cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Piroxicam and other cyclooxygenase inhibitors: Potential for cancer chemoprevention

Piroxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used for treatment of inflammatory arthritis. Recent experimental and clinical studies suggest that piroxicam, as well as other NSAIDs, may be useful for chemoprevention of colon cancer. While there is less information regarding NSAIDs for chemoprevention of urinary bladder malignancy, there are compelling data which suggest that this should be evaluated. A major effect of NSAIDs is inhibition of cyclooxygenase, the rate-limiting enzyme for conversion of arachidonic acid to important signal molecules, including prostaglandins, which profoundly affect cellular functions in many tissues. The initial enzyme reaction leading to formation of prostaglandin H can be accompanied by cooxidation of xenobiotics resulting in extrahepatic and local tissue production of reactive products which are carcinogenic. The end product prostaglandins, especially prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), are biological modifiers which can significantly affect cell proliferation and tumor growth. High levels of PGE2 stimulate growth of certain tumor cell lines while inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis with indomethacin or piroxicam can cause suppression. The mechanisms for this effect are unclear. Studies in cultured cells exposed to indomethacin show inhibition of G1-to-S phase progression of the cell cycle and a reduction in overall DNA synthesis. It is unclear whether this effect on cell growth results from some direct action of the NSAID or a reduction in prostaglandins or indirectly from modulation of important control signals, such as calcium flux. In addition to cyclooxygenase, NSAIDs can inhibit activity of other enzymes, including phosphodiesterases and cyclic GMP-AMP protein kinases, which may be central to cancer initiation and promotion. NSAIDs can also interfere with transmembrane ion fluxes and with cell-to-cell binding. Prostaglandins can modulate a variety of immunological responses and thereby play an important role in host antitumor immunity. For example, high levels of tissue PGE2 are frequently associated with suppression of immune surveillance and killing of malignant cells. Conversely, immune responses are generally enhanced by drugs that inhibit prostaglandin synthesis. PGE2 can act as a feedback inhibitor for cellular immune processes, such as T-cell proliferation, lymphokine production, and cytotoxicity. This effect is also seen for macrophage activity and natural killer cell toxicity. In general, either increased production of PGE2 or increased sensitivity to normal amounts of PGE2 results in depressed cellular immunity. Cyclooxygenase inhibitors (NSAIDs) such as piroxicam which decrease PGE2 production can stimulate cellular immune function both in vitro and in vivo. A variety of tumor cell lines and human malignancies produce large quantities of prostaglandins.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
Prophase-like chromosome condensation induced by actinomycin D in the slime mold, Physarum polycephalum.

Actinomycin D (125 µg/ml) bewirkt prophaseartige Kernveranderungen in den Plasmodien des mitotisch synchronen SchleimpilzesPhysarum polycephalum bei etwa zweistundiger Einwirkung, im Zeitraum von weniger als etwa 5 h vor Mitosebeginn.
Transmembrane gationic gradient and blood pressure regulation

Abstract Corticoid-induced potentiation of catecholamine pressor reactions, and the constant presence of catecholamines in arterial walls have been demonstrated. It has been proposed that the degree of vasoconstrictor effectiveness of intrinsic vascular catecholamines “is determined by the intra-extracellular electrolyte concentration difference, which, in turn, is influenced by the adrenal mineralocorticoids by virtue of their specific ability to deposit sodium intracellularly. ”129 A considerable amount of evidence has accumulated in support of this concept. Pending availability of methods for direct measurement of vascular transmembrane cationic gradients in vivo, it constitutes a plausible explanation of the primarily neurohormonal hypertension in cases of pheochromocytoma and of the primarily hormonal hypertension of hyperadrenocorticism and toxemia of pregnancy. It is consistent with the lowering of the blood pressure after procedures which reduce catecholamines and/or corticoids. The question of how dietary sodium restriction and natriuresis affect the transmembrane cationic gradient is still in need of exploration. Conditions in essential hypertension are complex due to the presumably frequent presence of nephrogenic pressor agents. However, here too, neural (catecholamine) and hormonal (corticoid) pathogenic elements are often discernible. Their abolition is believed to account for the therapeutic results of specific antiadrenergic treatments (sympathectomy, ganglionic blockade, reserpine), as well as of adrenalectomy, dietary sodium restriction, drug-induced natriuresis (chlorothiazide) and combinations of these. Although prevailingly renal hypertension proves most refractory to such measures, it nevertheless permits clinical amelioration in a minority of cases in which neurohormonalhormonal factors seem to coexist with renal mechanisms.
Optical Information Processing Using A New Photopolymer

Initial results of experiments with a new photopolymer developed by Polaroid have been very encouraging. The photopolymer, DMP-128, has exhibited diffraction efficiencies of greater than 70% for plane wave holograms. The results of an in-depth study into the properties of DMP-128 are presented here. These properties include diffraction efficiency as a function of reference beam angle, exposure energy, and incident angle of the reconstruction beam.
Finding the right balance between resistance and sensitivity: a review of the cardiac manifestations of the syndrome of resistance to thyroid hormone and the implications for treatment.

ABSTRACT Objective To review cardiac manifestations in the syndrome of resistance to thyroid hormone (RTH) and to question the general recommendation that the thyroidstimulating hormone (TSH) value be the guide to thyroid hormone replacement. Methods The syndrome of RTH is caused by mutations in the carboxyterminal portion of the β isoform of the thyroid hormone receptor, resulting in variable clinical manifestations. It is generally recommended that the replacement of thyroid hormone in patients with RTH be guided by the serum TSH concentration. The variable responsiveness of tissues to thyroid hormone, however, makes it difficult to balance the correct replacement dose. We present a case that brings into question the conventional wisdom about the replacement dose of thyroid hormone in this scenario, and we review the pertinent literature. Results A 54- year-old man with RTH was treated with levothyroxine and increasing doses of liothyronine sodium as part of an evaluation of RTH. On day 10 of the protocol, he developed atrial fibrillation despite a normal level of TSH (1.1 mIU/L). Administration of liothyronine was discontinued, and cardioversion was planned; however, the patient’s heart rhythm converted spontaneously to normal sinus rhythm. Conclusion Replacement of thyroid hormone in patients with RTH should include careful monitoring of thyrotoxic cardiac side effects in addition to consideration of normalization of the TSH level. (Endocr Pract. 2012;18:252- 255)
Heat-induced cross-linking of nylon-like weak polyelectrolyte multilayer films: UV–visible studies of methylene blue loading and rates of release

Abstract Heat-induced cross-linking of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) and poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) films was studied as a potential method for controlling the rate of release of an absorbed dye, methylene blue (MB), from the film. Alternating layers of PAA and PAH films were prepared, loaded with MB and cured at different temperatures/times. Our studies identified the conditions best controlling both the amount of MB loading and its rate of release from PAA/PAH films to be curing at 150 °C for 10 min. In general, curing temperatures both above and below 150 °C showed slower rates of release as well as lower amounts of MB loading.
Effects of ingestion of jojoba oil on blood cholesterol levels and lipoprotein patterns in New Zealand white rabbits

Summary In New Zealand white rabbits ingestion of jojoba oil as a 2% supplement to an atherogenic diet containing 1% cholesterol resulted in a 40% reduction of blood cholesterol and an altered lipoprotein pattern. The mechanism by which jojoba oil reduces blood cholesterol levels was not determined. Under the same conditions, at a 2% level safflower oil was not effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels.
Cytoplasmic Localization of Phytohaemagglutinin in Peripheral White Cells

SALINE extract of the red kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) possesses a factor which increases the rate of cell division in cultures of peripheral white cells1, and a factor which agglutinates red cells2. Reciprocal absorption shows that the two factors are separate and the mitogenic moiety has been further characterized as a mixture of proteins, the predominant one having a molecular weight of about 128,000 (ref. 3). The mitogenic extract therefore lends itself to labelling with fluorescent compounds. Such a marker would be valuable in tracing the mode of action of the mitogen(s) since it is still not known whether the leucocyte agglutination, apparently inseparable from the mitogenic activity4, is also necessary to the mitogenic activity, nor whether the substance acts extra- or intra-cellularly, or both.
Characterization of solution-synthesized CdTe and HgTe

We report the characterization of solution-synthesized CdTe and HgTe nanocrystals by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and photoluminescence. Methanol solutions of sodium telluride and cadmium iodide or mercury iodide, respectively, are reacted to precipitate the nanocrystalline metal tellurides, while the sodium iodide byproduct remains in solution. The existence of crystalline CdTe, HgTe, and ternary HgCdTe compounds has been demonstrated by powder X-ray diffraction after a post-synthesis sintering process. Precipitated crystallites from this synthesis were analyzed by transmission electron microscopy, which revealed that crystal diameters can vary from approximately 1 nm to 100 nm and that crystals are stoichiometric within the detection limit of the electron microprobe technique. Narrow size ranges can be selected and investigated due to an in-situ separation process in the electron microscope. Photoluminescence is found at energies above the bulk exciton energy for CdTe and is attributed to near-band-gap recombination which is blue-shifted due to quantum confinement. Both low defect luminescence and dark field imaging suggest a high crystalline quality. A comparative characterization by photoluminescence, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction evaluates the effects of heat treatments during and after synthesis.
Systematic genetic analysis of virulence in the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans

The fungus Cryptococcus neoformans is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity among HIV-infected individuals. We utilized the completed genome sequence and optimized methods for homologous DNA replacement using high-velocity particle bombardment to engineer 1201 gene knockout mutants. We screened this resource in vivo for proliferation in murine lung tissue and in vitro for three well-recognized virulence attributes-polysaccharide capsule formation, melanization, and growth at body temperature. We identified dozens of previously uncharacterized genes that affect these known attributes as well as 40 infectivity mutants without obvious defects in these traits. The latter mutants affect predicted regulatory factors, secreted proteins, and immune-related factors, and represent powerful tools for elucidating novel virulence mechanisms. In particular, we describe a GATA family transcription factor that inhibits phagocytosis by murine macrophages independently of the capsule, indicating a previously unknown mechanism of innate immune modulation.
Toxicity of Tetramethylthiuram Disulfide for Chicks, Poults, and Goslings

ABSTRACT THE poultryman usually believes that most of his problems with unthrifty birds can be explained by either infectious disease or poor nutrition, provided he supplies good stock and good management. This belief is usually justified. However, another factor is taking on importance in this regard. The expanding use of pesticides in field and grain crop cultivation and preservation makes it almost inevitable that certain of these products find their way into feeding channels. The present investigation arose from a situation of this type. Hens on certain Minnesota farms suddenly began laying soft shelled eggs, and after many other possibilities were investigated, it was found that Arasan, a seed protectant, was responsible for the egg production disturbance (Waibel, Pomeroy and Johnson, 1955). The present study was designed to determine the toxicity of tetramethylthiuram disulfide, the active component of Arasan, for chicks, poults, and goslings. Since the present studies were completed, a . . .
Tracing and quantification of pharmaceuticals using MR imaging and spectroscopy at clinical MRI system

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and spectroscopy (MRS) is very powerful modality for imaging and localized investigation of biological tissue. Medical MRI measures nuclear magnetization of the water protons, which consists of 70 % of our body. MRI provides superior contrast among different soft tissues to all other existing medical imaging modalities, including ultrasound, X-ray CT, PET, and SPECT. In principle, MRI/S may be an ideal non-invasive tool for drug delivery research. However, because of its low sensitivity, a large dose is required for tracing pharmaceuticals. Therefore, its use for imaging of pharmaceuticals is very limited mostly to molecules that contain a paramagnetic metal ion, such as gadolinium (Gd 3+ ) and manganese (Mn 2+ ). The paramagnetic metal ion provides a large fluctuating magnetic field at the proton in the water molecule via a coordinate site. The measurement of local drug concentration is the first step for further quantification. Local concentration of the paramagnetic-ion based MRI contrast agent can be indirectly measured via the change in the water signal intensity. 19 F MRI/S of fluorinated complex may be an option for drug delivery and tracing agent, because the fluorinated molecule may be directly detected due to its large magnetic moment (94 % of proton) and 100 % abundance.
GOx signaling triggered by aptamer-based ATP detection.

Aptamer based ATP binding leads to the release of the co-factor FAD, which acts as a trigger to ‘turn-on’ the activity of apo-GOx and thus generates a measurable response.
Improved data analysis for the MinION nanopore sequencer

Speed, single-base sensitivity and long read lengths make nanopores a promising technology for high-throughput sequencing. We evaluated and optimized the performance of the MinION nanopore sequencer using M13 genomic DNA and used expectation maximization to obtain robust maximum-likelihood estimates for insertion, deletion and substitution error rates (4.9%, 7.8% and 5.1%, respectively). Over 99% of high-quality 2D MinION reads mapped to the reference at a mean identity of 85%. We present a single-nucleotide-variant detection tool that uses maximum-likelihood parameter estimates and marginalization over many possible read alignments to achieve precision and recall of up to 99%. By pairing our high-confidence alignment strategy with long MinION reads, we resolved the copy number for a cancer-testis gene family (CT47) within an unresolved region of human chromosome Xq24.
The forgiving building

The most serious barrier to achieving a “forgiving building” is the cost of its special building systems. The library is increasingly becoming a “hi tech” and “smart” building. A sophisticated facility is required to support current collections and the emerging electronic and optical technologies that will occupy (and perhaps dominate) the future library. It is far less expensive to provide the capacity to support future components at the time of initial construction than to subsequently renovate a building to provide needed capacities at a later date. The real challenge for librarians is to convince those who fund library construction that the “forgiving building” is the least expensive alternative in the long run.
Evaluation of the effect of syringe surfaces on protein formulations

Packaging of drugs in prefillable syringes offers considerable advantages over conventional vials. Almost all major biotech molecules are available on the market today in prefilled syringes, and are safe and efficacious. Newer high-concentration liquid formulations, especially fusion proteins, however, can suffer from instability in prefilled syringes due to syringe components like silicone oil. To assess the effect of siliconized and modified syringe surfaces on protein formulations, the stability of the recombinant protective antigen (rPA) for anthrax, abatacept, a fusion protein formulation with known silicone oil sensitivity, and an antistaphylococcal enterotoxin B (anti-SEB) monoclonal antibody (mAb) was assessed in siliconized, uncoated, and BD-42-coated (a proprietary coating developed by BD Technologies) prefilled syringes under different conditions. Both the soluble protein content and the number of subvisible particles were followed over time. When filled in siliconized syringes, all three protein solutions showed increased number of subvisible particles relative to uncoated or BD-42-coated syringes; the abatacept formulation with known silicone sensitivity also developed visible particles. Although rPA and anti-SEB mAb formulations mainly showed individual droplets, presumably of silicone, the abatacept formulation also showed droplets entangled in a fibrous structure. Uncoated glass and BD-42-coated syringes considerably reduced the formation of both visible and subvisible particles after immediate contact and after agitation. The anti-SEB mAb also adhered as a thin layer to the siliconized surface after agitation, irrespective of storage temperature. The development of visible particles could not be correlated with the loss of soluble protein fraction at protein concentrations above 4 mg/mL. It appears that protein formulations interact differently with different surfaces. The BD-42 coating appears to be a promising solution for packaging silicone-sensitive proteins in prefillable syringes and needs to be investigated further. It is demonstrated that BD-42 provides an inert surface with adequate lubrication while limiting the formation of visible and subvisible particles. It is hypothesized that these particles are formed due to the release of silicone droplets in the solution and result in the formation of silicone-induced visible aggregates.
Seasonal Changes in Bacterial and Archaeal Gene Expression Patterns across Salinity Gradients in the Columbia River Coastal Margin

Through their metabolic activities, microbial populations mediate the impact of high gradient regions on ecological function and productivity of the highly dynamic Columbia River coastal margin (CRCM). A 2226-probe oligonucleotide DNA microarray was developed to investigate expression patterns for microbial genes involved in nitrogen and carbon metabolism in the CRCM. Initial experiments with the environmental microarrays were directed toward validation of the platform and yielded high reproducibility in multiple tests. Bioinformatic and experimental validation also indicated that >85% of the microarray probes were specific for their corresponding target genes and for a few homologs within the same microbial family. The validated probe set was used to query gene expression responses by microbial assemblages to environmental variability. Sixty-four samples from the river, estuary, plume, and adjacent ocean were collected in different seasons and analyzed to correlate the measured variability in chemical, physical and biological water parameters to differences in global gene expression profiles. The method produced robust seasonal profiles corresponding to pre-freshet spring (April) and late summer (August). Overall relative gene expression was high in both seasons and was consistent with high microbial abundance measured by total RNA, heterotrophic bacterial production, and chlorophyll a. Both seasonal patterns involved large numbers of genes that were highly expressed relative to background, yet each produced very different gene expression profiles. April patterns revealed high differential gene expression in the coastal margin samples (estuary, plume and adjacent ocean) relative to freshwater, while little differential gene expression was observed along the river-to-ocean transition in August. Microbial gene expression profiles appeared to relate, in part, to seasonal differences in nutrient availability and potential resource competition. Furthermore, our results suggest that highly-active particle-attached microbiota in the Columbia River water column may perform dissimilatory nitrate reduction (both dentrification and DNRA) within anoxic particle microniches.
Fundamental characteristics of stream meanders: Discussion

No Abstract Available. The article discussed appeared in the Bulletin , v. 95, p. 505–512. No Reply was given by Davies and Tinker.
A technique for simultaneous antikinetochore immunofluorescence staining and Q-banding in chromosomes from human lymphocytes.

Antikinetochore immunofluorescence staining has been used in several studies to determine whether a second kinetochore is present, active, or both, in multicentric chromosomes. All of these studies have used tissue culture cells, and contended with the problem of obtaining well spread, banded metaphase chromosomes without affecting the kinetochore staining. We have adapted hypotonic, centrifugation and chromosome staining techniqnes to obtain simultaneous Q-banding and bright kinetochore staining of chromosomes from human lymphocytes.
The adhesion of particles upon impaction

Abstract A series of experiments to verify the theoretical equation of adhesion developed by Dahneke (1971) were conducted using a single stage impactor. The experiments show that the theory agrees well with the experimental results and particle or substrate flattening is a major factor in adhesion of particles upon impaction or, as a corollary, a major factor in determining the bounce of particles.
Effect of Glucose on Glycine Requirement of Acanthamoeba castellanii

Acanthamoeba castellanii grows in a minimal medium (AMLIV) containing only arginine, methionine, leucine, isoleucine, and valine as sole nitrogen sources, other than vitamins, when glucose is the carbon source. With acetate as the carbon source, glycine must be added to AMLIV. Doubling time in AMLIV varies according to the ratio of amino acids concentrations. Several combinations yield Td values of approximately 70 hr.
An Investigation of Parent/Child Communication About Sexuality

ABSTRACT This study investigated the communication and initial sexuality education between parents and children as it relates to later sexual activity. The study asked 192 undergraduate college students from a Midwestern state university their perceptions about past communication with their parents regarding sexuality. The students completed a 180-item survey instrument, which consisted of questions from the Parent-Child Closeness Scale (PCC) (Buchanan, Maccoby, & Dornbusch, 1991), the Sexual Communication Scale (SCS) (Somers & Canivez, 2003), and the 1998 National College Health Risk Behavior Survey (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1998). Researchers investigated whether the frequency and breadth of communication from the parent to the child led to a later onset of sexual behavior. Consistent with previous research, few parents were perceived as proficiently performing the role of sex educator for their child/children. Suggestions for future research are discussed.
Kalman filter and the demand for cigarettes

kalman filter estimates of price, income and advertising elasticities are presented. An analysis of structural change in the demand for cigarettes in the US for the period 1929–86 is made. Estimated price and income elasticities are generally smaller, and the advertising elasticity larger, than estimates previously found. Cigarette demand is inelastic with respect to price and income, and advertising elasticity is statistically insignificant for the most part. Furthermore, both income and price elasticities decline over time while advertising elasticity tends to rise. Four time periods where structural change has occurred are identified. The health scare reports and the Fairness Doctrine Act have a significant impact on per capita cigarette consumption.
Post-irradiation effects in the radiolysis of cumene at 77 K: The yield of luminescence

Abstract Isopropybenzene (cumene) was irradiated in the glass form at 77 K. The post-luminescence at 77 K was measured in order to determine a yield for this event. The G-value for the number of quanta emitted per 100 eV of energy absorbed is 1·2 × 10−4. This number is related to the yield of singlet excited states formed in the post-irradiation process. The G-value of singlet excited states is 2·7 × 10 −3 100 eV . Previous experiments show that the excited state is produced via ion-recombination.
Estimation of the Functional Reserve of Human Liver

Functional hepatic reserve was determined in 32 patients with known liver or biliary tract disease employing kinetic analysis of hepatic removal of indocyanine green (ICG). The initial removal rates of incremental doses of ICG (0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 mg/kg body weight) were plotted as a reciprocal against the inverse of dose (Lineweaver-Burk plot) to provide a means of determining maximal removal rate from submaximal doses (Rmax). This function equalled 3.40 mg/kg/min in ten patients with normal livers, but was only .24 mg/kg/min in eight patients with alcoholic cirrhosis. Portasystemic shunting did not further influence Rmax. Infiltrative liver disease had only a mild depressive effect on this function. The results show that hepatic function can be precisely quantitated by classical enzyme kinetics (Michaelis-Menten). If Rmax is an estimate of protein receptor mass for organic anions, then the technique may allow an indirect means for quantitating hepatocytes even in the presence of changes in blood flow or hepatic function. The profound depression in R(max) observed in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis is consistent with the progressive loss in hepatic mass associated with this disease.
Inferring multiscale structure in atmospheric turbulence using satellite-based synthetic aperture radar imagery

This paper describes the multiscale structure in synthetic aperture radar (SAR) backscatter seen in an image of a cold-air outbreak as being due to the influence on the surface of the ocean of three scales of interacting atmospheric turbulence. A low-resolution (pixels have side lengths of 100 m) SAR image shows the first class of backscatter pattern to be broken lines of enhanced radar backscatter (σ), of order 1 dB above the background, with an average cross-wind scale of 5 km and downwind lengths of many tens of kilometers. These are associated with quasi-two-dimensional roll vortices. The second class of radar backscatter pattern is two-dimensional backscatter regions whose linear aggregrations constitute the lines of backscatter. They are, on average, 1 km wide in the cross-wind direction and are 2.5 km long in the downwind direction. A higher-resolution image (pixels have side lengths of 12.5 m) of the same area shows a third class of structure: smaller-scale regions of enhanced backscatter up to several hundred meters in length downwind and greater than 100 m across wind that are associated with 7-dB variations in σ in the unaveraged image. The modulated, fine-scale backscatter structure compares favorably in both scale and effect to observations of the modulation of “microfronts” in the atmospheric surface layer by kilometer-scale “inactive eddies,” the latter being of uncertain origin. Therefore the hypothesis offered here is that the fine-scale SAR structure is caused by the influence of atmospheric microfronts on the ocean surface, while the two-dimensional, kilometer-scale backscatter features are the signature of inactive eddies linearly aggregated by or possibly intrinsic to the roll vortices.
RECONSTRUCTABILITY ANALYSIS: Overview and Bibliography†

An overview of reconstructabilily analysis, comments to this special issue of the International Journal of General Systems which is devoted to it, and a bibliography of the literature dealing with or related to reconstructability analysis.
Complications of Spine Surgery: Editorial Comment

Spine surgery, like other methods of invasive intervention, has specific common, and not so common, complications that may occur in the normal course of treatment. Any physician so treating a problem must be cognizant of the anticipated course subsequent to his or her management to understand when recovery fails to proceed normally. Such an acute awareness of treatment adverse events or complications will allow institution of appropriate remedial measures necessary for the best patient care and ultimately outcomes. As surgeons, we believe it is important to acknowledge and study our failures. This symposium reports original research on the potential complications of spine surgery to inform the orthopaedic and neurosurgical communities about possible best practices. The articles in this symposium encompass the spectrum of complications from diagnosis to surgical technique to postoperative healing. Complication rate and common complications are explored in basic science and clinical research settings. We believe study of complications is essential to improving the ultimate outcome of spine care. We hope readers enjoy this symposium. Fig. 1 Dr. Radcliff is shown. Fig. 2 Dr. Vaccaro is shown.
Covalent Enzyme-Substrate Intermediates

A literature search reveals 60 cases in which there is strong evidence for covalent enzyme-substrate intermediates.
Japan's postdocs open to alternative work

The government and universities must highlight non-academic careers and nurture a diverse skill set, say Toshiyuki Misu and Akira Horoiwa.
On estmation of poisson lovits

Simultaneous estimation of poisson logits is considered in a 2xp contingency table under entropy loss. Classical estimators, which are corrected versions of the maximum likeihood estimators, are obtained as generalized Bayes and empirical Bayes estimators. Finally, improved estimators are obtained which domicate the generalized Bayes estimators.
Newtonian limit of conformal gravity and the lack of necessity of the second order Poisson equation

We study the interior structure of a locally conformal invariant fourth order theory of gravity in the presence of a static, spherically symmetric gravitational source. We find, quite remarkably, that the associated dynamics is determined exactly and without any approximation at all by a simple fourth order Poisson equation which thus describes both the strong and weak field limits of the theory in this static case. We present the solutions to this fourth order equation and find that we are able to recover all of the standard Newton-Euler gravitational phenomenology in the weak gravity limit, to thus establish the observational viability of the weak field limit of the fourth order theory. Additionally, we make a critical analysis of the second order Poisson equation, and find that the currently available experimental evidence for its validity is not as clearcut and definitive as is commonly believed, with there not apparently being any conclusive observational support for it at all either on the very largest distance scales far outside of fundamental sources, or on the very smallest ones within their interiors. Our study enables us to deduce that even though the familiar second order Poisson gravitational equation may be sufficient to yield Newton's Law of Gravity it is not in fact necessary.
Cactus Alkaloids XII: β-Phenethylamine Alkaloids of the Genus Coryphantha

The presence of alkaloids was chromatographically demonstrated in seven species of Coryphantha. By using preparative chromatographic techniques, N-methyl-3,4-dimethoxy-β-phenethylamine, N-methyl-4-methoxy-β-phenethylamine, N-methyltyramine, and N,N-dimethyltyramine (hordenine) were isolated from extracts of C. cornifera (DC.) Br. and R. var. echinus (Engelm.) L. Benson. In addition, two new cactus alkaloids, N-methyl-4-hydroxy-β-methoxy-β-phenethylamine (β-O-methylsynephrine) and 4-methoxy-β-hydroxy-β-phenethylamine, were identified spectroscopically in extracts of this species.
Experimental autoimmune neuropathy with anti-GM1 antibodies and immunoglobulin deposits at the nodes of Ranvier.

Antibodies to GM1 or Gal(β1–3)GalNAc are associated with motor or sensorimotor neuropathy and with motor neuron disease. To investigate the role of these antibodies in the neurological disorder, rabbits were immunized with GM1 or with Gal(β1–3)GalNAc-BSA, and studied serologically, electrophysiologically and pathologically. Development of antibodies to the immunizing antigens was associated with a fall in the ratio of the amplitudes of the compound muscle action potential evoked by proximal versus distal stimulation of the sciatic nerve. Pathological studies revealed mild axonal degeneration and immunoglobulin deposits at the nodes of Ranvier in peripheral nerve, resembling those reported in a patient with motor neuropathy, motor conduction block and anti-GM1 antibodies. These studies provide evidence that anti-GM1 or anti-Gal(β1–3)GalNAc antibodies cause conduction abnormalities and indicate that the antibodies may exert their effect, in part, by binding at the nodes of Ranvier in peripheral nerve.
Solution to the Φ-derivable approximation for scalar thermodynamics

We solve the 3-loop \ensuremath{\Phi}-derivable approximation to the thermodynamics of the massless ${\ensuremath{\varphi}}^{4}$ field theory by reducing it to a 1-parameter variational problem. The thermodynamic potential is expanded in powers of ${g}^{2}$ and $m/T,$ where g is the coupling constant, m is a variational mass parameter, and T is the temperature. There are ultraviolet divergences beginning at 6th order in g that cannot be removed by renormalization. However a finite thermodynamic potential obtained by truncating after terms of 5th order in g and $m/T$ defines a stable approximation to the thermodynamic functions.
Particle transport and geochemical impact

Current research to understand the fate and transport of particulate contaminants in subsurface environments is being conducted from a variety of perspectives. The physical and chemical factors that control microbial movement, the transport of particulate organic material in aquifers, and the mobilization of radionuclides, trace metals, and hydrophobic organic contaminants by colloidal transport are among the many topics being investigated. The transport processes influencing particulates are not limited to physical hydrology; the geochemistry and microbiology of these systems fundamentally influence the transport properties. Because of the recent intense activity in these topics, the special session, “Particle Transport in the Subsurface and its Geochemical Impact,” was convened at the 1990 AGU Spring Meeting held in Baltimore, Md., May 29–June 1.
Computed tomography of the chest in the trauma patient

Thirty-six (1.5%) of 2340 patients admitted to the Trauma Unit at UCSD Medical Center over a 26-month period had 46 chest CT scans. A retrospective review of these cases showed that CT was useful in the diagnosis and management of suspected post-traumatic infective complications, assessment of suspected sternoclavicular joint dislocation, and localisation of bullet fragments. Other unsuspected abnormalities (pneumothoraces, misplaced endotracheal tube, intraperitoneal air, and axillary vein disruption) were also well demonstrated. However, CT failed to demonstrate some skeletal injuries, in particular, manubriosternal joint dislocation and vertebral fracture. Our experience supports a role for chest CT in certain limited clinical situations following trauma.
Methods in mammary gland biology and breast cancer research: an update.

In addition to the obvious clinical importance of breast cancer research, the mammary gland has emerged as a powerful model system for the study of basic questions in developmental biology. The increased interest in mammary gland research has brought with it an expansion of the in vitro and in vivo methods for experimental analyses. In the year 2000, a long-needed and exceptionally useful book entitled “Methods in mammary gland biology and breast cancer research”, edited by Margot Ip and Bonnie Asch, was published. This book featured a relatively large number of “laboratory friendly” articles that could be used not only by seasoned mammary gland biologists but also, and more importantly, by those new to the field. In the decade since publication, several new methods have been developed that expand our repertoire of techniques for analysis of mammary gland function and development, as well as for evaluation of the behavior of mammary cancers. These techniques include enhanced methods for preparing primary mammary epithelial cells, alternative methods for 3-dimensional culture, and procedures for in vitro and in vivo viral transduction, to name but a few. This special issue of the “Journal of Mammary Gland Biology and Neoplasia” highlights a few of these novel approaches, and attempts to serve as a partial update of the “Methods in mammary gland biology and breast cancer research” book by presenting select methods in the same” laboratory friendly” style. We hope you find these techniques useful.
Baseball success and the structure of salaries.

The purpose of this research is to examine some competing assumptions regarding the hiring behaviour of major league baseball clubs. One hypothesis is that owners and general managers of teams enter the free agent market with a view to attracting the best talent available in order to win games. We might refer to this as the ‘win games’ strategy. A potentially alternative view is that they compete in this market for marquee players who will attract paying customers to the ball park. We can refer to this as the ‘fannies-in-the-seats’, or revenue, strategy. While these hypotheses are not necessarily inconsistent, we can imagine that for some teams, at some times, they are alternative approaches to hiring behaviour. A team committed to the ‘win games’ strategy may attempt to spread its resources in order to hire as many good players as possible without necessarily hiring elite players. A team committed to the revenue strategy may be content to surround a superstar with second rate talent. In order to test the...
Genetic and Environmental Etiologies of Reading Difficulties: DeFries-Fulker Analysis of Reading Performance Data from Twin Pairs and Their Non-Twin Siblings.

Reading performance data from 254 pairs of identical (MZ) and 420 pairs of fraternal (DZ) twins, 8.0 to 20.0 years of age, were subjected to multiple regression analyses. An extension of the DeFries-Fulker (DF) analysis (DeFries & Fulker, 1985, 1988) that facilitated inclusion of data from 303 of their nontwin siblings was employed. In addition to providing estimates of heritability, this analysis yields a test of the difference between shared environmental influences for twins versus siblings (Astrom et al., 2011). Results suggest that proband reading deficits are due substantially to genetic factors (.67 ± .07, p < .001), and that shared environmental influences are significantly higher for members of twin pairs than for those of twins and their nontwin siblings (viz., .25 versus .17, p = .02).
An overview of highly porous oxide films with tunable thickness prepared by molecular layer deposition

Abstract This paper is a short review about the principle, preparation, and applications of ultra-thin oxide films prepared by molecular layer deposition (MLD). Porous oxide films, with well-defined porous structures and precisely controlled thicknesses down to several angstroms, can be prepared from dense organic/inorganic hybrid polymer films grown by MLD. The organic constituents in the film can be removed either by calcination at elevated temperatures or mild water etching at room temperature. Because of the layer-by-layer growth process for MLD, the deposited polymer films have regular structures and the removal of organic components from MLD polymer films produces uniform interconnected highly porous structures with a high surface area. For example, porous aluminum oxide films prepared by such a method have both micropores and mesopores with a BET surface area as high as 1250 m2/g. Examples of the versatility of the technique for fabrication of novel functional materials for various applications are discussed, including thermally stable, highly selective metal nanoparticle catalysts, defect-free inorganic membranes for gas separation, and photocatalytic layers prepared from titanium alkoxide MLD films.
Tele-immersion: Preferred infrastructure for anatomy instruction

UNDERSTANDING SPATIAL RELATIONSHIPS among anatomic structures is an essential skill for physicians. Traditional medical education—using books, lectures, physical models, and cadavers—may be insufficient for teaching complex anatomical relationships. This study was designed to measure whether teaching complex anatomy to medical students using immersive virtual reality is an improvement over traditional methods. Using a networked immersive virtual reality system, anatomy-teaching assistants gave 20-minute workshops to first-year medical students one day before or after a traditional three-hour lecture/laboratory session. Students who attended only the traditional session served as a comparison group. Improvements from pretest to posttests demonstrated a statistically significant advantage to the brief virtual reality session over the traditional session. Improvement for those who were exposed to both the traditional and immersive sessions was also statistically better than for those exposed only to the traditional session. The application tested proved to be an effective enhancement to traditional surgical-anatomic educational curricula.
Rapid Mechanotransduction in Situ at the Luminal Cell Surface of Vascular Endothelium and Its Caveolae

The vascular endothelium is uniquely positioned between the blood and tissue compartments to receive directly the fluid forces generated by the blood flowing through the vasculature. These forces invoke specific responses within endothelial cells and serve to modulate their intrinsic structure and function. The mechanisms by which hemodynamic forces are detected and converted by endothelia into a sequence of biological and even pathological responses are presently unknown. By purifying and subfractionating the luminal endothelial cell plasma membrane from tissue, we show, for the first time, that not only does mechanotransduction occur at the endothelial cell surface directly exposed to vascular flow in vivo but also increased flowin situ induces rapid tyrosine phosphorylation of luminal endothelial cell surface proteins located primarily in the plasmalemmal invaginations called caveolae. Increased flow induces the translocation of signaling molecules primarily to caveolae, ultimately activating the Ras-Raf-mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. This signaling appears to require intact caveolae. Filipin-induced disassembly of caveolae inhibits both proximal signaling events at the cell surface and downstream activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. With the molecular machinery required for mediating rapid flow-induced responses as seen in endothelium, caveolae may be flow-sensing organelles converting mechanical stimuli into chemical signals transmitted into the cell.
Excitotoxins: a possible new mechanism for the pathogenesis of ischemic retinal damage.

A series of recent articles in the neurology literature described an interesting new putative mechanism for central nervous system damage caused by ischemia, hypoglycemia, and, possibly, some hereditary neurologic degenerations as well (the latter include Huntington's disease and a type of olivopontocerebellar atrophy). 1,2 The common mechanism thought to underlie these diverse pathologic processes is the presence of excessive amino acid neurotransmitters, specifically, glutamate and aspartate, which can lead to neuronal cell swelling, lysis, and death. The term excitotoxin has been used to describe the dual action of these amino acid substances: neuronal excitation under normal conditions and cell toxicity when they are present in excess. 3 See also p 409. It has been known for some time that glutamate, when administered systemically or applied locally to the brain or retina in animal experiments, causes a degeneration of neuronal tissue. In the neonatal mouse and rat, for example, systemic administration
Albert Memmi in the Era of Decolonization

This essay considers the reception of Albert Memmi's Decolonization and the Decolonized . Memmi himself observed that it is much harder to be a writer about postcolonialism than colonialism. Why would this be true? What can we learn about the difficutlies of postcolonial philosophizing and the politics of decolonization through this publication of Memmi's?
Israel-Iranian relations assessed: Strategic competition from the power cycle perspective

Iran's foreign policy is believed to have lost much of its ideological zeal after the death of Khomeini. One often cited exception to this general pattern is Iran's relations with Israel. Tehran's ...
A two‐good theory of foreign policy: An application to dispute initiation and reciprocation

We develop a general theory of foreign policy based on the assumption that states pursue two goals: security, defined as the ability to prevent changes in favored aspects of the status quo, and proaction, defined as the ability to change the status quo in desirable ways. We also assume a relationship between state power and production advantages for security and proaction. The model produces specific hypotheses relating state power and changes in power with security‐ and proaction‐seeking behaviors. For instance, weak states gaining power are the most likely to engage in security‐seeking behavior while strong states gaining power are the most likely to seek proaction. We associate proaction‐seeking behavior with conflict initiation and security‐seeking behavior with conflict reciprocation and test several hypotheses using the Militarized Interstate Dispute data set. While hypotheses are generally supported, the evidence suggests that some modifications of the theory are in order.