cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor γ (PPARγ) Mediates a Ski Oncogene-induced Shift from Glycolysis to Oxidative Energy Metabolism

Overexpression of the Ski oncogene induces oncogenic transformation of chicken embryo fibroblasts (CEFs). However, unlike most other oncogene-transformed cells, Ski-transformed CEFs (Ski-CEFs) do not display the classical Warburg effect. On the contrary, Ski transformation reduced lactate production and glucose utilization in CEFs. Compared with CEFs, Ski-CEFs exhibited enhanced TCA cycle activity, fatty acid catabolism through β-oxidation, glutamate oxidation, oxygen consumption, as well as increased numbers and mass of mitochondria. Interestingly, expression of PPARγ, a key transcription factor that regulates adipogenesis and lipid metabolism, was dramatically elevated at both the mRNA and protein levels in Ski-CEFs. Accordingly, PPARγ target genes that are involved in lipid uptake, transport, and oxidation were also markedly up-regulated by Ski. Knocking down PPARγ in Ski-CEFs by RNA interference reversed the elevated expression of these PPARγ target genes, as well as the shift to oxidative metabolism and the increased mitochondrial biogenesis. Moreover, we found that Ski co-immunoprecipitates with PPARγ and co-activates PPARγ-driven transcription.
Facile solvent-deficient synthesis of mesoporous γ-alumina with controlled pore structures

Abstract We report a simple, one-pot, solvent-deficient process using different aluminum salts to synthesize mesoporous γ-alumina without external templates or surfactants. Samples prepared from aluminum inorganic salts have a close-packed morphology, where randomly stacked fibrous crystallites of γ-alumina are obtained when utilizing aluminum alkoxides. After calcination at 700 °C for 2 h, surface areas of these nanostructured γ-aluminas range from 210 to 320 m 2 /g. The average pore diameters range from 6 to 18 nm, the crystallite diameters range from 3 to 4 nm, and pore volumes range from 0.4 to 1.7 cm 3 /g. This synthetic method provides a facile route to synthesize stable, high surface-area mesoporous aluminas having a wide range of pore sizes and volumes.
Shifting balances in U.S. metropolitan and nonmetropolitan area growth.

This paper assesses some of the recent attempts to explain the perceived growth reversal between metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas in the United States during the 1970s. The paper argues that the reversal in population trends was not a one-time radical shift in settlement trends but rather the result of more continuous underlying industrial trends. Indeed since 1979 population growth has again become faster in metropolitan than nonmetropolitan areas. The paper includes three sections. Regional and area population and industrial earnings growth patterns are first summarized for the 1960s 1970s and 1980s. Theories of polarization and polar reversal are then evaluated and found to be inadequate. Finally a reconstruction of the neoclassical model is proposed. (EXCERPT)
Cigarette smoking and abdominal obesity: a meta-analysis of observational studies

Background: Smoking and obesity are two of the leading causes of preventable death in developed countries. We conducted a meta-analysis to examine the association between cigarette smoking and abdominal obesity measured by waist-to-hip circumference ratio (WHR).Method: Keyword and reference search were conducted in four electronic bibliographic databases: Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE, and Web of Science. Articles were included based on predefined study selection criteria. Random-effect model was performed to estimate the relationship between cigarette smoking and abdominal obesity.Results: Fifteen studies (116 146 subjects) met the study selection criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. Compared to those who have never smoked, current cigarette smokers who smoke in a regular basis are associated with 0.0113 (95% CI: 0.0081–0.0145, p < 0.001) higher WHR. Publication bias could be present as the sample sizes of individual studies and the effect sizes are negatively correlated (p < 0.01).Conclu...
Full three-body primitive semiclassical treatment of H 2 +

Primitive semiclassical quantization of H${}_{2}^{+}$ and D${}_{2}^{+}$ without the restriction of the separation of electronic and nuclear motions, reveals the existence of a small (10%) classical contribution to the one-electron chemical bond. It is found that in the electronic ground state the electron is exchanged classically between the two nuclei and that this exchange is correlated with the molecular vibration.
Physiological and Nutritional Effects of a Fluorescent Brightener on Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus-Infected Lymantria dispar (L.) Larvae (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)

Abstract Recent studies with gypsy moths ( Lymantria dispar L.) show that the fluorescent brightener, Tinopal LPW, acts synergistically with the L. dispar nuclear polyhedrosis virus (LdMNPV), lowering the 50% lethality concentration of the virus (LC 50 ) by 1000-fold. As a continuation of this work, we investigated the effects of ingestion of LdMNPV/Tinopal on larval midgut pH, hemolymph pH, and nutritional indices. Larval feeding for 48 h on diet treated with either LdMNPV or Tinopal did not affect midgut luminal pH, which averaged 10.3. In contrast, after 48 h of larval feeding on LdMNPV/ Tinopal diet, midgut pH averaged 8.5, and frass production, weight gain, and larval nutritional indices were significantly reduced. These effects appeared to be irreversible after the first 24 h of feeding ad libitum on LdMNPV/Tinopal diet, and the reduction in midgut pH was not due to feeding cessation per se. No significant effects on hemolymph pH were detected with any treatment. No treatment effects were observed when "SITS," a related fluorescent brightener, was substituted for Tinopal. The severe biological perturbations resulting from LdMNPV/Tinopal consumption are interpreted in light of current understanding of larval lepidopteran midgut physiology.
Probing Extraterrestrial Neutrino Fluxes and Atmospheric Charm with Contained Neutrino Events above 1 TeV in IceCube

Abstract The IceCube Neutrino Observatory [1] was designed primarily to search for high-energy ( 100 TeV) neutrinos produced in distant astrophysical objects, and a search for high-energy neutrinos interacting inside the instrumented volume has recently provided evidence for a diffuse flux of such neutrinos [2]. Its energy threshold is however low enough to detect large numbers of neutrinos from the weak decays of pions and kaons produced in air showers; both the atmospheric νμ flux [3] and the sub-dominant atmospheric νe flux [4] have been observed by IceCube. A second, harder component of the atmospheric neutrino flux from decays of short-lived, charmed mesons in air showers has yet to be conclusively observed. Here, we present a strategy for extending the search for neutrino interactions in the instrumented volume down to ∼ 1 TeV and discuss the challenges of disentangling possible contributions of atmospheric charm decay from the high-energy extraterrestrial neutrino flux.
Models for high-energy processes

Recent developments in the concepts and models used to describe high-energy collisions of fundamental particles are reviewed. The areas of appreciable activity in research in high-energy physics are surveyed briefly and the general framework for the description of processes at high energies is outlined. There follows a sampling of recent experimental data designed to show the extent and detail of present-day experimental results. Recent applications of Regge pole models are reviewed with emphasis on the difficulties as well as the successes of models employing only Regge poles. The various multiple-scattering models are then discussed and correlated by means of the methods of Glauber. The connection of these models with amplitudes having branch cuts in the angular-momentum plane (Regge cuts) is described, as well as some comparisons with experiment. Finite energy sum rules as a means of relating the low-energy and high-energy domains are discussed in some detail. Next, the far-reaching concept of duality whereby the direct-channel resonances are (in some sense) the crossed-channel Regge exchanges is described, along with the related ideas of exchange degeneracy, the special role of the Pomeranchon Regge pole, and duality diagrams. An explicit realization of duality is achieved in the Veneziano model. This model is discussed in some detail for the relatively simple and interesting example of pion-pion scattering. Brief mention is also made of the extensions of the Veneziano model to the $n$-particle amplitude, attempts at unitarization, and various applications. The topic of multiparticle final states is covered relatively briefly with emphasis on the applications of double Regge pole exchange to three-body final states, the calculation of proton and pion energy and angular distributions in proton-proton collisions by means of the multi-Regge exchange model, and the generation of self-consistent Regge singularities with the multi-Regge exchange model and unitarity. The final section of the review concerns recent results on pion-pion scattering phase shifts and also $K\ensuremath{-}\ensuremath{\pi}$ phase shifts, and some remarks on theorems connecting decay correlations of resonances with the mechanism of production. The literature survey ended, with a few exceptions, in May 1969.
New ideas for promoting physical activity among middle age and older adults.

JOPERD • Volume 78 No. 7 • September 2007 O besity is increasingly associated with the incidence of disease and premature death in the 55+ age group. This trend has profound social and fi nancial implications that warrant immediate attention, and it will become more signifi cant as the senior population burgeons at a time when physical activity has been stripped from almost every aspect of life. To combat the health care costs associated with a sedentary lifestyle, there is a growing interest in promoting exercise among mature and older adults. The effectiveness of many programs, however, is limited by outdated ideas that misdirect efforts. Recent advancements in gerontology provide guidance that is likely to improve these programs. Specifi cally, there is now a better understanding of what “successful aging” means and of what aspects of life have the greatest potential for increasing physical activity in later life. This article documents these developments and new interdisciplinary efforts to provide services and products that increase physical activity among the older segments of the population.
Charged particle discrimination in a CsI(T1) detector

Two techniques requiring measurement of short time intevals are reported. A charged reaction product discrimination method is developed that depends upon the fact that different types of charged particles of approximately the same energy yield significantly different fluorescent decay times in a CsI(Tl) scintillator. Tests are conducted on the reaction products of the Be/sup 9/ + d reactions and on the protons from the C/sup 1//sup 2/(d,p)C/sup 1//sup 3/ reaction. Using relative deca time measurements, alpha particles are clearly separated from protons or tritons. Protons and tritons are clearly separated from one another as long as the triton energy does not exceed the proton energy by as much as twenty pe rcent. (auth)
Low stress die attach material challenges for critical Si node with Cu wire

Low stress die attach material is of big interest for multi applications, for example, automotive, high voltage and thermal enhancement packages that require high package reliability performance; and sensitive output current applications for display driver, battery controller. The challenges of low stress die attach material started to occur when moving wire bonding technology from Au wire to Cu wire on specific Si nodes. Although it's well known that Cu wire bonding remains a challenge on bondpad with critical pad metallization or layout due to its harder wire property, however the fact that non-stick on bond pad tendency to occur on specific die attach materials with limited Si node combination became the challenge for moving forward the low stress package to low cost solutions. This paper includes the deep dive root causes investigation on the factors of die attach materials, Si nodes, and Cu wire bonding for the non-stick on pad failure. Design of experiment is carried considering materials, machines, methods include bond pad hillock, bond pad metallization thickness, wafer batch, die attach material batch, die attach material types, die attach outgas, die attach fillet height, bond line thickness, die tile, Cu wire bond jig…etc. The DOE results revealed the non-stick on pad root cause is a combination factors of die attach materials modulus at high bonding temperature, Si node under layer material types. Bond pad metallization thickness, die attach outgas, bond pad hillock… were not root cause of the bondability issue. Being the facts that Si node changed is high risk and also high cost, the solutions to overcome the non-stick on pad are mainly focus on die attach materials modulus and wire bonding technology enhancement. In this paper, we demonstrated the development of the reasonable modulus level for die attach materials to overcome the non-stick on pad issue for the sensitive Si nodes with Cu wire bonding. Besides, potential root causes are well studied via design of experiences. In the meantime, package reliability performance is well maintained post preconditioning, and stress treatment of temperature cycling per package requirement. With this study, we identify the solutions for the balance of Assembly manufacturability and package reliability.
Edge states for quantum Hall droplets in higher dimensions and a generalized WZW model

Abstract We consider quantum Hall droplets on complex projective spaces with a combination of Abelian and non-Abelian background magnetic fields. Carrying out an analysis similar to what was done for Abelian backgrounds, we show that the effective action for the edge excitations is given by a chiral, gauged Wess–Zumino–Witten (WZW) theory generalized to higher dimensions.
Extra-renal manifestations of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD): considerations for routine screening and management

Autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a systemic disease, marked by progressive increase of bilateral renal cysts, resulting in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and often leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Apart from renal cysts, patients often have extra-renal disease, involving the liver, heart and vasculature. Other less common but equally important extra-renal manifestations of ADPKD include diverticular disease, hernias, male infertility and pain. Extra-renal disease burden is often asymptomatic, but may result in increased morbidity and mortality. If the disease burden is significant, screening may prove beneficial. We review the rationale for current screening recommendations and propose some guidelines for screening and management of ADPKD patients.
Mechanism of endotoxin interaction with human leucocytes.

An investigation to define the mechanism of the interaction between endotoxin and human leucocytes is reported. Endotoxin produces the following changes in human leucocytes suspended in vitro in normal plasma or serum: leak of kininase and lysozyme from the cell into the medium, decreased cellular α-glucosidase and phosphorylase activity, increased production of lactate and of 14CO2 from glucose-1-14C and increased incorporation of tritiated uridine into RNA and acid-soluble nucleotide. The metabolic changes induced by endotoxin and the uptake of radioactive endotoxin by granulocytes are diminished if the suspending medium is depleted of complement components. The thesis is presented that endotoxin in the presence of complement is ingested by or adheres to the human granulocyte and induces a series of metabolic changes resembling those associated with phagocytosis.
Plant–cell bioreactors with simultaneous electropermeabilization and electrophoresis

Experimental investigations on using low-level electric currents and voltages to extract, transport, and collect intracellular secondary metabolites from plant cells while maintaining their viabilities were conducted focusing on the production of: (1) ionic betalains, mainly negatively-charged betanin, from Beta vulgaris cells, and (2) ionic alkaloids, particularly positively-charged ajmalicine and yohimbine, from Catharanthus roseus cells. Three versions of tubular membrane reactors in which electropermeabilization of cell membranes and electrophoresis and diffusion of ionic products take place simultaneously, with or without convective flow, to achieve desirable extraction were developed. Concentrations of secondary metabolites produced from these plant-cell reactors under steady and oscillatory electrical forcings were recorded and the viabilities of treated cells examined. Oscillatory application of electrical field appears to produce more products while retaining higher cell viability.
Evidence for an in situ early Paleocene rainforest from Castle Rock, Colorado

A very diverse, early Paleocene (63.8 ± 0.3 Ma) fossil leaf site located in Castle Rock, Colorado represents nearly autochthonous burial of a rainforest floor. This is an unusual fossil flora preserved in an unusual manner. The site, on the western margin of the Denver Basin in synorogenic sediments associated with the rise of the Laramide Front Range, is dated using multiple methods. Leaves are preserved in three distinct units overlying a poorly developed paleosol that contains in situ tree trunks. Fossil-bearing units are continuous along 150 m of outcrop. The leaves were apparently preserved as a result of rapid deposition of sand and mud onto the floor of a mature rainforest via overbank flooding. Five quarries were excavated and the leaves from these quarries were segregated by morphotype and scored for leaf area and margin type. From 1030 specimens, we document 93 unique dicotyledonous angiosperm leaf types, three cycads, three ferns, two conifers, and seven seed types. There is little taxonomic variation among leaf-bearing units of a single quarry, but the taxonomic composition varies significantly among laterally spaced quarries, suggesting that the fossil leaf litter reflets the original growth positions of the source trees. We compare the fossil leaf litter to leaf litter of modern forests and show that the Castle Rock flora has numerous features in common with extant equatorial rainforests, including dominance by angiosperms, high species richness, large leaves that often have smooth margins and drip tips, and high spatial heterogeneity from quarry to quarry.
A Model of the Determinants of Purchasing from Virtual Stores

Virtual stores are Internet-based innovations that influence the dynamics of consumer choice making. Utilizing the attitude-to-behavior theory, theory of reasoned action, technology acceptance model, functional theory of attitude, causal theory of action, and prior literature, we develop and empirically evaluate a model that describes consumer purchase decisions in a virtual store. We test the model using data collected from validated survey instruments for each of the constructs utilizing the structured equation modeling technique. The model helps in the design of virtual stores by describing how individuals who visit such stores can be induced to purchase from virtual stores. It describes that perceived usefulness, perceived behavioral control, and perceived peer influence impact attitude toward purchasing from a virtual store. Attitude toward purchasing from a virtual store, in turn, influences the actual purchasing from a virtual store. We discuss the implications for the design of virtual stores that...
2matrix: A Utility for Indel Coding and Phylogenetic Matrix Concatenation

Premise of the study: Phylogenetic analysis of DNA and amino acid sequences requires the creation of files formatted specifically for each analysis package. Programs currently available cannot simultaneously code inferred insertion/deletion (indel) events in sequence alignments and concatenate data sets. Methods and Results: A novel Perl script, 2matrix, was created to concatenate matrices of non-molecular characters and/or aligned sequences and to code indels. 2matrix outputs a variety of formats compatible with popular phylogenetic programs. Conclusions: 2matrix efficiently codes indels and concatenates matrices of sequences and non-molecular data. It is available for free download under a GPL (General Public License) open source license (https://github.com/nrsalinas/2matrix/archive/master.zip).
Growth, fecundity and mortality rates of two intertidal brittlestars (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) with contrasting modes of development

Abstract Theories of life history evolution hypothesize an inverse relationship between recruitment predictability and longevity. It also has been proposed that marine species with direct development should have more predictable recruitment than species with planktotrophic larvae; consequently, brooders should be shorter-lived than broadcasters. This hypothesis was tested in a field study at False Point, San Diego, California, using two brittlestar species with similar sizes but with contrasting modes of development. Ophionereis annulata (Le Conte) produces planktonic larvae whereas Ophioplocus esmarki Lyman is a brooder. Growth rates, over a period of 1 yr, were determined in the field using calcein, a fluorescent marker of calcification sites in skeletons. Ossicles marked with calcein were used to establish initial and final sizes that were used to estimate parameters of the Brody-Bertalanffy equation for disc diameter growth: for Ophionereis annulata, K = 0.075 · yr−1 and S∞ = 20.0 mm; for Ophioplocus esmarki, K = 0.069 · yr−1 and S∞ = 19.4 mm. Mortality rates were estimated using growth parameters and mean disc diameter in field samples. Annual survival rate was 90% for Ophionereis annulata (the broadcaster) and 95% for Ophioplocus esmarki (the brooder), which is opposite of expectation. We conclude that brooding does not necessarily confer an advantage that is evident by shorter adult life spans and, indeed brooding may pose a liability with respect to fitness.
Rauscher leukemia as a model for cancer therapy studies. II. Variation in response of splenic cfu-s between normal and rauscher leukemic mice following exposure to hydroxyurea.

Normal mice and mice with advanced Rauscher leukemia were given a single dose of HU and evaluated for the effect of the drug on splenic CFU-S 4 and 16 hr later. Exposure to HU reduced the total number of CFU-S for both normal and leukemic mice by 50% at 4 hr. At 16 hr there was no recovery in CFU-S evident in the normal mouse. However, CFU-S levels in the spleens of the leukemic mice had recovered to nearly that existent before exposure to HU. Effects of HU on total splenic mass differed from that on the CFU-S. Recovery of total splenic mass was seen to have begun in normal animals by 16 hr after HU, while in the leukemic animals spleen size had receded further by 16 hr. The data suggest that, as in man, the hematopoietic recovery responses following exposure to chemotherapeutic drugs may be significantly different in Rauscher viral leukemic mice as compared to normal mice. The possible applicability of Rauscher leukemia as a model for leukemia therapy studies is briefly discussed.
Courseware Copyright: Whose Rights Are Right?.

This article discusses the difficult issues of balancing faculty and university rights and responsibilities regarding courseware developed either as commissioned or non-commissioned work in higher education. The article addresses the varied concerns among university personnel and higher education institutions, reviews two major models for developing institutional courseware copyright policies, and investigates related policies at three major universities in the United States. The investigation and discussion focus on how these policies may affect higher education institutions and instructional design faculty and service instructional designers in universities.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations Combined with Large Angle X-ray Scattering Technique for the Determination of the Structure, Conformation, and Conformational Dynamics of Polyphosphazenes in Amorphous Phase: Study of Poly[di(4-methylphenoxy)phosphazene]

Suitable parameter sets for the CHARMm force field were derived using the Dinur−Hagler energy second-derivative procedure, on the basis of SCF calculations at the 6-31G* level, for the uncommon structural units in poly(phenoxyphosphazenes) [PN, PN, PX (X = aryloxy)]. It is shown that application of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, in combination with experimental energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXD) measurements, provide unambiguous structural and conformational information on amorphous polymers. The procedure for the analysis of the EDXD data involves comparison of computed atom−atom radial distribution function (RDF) curve from MD simulations for the various polymer backbone conformations, with the RDF obtained from experimental X-ray scattering data. The applicability of this combined experimental/computational methodology is illustrated on the amorphous poly[di(4-methylphenoxy)phosphazene] (PMPP). The results showed that (i) the backbone conformation is safely [TC]n rather than [T3C]n and (i...
Optimum Energy Allocation for Cooperative Networks with Differential Modulation

The development of relay transmissions have recently attracted increasing interests in wireless communications since they provide cooperative diversity gains by forming virtual antenna arrays. In such relay networks, optimum energy allocation is critical to enhance their performance and efficiency. However, existing works on performance analysis and optimization mainly focus on single-relay systems. In this paper, an upper bound of the error performance is derived with arbitrary number of relays. Based on this bound, we then develop the optimum energy allocation schemes that minimize the average system error. Equally attractive is that our investigation is tailored for differential modulations, which bypass the channel estimation at the receiver and are particularly suitable for wireless relay networks. The performance improvement of the optimized systems over the un-optimized ones is confirmed by analytical and simulated comparisons.
Acute effects of inhaled nitric oxide in children with severe hypoxemic respiratory failure

To determine the physiologic effects of inhaled nitric oxide (NO) on oxygenation and hemodynamics in children with severe hypoxemic respiratory fallure, we studied the acute response to inhaled NO during mechanical ventilation in 17 pediatric patients. Diagnoses included adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (10 patients), bronchopulmonary dysplasia with viral pneumonitis (6 patients), and acute pneumonitis, caused by respiratory syncytial virus, without chronic lung disease (1 patients). Gas exchange and hemodynamic measurements were compared before and during exposure to inhaled NO (20 ppm) without changing ventilator settings for 30 minutes. Hemodynamic variables, including pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, and cardiac index, were measured in 10 patients with ARDS. Inhaled NO acutely improved oxygenation in 15 of 17 patients; mean arterial oxygen tension increased from 58±13 mm Hg (baseline) to 86±25 mm Hg after 30 minutes ( p p p p
Binomial option pricing with nonidentically distributed returns and its implications

The argument of Cox, Ross, and Rubinstein for pricing options is generalized in the direction of using nonidentically distributed binomial returns as a model for the stock price process. It is found that the use of nonidentically distributed binomial returns, in the limit exhaust the class of infinitely divisible distributions. The pricing of these models are considered and it is shown that the model is a generalization of the Black-Scholes model. The use, however, of nonidentically distributed returns, it is shown, can lead to contradictions. Hence, it is argued, the models used for stock price behavior requires restrictions.
Modification of Ca2+-activated K+ channels in cultured medullary thick ascending limb cells by N-bromoacetamide

Ca2+-activated K+ channels were studied in cultured medullary thick ascending limb (MTAL) cells using the patch-clamp technique in the inside-out configuration. The Ca2+ activation site was modified using N-bromoacetamide (NBA). 1mm NBA in the bath solution, at 2.5 μm Ca2+ reduces the open probability,Po, of the channel to <0.01, without an effect on single-channel conductance. NBA-modified channels are still Ca2+-sensitive, requiring 25mm Ca2+ to raisePo to 0.2. Both before and after NBA modification channel openings display at least two distributions, indicative of more than one open state. High Ca2+ (1mm) protects the channels from modification. Also presented is a second class of Ca2+-activated K+ channels which are normally present in MTAL cells which open infrequently at 10 μm Ca2+ (Po=0.01) but have aPo of 0.08 at 1mm Ca2+. We can conclude (i) that NBA modifies the channel by shifting Ca2+-sensitivity to very high Ca2+, (ii) that NBA acts on a site involved in Ca2+ gating, and (iii) that a low affinity channel is present in the apical cell membrane with characteristics similar to those of normal channels modified with NBA.
Fluorescence-based measurement of store-operated calcium entry in live cells: from cultured cancer cell to skeletal muscle fiber.

Store operated Ca2+ entry (SOCE), earlier termed capacitative Ca2+ entry, is a tightly regulated mechanism for influx of extracellular Ca2+ into cells to replenish depleted endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ stores1,2. Since Ca2+ is a ubiquitous second messenger, it is not surprising to see that SOCE plays important roles in a variety of cellular processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, gene transcription and motility. Due to its wide occurrence in nearly all cell types, including epithelial cells and skeletal muscles, this pathway has received great interest3,4. However, the heterogeneity of SOCE characteristics in different cell types and the physiological function are still not clear5-7. The functional channel properties of SOCE can be revealed by patch-clamp studies, whereas a large body of knowledge about this pathway has been gained by fluorescence-based intracellular Ca2+ measurements because of its convenience and feasibility for high-throughput screening. The objective of this report is to summarize a few fluorescence-based methods to measure the activation of SOCE in monolayer cells, suspended cells and muscle fibers5,8-10. The most commonly used of these fluorescence methods is to directly monitor the dynamics of intracellular Ca2+ using the ratio of F340nm and F380nm (510 nm for emission wavelength) of the ratiometric Ca2+ indicator Fura-2. To isolate the activity of unidirectional SOCE from intracellular Ca2+ release and Ca2+ extrusion, a Mn2+ quenching assay is frequently used. Mn2+ is known to be able to permeate into cells via SOCE while it is impervious to the surface membrane extrusion processes or to ER uptake by Ca2+ pumps due to its very high affinity with Fura-2. As a result, the quenching of Fura-2 fluorescence induced by the entry of extracellular Mn2+ into the cells represents a measurement of activity of SOCE9. Ratiometric measurement and the Mn+2 quenching assays can be performed on a cuvette-based spectrofluorometer in a cell population mode or in a microscope-based system to visualize single cells. The advantage of single cell measurements is that individual cells subjected to gene manipulations can be selected using GFP or RFP reporters, allowing studies in genetically modified or mutated cells. The spatiotemporal characteristics of SOCE in structurally specialized skeletal muscle can be achieved in skinned muscle fibers by simultaneously monitoring the fluorescence of two low affinity Ca2+ indicators targeted to specific compartments of the muscle fiber, such as Fluo-5N in the SR and Rhod-5N in the transverse tubules9,11,12.
Temperature and depth mediate resource competition and apparent competition between Mysis diluviana and kokanee

In many food webs, species in similar trophic positions can interact either by competing for resources or boosting shared predators (apparent competition), but little is known about how the relative strengths of these interactions vary across environmental gradients. Introduced Mysis diluviana shrimp interact with planktivorous fishes such as kokanee salmon (lacustrine Oncorhynchus nerka) through both of these pathways, and effective management depends on understanding which interaction is more limiting under different conditions. An "environmental matching" hypothesis predicts the ecological impacts of Mysis are maximized under cool conditions near its thermal optimum. In addition, we hypothesized Mysis is more vulnerable to predation by lake trout in relatively shallow waters, and therefore Mysis enhances lake trout density and limits kokanee through apparent competition more strongly in shallower habitats. We tested whether these hypotheses could explain food web differences between two connected lake basins, one relatively shallow and the other extremely deep. The shallower basin warmed faster, thermally excluded Mysis from surface waters for 75% longer, and supported 2.5-18 times greater seasonal production of cladoceran zooplankton than the deeper basin, standardized by surface area. Mysis consumed 14-22% less zooplankton in the shallower basin, and lower ratios of total planktivore consumption to zooplankton production (C:P) indicated less potential for resource competition with kokanee, consistent with environmental matching. Lake trout diets contained more Mysis in the shallower basin and at shallower sampling sites within both basins. The catch rate of lake trout was seven times greater and the predation risk for kokanee was 4-5 times greater in the shallower basin than in the deeper basin, consistent with stronger apparent competition in shallower habitats. Understanding how the strengths of these interactions are mediated by temperature and depth would enable managers to select appropriate strategies to address the unique combinations of conditions in hundreds of affected systems.
Leachate Geochemistry at a Municipal Landfill, Memphis, Tennessee

A leachate plume emanating from the Shelby County Landfill located at Memphis, Tennessee is defined using selected major and trace inorganic constituents. High specific conductance values and elevated concentrations of ammonia, barium, boron, calcium, chloride, dissolved solids, potassium, sodium, and strontium were measured in water samples from wells screened in the alluvial and Memphis aquifers downgradient from or proximal to the landfill. Of these constituents, barium, boron, chloride, and strontium were used in the geochemical model code PHREEQE to estimate the percent leachate component in selected Memphis aquifer samples. Estimates of the leachate component in samples from affected Memphis aquifer wells range from 5 to 37 percent for barium and strontium, the most reliable tracers found during this study.
Correlation of Gulf Coast provincial Paleogene stages with European standard stages

One of the chief goals of stratigraphy is to correlate the provincial stages used in many countries with the standard chronostratigraphic scale based on European stages. In this study, United States Gulf Coast provincial Paleogene stages in their type area are correlated with the European standard Paleogene stages by use of calcareous nannoplankton. Gulf Coast provincial stage boundaries can be placed in Martini9s standard calcareous nannoplankton zonation as follows: Midwayan-Sabinian boundary—mid-NP 5; Sabinian-Claibornian boundary—base NP 12; Claibornian-Jacksonian boundary—mid-NP 17; Jacksonian-Vicksburgian boundary—mid-NP 21; Vicksburgian-Chickasawhayan boundary—base NP 24; upper Chickasawhayan boundary—mid-NP 24. Gulf Coast stages therefore correlate with the European stages as follows. The Midwayan Stage corresponds to all of the Danian Stage and the lowest part of the Selandian Stage. The Sabinian Stage corresponds to the rest of the Selandian and the lower half of the Ypresian Stage. The Claiboraian Stage includes the upper half of the Ypresian, all of the Lutetian, and approximately the lower two-thirds of the Bartonian. The Jacksonian includes the upper third of the Bartonian, all of the Priabonian, and the lower part of the Rupelian. The Vicksburgian corresponds to all but the lowermost and uppermost fractions of the Rupelian, and the Chickasawhayan, to the upper one-tenth of the Rupelian and the lower one-fifth of the Chattian.
Simplified Computer-Engineer Interface with the Capability of Complete Design Evaluation

Computers were developed for the primary purpose of solving large scale problems which cannot be simply simulated by analog means, or are related to projects in which design mistakes are intolerable. They were originally applied to problems in the nuclear energy field and to large problems in astrophysics. More recently they have found extensive use in solving repetitive and routine problems which occur in accounting, and presently most large corporations make use of computer equipment designed for this type of problem Computers have been used to a much lesser extent in engineering, mainly because of the difficulty of defining the engineering problems in mathematical terms suitable for routine solution by a computer.
Membrane-Bound α-Synuclein Forms an Extended Helix: Long-Distance Pulsed ESR Measurements Using Vesicles, Bicelles, and Rodlike Micelles

We apply pulsed dipolar ESR spectroscopy (Ku-band DEER) to elucidate the global conformation of the Parkinson’s disease-associated protein, α-synuclein (αS) bound to small unilamellar phospholipid vesicles, rodlike SDS micelles, or lipid bicelles. By measuring distances as long as ∼7 nm between introduced pairs of nitroxide spin labels, we show that distances are close to the expectations for a single continuous helix in all cases studied. In particular, we find distances of 7.5 nm between sites 24 and 72; 5.5 nm between sites 24 and 61; and 2 nm between sites 35 and 50. We conclude that αS does not retain a “hairpin” structure with two antiparallel helices, as is known to occur with spheroidal micelles, in agreement with our earlier finding that the protein’s geometry is determined by the surface topology rather than being constrained by the interhelix linker. While the possibility of local helix discontinuities in the structure of membrane-bound αS remains, our data are more consistent with one intact h...
Effect Of Moisture On The Physical Properties Of Polyimide Films

Moisture absorption and its effect on electrical properties were measured for several polyimides. A Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) was used to investigate the moisture absorption in BPDA/PPD, PMDA/ODA, and BTDA//ODA/MPD polyimides. The steady-state moisture uptake in polyimides as a function of relative humidity (RH) was determined by exposing film samples to successively higher RH values ranging from 10 to 85% at 25 °C. The isothermal moisture absorption as a function of percent RH was found to be nearly linear for all of the polyimides studied. The effect of moisture on the electrical properties of a BPDA/PPD polyimide was also investigated. The relative dielectric constant at 25 °C was found to be a linear function of the moisture absorbed.
The Synchrotector, A Sampling Detector for Television Sound

The paper describes an efficient and economic demodulator for intercarrier television sound. The circuit uses the method of sampling near zero passage of the carrier. This is accomplished in one-half of a double triode. The other half operates as a locked oscillator, whose cathode output is used to drive the sampler cathode. The phase angles between grid and cathode of the sampler are not in quadrature. A centering method to obtain coincidence between optimum fm detection and best AM rejection is described.
Spherical-Coordinate Analysis of Ground-State Energy Eigenfunctions for an Electron in the Field of a Finite Dipole

Ground-state energy eigenfunctions for an electron in the field of a stationary, finite dipole are obtained in spherical polar coordinates. The analysis is made in two systems, one with origin at the positive dipole charge and the other with origin at the dipole center. Results show the number of partial waves needed as a function of dipole moment $D$, and the structure of the radial functions throughout space. No regular nodal pattern in the radial functions for different angular momentum partial waves was noted. The functions expressed in spherical coordinates are available numerically for use in other calculations.
Generalized sequential normal compactness in Asplund spaces

Sequential normal compactness conditions are important properties in infinite-dimensional variational analysis and its applications. Following the recent study of the generalized sequential normal compactness (GSNC), this paper This paper reveals further applications of GSNC to the generalized differentiation theory in Asplund spaces, as well as the calculus of GSNC itself.
SU‐GG‐I‐45: Dose Trends in Tube‐Current Modulated Multi‐Detector CT Imaging

Purpose: The purpose of this work was to compare clinically relevant point dose measurements in both homogenous geometric and anthropomorphic phantoms in order to compare the effects of MDCT tube‐current modulation on the dose distributions in each. These dose measurements were compared to corresponding CTDIvol measurements to determine this metric's effectiveness in describing clinical scan doses in MDCT. Method and Materials: A fiber optic coupled dosimeter system was utilized with both a homogenous elliptical phantom and an anthropomorphic phantom incorporating accurate anatomical features scaled to represent ICRP reference man. Point dose measurements were taken at various points in both phantoms using routine abdominal scan techniques. Both modulated and fixed tube‐current scans were performed, and the resulting data was used to create an isodose map for each phantom. CTDI measurements were taken using the same scan techniques, and the resulting CTDIvol was compared to the doses measured using the elliptical and anthropomorphic phantoms. Results: Tube‐current modulated scans produced an average point dose reduction of 7.6% in a homogeneous elliptical phantom. This reduction was accompanied by a more uniform dose distribution across the transverse slice, with the most reduction apparent across the minor elliptical axis. The average point dose reduction was slightly less in the anthropomorphic phantom, where tube modulation resulted in an average dose reduction of 4.5% and a similar improvement in dose uniformity. CTDIvol was found to underestimate the average point dose measured from the anthropomorphic phantom, with measured doses being 90% higher than the predicted CTDIvol. Conclusion: Tube‐current modulation was found to reduce both the average dose and the dose variation for an individual slice in both a homogeneous geometric phantom and a heterogeneous anthropomorphic phantom. CTDIvol was found to be a poor predictor of organ doses in MDCT.
High-resolution 60-in. liquid crystal rear-projection TV

A compact 60-inch LCD rear projection television optimized with depth less than 60 cm has been developed by using three 1.3' poly-Si TFT-LCDs of 1024 X 768 pixels resolution. Three primary colors of the projection system are separated and synthesized by dichroic mirrors and X-prism respectively. Polarization converter is used to increase the optical throughput and an aspherical hybrid projection lens with f equals 19.97 mm and f/# equals 2.4 is designed to effectively shorten the projection distance. A Fresnel lens and a fine lenticular lens screen can create a morie' pattern free picture. Under a 120 W UHP lamp, the brightness of the rear projection TV can achieve 460 nits luminance.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Membranous lipodystrophy: skeletal findings on CT and MRI

Membranous lipodystrophy, also known as Nasu–Hakola disease, is a rare hereditary condition with manifestations in the nervous and skeletal systems. The radiographic appearance of skeletal lesions has been well described in the literature. However, CT and MRI findings of lesions in the bone have not been documented to date. This report describes the radiographic, CT, MRI, and histopathologic skeletal findings in a case of membranous lipodystrophy. With corroborative pathologic findings, a diagnosis of membranous lipodystrophy on imaging allows for appropriate clinical management of disease manifestations.
Muon studies of heavy fermions

Recent muon spin relaxation ({mu}SR) studies have been particularly effective in revealing important properties of the unusual magnetism and superconductivity found in heavy fermion (HF) systems. In this paper {mu}SR experiments elucidating the symmetry of superconducting order parameter in UPt{sub 3} and UBe{sub 13} doped with thorium and reviewed. Also discussed is the correlation between the enhanced superconducting specific heat jump and the reduced Kondo temperature in B-doped UBe{sub 13}, indicating possible direct experimental evidence for a magnetic pairing mechanism in HF superconductors. 23 refs., 3 figs.
Cerebrospinal fluid drainage and dynamics in the diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus.

INTRODUCTION: Because of the difficulty in distinguishing idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (INPH) from other neurodegenerative conditions unrelated to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics, response to CSF shunting remains highly variable. We examined the utility of CSF drainage and CSF pressure (Pcsf) dynamics in predicting response to CSF shunting for patients with INPH. METHODS: Fifty-one consecutive INPH patients underwent continuous lumbar Pcsf monitoring for 48 hours followed by 72 hours of slow CSF drainage before ventriculoperitoneal shunting. Response to CSF drainage and B-wave characteristics were assessed via multivariate proportional-hazards regression analysis. RESULTS: Improvement in 1, 2, or all 3 INPH symptoms was observed in 35 (69%), 28 (55%), and 11 (22%) patients, respectively, after CSF shunt implantation by 12 months after surgery. A positive response to CSF drainage was found to be an independent predictor of shunt responsiveness (relative risk, 0.30; 95% confidence interval, 0.09-0.98; P = 0.05). There was no difference in Pcsf wave characteristics between the shunt-responsive and -nonresponsive groups, regardless of whether 1-, 2-, or 3-symptom improvement was used to define response to CSF shunting. CONCLUSION: In this study of 51 INPH patients who underwent Pcsf monitoring with waveform analysis and CSF drainage followed by shunt surgery, there was no correlation between specific Pcsf wave characteristics and objective symptomatic improvement after shunt placement. Pcsf monitoring with B-wave analysis contributes little to the diagnostic dilemma with INPH patients. Clinical response to continuous CSF drainage over a 72-hour period suggests a high likelihood of shunt responsiveness.
Patterns of Criminality in New South Wales, 1788–1973:

This study presents the initial report of the author's research on the history of the New South Wales criminal justice system. Following a review of available crime statistics from 19th and 20th century New South Wales, the major methodological obstacles to the longitudinal study of criminality are discussed, and corrective measures are suggested which permit use of existing data for illustrative and analytical purposes. Long term trends in the rate of serious offences against persons, property, and sexual morality in New South Wales reflect patterns typical of most Western industrial societies; gross trends over the history of New South Wales have been downward, with slight reversals occurring since World War II in the cases of acquisitive crime and sexual offences. Multiple regression analysis was employed in an effort to discern with greater precision the determinants of the trends in question; the over representation of males in the early 19th century and the urban growth characteristic of 20th centur...