cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Why Periodic Structures May Not Be Able to Synthesize Negative Indices of Refraction

In this paper we first list some of the features that are widely accepted as being facts regarding materials with simultaneously negative mu and epsiv, namely: (a) negative index of refraction; (b) advance of the phase of a signal as it moves away from the source; (c) an increase of the evanescent waves as they get further away from the source; and (d) while the E-and H-field in an ordinary material form a right handed triplet with the direction of phase propagation, they will in a material with negative mu and epsiv form a left handed triplet. Such materials have never been found in nature. However, numerous researchers have suggested ways to produce them artificially. Periodic structures of elements varying from simple straight wires to very elaborate concoctions have been claimed to produce negative index of refraction. Nevertheless, we shall here show that according to a well known theory based on expansion into inhomogeneous plane waves, it does not seem possible to obtain the features that are characteristic for materials with negative mu and epsiv as listed above. Thus, it seems logical to re-examine Veselago's original paper. We find that it is mathematically correct. However, when used in certain practical applications like, for example, the well known flat lens, it may lead to negative time. While such a solution might be mathematically acceptable, it will violate the causality principle from a physical point of view. So it should not surprise us that we so far have encountered difficulties when trying to create materials with negative mu and epsiv, in particular negative index of refraction.
In vitro phosphorylation of the polyomavirus major capsid protein VP1 on serine 66 by casein kinase II.

Phosphorylation of the polyomavirus major capsid protein VP1 plays a role in virus assembly and may function in virus-cell recognition. Previous mapping of the in vivo phosphorylation sites on VP1 identified phosphorylation of threonine residues Thr-63 and Thr-156 (Li, M., and Garcea, R. L.(1994) J. Virol. 68, 320-327). Phosphoserine was detected in a tryptic phosphopeptide encompassing residues 58-78. Because of consensus casein kinase II (CK II) sites in this peptide, we examined the in vitro phosphorylation of the purified recombinant VP1 protein by CK II. CK II phosphorylated VP1 on serine, and the resulting tryptic phosphopeptide eluted in a 30-31 min high performance liquid chromatography fraction corresponding to residues 58-78. The VP1 tryptic phosphopeptide also co-migrated in two-dimensional peptide analysis with one of the tryptic peptides obtained from VP1 isolated after in vivo32P labeling of virus-infected cells. A site-directed mutant VP1 protein, Ser-66 to Ala, was phosphorylated poorly by CK II in vitro. As determined by electron microscopy, all of the mutant proteins were isolated in pentameric form similar to the wild-type protein, although the Ala-66 pentamers had a tendency to self-assemble in vitro into tubular as well as capsid-like structures. These findings identify Ser-66 as a site of VP1 phosphorylation in vitro, and suggest that VP1 may serve as a substrate for CK II in vivo.
RADIOGRAPHIC MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES

The evaluation and treatment of spinal deformities begins with the accurate measurement of appropriate spinal parameters. The surgeon must ensure that the patient is positioned properly for all necessary x-ray scans and that the proper studies are completed. The relevant measurements must be identified and recorded for each study. Understanding the proper measurement techniques will increase the accuracy and reliability of the measurements. From these precise measurements the surgeon can begin to determine key characteristics of the deformity and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
The intracellular localization of adrenal 3β-hydroxysteroiddehydrogenase/Δ5-isomerase by density gradient perturbation

Abstract The intracellular localization of 3β-hydroxysteroiddehydrogenase/Δ5-isomerase (Δ5-3β-OHD) in bovine adrenal cortex was determined by density perturbation with density gradient centrifugation and the use of marker enzymes. Mitochondrial rich fractions after incubation with succinate and iodonitrotetrazolium (INT) were loaded with insoluble reduced formazan and separated on a linear sucrose gradient. A shift in median density was observed in the INT-treated mitochondria for protein, succinic dehydrogenase activity, and for Δ5-3β-OHD activity, but not for 21-hydroxylase, a microsomal enzyme marker. Density perturbation and gradient fractionation reveals a dual location of Δ5-3β-OHD in both mitochondrial and microsomal fractions.
Loop-free structure of sequential machines

The object of this paper is to study the realization of a sequential machine from several smaller machines. The basic tools in this investigation are the partitions with the substitution property and the partition pairs. It is shown that to every (loop-free) realization of a sequential machine from n smaller machines corresponds a set of n partitions with the substitution property whose product is the zero partition. Conversely, it is shown that to every such set of n partitions corresponds a realization of the given sequential machine from n smaller machines. The natural ordering of these partitions is reflected in the information flow between the corresponding component machines and the algebraic operations defined between these partitions corresponding to the realization, govern the modifications of this realization. Finally, it is shown how the amount of information flowing between the component machines in a realization can be studied by means of partition pairs.
A molecular dynamics study of the ligand release path in yeast cytosine deaminase.

Abstract Yeast cytosine deaminase, a zinc metalloenzyme, catalyzes the deamination of cytosine to uracil. Experimental and computational evidence indicates that the rate-limiting step is product release, instead of the chemical reaction step. In this work, we use molecular dynamics to suggest ligand exit paths. Simulation at 300K shows that the active site is well protected by the C-terminal helix (residues 150–158) and F-114 loop (residues 111–117) and that on the molecular dynamics timescale water does not flow in or out of the active site. In contrast, simulation at 320K shows a significant increase in flexibility of the C-terminal helix and F-114 loop. The motions of these two regions at 320K open the active site and permit water molecules to diffuse into and out of the active site through two paths with one much more favored than the other. Cytosine is pushed out of the active site by a restraint method in two directions specified by these two paths. In path 1 the required motion of the protein is local—involving only the C-terminal helix and F-114 loop—and two residues, F-114 and I-156, are identified that have to be moved away to let cytosine out; whereas in path 2, the protein has to rearrange itself much more extensively, and the changes are also much larger compared to the path 1 simulation.
Isolation and properties of a soluble chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan from brain.

Abstract A proteoglycan in which the glycosaminoglycans are predominantly chondroitin sulfate has been isolated from the soluble fraction of rat brain by ion exchange chromatography and gel filtration. Glycoprotein oligosaccharides are also present, and result in adsorption of the proteoglycan by Concanavalin A-Sepharose. The proteoglycan-glycoprotein complex eluted from the affinity column by α-methylglucoside floats near the top of a cesium chloride density gradient run under dissociative conditions (4 M guanidine), but after β-elimination of the chondroitin sulfate polysaccharide chains from their low buoyant density glycoprotein complex they sediment to the bottom of the gradient. These results suggest that relatively few polysaccharide chains are covalently linked to a large protein core in the dissociated chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan “subunit” from brain, and that the proteoglycans are closely associated with soluble glycoproteins.
Silica-supported iron nitride in Fischer-Tropsch reactions: I. Characterization of the catalyst

Abstract The techniques of Mossbauer effect spectroscopy and wide angle X-ray diffraction have been applied to characterize nitrided iron catalysts (initial composition ≈ Fe2N) supported on silica gel and used in the synthesis reaction. Mossbauer spectroscopy shows that the nitride catalyst becomes iron-rich during the first 3 h of reaction in the syngas environment (CO: H2 = 1:3, T = 250 °C, 7.8 atm) indicating that nitrogen atoms are removed more rapidly by H2 than they are simultaneously replaced by carbon atoms. After 3 h carburization becomes dominant, the carbon concentration increases, and the catalyst composition stabilizes after about 18 h of reaction. The analysis of the 4.2 K Mossbauer spectrum and X-ray diffraction of an equilibrated catalyst after 49 h of reaction gives a composition of Fe2.18C1 − yNY, where y was estimated to be between 0.13 and 0.20.
Endoscopic ultrasound and computer tomography are inaccurate methods of classifying cystic pancreatic lesions

Abstract Background Despite advances in imaging modalities, preoperative diagnosis of pancreatic cystic lesions remains difficult. Aim To assess the accuracy of endoscopic ultrasound and computer tomography to preoperatively distinguish benign from potentially malignant and malignant pancreatic cystic lesions. Methods Photograph series obtained from endoscopic ultrasound examinations of 66 patients with cystic pancreatic lesions were blindly reviewed by three endoscopic ultrasonographers. Forty-one of those 66 patients also underwent a computer tomography scan at our institution, which was blindly reviewed by a single radiologist. Computer tomography and endoscopic ultrasound classification into benign and malignant and potentially malignant pancreatic cystic lesions was correlated with the final diagnosis, which was established by surgical pathology (n = 43), diagnostic fine needle aspiration (n = 13) or follow-up imaging (n = 10). Interobserver agreement was measured using kappa statistics. Results Endoscopic ultrasound classification by the three examiners into benign versus malignant or potentially malignant cystic lesions was correct in 65–67%. Interobserver agreement was 50%. Kappa values for pairs of endoscopic ultrasound examiners were 0.16, 0.43 and 0.53. Computer tomography classification was correct in 71% and in agreement with the endoscopic ultrasound classification in 56–61% (kappa 0.12 to 0.27). Conclusions Endoscopic ultrasound and computer tomography cannot accurately distinguish between benign pancreatic cystic lesions and malignant or potentially malignant ones. There is poor-to-modest interobserver agreement in classifying these lesions.
MARKET POWER, VERTICAL INTEGRATION AND THE WHOLESALE PRICE OF GASOLINE*

This paper examines empirically the relationship between vertical integration and wholesale gasoline prices. We use discrete and differential changes in the extent of vertical integration generated by mergers in West Coast gasoline refining and retailing markets to test for incentives to raise rivals’ costs. The research design allows us to test for a relationship between vertical integration and wholesale prices, controlling for horizontal market structure, cost shocks and trends. We find evidence consistent with the strategic incentive to raise competitors’ input costs. This suggests that vertical integration can have a significant impact on wholesale prices.
Structural Band Gap Engineering

In this paper we discuss a novel approach to the band gap engineering of semiconductors Si, Ge, GaAs and AIN. We suggest that nanoporous polymorphs of these materials may exist which would offer a significant variation of the electronic band gap. Structurally, nanoporous semiconductors are related to the zeolitic nets, and a systematic procedure of generating these structures from the (4;2) nets is described. We use the ab initio total energy quantum molecular dynamics method Fireball96 to investigate the energetics and the electronic properties of these nanoporous or “expanded” semiconductor phases.
Fidelity of the Human Mitochondrial DNA Polymerase

We have quantified the fidelity of polymerization of DNA by human mitochondrial DNA polymerase using synthetic DNA oligonucleotides and recombinant holoenzyme and examining each of the possible 16-base pair combinations. Although the kinetics of incorporation for all correct nucleotides are similar, with an average Kd of 0.8 microM and an average k(pol) of 37 s(-1), the kinetics of misincorporation vary widely. The ground state binding Kd of incorrect bases ranges from a low of 25 microM for a dATP:A mispair to a high of 360 microM for a dCTP:T mispair. Similarly, the rates of incorporation of incorrect bases vary from 0.0031 s(-1) for a dCTP:C mispair to 1.16 s(-1) for a dGTP:T mispair. Due to the variability in the kinetic parameters for misincorporation, the estimates of fidelity range from 1 error in 3563 nucleotides for dGTP:T to 1 error in 2.3 x 10(6) nucleotides for dCTP:C. Interestingly, the discrimination against a dGTP:T mismatch is 16.5 times lower than that of a dTTP:G mismatch due to a tighter Kd for ground state binding and a faster rate of incorporation of the dGTP:T mismatch relative to the dTTP:G mismatch. We calculate an average fidelity of 1 error in 440,000 nucleotides.
On the harmonious chromatic number of a graph

The harmonious chromatic number of a graph G, denoted by h(G), is the least number of colors which can be assigned to the vertices of G such that adjacent vertices are colored differently and any two distinct edges have different color pairs. This is a slight variation of a definition given independently by Hopcroft and Krishnamoorthy and by Frank, Harary, and Plantholt. D. Johnson has shown that determining h(G) is an NP-complete problem. In this paper we give various other theorems on harmonious chromatic number and discuss various open questions.
SYMMETRY IN BUILDING BLOCK DESIGN FOR LEARNING DISABLED AND NONLEARNING DISABLED BOYS

This study examined perceptual differences in symmetry with and without a model between 21 learning disabled boys with reading deficits and 28 learning disabled boys with deficits in mathematics. 55 nonlearning disabled boys served as controls. All boys were in Grades 3, 4, or 5. Without a model, all learning disabled boys built significantly more asymmetrical building block designs than nonlearning disabled boys. However, with a model, all learning disabled boys could imitate the model, but it took them longer to complete the task successfully. All boys appeared to have difficulty in modeling asymmetrical tasks, taking more time for task completion after seeing an asymmetrical model. This study suggests modeling perceptual tasks might be an effective teaching strategy for such children.
Effect of fluid viscosity on combined free forced convection flow phenomena in vertical pipes

Distorted velocity and temperature profiles are measured at low Reynolds numbers for upflow constant flux heating of water and two viscous Newtonian sucrose solutions in a long vertical pipe. Heated L/D's ranged from 29 to 251. Experimental profiles at L/D = 251 show general agreement with the fully developed profile theory based on natural convection effects, but additional profile distortion, attributed at least in part to radial viscosity variation with temperature, is observed even with water. Natural convection induced transition to disturbed flow occurs for all three liquids as the ratio of heat input to flow rate is increased. The transition process involves the growth in amplitude and radial spread of initially small disturbances. Transition conditions and the dimensionless radial location of the first detectable instability are related to features of the distorted flow fields.
Analytic framework for analyzing non-energy uses of fossil fuels as petrochemical feedstocks in the USA

Abstract Carbon dioxide emissions from the non-energy use (NEU) of fossil fuels are a significant source of national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the USA. As one of the emission sources that make the largest contribution to the absolute overall level of national emissions, NEU is a “key source” in the U.S. GHG Inventory, accounting for 4.6% of USA fossil fuel emissions in 2002. As suggested by IPCC/UNEP/OECD/IEA [IPCC/UNEP/OECD/IEA. Revised 1996 IPCC guidelines for national greenhouse gas inventories. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, United Nations Environment Programme, Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development. Paris, France: International Energy Agency; 1997], the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has designed an approach for characterizing emissions and long-term storage of carbon in NEU, tailored to USA conditions and data availability, which yield results that are more accurate than application of the general assumptions supplied by the IPCC guidelines. In the USA, of the various non-energy uses of fossil fuels, petrochemical feedstocks is the largest, followed by asphalt, lubricants, and other categories. The overall storage factor for petrochemical feedstocks in the USA for 2002, calculated as the quotient of carbon stored divided by total carbon in feedstocks, is 67%. In other words, of the net consumption, 67% was destined for long-term storage in products – including products subsequently combusted for waste disposal – while the remaining 33% was emitted to the atmosphere directly as CO2 (e.g., through combustion of industrial byproducts) or indirectly as CO2 precursors (e.g., through evaporative product use). The basic framework used in this approach could be applied in other countries, and is similar in several respects to the Non-Energy use Emission Accounting Tables (NEAT) model framework developed independently and described by other authors in this issue.
Mutations in the nucleotide-binding domain of MutS homologs uncouple cell death from cell survival

After genotoxic insult, the decision to repair or undergo cell death is pivotal for undamaged cell survival, and requires a highly controlled coordination of both pathways. Disruption of this regulation results in tumorigenesis and failure of cancer therapy. Mismatch repair (MMR) proteins have a unique role by contributing to both pathways, though direct evidence for their function in the DNA damage response is ambiguous. We report separation of function mutants in the ATPase domains of yeast MutS homologous (MSH) proteins that uncouple MMR-dependent DNA repair from damage response to cisplatin. While mutations in the ATPase domain have devastating effects on the mutation rate of the cell, ATPase processing is mostly dispensable for the cell death phenotype; only limited processing by the MSH6 subunit is required in DNA damage response. Different DNA binding patterns and nucleotide sensitivity of Msh2/Msh6-DNA adduct and protein-mismatch complexes, respectively, suggest that the presence of different DNA lesions influences the requirement for ATP. Limited proteolysis of purified protein gives first indications for differences in nucleotide-induced conformational changes in the presence of platinated DNA. Structural modeling of bacterial MutS proteins reinforces nucleotide-dependent differences in structures that contribute to the distinction between DNA damage response and repair. Our results demonstrate the uncoupling of MMR-dependent damage response from repair and present first indications for the involvement of distinct conformational changes in MSH proteins in this process. These data present evidence for a mechanism of MMR-dependent damage response that differs from MMR; these results have strong implications for the chemotherapeutic treatment of MMR-defective tumors.
An Automated System for Mapping Autohesion and Other Joining Related Defects in Polyethylene Heat-Fused Pipe Joints

The development of an automated system for ultrasonic mapping of autohesion and other joining related defects in heat-fused polyethylene gas distribution pipe joints is discussed. Leading into the system description a brief summary of how polyethylene is joined and the types of defects that can occur is presented. Elastic wave interactions with polyethylene and autohesion defects are outlined to define the flaw detectability problem, particularly, as it relates to the requirements for development of an automated system.
Commodity program flexibility and U.S. potato acreage

A new proposal for U.S. farm commodity programs would allow more flexibility in planting decisions on program acreage. This work examines the effect of such a proposal on potato production acreage. These results are used to project changes in total revenue accruing to existing potato producers and to the potato industry as a whole. The results indicate that the short term impact on the potato industry as a whole would be relatively minor but the impact could be unevenly distributed across producing regions of the U.S., causing some potential local discomfort.
Successful Cognitive Aging in HIV: Potential Strategies for Treatment and Research

ABSTRACTOver the past decade, HIV has been transformed from a terminal to chronic disease. Physical and occupational therapists are seeing increasing numbers of patients/clients who are aging with HIV. Nearly half of the adults with HIV experience mild to severe cognitive deficits, which can interfere with everyday functioning such as driving and medication adherence. Such cognitive deficits become more severe with increasing age. Given that nearly half of those with HIV will be 50 or older by 2015, physical and occupational therapists must explore strategies to improve or maintain cognitive functioning and/or mitigate for cognitive loss in this clinical population. In this review article, promising strategies to support healthy cognitive aging in HIV, such as psychostimulants and treatment of mental health issues, are discussed. Following this, some ineffective strategies such as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are described. Finally, novel but unsupported strategies such as transcranial stimulation are ...
Chemistry of glycosphingolipids in Fabry's disease

Abstract Two glycosphingolipids that accumulate in patients with Fabry's disease were isolated from abnormal kidney by gradient elution chromatography on silicic acid. A combination of periodate oxidation, mild acid hydrolysis, permethylation, and gas chromatographic studies of the sugar moieties established the arrangement of sugars and positions of their anomeric linkages in the oligosaccharide portions of the lipids. Comparisons of the NMR spectra of trimethylsilyl derivatives of the lipids and several degradation products with those of reference compounds allowed the assignment of configurations of glycosidic linkages in the trihexosylceramide. These studies provide conclusive evidence for the chemical structure of the major accumulated glycosphingolipid in Fabry's disease, which is galactosyl-(β1→4)-galactosyl-(β1→4)-glucosyl-(β1→1)-ceramide. The other glycosphingolipid isolated from the kidney was not completely characterized; a partial chemical structure is galactosyl-(1→4)-galactosyl-(1→1)-ceramide.
“Questionable terms”: Shylock, Céline's L'Eglise, and the performative

A recent protest over a proposed production of The Merchant of Venice questioned the extent to which the stage can incite critical thinking in the spectator while repeating a potentially offensive characterization of identity. To answer such concerns, theorists and practitioners have invoked the notion of a performative identity, which ostensibly authorizes a subversive repetition and reappropriation of the injurious term. However, trafficking in stereotypes is a risky business, and critics have been quick to signal the limits of such a strategy. This article delimits the narrow space that even optimistic theorizations allow for a strategic deployment of the performative on the stage, examining the telling efforts of two productions of texts fraught with potentially offending characterizations: a recent French production of Louis‐Ferdinand Celine's L'Eglise, and the controversial production of The Merchant of Venice in Santa Cruz, California.
Correlation of Anthropometric Measures Among Obese and Severely Obese Adolescents and Young Adults

Anthropometric measures beyond the basic weight, height, and body mass index (BMI) calculation, such as skinfold thicknesses and arm circumference, are valuable assessments of adiposity in normal weight populations. However, they are difficult and time-consuming to obtain. This study investigates the correlations between anthropometric variables to determine the utility of obtaining measures beyond weight and height among obese and severely obese Hispanic adolescents. Data from anthropometric measurements of 58 obese and severely obese Hispanic females aged 14 to 24 years were analyzed. Weight, height, BMI, arm circumference, average deltoid skinfold thickness, and average triceps skinfold thickness measures were compared. Correlations were determined between obese (30 kg/m2 ≥ BMI < 40 kg/m2) and severely obese (40 kg/m2 ≥ BMI <52 kg/m2 ) subjects. There were significant differences between the obese and severely obese groups for weight, BMI, arm circumference, and triceps skinfold thickness. However, sig...
Subclinical effects of groundwater contaminants. IV. Effects of repeated oral exposure to combinations of benzene and toluene on regional brain monoamine metabolism in mice.

Benzene and toluene are known neurotoxicants that may interact in vivo. The effect of combined treatment with benzene and toluene on the endogenous concentrations of the catecholamines norepinephrine (NE) and dopamine (DA), the catecholamine metabolites vanillylmandelic acid (VMA), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and homovanillic acid (HVA), and the indoleamine serotonin (5-HT) and its metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), were investigated in six discrete brain regions of CD-1 mice. Groups of male, adult mice were continuously exposed to benzene (166 mg/l), toluene (80 and 325 mg/l), and combinations of benzene + toluene (80 or 325 mg/l) in drinking water for 4 weeks. Benzene produced increases of NE in the hypothalamus, cortex, midbrain and medulla oblongata, DA in the hypothalamus and corpus striatum, and 5-HT in all dissected brain regions except cerebellum. Elevated levels of various monoamine metabolites were also observed in these brain areas. Toluene ingestion alone also significantly increased the concentrations of NE, DA, 5-HT, and their metabolites in several brain regions. Mice given the combined treatments exhibited raised regional neurochemical levels when compared to the untreated controls. Increased concentrations of biogenic amine metabolites in several brain regions were greater in the combined exposures of benzene and toluene than when either chemical was used alone. The findings were different from those observed on immune parameters using similar treatment protocols, where simultaneous exposure to toluene prevented the immunotoxic effects of benzene.
The effect of adding a center jet to Argon gas puff implosions at the Z facility

Argon gas puff implosions have been found to be an extremely efficient source of K-shell x-rays (3–4 keV) on the Z pulsed power facility at Sandia National Labs. producing over 300 kJ of K-shell emission in double-shell experiments. Experiments at Double Eagle [1] and Saturn [2] have previously found that adding a central jet of mass to their double-shell gas puff configurations increased the yield substantially.
In vivo wireless ethanol vapor detection in the Wistar rat.

Traditional alcohol studies measure blood alcohol concentration to elucidate the biomedical factors that contribute to alcohol abuse and alcoholism. These measurements require large and expensive equipment, are labor intensive, and are disruptive to the subject. To alleviate these problems, we have developed an implantable, wireless biosensor that is capable of measuring alcohol levels for up to 6 weeks. Ethanol levels were measured in vivo in the interstitial fluid of a Wistar rat after administering 1 and 2 g/kg ethanol by intraperitoneal (IP) injection. The data were transmitted wirelessly using a biosensor selective for alcohol detection. A low-power piezoresistive microcantilever sensor array was used with a polymer coating suitable for measuring ethanol concentrations at 100 % humidity over several hours. A hydrophobic, vapor permeable nanopore membrane was used to screen liquid and ions while allowing vapor to pass to the sensor from the subcutaneous interstitial fluid.
Catheter-ablative techniques for the treatment of atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation is the most commonly encountered arrythmia in clinical practice and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Pharmacologic therapy, although useful for rate control, has proven much less effective in the long term maintenance of sinus rhythm. The utility of implantable atrial defibrillators or pacing to prevent atrial fibrillation remains largely untested. This article describes four catheter-based therapies for atrial fibrillation: His ablation, atrioventricular nodal modification, the Maze procedure, and the ablation of pulmonary vein foci which initiate the arrhythmia. Whereas the first two procedures are largely palliative and recommended for patients with symptomatic, drug-refractory atrial fibrillation, the latter two offer the potential for a curative intervention.
Opioid receptors mediating antinociception from β-endorphin and morphine in the periaqueductal gray

beta-Endorphin and morphine produce an increase in the latency of the tail-flick reflex when administered into the PAG of awake rats. The antinociceptive effect of both opioid agonists was blocked by the sequential local injection of either CTP (D-Phe-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Thr-Pen-Thr-NH2), a selective mu opioid receptor antagonist, naltrexone, or beta-endorphin (1-27), a putative epsilon opioid receptor antagonist, with minimal selectivity. When either CTP or naltrexone was used as the antagonist, the dose-inhibition curves generated for beta-endorphin and morphine were not parallel, suggesting the involvement of separate and distinct receptors. Also, synergism occurred when a dose of morphine producing submaximum antinociception was administered simultaneously with either a submaximal or ineffective dose of beta-endorphin. Inhibition of the antinociceptive response to beta-endorphin by mu antagonists and the non-selective antagonism of both beta-endorphin and morphine by beta-endorphin (1-27) suggested that epsilon opioid receptors were not involved. Additionally, a mu/delta opioid receptor complex was not involved, since ICI 174,864 (Allyl2-Tyr-Aib-Aib-Phe-Leu-OH), a selective delta opioid receptor antagonist, did not alter the response to beta-endorphin. Thus, although additional characterization is required, beta-endorphin and morphine appear to act (at least in part) through different opioid receptors, demonstrable using selected mu opioid receptor antagonists.
Ad4BP/SF-1 regulates cyclic AMP-induced transcription from the proximal promoter (PII) of the human aromatase P450 (CYP19) gene in the ovary

Aromatase P450, which is responsible for the metabolism of C19 steroids to estrogens, is expressed in the pre-ovulatory follicles and corpora lutea of ovulatory women by means of a promoter proximal to the start of translation (PII). To understand how this transcription is controlled by cAMP, we constructed chimeric constructs containing deletion mutations of the proximal promoter 5'-flanking DNA fused to the rabbit beta-globin reporter gene. Assay of reporter gene transcription in transfected bovine granulosa and luteal cells revealed that cAMP-stimulated transcription was lost upon deletion from -278 to -100 base pairs, indicating the presence of a functional cAMP-responsive element in this region; however, no classical cAMP-responsive element was found. Mutation of an AGGTCA motif located at -130 base pairs revealed that this element is crucial for cAMP-stimulated reporter gene transcription. When a single copy of this element was placed upstream of a heterologous promoter, it could act as a weak cAMP-response element. Supershift electrophoretic mobility shift assay and UV cross-linking established that Ad4BP/SF-1 binds to this hexameric element. Ad4BP/SF-1 mRNA and protein levels and DNA binding activity are increased in forskolin-treated luteal cells. We conclude that cAMP-stimulated transcription of human aromatase P450 in the ovary is due, at least in part, to increased levels and DNA binding activity of Ad4BP/SF-1.
Abstract 5109: Integrated micro nanotechnology for the sensitive isolation of circulating tumor cells.

Introduction and Objective: Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have been identified in the art in peripheral blood from cancer patients and are likely the origin of metastatic disease. Isolation and capture of CTCs represent a potential alternative to invasive biopsies during diagnosis of disease. In the recent past, vVarious microfluidic- based CTC isolation technologieschips have been developed to capture, indentify, sort, and enumerate CTCs. but, they need to be more sensitive, reliable, and specific for CTC detection in early stage cancer patients. Here we present a microfluidic CTC-chip with functionalized nanomaterials to capture and culture CTCs. Methods: Micro-sized structuresposts functionalized with anti-epithelial-adhesion-molecule antibodies (Anti-EpCAM) are is the common approachstructures to capture CTCs. Here we present a microfluidic device with functionalized planar structure to capture CTCs. The CTC-chipmicrofluidic device has a PDMS chamber and patterned gold postatterns . functionalized with graphene oxides as nanomaterial and anti-epithelial-cell-adhesion-molecule antibodies (Anti-EpCAM). To investigate the capture efficiency before running cancer patients’ samples, a low number of cells were spiked into 1 mL of whole blood. We stained the captured cells with cytokeratin, CD45, and DAPI to identify CTCs. For clinical studies, we searched for CTCs in 10 pancreatic cancer patients, 6 breast cancer patients, 4 early lung cancer patients, and 5 healthy donors. Results: It is much easier to scan, count and grow captured cells in comparison with previous micro-sized post-based structure. CTCs were isolated by assembling Graphene oxide on the planar structures for enhanced sensitivity. is easy to functionalize the surface and sensitive to detect biomaterial. The functionalized graphene oxide has been used to selectively capture MCF-7 breast cancer cells with a capture rate higher than 8790 %. This new CTC-chip identified CTCs in the peripheral blood of patients with pancreatic, breast, and lung cancer in 20 of 20 samples (100%). Conclusion: We present a sensitive CTC-chip using graphene oxides as nanomaterial to isolate, capture, identify, and characterize extremely rare CTCs. This CTC-chipIt is much easier to scan, count, and grow captured cells in comparison with previous micro-sized post-based structure. We believe this CTC-chip offers great potential for clinical research on cancer. Citation Format: Hyeun Joong Yoon, Tae Hyun Kim, Zhuo Zhang, Nithya Ramnath, Max S. Wicha, Daniel F. Hayes, Diane M. Simeone, Sunitha Nagrath. Integrated micro nanotechnology for the sensitive isolation of circulating tumor cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 5109. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-5109
Inhibition of Respiration in a Flagellate Protozoon by Hypocholesterolemic Drugs

SEVERAL hypocholesterolemic drugs uncouple oxidative phosphorylation in rat liver mitochondria1. Also some of these drugs, for example, benzmalecene and triparanol (‘MER-29’), inhibit multiplication of Ochromonas danica, a phytoflagellate; oleic acid annuls this inhibition, but sterols or sterol precursors do not2. Do these drugs inhibit synthesis of ATP in O. danica ? It remains to be seen if there is an especially close relation between ATP synthesis and lipid synthesis.
Information economy and inequality: Wage polarization, unemployment, and occupation transition in Taiwan since 1980

Abstract This paper examines whether Taiwan’s economic inequality has worsened as Taiwan has evolved into an information economy, a transformation which began around 1980. The paper explores this relationship by investigating three specific research questions. First, has there been a rise in wage inequality in Taiwan since 1980; and if so, what are the sources of this rise in inequality? Second, has the transition to an information economy contributed to a rise in unemployment rates? And third, what type of occupational structural transformation occurred during this transition? The paper shows that since 1980, wage inequality, unemployment, and the white-collar–blue-collar worker employment ratio have all sharply increased in Taiwan. Furthermore, the reasons for these changes seem closely related to the relative growth of the information economy.
PLK1 inhibition down-regulates polycomb group protein BMI1 via modulation of the miR-200c/141 cluster.

Abstract The polycomb group protein BMI1 is an important regulator of cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotype and is often overexpressed in cancer cells. Its overexpression leads to increase in CSC fraction and therapy resistance in tumors. BMI1 functions via polycomb repressive complex 1 (PRC1)-mediated gene silencing and also via PRC1-independent transcriptional activities. At present, very little is known about the therapy reagents that can efficiently inhibit BMI1 expression, and the CSC phenotype. Here, we report that the polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) regulates BMI1 expression, and that its inhibition can efficiently down-regulate BMI1 expression and PRC1 activity, and induce premature senescence in breast cancer cells. We also show that the exogenous BMI1 overexpression mitigates anti-oncogenic effects of PLK1 inhibition and overcomes senescence induction by PLK1 inhibitors. We further show that PLK1 inhibition down-regulates BMI1 by upregulating the miRNA-200c/141 cluster, which encodes miR-200c and miR-141, both of which are known to post-transcriptionally downregulate BMI1 expression. Thus, our data suggest that PLK1 inhibitors can be successfully used to inhibit growth of tumors in which PcG protein BMI1 is overexpressed or the PRC1 activity is deregulated.
Interpretation of observed cosmic microwave background radiation

It is argued that the 'surface of last scattering' of the observed microwave background radiation corresponds to the distribution of dust in galaxies or protogalaxies with a temperature of about 110 K at the epoch corresponding to Z roughly equal to 40. This is in contrast with the plasma temperature of over 3,000 K at an earlier epoch (Z greater than about 1,000), as given by the canonical model of big bang cosmologies. In view of this, the claim that the microwave background radiation lends strong support to hot big bang cosmologies is without foundation.
Identification of cell types in the anteroventral cochlear nucleus that project to the inferior colliculus

Abstract Type I stellate cells, identified in electron micrographs of the anterior division of the anteroventral cochlear nucleus of the cat, were labeled following injections of horseradish peroxidase in the inferior colliculus. Two other neuronal types present in this part of the anteroventral cochlear nucleus — the type II stellate cells and the bushy cells — were not labeled in these experiments.
Optimization of the Efficiency and Other Properties of the Rectenna Element

The rectenna which captures and rectifies the microwave power at the receiving end of a free space microwave power transmission system is comprised of many elements consisting of halfwave dipoles with microwave filter and rectification circuits attached. This element has been independently optimized for efficiency and analyzed for losses. The paper describes the device, the special test equipment used, the results of the mathematical modelling and computer simulation, special low loss Schottky barrier diodes that have been constructed to improve the efficiency, and life tests that have been made on these devices. An efficiency, defined as the ratio of DC power output to incident microwave power, of over 90% has been achieved.
A competing salt-bridge suppresses helix formation by the isolated C-peptide carboxylate of ribonuclease A

Abstract The C-peptide of ribonuclease A (residues 1 to 13) is obtained by cyanogen bromide cleavage at Met13, which converts methionine to a mixture of homoserine lactone (giving C-peptide lactone) and homoserine carboxylate (giving C-peptide carboxylate). The helix-forming properties of C-peptide lactone have been reported. The helix is formed intramolecularly in aqueous solution, is stabilized at low temperatures (0 to 20 °C) and also by a pH-dependent interaction between sidechains. The C-peptide lactone helix is about 1000-fold more stable than expected from “host-guest” data for helix formation in synthetic polypeptides. Here we report the failure of C-peptide carboxylate to form an α-helix in comparable conditions. Formation of a salt-bridge between the α-COO − group and the imidazolium ring of His12 + appears to be responsible for the suppression of helix formation. The presence of the Hse13-COO − … His12 + salt-bridge in C-peptide carboxylate is shown by 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance titration of the amide proton resonances of His12 and Hse13, and is expected from model peptide studies. The most probable reason why C-peptide carboxylate does not form an α-helix is that the Hse13-COO − … His12 + salt-bridge competes successfully with a helix stabilizing salt-bridge (Glu9 − … His12 + ). S-peptide (residues 1 to 20 of ribonuclease A) does form an α-helix with properties similar to those of the C-peptide (lactone) helix, which shows that the lactone ring of C-peptide lactone is not needed for helix formation. These results support the hypothesis that a Glu9 − … His12 + salt-bridge stabilizes the C-peptide (lactone) helix, and they show that specific interactions between side-chains can be important in preventing as well as in promoting α-helix formation.
Eyes-on training and radiological expertise: an examination of expertise development and its effects on visual working memory.

Objective:Our aim was to examine the specificity of the effects of acquiring expertise on visual working memory (VWM) and the degree to which higher levels of experience within the domain of expert...
Combined beam forming and cross correlation of broadband signals from a multidimensional array using coherent optics.

A coherent optical system design is proposed for simultaneously heterodyning, correlating, and beam forming on a large number of input channels. Techniques are described with application to two- as well as one-dimensional arrays. To accommodate the former, one direction in the optical aperture must serve both as a time and space dimension. The particular technique proposed resolves the apparent ambiguity. The method uses the phase of the correlation amplitude, after heterodyning, to effect the beam forming operation. Although the full theoretical correlation processing gain against background noise is not realized, very substantial gains and fine time and angle resolutions can be achieved. Because of its inherent physical simplicity, particularly as contrasted with electronic methods of similar capacity, the coherent optical correlator–beam former has significant advantages for many applications.
Regularity and Stability for Convex Multivalued Functions

Multivalued functions with convex graphs are shown to exhibit certain desirable regularity properties when their ranges have internal points. These properties are applied to develop a perturbation theory for convex inequalities and to extend results on the continuity of convex functions.
Preliminary Term Analysis of Am i and Am ii Spectra

Wavelengths of over 3000 americium lines have been measured with a 30-ft spectrograph, and intensities compared in a number of sources leading to assignment of most lines as Am i or Am ii. Hyperfine structure and isotope shifts have been measured in high orders for many lines. In this paper only the classified lines are listed, consisting of 173 Am ii lines representing transitions between 5 odd levels and 63 even levels, and 112 Am i transitions between 12 odd levels and 39 even levels. Although the number of classified lines is less than 10% of the total almost all the strong lines are included. The ground states of Am ii and Am i are 5f77s and 5f77s2, respectively. The ionization potential of Am i is 6.0 ev. Most of the levels have not been identified but are believed to be built on 5f66d instead of 5f7. The binding energy of 5f7 compared with 5f66d is 10 000 cm−1 smaller than in Eu and is related to the higher valences found in the 5f elements compared with the 4f elements.The ratio of the nuclear magnetic moments of Am241 and Am243 is μ241/μ243=1.008.
Small area estimation via heteroscedastic nested-error regression

We show that the maximum likelihood estimators (MLEs) of the fixed effects and within-cluster correlation are consistent in a heteroscedastic nested-error regression (HNER) model with completely unknown within-cluster variances under mild conditions. The result implies that the empirical best linear unbiased prediction (EBLUP) method for small area estimation is valid in such a case. We also show that ignoring the heteroscedasticity can lead to inconsistent estimation of the within-cluster correlation and inferior predictive performance. A jackknife measure of uncertainty for the EBLUP is developed under the HNER model. Simulation studies are carried out to investigate the finite-sample performance of the EBLUP and MLE under the HNER model, with comparisons to those under the nested-error regression model in various situations, as well as that of the jackknife measure of uncertainty. The well-known Iowa crops data is used for illustration. The Canadian Journal of Statistics 40: 588–603; 2012 © 2012 Statistical Society of Canada
Nitric Oxide Regulation of Free Radical– and Enzyme-Mediated Lipid and Lipoprotein Oxidation

The regulation of nonenzymatic and enzymatic lipid oxidation reactions by nitric oxide (.NO) is potent and pervasive and reveals novel non-cGMP-dependent reactivities for this free radical inflammatory and signal transduction mediator.NO and its metabolites stimulate and inhibit lipid peroxidation reactions, modulate enzymatically catalyzed lipid oxidation, complex with lipid-reactive metals, and alter proinflammatory gene expression. Through these mechanisms,.NO can regulate nonenzymatic lipid oxidation and the production of inflammatory and vasoactive eicosanoids by prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase and lipoxygenase. The accumulation of macrophages and oxidized low density lipoprotein within the vascular wall can also be modulated by.NO. A key determinant of the pro-oxidant versus oxidant-protective influences of.NO is the underlying oxidative status of tissue. When.NO is in excess of surrounding oxidants, lipid oxidation and monocyte margination into the vascular wall are attenuated, producing antiatherogenic effects. However, when endogenous tissue rates of oxidant production are accelerated or when tissue oxidant defenses become depleted,.NO gives rise to secondary oxidizing species that can increase membrane and lipoprotein lipid oxidation as well as foam cell formation in the vasculature, thus promoting proatherogenic effects. In summary,.NO is a multifaceted molecule capable of reacting via multiple pathways to modulate lipid oxidation reactions, thereby impacting on tissue inflammatory reactions.