 6 SH groups per molecule of yeast hexokinase (ATP: d -hexose 6-phosphotransferase, EC 2.7.1.1). In the presence of glucose the reaction of the hexokinase with PCMB is slower. It is possible to react 3–4 SH groups at pH 7.0 in the presence of glucose without loss of activity. Under this condition an appreciable amount of activity is left after all the SH groups available for PCMB have reacted. The inactivation of the hexokinase activity by PCMB is reversible by the addition of cysteine. However, when high concentrations of the enzyme solution and correspondingly high concentrations of PCMB are incubated, the hexokinase activity is irreversibly lost. The PCMB-hexokinase complex is catalytically active but is very labile and loses its activity when glucose is not present in the solution. Sedimentation studies of the hexokinase-PCMB complex indicated that the irreversibly inactivated hexokinase consists of at least two molecular species; one sedimenting with the same velocity as the normal enzyme and the other sedimenting twice as fast.
The effectiveness of felony probation: Results from an eastern state

Data from New Jersey were used to examine the effectiveness of felony probation. Examination of more than 2,000 burglars, robbers, and controlled substance offenders placed on probation in 1976–1977 showed that their recidivism at three, four, and approximately 10 years after sentencing ranged from approximately one-third to more than half arrested and about 10 percent imprisoned. Prior convictions, type of offense, age, race, the Greenwood prediction device, use of heroin, and employment were statistically significant correlates of recidivism. The major conclusion is that probation is an acceptable sentencing alternative for some felony offenders in some states but that recidivism rates can be alarmingly high for particular categories of offenders. In addition, probation officials should devote some attention to the needs of probationers in such problem areas as employment and drug abuse.
Inhibition of Kupffer Cells Reduced CXC Chemokine Production and Liver Injury

Background. Cytokine production is a critical component of ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury. In the liver, Kupffer cells produce cytokines and chemokines (i.e., cytokines with chemoattractant properties) that are important mediators in neutrophil recruitment and subsequent hepatocellular injury. Therefore, the role of Kupffer cells in chemokine production in hepatic IR injury was investigated. Methods. Adult male C57BL/6 mice underwent 90 min of partial hepatic ischemia followed by various reperfusion times (i.e., 0, 1.5, 3, and 6 h). Gadolinium chloride (GC), which inhibits Kupffer cell activity, was administered to mice 48 and 24 h prior to ischemia. The control group received a corresponding volume of normal saline. Plasma levels of the cytokine macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), KC, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and liver mRNA were measured. Liver injury was assessed by plasma level of alanine transaminase (ALT) and histopathology. Results. A reperfusion time-dependent liver injury occurred as indicated by increased levels of plasma ALT and histopathology. The injury was associated with increased plasma TNF-α, MIP-2, and KC and their hepatic mRNA expression and neutrophil infiltration into ischemic lobes of the liver. GC treatment significantly reduced the number of Kupffer cells as determined by the immunostained liver tissue sections. The extent of liver injury significantly decreased in GC-treated mice that were associated with decreased levels of plasma ALT, TNF-α, MIP-2, and KC and neutrophil infiltration. Conclusions. This study suggests that Kupffer cells are major contributors to cytokine production in hepatic IR and their modulation may serve as a potential target for therapeutic intervention.
Nitrile oxide cycloaddition routes to 2-(isoxazolyl)-benzoates and 2-(1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl)benzoates

Cycloaddition of aromatic nitrile oxides to methyl o-vinylbenzoate produced methyl 2-(3-aryl-2-isoxazolin-5-yl)benzoates; the isoxazolines were converted to methyl 2-(3-arylisoxazol-5-yl)benzoates. Reaction of the nitrile oxide from o-methoxycarbonylbenzohydroximinoyl chloride (11) with phenylacetylene, styrenes, and aromatic nitriles resulted in methyl 2-(5-phenylisoxazol-3-yl)benzoate, methyl 2-(5-aryl-2-isoxazolin-3-yl)-benzoates (15), and methyl 2-(5-aryl-1,2,4-oxadiazol-3-yl)benzoates, respectively. The isoxazolines 15 were converted to the corresponding isoxazoles 16.
SEM analysis of polymeric mechanical failures in polyetherimide

Abstract Different modes of fracture, which consisted of tension, bending, impact, biaxial flexure, torsion, fatigue, and cutting, were selected to determine fracture surface characteristics of polyetherimide under controlled conditions. Fractography, examination of fracture surfaces, was performed using a stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM) to characterize and compare modes of failure. The stressed samples exhibited ductility, deformation, and finally brittle fracture shown by a primary fracture surface: mirror, transition region with mists and hackles, and a rough region with Wallner lines. The impacted samples exhibited stress cracking from the point of impact. The cut sample exhibited tear characteristics. Stress corrosion cracking was exhibited by dissolving polyetherimide in a partially halogenated hydrocarbon, trichloroethane.
Cellular control of collagen breakdown in rheumatoid arthritis.

Remodelling of connective tissue and its destruction in rheumatoid arthritis is related to collagenolysis. Study of collagenase released by rheumatoid synovial cells has indicated that the enzyme is released in latent form from adherent synovial cells in culture. As a latent enzyme it is protected from complexing with α2 macroglobulin, the principal proteinase inhibitor. Activation in vivo is very likely caused by proteases which destroy or complex with a portion of collagenase responsible for its latency. Recent data suggest that the latent collagenase is an enzyme-inhibitor complex and not a true zymogen.
Investigation of the Heterogeneous Reactivity of HCl, HBr, and HI on Ice Surfaces

The interactions of hydrogen halide gases (HX = HCl, HBr, and HI) with thin ice films representative of atmospheric aerosols have been studied using a Knudsen cell reactor coupled to a Fourier transform infrared−reflection absorption (FTIR−RAS) spectroscopic probe. The gas-phase uptake and reaction products resulting from the exposure of hydrogen halides to ice surfaces over a wide range of temperatures (110−210 K), hydrogen halide partial pressures (5−1000 × 10-7 Torr), and ice film thicknesses (10−100 nm) are reported. Studies of HCl and HBr showed efficient reactions on crystalline and amorphous microporous ice films at 110 K to form H3O+ until reaching coverages ranging from (5−20) × 1015 molecules cm-2, after which the rate of reaction dramatically decreased. The uptake of HCl on hexagonal crystalline ice at temperatures representative of the lower stratosphere and upper troposphere (180−210 K) was found to depend strongly on HCl partial pressure. Over the temperature range studied, exposure of ice t...
Paleoenvironmental controls on vertebrate-bearing abandoned channels in the Upper Carboniferous

Abstract A paleoenvironmental study of the vertebrate-bearing sapropelic coal that underlies the Upper Freeport coal (Westphalian D, Upper Carboniferous) at Linton, Ohio, identifies a hierarchy of physical and chemical controls that influenced the formation of this deposit. Surface and subsurface data from previous work and field study of extensive exposures show that the fossiliferous cannel occurs at the bottom of an approximately 15 m deep abandoned river meander within a sandstone-dominated multistorey sediment body. Storeys of this sediment body fine upward and consist of varying proportions of sandstones and siltstones within lateral accretion beds that are interpreted as point-bar deposits. Associated channel fills are generally organic rich and composed of coals, such as the Linton cannel, or carbonaceous mudstones. Maximum observed channel depth is approximately 18 m, and the maximum thickness of the multistorey sediment body reaches nearly 40 m. The sandstone-dominated sediment body that contains the Linton cannel trends northwestwardly and contrasts with mudstone-dominated, coarsening-upward sequences that were deposited contemporaneously in adjoining areas. This lithic pattern suggests that fluvial activity was restricted to a persistent topographic low that may have resulted from movement along the Transylvania Fault Zone a previously documented basement-controlled feature. Rapid subsidence on the southern side of this structure confined the fluvial system and favored the preservation of deposits within the meander belt, including the fossil-bearing sapropelic channel fill at Linton. The low inorganic content and oxbow-like outline of the Linton fossil deposit and its lateral relationship to other storeys in the multistorey channel sequence indicate that the abandoned meander was closed rapidly by neck cutoff and, in the absence of clastic influx, filled by sapropelic peat. Remains of aquatic to terrestrial animals that lived in or near the oxbow lake slowly rotted in this scavenger-free anaerobic setting. Because of the substantial depth of the original meander and a lack of coarse-grained fill materials, a prolonged period of sapropelic filling insured the preservation of an abundant and diverse autochthonous vertebrate assemblage. Most Westphalian tetrapod deposits represent sapropelic peats and muds and share some of the taphonomic attributes of the Linton deposit. The high degree of autochthony evidenced by Westphalian vertebrate accumulations indicates that taphonomic controls of low-lying peat-forming alluvial and delta plain systems differ significantly from those of well-drained alluvial valley settings.
Efficacy and safety of butorphanol nasal spray for the relief of postepisiotomy pain

Abstract Butorphanol tartrate, a synthetically derived opioid agonist-antagonist analgesic was evaluated for postepisiotomy pain relief when administered as a nasal spray. In this double-blind, parallel-group, dose-response study, 150 women with moderate to severe episiotomy pain were randomly assigned to receive a single dose of transnasal butorphanol (0.25, 0.5, 1, or 2 mg) or placebo. Pain relief was evaluated for 6 hours. The 2-mg dose of butorphanol was associated with a rapid onset of analgesia and a greater efficacy than placebo, as determined by using several markers including pain intensity differences, pain relief, pain half gone, sum of pain intensity differences, sum of pain relief, observer global assessment, and the time to remedication. As a result of the high placebo response, the 0.25-mg, 0.5-mg, and 1-mg doses did not differ significantly from placebo. The drug was well tolerated, with somnolence and dizziness the most frequently reported side effects. These were dose related.
The Regulation of Immigration, Economic Structures and Definitions of the Poor in Eighteenth-Century England

In the eighteenth century, parish officers used the laws of settlement to regulate the immigration of the poor to their parishes. Their regulation went well beyond ridding their parishes of indigent immigrants. Parish officers monitored the immigration of the non-indigent poor; they insured that their parishes acquired the documents which guaranteed that a poor immigrant would not become the responsibility of the parish to which he had immigrated; and they even removed non-indigent immigrants from their parishes, using their parishes' funds to pay for sending these immigrants back to the parishes which were legally responsible for their welfare.1 To the modern observer, such regulation of migration from one parish to another may seem odd, so odd that some historians have assumed that this regulatory activity did not occur.2 Obviously, then, the parishes' regulation of immigration was part of a world now lost. Regulation of immigration by parish officers disappeared in 1795, when parliament abolished the legal foundations for this practice.3 In detective stories, discovery of the circumstances and implications of a disappearance reveals the structure of the world in which it occurred. So may it be with the regulation of immigration.
Isolation of protein initiation factors from 30S ribosomal subunits.

PREVIOUS work has demonstrated that the initiation of protein synthesis requires messenger RNA (mRNA)1–3, formyl-methionyl-tRNA (F-met-tRNA)4–6, ribosomes, GPT7–9, and at least three protein initiation factors10–12. Native ribosomal subunits have been shown to contain the initiation factors, and such subunits are extremely active in the initiation of protein synthesis13.
Protein source and nutrient density in the diets of male broilers from 8 to 21 d of age: Effects on small intestine morphology

In a companion study, high amino acid (AA) or apparent metabolizable energy (AME) densities in the diets of broilers from 8 to 21 d of age were found to improve feed conversion. A total of 1,120 male Ross×Ross 708 chicks were randomly allocated to 80 pens (8 treatments, 10 replications per treatment, 14 chicks per pen). A 2×2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments was used to investigate the interaction among the protein source (high distillers dried grains with solubles diet [hDDGS] or high meat and bone meal diet [hMBM]), AA density (moderate or high), and AME density (2,998 or 3,100 kcal/kg) of diets on small intestine morphology. Duodenum, jejunum, and ileum samples from 2 chicks per pen were collected and measured individually at 21 d. Jejunum sections were processed for histological analysis. Chicks fed hDDGS diets exhibited longer small intestines than did chicks fed hMBM diets. Particularly, when chicks were fed high AA density diets, jejuna were longer in groups fed hDDGS diets than groups fed hMBM diets. Dietary treatments did not affect jejunum villus height, width, area, crypt depth, villus to crypt ratio, goblet cell size, or cell density. In birds fed diets containing a moderate AA and a high AME density, jejunum muscle layers of chicks fed hDDGS diets were thicker than those fed hMBM diets. Chicks exhibited a lower feed conversion ratio (FCR) and a higher BW gain when their crypts were shorter. In conclusion, an hDDGS diet may facilitate small intestine longitudinal growth in broilers, which may subsequently improve dietary nutrient absorption. In addition, broiler chicks with shallow intestinal crypts exhibited better growth performance.
Far From Solved: A Perspective on What We Know About Early Mechanisms of Left–Right Asymmetry

Consistent laterality is a crucial aspect of embryonic development, physiology, and behavior. While strides have been made in understanding unilaterally expressed genes and the asymmetries of organogenesis, early mechanisms are still poorly understood. One popular model centers on the structure and function of motile cilia and subsequent chiral extracellular fluid flow during gastrulation. Alternative models focus on intracellular roles of the cytoskeleton in driving asymmetries of physiological signals or asymmetric chromatid segregation, at much earlier stages. All three models trace the origin of asymmetry back to the chirality of cytoskeletal organizing centers, but significant controversy exists about how this intracellular chirality is amplified onto cell fields. Analysis of specific predictions of each model and crucial recent data on new mutants suggest that ciliary function may not be a broadly conserved, initiating event in left–right patterning. Many questions about embryonic left–right asymmetry remain open, offering fascinating avenues for further research in cell, developmental, and evolutionary biology. Developmental Dynamics 239:3131–3146, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
A predictive analytical friction model from basic theories of interfaces, contacts and dislocations

Friction between crystalline bodies is described in a model that unifies elements of dislocation drag, contact mechanics, and interface theory. An analytic expression for the friction force between solids suggests that dislocation drag accounts for many of the observed phenomena related to solid–solid sliding. Included in this approach are strong arguments for agreement with friction dependence on temperature, velocity, orientation, and more general materials selection effects. It is shown that calculations of friction coefficients for sliding contacts are in good agreement with available experimental values reported from ultrahigh vacuum experiments. Extensions of this model include solutions for common types of dislocation barriers or defects. The effects of third-body solid lubricants, superplasticity, superconductivity, the Aubry transition, and supersonic dislocation motion are all discussed in the framework of dislocation-mediated friction.
Phase contrast and histochemical studies of spherule cells in cockroaches (Dictyoptera).

Phase contrast and histochemical studies of the hemocytes of Periplaneta americana (L.), P. australasiae (F.), Blattella germanica (L.), Blaberus giganteus (L.), Diploptera punctata (Eschscholz), Leucophaea maderae (F.), and Nauphoeta cinerea (Olivier) showed the presence of spherule cells in all of them. Pyronin-methyl Green, Alcian Blue, and Toluidine Blue tests indicated the presence of acid mucopolysaccharides in the spherules of the spherule cells. Clusters of sperules liberated from the spherule cells seem to gradually grow in size and resemble young plasmatocytes. It is suggested that these spherules are probably precursors of new cells.