cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Optimized tools for multicolor stochastic labeling reveal diverse stereotyped cell arrangements in the fly visual system

We describe the development and application of methods for high-throughput neuroanatomy in Drosophila using light microscopy. These tools enable efficient multicolor stochastic labeling of neurons at both low and high densities. Expression of multiple membrane-targeted and distinct epitope-tagged proteins is controlled both by a transcriptional driver and by stochastic, recombinase-mediated excision of transcription-terminating cassettes. This MultiColor FlpOut (MCFO) approach can be used to reveal cell shapes and relative cell positions and to track the progeny of precursor cells through development. Using two different recombinases, the number of cells labeled and the number of color combinations observed in those cells can be controlled separately. We demonstrate the utility of MCFO in a detailed study of diversity and variability of Distal medulla (Dm) neurons, multicolumnar local interneurons in the adult visual system. Similar to many brain regions, the medulla has a repetitive columnar structure that supports parallel information processing together with orthogonal layers of cell processes that enable communication between columns. We find that, within a medulla layer, processes of the cells of a given Dm neuron type form distinct patterns that reflect both the morphology of individual cells and the relative positions of their arbors. These stereotyped cell arrangements differ between cell types and can even differ for the processes of the same cell type in different medulla layers. This unexpected diversity of coverage patterns provides multiple independent ways of integrating visual information across the retinotopic columns and implies the existence of multiple developmental mechanisms that generate these distinct patterns.
Functional Anatomy of the Pelvic Floor

Pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence are debilitating problems that prevent one in nine women from enjoying a full and active life (Olsen et al. 1997). They arise due to injuries and deterioration of the muscles, nerves and connective tissue that support and control normal pelvic organ function. Although it is clear that incontinence and prolapse increase with age (Olsen et al. 1997), there is no hour during a woman’s life when these structures are more vulnerable than during the time a woman delivers a child. Vaginal birth confers a 4- to 11-fold increase in risk of developing pelvic organ prolapse (Mant et al. 1997).
Abstract 14000: miR-322/503 Cluster Drives Cardiac Differentiation by Inhibiting CUG-binding Protein 1

Understanding the mechanisms of early cardiac fate determination may lead to better approaches in promoting heart regeneration after injury. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) involved in the process are particularly interesting due to their small profile and relatively shorter path to clinic. With Mesp1 as the marker, we used a Mesp1-Cre/Rosa-EYFP reporter system to track the earliest cardiac progenitors, and identified the miRNAs enriched in these cells. Among them, the miR-322/503 cluster is found to be a powerful regulator of the cardiac program: (1) in a screening of more than 20 CPC-enriched miRNAs, miR-322/503 was the most powerful in driving calcium flux activity in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) differentiation; (2) induced ectopic expression of miR-322/503 to mimic the natural course in mESCs led to α-actinin expression and significant increases of cardiac transcription factors (Tbx5, Mef2C, Nkx2-5 and α-MHC); (3) inhibitors of miR-322 and miR-503 significantly reduced expression of α-actinin and the above cardiac TFs. Remarkably, miR-322/503 regulates the cardiac program by inhibiting an RNA-alternative splicing/decay factor, CUG-binding protein 1 (Celf1), which is also known for a role in myotonic dystrophy pathogenesis. The evidences include (i) miR-322 and miR-503 had a shared target site at 3’UTR of Celf1; (ii) expression patterns of miR-322/503 and Celf1 were mutually exclusive, with the highest Celf1 expression in the brain; (iii) miR-322/503 repressed Celf1 protein expression in a dose-dependent manner; (iv) Celf1-shRNA induced up-regulation of cardiac transcription factors and α-actinin, mimicking the function of miR-322/503; (v) ectopic Celf1 expression repressed expression of cardiac transcription factors, while promoted expressions of early neural markers, including Sox1, Zic1, Nestin and Pax6. In summary, we have identified a miR-322/503-Celf1 pathway that promotes cardiac differentiation by preventing activation of other lineages. This new regulatory mechanism may be used to direct cardiac regeneration after heart injury, and treat myotonic dystrophy where Celf1 up-regulation is responsible for skeletal muscle wasting and other symptoms.
INCREASED BURNING RATES OFFER IMPROVED FUEL ECONOMY-NOX EMISSIONS TRADE-OFFS IN SPARK-IGNITION ENGINES

Mass burning rate was varied by using two single-cylinder engines, each fitted with different combustion-chamber geometries. The slower-burning chamber incorporated a side-mounted spark plug, the faster-burning chamber combined a more compact combustion space and a centrally located spark plug. The faster-burning engine exhibited an improved efficiency-NOx emissions trade-off, primarily due to the engine's higher maximum thermal efficiency and greater tolerance to charge dilution by recirculated exhaust gas. Faster burning also reduced cyclic variability in combustion, increased the knock-limited thermal efficiency, but offered no advantage in regard to hydrocarbon emissions.
Prison Officials' Liability for Inmate-to-Inmate Assault: A Review of Case Law.

ABSTRACT This article discusses civil liability under Title 42 of the United States Code, Section 1983 of prison officials for inmate-against-inmate assault. It examines Farmer v. Brennan, a 1994 case decided by the United States Supreme Court on inmate assault. The article also analyzes 44 pre-Farmer cases decided in the United States Circuit Courts of Appeals. Two categories of cases provide the framework for the analysis: (1) the absence of intervention by prison officials to prevent inmate assaults and (2) permitting inmate access to potential weapons used in inmate assaults. The absence of intervention cases shows that liability attaches when prison officials observe assaults without intervening, when they fail to routinely monitor assault-plagued areas, when they give inmates access to other inmates' living quarters to commit assaults, and when they incite inmates' to commit assaults. The weapons cases show that liability attaches when prison officials fail to detect weapons in their facilities and ...
The Hegelian logic of critical research: Understanding Professor Yoshinori Shiozawa

The vast historical, cultural, linguistic, and geographical divides between East and West makes meaningful communication especially difficult. But these differences need not lead to total incommensurability – where no empathy or exchange of experience is possible. This paper shows that, within Professor Shiozawa’s keynote address, we find considerable overlap in the critical traditions of Japan and the West. Research in both cases is motivated first, by a focus on problems emanating from the instabilities and crises of capitalism, second, an appropriation of evidence that is distinct in its pursuit of greater “realism in process”, and third, a desire to reconstruct experience in a way that discerns the “self‐activating” mechanisms of material processes, and reflect them in our intelligibility. While differences will remain in the specific problematic junctures of capitalism that Japanese and Western researchers seek to investigate, the broad contours of our methodological procedures do provide us with ample grounds for a meaningful conversation.
Big Book on Our Gas Giant

Jupiter The Planet, Satellites and Magnetosphere. Fran Bagenal, Timothy E. Dowling, and William B. McKinnon, Eds.. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 2004. 731 pp. + CD-ROM. $150, £85. ISBN 0-521-81808-7. Cambridge Planetary Science. Synthesizing findings from 6 spacecraft fly-bys and the Galileo mission, the contributors provide a comprehensive account of our current understanding of the jovian system.
Rapid, Reliable Method for Measuring Serum Lipase Activity

The method of Dirstine et al. [Clin. Chem. 14, 1097 (1968)] has been modified to increase sensitivity and decrease manipulations. The modifications permit a 10-min incubation, and a single analysis can be completed in 30 min, or five concomitant assays can be done in an hour. Stability of the substrate has been increased by increasing the emulsifier concentration. Recovery of the fatty acid products has been improved by adding electrolyte to the copper reagent and by using combined organic solvents. Pancreatin was added to human serum to provide samples with increased activities, with behavior identical to that of pathological sera with increased lipase activities. Normal values for 100 adults, 50 women and 50 men, ranged between 21 and 171 units, with a mean of 63 units. Within-day precision for 21 assays (mean activity, 641 units) was ±16 units (SD). Between-days precision for 36 assays was ±18 units (SD), with a mean of 636 units.
Volumetric MRI analysis pre- and post-Transoral robotic surgery for obstructive sleep apnea.

Objectives/Hypothesis To quantitatively measure volumetric changes in upper airway soft tissue structures using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pre- and post transoral robotic surgery for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA-TORS). Study Design Prospective, nonrandomized, institutional board-approved study. Methods Apneics undergoing OSA-TORS, which included bilateral posterior hemiglossectomy with limited pharyngectomy and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, had upper airway MRIs pre- and postoperatively. Changes (percent and absolute values) in upper airway and surrounding soft tissue volumes were calculated. We assessed whether there were significant volumetric changes and if changes correlated with apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) changes. Results Nineteen MRIs and 18 polysomnograms were analyzed pre- and postoperation. Total airway volume increased by 19.4% (P = 0.030). Soft palate and tongue volumes decreased by 18.3% (P = 0.002) and 5.8% (P = 0.013), respectively. Retropalatal and total lateral wall volumes decreased by 49.8% (P = 0.0001) and 17.9% (P = 0.008), respectively. Changes in other structures were not significant. Eleven patients had surgical success, with a mean AHI decrease of 52.9; six were nonsuccesses with a mean AHI decrease of 4.5 (P =0.006). Decreased retropalatal lateral wall volume correlated with decreased AHI. Conclusion Airway, tongue, soft palate, and lateral wall volumes change significantly after OSA-TORS. Changes in the volume of the lateral walls correlated with changes in AHI. Volumetric upper airway MRI may be a helpful tool to better understand reasons for surgical success. Level of Evidence 4. Laryngoscope, 125:1988–1995, 2015
Characteristics and properties of metal-to-ligand charge-transfer excited states in 2,3-bis(2-pyridyl)pyrazine and 2,2'-bypyridine ruthenium complexes. Perturbation-theory-based correlations of optical absorption and emission parameters with electrochemistry and thermal kinetics and related Ab initio calculations.

The absorption, emission, and infrared spectra, metal (Ru) and ligand (PP) half-wave potentials, and ab initio calculations on the ligands (PP) are compared for several [LnRu(PP)]2+ and [{LnRu}dpp{RuL‘n}]4+ complexes, where Ln and L‘n = (bpy)2 or (NH3)4 and PP = 2,2‘-bipyridine (bpy), 2,3-bis(2-pyridyl)pyrazine (dpp), 2,3-bis(2-pyridyl)quinoxaline (dpq), or 2,3-bis(2pyridyl)benzoquinoxaline (dpb). The energy of the metal-to-ligand charge-transfer (MLCT) absorption maximum (hνmax) varies in nearly direct proportion to the difference between RuIII/RuII and (PP)/(PP)- half-wave potentials, ΔE1/2, for the monometallic complexes but not for the bimetallic complexes. The MLCT spectra of [(NH3)4Ru(dpp)]2+ exhibit three prominent visible−near-UV absorptions, compared to two for [(NH3)4Ru(bpy)]2+, and are not easily reconciled with the MLCT spectra of [{(NH3)4Ru}dpp{RuLn}]4+. The ab initio calculations indicate that the two lowest energy π* orbitals are not much different in energy in the PP ligands (they correlat...
Electron Spin Resonance of Ru 3 + in Yttrium Gallium Garnet and Yttrium Aluminum Garnet

Electron-spin-resonance data at 4.2\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K have been obtained for ${\mathrm{Ru}}^{3+}$ in the octahedral sites of yttrium gallium garnet (YGaG) and yttrium aluminum garnet (YAlG). The experimental values are ${g}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}=3.113\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.003$, ${g}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}=1.148\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.002$, ${A}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}=63.3\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.8$, and ${A}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}=38\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}5$ for YGaG, and ${g}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}=2.88\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.02$, ${g}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}=1.300\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.004$, ${A}_{\ensuremath{\parallel}}=56.4\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.7$, and ${A}_{\ensuremath{\perp}}=41\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}2$ for YAlG, where the hyperfine constants are in units of ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}4}$ ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\ensuremath{-}1}$. From an analysis of the $g$ values of the low-spin $4{d}^{5}$ system, one obtains $\frac{v}{\ensuremath{\zeta}}=\ensuremath{-}1.06$ in YGaG and -0.78 in YAlG, where $v$ is the trigonal field parameter and $\ensuremath{\zeta}$ is the spin-orbit coupling constant. Thus the trigonal field in the garnets is negative and opposite in sign to the trigonal field of the octahedral site in corundum. The core polarization field obtained from the hyperfine constants is -220 kG/(unpaired spin) in YGaG and -250 kG/(unpaired spin) in YAlG, which is about twice the approximately constant value of -125 kG/spin found in the $3d$ series.
Topology of attractors from two-piece expanding maps

In this paper we study the topology of the invariant sets derived from two-piece expanding maps. We classify the conditions under which the invariant sets are topological attractors, and show that the set of attractors is open and dense in the set of invariant sets derived by two-piece expanding maps.
Molecular mechanisms of cuticular melanization in the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta (L.) (Lepidoptera : Sphingidae)

The absence of juvenile hormone (JH) around the time of head capsule slippage (HCS) causes cuticular melanization in Manduca sexta (Lepidoptera : Sphingidae) larvae. The epidermis begins to produce a granular phenoloxidase (PO) as a proenzyme a few hours after HCS; then the enzyme is incorporated into the newly synthesized cuticle in the form of premelanin granules. A neuroendocrine factor from the abdominal nerve cord is necessary for the deposition of the granules. This PO in the granules is activated as a result of the decline in ecdysteroid titer at the end of the molt. Dopamine, the precursor for melanin, is produced by the epidermis at the end of the molt, due to an increase in dopa decarboxylase (DDC) which catalyzes its conversion from dopa. DDC levels are 2-fold higher in melanizing JH-deficient larvae. The rise in DDC activity is controlled at the transcriptional level and dependent on the changing ecdysteroid titer during the molt. DDC transcription is programmed during the molting rise in ecdysteroids, and does not begin until the titer falls below a critical level. 20-Hydroxyecdysone was found to cause the synthesis of a short-lived transcription factor(s) which binds to the promoter region of the DDC gene and suppresses transcription.
Lipid transfer inhibitor protein defines the participation of high density lipoprotein subfractions in lipid transfer reactions mediated by cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP).

Cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) moves triglyceride (TG) and cholesteryl ester (CE) between lipoproteins. CETP has no apparent preference for high (HDL) or low (LDL) density lipoprotein as lipid donor to very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), and the preference for HDL observed in plasma is due to suppression of LDL transfers by lipid transfer inhibitor protein (LTIP). Given the heterogeneity of HDL, and a demonstrated ability of HDL subfractions to bind LTIP, we examined whether LTIP might also control CETP-facilitated lipid flux among HDL subfractions. CETP-mediated CE transfers from [3H]CE VLDL to various lipoproteins, combined on an equal phospholipid basis, ranged 2-fold and followed the order: HDL3 > LDL > HDL2. LTIP inhibited VLDL to HDL2 transfer at one-half the rate of VLDL to LDL. In contrast, VLDL to HDL3 transfer was stimulated, resulting in a CETP preference for HDL3 that was 3-fold greater than that for LDL or HDL2. Long-term mass transfer experiments confirmed these findings and further established that the previously observed stimulation of CETP activity on HDL by LTIP is due solely to its stimulation of transfer activity on HDL3. TG enrichment of HDL2, which occurs during the HDL cycle, inhibited CETP activity by ∼2-fold and LTIP activity was blocked almost completely. This suggests that LTIP keeps lipid transfer activity on HDL2 low and constant regardless of its TG enrichment status. Overall, these results show that LTIP tailors CETP-mediated remodeling of HDL3 and HDL2 particles in subclass-specific ways, strongly implicating LTIP as a regulator of HDL metabolism.
Propagation of evaporation and condensation fronts during multicomponent soil vapor extraction

Abstract One-dimensional through-flow air venting of sand containing liquid hydrocarbon mixtures has been investigated to simulate soil vapor extraction processes in uniform soils. An isothermal transport model has been developed to predict the spatially and temporally varying composition of the liquid mixture within the contaminated region during the venting process. Experiments were performed to determine these changing in situ liquid concentrations in a packed column, and comparisons were made to the predicted values. Resukts showed that during through-flow venting, selective evaporation of the higher-volatility compounds led to the propagation of multiple evaporation fronts. These fronts corresponded to the location of vaporization of each compound, and the velocity of each front depended on the volatility of the compound. Thus, evaporation fronts of higher-volatility compounds propagated more quickly through the column than those of lower-volatility compound for equal volumes of each compound initially emplaced into the liquid mixture. Condensation of lower-volatility compounds was also observed at the evaporation fronts of higher-volatility compounds, leading to a continuous accumulation of the lower-volatility compounds downstream of their evaporation fronts.
Subsonic wing planform design using multidisciplinary optimization

This article presents basic results from wing planform optimization for minimum drag with constraints on structural weight and maximum lift. Analyses in each of these disciplines are developed and integrated to yield successful optimization of wing planform shape. Results demonstrate the importance of weight constraints, compressibility drag, maximum lift, and static aeroelasticity on wing shape, and the necessity of modeling these effects to achieve realistic optimized planforms.
Raynaud's disease

Abstract After digesting some of the literature and studying three cases of Raynaud's disease, we feel that the evidence is greatly in favor of the conclusion that the disease is primarily a vascular, and not a sympathetic, disorder. Sympathectomy is beneficial objectively because it eliminates the vasomotor influence which is normal in any given case. It is beneficial subjectively because it abolishes the aching and stinging pain of vasoconstriction. (Whether the relief of this type of pain is brought about by cutting afferent sympathetic fibers or by an alteration in the threshold for pain following the interruption of efferent sympathetics remains unsolved.) Our contention is based largely on the following major considerations: (1) As Lewis has shown, the vascular spasm caused by cold water and its release in warm water are strictly local phenomena. (2) We have demonstrated that, after preganglionic or postganglionic sympathectomy, the hands still retain the local disorder objectively, that is, cold continues to cause the color changes. This objective response is diminished in mild cases, but only to a degree that would be expected after eliminating the normal sympathetic vasomotor influence. (3) When a patient is taken nude into a refrigerator, and kept there long enough to cause a fall in central temperature, and, at the same time, one of his hands is kept at room temperature, the latter does not show evidence of vascular spasm, either subjectively or objectively, even though the exposed hand reacts severely. One is justified in assuming that, if the sympathetic system is responsible for the vascular spasm, the hand at room temperature under these circumstances should react somewhat like the other hand. According to evidence which is only partly presented in this paper, preganglionic sympathectomy in itself does not provide a solution to the problem of the treatment of Raynaud's disease of the upper extremity. After preganglionic sympathectomy the upper extremity is much more comfortable than after cervicodorsal sympathectomy, but the difference is probably the result of trauma incident to removal of the stellate ganglion. We feel that the sympathectomy should be accomplished with a minimum of surgical interference and believe that it is necessary to remove only the second dorsal ganglion in order to completely sympathectomize the upper extremity. Additional data relevant to this point will be presented in another paper.
The EVI1 gene in myeloid leukemia

Leukemia is an acquired genetic disease caused by the accumulation of chromosomal abnormalities which modify either the biochemical property or the level of expression of proteins. Frequent genetic abnormalities identified in human leukemia are chromosomal rearrangements such as chromosomal translocations and inversions. Chromosome band 3q26 is the site of the breakpoint of recurring translocations and inversions observed in patients with myeloid leukemias. Two genes located at 3q26 have been implicated in development or progression of myeloid leukemia. They are MDS1 and EVI1. MDS1, first identified as part of a fusion transcript resulting from the t(3;21)(q26;q22), encodes a small protein of unknown function. EVI1 encodes a zinc finger protein inappropriately overexpressed by chromosomal rearrangements (in man) or by retroviral insertion (in the mouse). Both genes are rearranged by the t(3;21)(q26;q22) and by the t(3;12)(p13;q22). As a result of the translocation, they are expressed as fusion genes either with AML1 or with TEL. EVI1 and MDS1 are unusual in that they can either encode separate proteins, or they can be expressed as one protein which we named MDS1/EVI1. EVI1 and MDS1/EVI1 have opposite functions as transcription factors. In this report, we review the current information on the two genes, and on their involvement in myeloid leukemia.
Understanding itch in skin disease

Itch is the most common symptom in dermatology. Understanding itch causation requires knowledge of cutaneous receptors, inciting factors, and behavioral influences. Studying itch can be done using both in vitro and in vivo methods. Understanding the molecular basis of itch may provide therapeutic targets for alleviating this most troubling dermatologic symptom.
Factors controlling postfire seedling establishment in southern California chaparral

This paper discusses the interactions among prefire shrub abundance, soil moisture, and plant and animal species on postfire seedling establishment in mixed chparral in southern California. Postfire germination and survival of seedlings in a stand dominated by a facultative seeder (Adenostoma fasciculatum) and by an obligate seeder (Ceanothus greggii) were monitored for 2 years. Relative to prefire abundance, germination of C. greggii was higher than that of A. fasciculatum. Survival during the first year was also higher in C. greggii than in A. fasciculatum. During the second year, however, mortality of C. greggii was greater than that of A. fasciculatum, mostly due to a psyllid infection. Germination of A. fasciculatum was negatively related to prefire shrub abundance. C. greggii germination was not associated with prefire shrub abundance. Seedling mortality of both species was very strongly related to the depletion of soil moisture the first few months after germination. A. fasciculatum was more sensitive than C. greggii to the drying of the soil, especially in the upper levels. C. greggii seedlings had longer roots, greater root/shoot biomass ratios, higher water potentials, and a later peak in seasonal growth activity compared to A. fasciculatum. Herbs promoted greater survival of A. fasciculatum. Our results indicate that the obligate seeder species, C. greggii, is better adapted to establish seedling in chaparral by producing greater relative germination and greater seedling survival than the facultative seeder species A. fasciculatum. The greater adaptability of C. greggii to the physical environment is counteracted by interspecific interference by plant and animal interactions which tend to favor A. fasciculatum over C. greggii.
Stable isotopic characterization of ammonium metavanadate (NH4VO3)

This paper describes hydrogen ((2)H/(1)H), nitrogen ((15)N/(14)N), and oxygen ((18)O/(16)O) isotopic characterization of ammonium metavanadate (NH(4)VO(3)), a toxic industrial chemical (TIC). We analyzed nineteen high purity compounds obtained from nine suppliers, which show large ranges in trivariate stable isotope compositions, nearly 100-fold greater than analytical uncertainty. Covariation between δ(2)H and δ(15)N values indicates these ratios can be used to trace ammonia compounds, which are critical for the industrial purification of vanadyl ions and precipitation of ammonium metavanadate crystals. δ(2)H and δ(18)O plot far from the Meteoric Water Line (MWL), and suggest materials and industrial processing may lead to decoupling of H and O isotopes. We show how stable isotope characterization is a valuable forensic tool that discriminates between NH(4)VO(3) samples due to differences in source materials, modes of production, and facility location.
The origin of thrombolytic therapy

Abstract The origin of thrombolytic therapy is briefly reviewed. It began 40 years ago with the demonstration that the injection into patients of a partially purified activator of the native plasminogen-plasmin enzyme system was capable of dissolving clotted blood and fibrinous loculations in the chest. However, the application of this form of therapy for the dissolution of intravascular thrombi had to await a series of further developments, including extensive purification of the thrombolytic agents, evidence that plasminogen activators would be more appropriate than plasmin for thrombolysis and proof, first in animals and then in humans, that thrombi could be dissolved by the systemic administration of plasminogen activators. The first study of thrombolytic therapy in acute myocardial infarction was reported in 1958. However, despite many studies conducted during the next 20 years, with encouraging reductions in mortality, thrombolytic therapy for acute myocardial infarction became established only when angiography provided visual evidence of the presence of a thrombus obstructing an infarct-related artery and of the achievement of prompt lysis with the administration of thrombolytic agents.
Exploring discussion lists: steps and directions

This paper describes some new facilities for exploring archived email-based discussion lists. The facilities exploit some specific properties of email messages to obtain improved archive overviews, and then use new tree visualizations, developed for the purpose, to obtain thread overviews and mechanisms to aid in the coherent reading of threads. We consider these approaches to be limited, but useful, approximations to more ideal facilities; a final section suggests directions for further work in this area.
Comparison of carbon dynamics of three microcosm substrates

Abstract Microcosms are being examined as potential tools to assess toxic chemical effects on populations, trophic chains, processes, and ecosystems. The suitability of three microcosm substrates (intact soil, homogenized soil, and sand-soil) as analogs of soil was tested by comparing CO2 efflux, dissolved C turnover, and soil C pool turnover among microcosm substrates. Carbon dynamics of intact soil microcosms were more predictable than those of other substrates. Microcosm units constructed from intact soil cores excised from the ecosystem of interest are recommended for assessment of soil processes or their potential disruption. Total C dynamics, rather than CO2 efflux alone, should be monitored in soil microcosms to provide an accurate measure of soil processes.
A 1060 nm diode laser system for dynamically probing silicon detectors

Abstract We have constructed a 1060 nm laser system which has been used to dynamically probe silicon microstrip detectors. A diode laser is coupled to a single mode fiber with a less than 10 μm measured spot size. The laser is driven by a nanosecond pulse with sub-nanosecond rise and fall times. The fast response and small spot size allow for measurements of such quantities as time walk in microstrip detectors. The system has been used to generate 5–100 fC of charge in a 300 μm thick silicon microstrip detector. The laser also has been used in localized depletion voltage measurements and to test the integrity of sensors wire bonded to readout electronics.
The Edging in of Engagement: exploring the nature of engagement in drama

ABSTRACT Teachers who utilise Drama in Education (DIE) techniques will recognise that there are different levels of student involvement in every dramatic experience. This research study examined the circumstances surrounding student engagement in drama. DIE techniques were used in a language arts classroom made up of seventh‐grade students (11‐12 years old) examining and exploring literature. Through participation observation, audio and video recordings, artifacts, journal entries, interviews and samples of student writing, the patterns of the students’ engagement were analysed to reveal the mental process that a participant undergoes in order to engage in a dramatic activity. Specific findings of this drama engagement study were: (1) four different categories of engagement strategies were observed and defined according to how students personally engage in a dramatic activity; (2) internal imagery and/or setting play an important and necessary role for students to begin their engagement strategies; and (3...
Observer-Based Feedback Linearizing Control of an Electromagnetic Suspension

This paper develops a stabilizing observer-based feedback linearizing controller for a single-axis electromagnetic suspension. The controller uses only the measured output ofthe system, and is shown to be robust with respect to parameter uncertainty. The controller differs from other robust feedback linearizing controllers that have appeared in recent literature, because it is continuous, and non-adaptive. Lyapunov's second method is used to prove stability and robustness of the controller. The controller has a simple structure and its gains are determined by solving two weakly coupled Riccati equations. Numerical simulations are performed to compare a linear feedback controller and the observer-based feedback linearizing controller. Results obtained demonstrate that the nonlinear controller yields superior performance when compared with the linear feedback controller. The controller synthesis technique developed in this paper is applicable to other fully feedback linearizable systems, not just electromagnetic suspensions.
Acute and Subchronic Toxicity of Cyclopiazonic Acid to Channel Catfish

Abstract The 96-h median lethal dose (LD50; dose that is lethal to 50% of test organisms) of cyclopiazonic acid (CPA) injected intraperitoneally (IP) into channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus (average weight, 19 g) was 2.82 mg/kg of body weight, with a 95% confidence interval of 2.483.12 mg/kg. The acute effects of CPA were characteristic of a neurotoxin. Some fish injected with CPA doses of 2.40 mg/kg of body weight or higher showed severe convulsions, tetany, and death within 30 min postinjection. There were no lesions in the organs of the moribund fish examined grossly and histologically. Cyclopiazonic acid fed for 10 weeks at a concentration of 100 μg/kg of diet had a growth-suppressing effect (P ...
A Simplified Extraction-Distillation Method for the Determination of the Volatile Fatty Acids of Cheese*

Summary A method for determining the volatile fatty acids of cheese is described. The method, referred to as the simplified extraction-distillation method, is based on two distillations of acid cheese solution, one associated with the fat phase and the other with the residual material. After ether extraction of the acid-cheese mixture, the volatile fatty acids were removed from the ether with dilute alkali. The alkali rinses were heated to drive off the ether, then acidified, refluxed to remove carbon dioxide, and distilled in the presence of MgSO 4 until crystallization occurred. In the meantime, 250ml. of distilled water were added to the residual material and the solution distilled until 280ml. of distillate were collected. The sum of the titrations from the two distillations plus that of the alcohol rinse represented the total volatile acids of the cheese. This new method and the method of Hiscox, Harrison, and Wolf (5) gave nearly identical results for a wide variety of cheeses. It has advantages over the latter method in that no special apparatus is necessary, more distillations can be accomplished in the course of a day, and the time required to analyze a sample of cheese is very greatly reduced. The findings of Friedemann (2) that acetic, butyric, caproic, and caprylic acids can be quantitatively recovered by distilling in the presence of MgSO 4 were confirmed. In addition, capric and lauric acids were quantitatively recovered under similar conditions, while myristic acid was incompletely recovered. Nonvolatile fatty acids, such as palmitic and oleic, exerted a retentive effect on caprylic, capric, lauric, and myristic acids during direct distillation in the presence of MgSO 4 with the degree of retention being in direct relationship to the number of carbon atoms present in the volatile acids. When butyric and caproic acids were distilled, the nonvolatile acids exerted no retentive effect.
Results of a phase I trial evaluating a liver support device utilizing albumin dialysis.

Abstract Background. We have previously reported the clearance of protein-bound and water-soluble hepatic toxins, in vitro and in an animal model, using albumin dialysis as an extracorporeal hepatic support (ECHS) device. Objective. The objective of this study was to evaluate albumin dialysis through a phase I clinical trial. We hypothesized that albumin dialysis would (1) decrease elevated levels of hepatic toxins, (2) increase the Fischer ratio, and (3) decrease hepatic encephalopathy (HES) and intracranial pressure (ICP), while (4) maintaining stable hemodynamics. Methods. Patients with acute liver failure were treated with an ECHS device utilizing continuous hemodiafiltration with continuous albumin dialysis. Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), systemic venous oxygen saturation (S vo 2), ICP, and HES were recorded. Blood samples were evaluated for hepatic toxins and factor VII levels. Results. Nine patients were enrolled (status I, n = 5; status IIA, n = 4). There was no significant change in MAP, HR, or S vo 2 (MAP: Pre = 81 ± 5.6 mm Hg, Post = 79 ± 5.9 mm Hg, P =.70; HR: Pre = 104 ± 5.2 bpm, Post = 107 ± 6.2 bpm, P =.62; S vo 2: Pre = 72 ± 3.5, Post = 71 ± 1.7, P =.77). There was a decrease in the ammonia and total bilirubin levels (NH3: Pre = 129.8 ± 23.8 mg/dL, Post = 63.9 ± 16.1 mg/dL, P =.01; total bilirubin: Pre = 20.3 ± 2.5 mg/dL, Post = 17.6 ± 2.7 mg/dL, P =.4). There was a significant increase of the Fischer ratio and factor VII levels (Fischer ratio: Pre = 0.98 ± 0.2, Post = 2.17 ± 0.5, P =.038; factor VII: Pre = 13.9 ± 4.9, Post = 23.2 ± 4.8, P =.015). There was a significant decrease in the HES and ICP (HES: Pre = 3.8 ± 0.1, Post = 2 ± 0.7, P =.02; ICP: Pre = 37 ± 3.9, Post = 13.3 ± 2.8, P =.048). Of 5 status I patients, 1 recovered native hepatic function and 3 were bridged to transplantation. Conclusions. This phase I study suggests that albumin dialysis as a liver support device is safe and effective in clearing hepatic toxins, with an associated decrease in the HES and ICP. This encouraging efficacy data warrant further investigation with a phase II/III trial. (Surgery 2001;130:354-62.)
Physical activity and global genomic DNA methylation in a cancer-free population.

Changes in DNA methylation may represent an intermediate step between the environment and human diseases. Little is known on whether behavioral risk factors may modify gene expression through DNA methylation. To assess whether DNA methylation is associated with different levels of physical activity, we measured global genomic DNA methylation using bisulfite-converted DNA and real-time PCR (MethyLight) for LINE-1 in peripheral blood of 161 participants aged 45–75 years enrolled in the North Texas Healthy Heart Study and levels of physical activity using an accelerometer (Actigraph GT1M Monitor). We found that individuals with physical activity 26–30 min/day had a significantly higher level of global genomic DNA methylation compared to those with physical activity ≤10 min/day (β = 2.52, 95% CI: 0.70, 4.35). However, the association was attenuated and became statistically insignificant after multivariate adjustment (β = 1.24, 95% CI: −0.93, 3.40). There were some suggestions of a positive association between physical activity and global genomic DNA methylation in non-Hispanics (β = 1.50, 95% CI: −0.08, 3.08) that warrants further investigation.
A unique form of locomotion in a stomatopod—backward somersaulting

Of the diversity of forms of locomotion evolved by life on Earth, one that seems not to have developed to any great extent is rolling or somersaulting. Many cultures claim the existence of ‘hoop snakes’ that grasp their tails in their mouths and roll downhill, but no known snake can perform this feat1. Furthermore, although at least one spider (Hamilton, personal communication) when disturbed forms its body and legs into a sphere and rolls down sand dunes, I have been unable to find examples of animals that roll uphill or even over level terrain. Various coelenterates such as Hydra and some sea anemones somersault slowly across the substrate by alternating attachment of the pedal disk and tentacles. However, with the exception of human gymnasts and other playful primates, I report here a unique form of locomotion found in the stomatopod Nannosquilla decemspinosa (Rathbun, 1910) that consists of a rapid series of backward somersaults.
Structural and functional properties of DNA polymerase delta from rabbit bone marrow

DNA polymerase delta, the most recently described class of eukaryotic DNA polymerase, has been purified to apparent homogeneity from rabbit bone marrow. Unlike the previously known eukaryotic DNA polymerases, delta has a 3′ to 5′ exonuclease as an integral component of its 122 000 molecular weight, single polypeptide structure. Similar to the function with prokaryotic DNA polymerases, the 3′ to 5′ exonuclease assists DNA polymerase delta in maintaining the fidelity of DNA synthesis by excising misincorporated nucleotides. DNA polymerase delta and the longer known eukaryotic DNA polymerase alpha are similar in many features. Both are very sensitive to sulfhydryl inhibitors such as N-ethylmaliemide (NEM) and to the antibiotic aphidicolin. Such criteria distinguish alpha and delta from DNA polymerases beta and gamma. This has led to the conclusion that nuclear DNA replication, which is sensitive to NEM and aphidicolin, is carried out by DNA polymerase alpha. However, the similar sensitivity of delta to these reagents requires that the role of alpha and delta in nuclear DNA replication be further defined. In many features DNA polymerase delta is also similar to the viral induced DNA polymerases such as the Herpes simplex virus DNA polymerases which also have associated 3′ to 5′ exonuclease. Understanding of DNA synthesis and the mechanism of DNA replication fidelity in mammalian cells depends upon a further understanding of both DNA polymerases alpha and delta and the nature of the relationship they have to each other.
Hormonal Abnormalities in Obesity

We have found a number of interesting hormonal abnormalities in obese men and women: 1) Obese women have normal levels of estrone, total estradiol, and total testosterone, but as a consequence of their subnormal levels of SHBG, their levels of free estradiol and free testosterone are significantly elevated. 2) Massive weight loss in obese women (to still elevated weight) results in normalization of the previously elevated free estradiol and free testosterone. 3) Obese women have normal plasma DHEA levels, but a significant, age-invariant decrease of the plasma DHEA/T ratio, which could be due to increased tissue activity of 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. 4) Massive weight loss produces an age-dependent effect on DHEA levels in obese women: the levels increase to supranormal values in women around age 20, with diminishing increases at higher premenopausal ages and no increase at all at perimenopausal age. 5) Obese men have elevated levels of estrone and both free and total estradiol, and subnormal levels of free and total testosterone and of FSH; all these abnormalities are proportional to the degree of obesity. They also have relatively subnormal LH levels, i.e. normal in the face of hypotestosteronemia. The combination of these findings represents a state of mild hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HHG), which we believe to be induced by the hyperestrogenemia. 6) Normalization of the estrogen levels of obese men, by suppression of adrenocortical secretion of aromatase substrates or by inhibition of aromatase, tends to normalize the HHG. 7) Massive weight loss in obese men normalizes their HHG without any decrease in plasma estrogen levels.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
A practical method to achieve prostate gland immobilization and target verification for daily treatment

Abstract Purpose: A practical method to achieve prostate immobilization and daily target localization for external beam radiation treatment is described. Methods and Materials: Ten patients who underwent prostate brachytherapy using permanent radioactive source placement were selected for study. To quantify prostate motion both with and without the presence of a specially designed inflatable intrarectal balloon, the computerized tomography–based coordinates of all intraprostatic radioactive sources were compared over 3 consecutive measurements at 1-min intervals. Results: The placement and inflation of the intrarectal balloon were well tolerated by all patients. The mean (range) displacement of the prostate gland when the intrarectal balloon was present vs. absent was 1.3 (0–2.2) mm vs. 1.8 (0–9.1) mm ( p = 0.03) at 2 min respectively. The maximum displacement in any direction (anterior–posterior, superior–inferior, or right–left) when the intrarectal balloon was inflated vs. absent was reduced to ≤1 mm from 4 mm. Conclusions: Both prostate gland immobilization and target verification are possible using a specially designed inflatable intrarectal balloon. Using this device, the posterior margin necessary on the lateral fields to ensure dosimetric coverage of the entire prostate gland could be safely reduced to 5 mm and treatment could be set up and verified using a lateral portal image.
Dynamics of cobbles in the shoaling region of a surf zone

The motion of large bottom particles (cobbles/mines) was studied in the laboratory under simulated surf conditions. A series of experiments was conducted in a large wave tank, 32×0.9×1.8 m, equipped with a computer-controlled wave maker and a sloping beach. As a first step, a solid impermeable beach with artificial roughness was used in the experiments. Cobbles of different size were placed along the floor and their evolution with time was studied and compared with the model predictions. Onshore and offshore mean motions of cobbles, as well as steady oscillations with zero mean displacement, were observed for different conditions. To explain the results of observations a theoretical model was advanced. The model takes into account all main governing parameters (size and density of cobbles, bottom slope, dynamic and static friction at the bottom, background flow characteristics, etc.). Standard parameterizations were used for a pressure accelerating term, drag, lift and other nonlinear forces. For the range of parameters used in the experiments, satisfactory agreement between the measured and calculated values of the cobble displacements as a function of time was obtained. The model is practically insensitive to the vertical accelerating pressure term but sensitive to the dynamic and static friction. One of the most important variables in the model, which is known with the least accuracy, is the virtual mass coefficient for disk-shaped cobbles moving with variable velocity along a solid boundary.
Data presentation bias: a source of potential error in radiology scientific publications.

sensitivity and specificity of [computed tomography] for the detection of urinary calculi.” The authors demonstrated that there were no differences in the detection of stones 3 mm in diameter between the original images and the images representing decreased doses [1]. The manner in which these data are presented strongly deemphasizes the second conclusion, which is that dose reduction cannot be used for the detection of stones 3 mm in diameter. In the
Running interference on tumor growth

Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), as the name suggests, provide cells with a critical method of regulating gene expression by targeting specific transcripts for destruction. For years, scientists have had success with altering cellular processes by introducing laboratory-generated siRNA molecules into cells. However, translating these approaches into clinical practice has remained elusive. One of the challenges has been selectively delivering siRNA molecules to tumor tissue while sparing normal cells. Tabernero and colleagues attempted to tackle this challenge by using lipid nanoparticles, coined “ALP-VSP,” that contain two different siRNAs targeting genes known to be important in many types of cancer: vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) and kinesin spindle protein (KSP). They tested ALP-VSP in a phase I clinical trial of 41 patients with advanced cancer that had spread to the liver, many of whom had failed multiple previous therapies. The drug was administered intravenously and well tolerated in nearly all patients. By examining tumor biopsies before and after treatment, the authors were able to demonstrate uptake and activity within tumor cells. Nearly half of the subjects demonstrated by means of magnetic resonance imaging a decrease in tumor blood flow, which is a common finding in therapies that effectively target tumor vasculature. Despite being a phase I study, there were promising signs of efficacy. Three patients experienced no appreciable growth of their tumors for up to 18 months using conventional imaging techniques. One patient with metastatic endometrial cancer demonstrated a complete response, with disappearance of all lesions on a computed tomography scan. This study demonstrates the promise held by siRNA-based cancer therapies and opens up new therapeutics strategies within oncology and potentially other disorders. But although the new results are encouraging, larger prospective trials will be needed to definitively demonstrate the safety and utility of these approaches. J. Tabernero et al. , First-in-man trial of an RNA interference therapeutic targeting VEGF and KSP in cancer patients with liveri. Cancer Discov. , published online 28 January 2013 (10.1158/2159-8290.CD-12-0429). [[Abstract]][1] [1]: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23358650