cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sphingolipids in metabolic disease: The good, the bad, and the unknown

The bioactive sphingolipid metabolites ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) are a recent addition to the lipids accumulated in obesity and have emerged as important molecular players in metabolic diseases. Here we summarize evidence that dysregulation of sphingolipid metabolism correlates with pathogenesis of metabolic diseases in humans. This review discusses the current understanding of how ceramide regulates signaling and metabolic pathways to exacerbate metabolic diseases and the Janus faces for its further metabolite S1P, the kinases that produce it, and the multifaceted and at times opposing actions of S1P receptors in various tissues. Gaps and limitations in current knowledge are highlighted together with the need to further decipher the full array of their actions in tissue dysfunction underlying metabolic pathologies, pointing out prospects to move this young field of research toward the development of effective therapeutics.
Effect of microcavity size to the RIN and 40 Gb/s data transmission performance of high speed VCSELs

We demonstrated that larger aperture VCSELs have better performance in 40Gb/s error free data transmission, and smaller aperture VCSELs have lower laser RIN. Medium aperture VCSELs may excel in high fidelity and high speed applications.
Matrix Isolation Studies by IR and Raman Spectroscopies

Matrix isolation is a technique for maintaining molecules in an inert medium at very low temperature for spectroscopic study. This method is particularly well suited for preserving reactive species in a solid environment. Elusive molecular fragments, such as free radicals that may be important intermediates for chemical transformations used in industrial reactions, molecules that are in equilibrium with solids at very high temperatures, weak molecular complexes that may be stable at low temperatures, and molecular ions that are produced in plasma discharges or by high-energy radiation, can all be observed and characterized using infrared absorption and laser-excitation spectroscopies.
Substrate specificity of protein kinase C: use of synthetic peptides corresponding to physiological sites as probes for substrate recognition requirements

Although the Ca2+/phospholipid-dependent protein kinase, protein kinase C, has a broad substrate specificity in vitro, the enzyme appears considerably less promiscuous in vivo. To date only a handful of proteins have been identified as physiological substrates for this protein kinase. In order to determine the basis for this selectivity for substrates in intact cells, we have probed the subsrate primary sequence requirements of protein kinase C using synthetic peptides corresponding to sites of phosphorylation from four of the known physiological substrates. We have also identified the acetylated N-terminal serine of chick muscle lactate dehydrogenase as an in vitro, site of phosphyorylation for this protein kinase. These comparative studies have demonstrated that, in vivo, the enzyme exhibits a preference for one basic residue C-terminal to the phosphorylatable residue, as in the sequence: Ser/Thr-Xaa-Lys/Arg, where Xaa is usually an uncharged residue. Additional basic residues, both N and C-terminal to the target amino acid, enhance the Vmax and Km parameters of phosphorylation. None of the peptides based on physiological phosphrylation sites of protein kinase C was an efficient substrate of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, emphasizing the distinct site-recognition selectivities of these two pleiotropic protein kinases. The favorable kinetic parameters of several of the synthetic peptides, coupled with their selectivity for phosphorylation by protein kinase C, will facilitate the assay of this enzyme in the presence of other protein kinases in tissue and cell extracts.
Mechanism of binding and internalization of ICAM-1-derived cyclic peptides by LFA-1 on the surface of T cells: a potential method for targeted drug delivery.

Purpose. Peptides derived from the Domain 1 of the adhesion molecule ICAM-11-21 are being developed as targeting ligands for LFA-1 receptors expressed on activated T cells. This work aims to elucidate the binding and internalization of ICAM-1-derived cyclic peptides (cIBL, cIBC, and cIBR) to LFA-1. Methods. Ninety-six-well plates coated with soluble LFA-1 (sLFA-1) were used to characterize the binding of FITC-labeled peptide. An anti-CD11a antibody to the I-domain of LFA-1 was used to inhibit the binding of these peptides, which was quantified using a fluorescence plate reader. An unrelated FITC-labeled cyclic peptide was used as a negative control, and PE-labeled anti-CD11a antibodies (PE-R3.2 and PE-R7.1) were used as positive controls. Peptide binding to cell surface LFA-1 was visualized using colocalization of FITC-cIBR peptide and PE-labeled anti-CD18 antibody (LFA-1 β-subunit) on SKW-3 T cells by fluorescent microscopy. Inhibition of ICAM-1 binding to LFA-1 by peptides was evaluated using a Biacore assay. Binding and internalization of FITC-labeled peptides were evaluated by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy at 4°C and 37°C. Results. These FITC-labeled cyclic peptides bind to sLFA-1 and can be blocked by an anti-CD11a antibody to the I-domain, suggesting that their binding site is on the I-domain of LFA-1. The FITC-cIBR peptide was localized with an anti-CD18 antibody on the surface of T cells, indicating that the FITC-cIBR peptide binds to LFA-1 on the cell surface. Flow cytometry and confocal microscopy demonstrated that FITC-labeled peptides were internalized in a temperature-dependent manner. Biacore analysis demonstrated that these peptides did not inhibit sICAM-1 from binding to immobilized sLFA-1. However, the binding properties of the soluble forms of LFA-1 and ICAM-1 may not correlate to their interaction at the cell surface. Conclusions. Cyclic ICAM-1-derived peptides (cIBL, cIBC, and cIBR) bind to the I-domain of LFA-1 and are internalized by LFA-1 receptors on the surface of T cells. Therefore, these peptides could be used to target and deliver drugs to the cytoplasmic domain of T cells.
Long-Term Efficacy and Toxicity of Low-Dose-Rate 125 I Prostate Brachytherapy as Monotherapy in Low-, Intermediate-, and High-Risk Prostate Cancer

Purpose/Objectives To report long-term efficacy and toxicity for a single-institution cohort of patients treated with low-dose-rate prostate brachytherapy permanent implant (PI) monotherapy. Methods and Materials From 1996 to 2007, 1989 patients with low-risk (61.3%), intermediate-risk (29.8%), high-intermediate-risk (4.5%), and high-risk prostate cancer (4.4%) were treated with PI and followed up prospectively in a registry. All patients were treated with 125 I monotherapy to 144 Gy. Late toxicity was coded retrospectively according to a modified Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events 4.0 scale. The rates of biochemical relapse-free survival (bRFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), overall survival (OS), and prostate cancer–specific mortality (PCSM) were calculated. We identified factors associated with late grade ≥3 genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity, bRFS, DMFS, OS, PCSM, and incontinence. Results The median age of the patients was 67 years, and the median overall and prostate-specific antigen follow-up times were 6.8 years and 5.8 years, respectively. The overall 5-year rates for bRFS, DMFS, OS, and PCSM were 91.9%, 97.8%, 93.7%, and 0.71%, respectively. The 10-year rates were 81.5%, 91.5%, 76.1%, and 2.5%, respectively. The overall rates of late grade ≥3 GU and GI toxicity were 7.6% and 0.8%, respectively. On multivariable analysis, age and prostate length were significantly associated with increased risk of late grade ≥3 GU toxicity. The risk of incontinence was highly correlated with both pre-PI and post-PI transurethral resection of the prostate. Conclusions Prostate brachytherapy as monotherapy is an effective treatment for low-risk and low-intermediate-risk prostate cancer and appears promising as a treatment for high-intermediate-risk and high-risk prostate cancer. Significant long-term toxicities are rare when brachytherapy is performed as monotherapy.
On the Covariant Quantization of QED

The commutation relations for bosons are field independent, and can be reliably inferred from the definition of creation and annihilation operators. Here, the commutation relations are assumed known, and the quantum electrodynamics equations without sources are quantized with the unmodified Lagrangian. Non diagonal products of creation and annihilation operators of the form, cr(0)an(3)+ cr(3)an(0), where 0,3 denote respectively the time-like and longitudinal-polarizations, are present in both terms that contribute to the Hamiltonian. However, the contributions differ in sign, and therefore cancel. In units of the photon's energy the coefficients of the Hamiltonian's four polarization states are -1/2, 1, 1, 1/2, clearly revealing the unphysical character of the time like and longitudinal polarization states. If the physical states are restricted to those that do not contain unphysical polarization states, and if the Lorentz condition is satisfied, then the non diagonal terms of the field's momentum vanish, and both the Hamiltonian and Momentum are well behaved. A transformation of the basic vectors engenders in turn a transformation of the creation operators. The expression for the transformation that leaves invariant the commutation relations is derived.
Tree Computation for Reserved Bandwidth Traffic

With the deployment of broadband integrated services networks, multipoint applications are likely to be developed on digital networks. Many, if not all, of these applications will benefit from network support for quality of service requirements, which can be readily provided if the network supports reserved bandwidth multipoint communication channels. In this paper, we discuss the different kinds of applications that may require support for bandwidth reservation, and discuss how a multipoint communication channel can be found for multi point applications. For several applications, finding a multipoint communication channel is a NP-hard problem, and we will present heuristics to solve it under different circumstances. We study these heuristics by means of simulations and attempt to provide theoretical bounds on their performance.
Hypomagnesemia in Intracerebral Hemorrhage.

Background Magnesium (Mg) is an essential element for the body's normal physiological functioning. It has a major role in modulating vascular smooth muscle tone and peripheral arterial resistance. A low serum Mg level on admission (HMg 0 ) has been associated with more severe presentation in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. However, data on HMg 0 specifically in relation to intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) are scarce. We sought to determine the incidence and clinical significance of HMg 0 in patients with ICH. Methods We reviewed the records of consecutive patients with ICH over a 2-year period. Data collected included initial Mg levels (Mg 0 ), clinical and radiologic characteristics on presentation, and discharge outcomes. Regression analysis was performed to look for any association of low Mg 0 with admission blood pressure (BP) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores. We also examined the correlation of HMg 0 with clinical/radiologic features, admission severity (based on the ICH score), and poor outcome on discharge. Results In all, 33.6% presented with HMg 0 . Mg0 levels were negatively associated with systolic BP presentation ( P P = 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression showed an association between HMg 0 and severity at presentation ( P = 0.03), but not with poor outcome on discharge ( P = 0.26). Conclusions HMg 0 occurs in one third of patients with ICH and is associated with more severe presentation and intraventricular hemorrhage. Mg levels on admission correlate inversely with systolic BP and directly with GCS scores at presentation. HMg 0 does not influence outcomes at discharge.
Evaluation of the neuroactive steroid ganaxolone on social and repetitive behaviors in the BTBR mouse model of autism.

Rationale Abnormalities in excitatory/inhibitory neurotransmission are hypothesized to contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) etiology. BTBR T+Itpr3tf/J (BTBR), an inbred mouse strain, displays social deficits and repetitive self-grooming, offering face validity to ASD diagnostic symptoms. Reduced GABAergic neurotransmission in BTBR suggests that GABAA receptor positive allosteric modulators (PAMs) could improve ASD-relevant BTBR phenotypes. The neuroactive steroid ganaxolone acts as a PAM, displaying anticonvulsant properties in rodent epilepsy models and an anxiolytic-like profile in the elevated plus-maze.
A polyaniline based intrinsically conducting coating for corrosion protection of structural steels

Among the various corrosion protection strategies for structural steels, coating techniques provide the most cost-effective protection and have been used as the primary mode of corrosion protection. Existing coating techniques however have been used mainly for their barrier capability and therefore all have a limited service life due to oxidation aging, electrolytic degradation, or various inadvertent defects and flaws occurred in and after coating applications. This work investigated the anti-corrosion potential of a π-conjugated polymer—polyaniline (PANi), which was doped into an intrinsically conducting polymer and then included in a two-layer coating system as a primer layer. To achieve a long service life, the primer layer was made by mixing the conductive PANi in a waterborne poly-vinyl butyral solution to provide strong adhesion to steel surface, and then topcoated with a layer of elastomer-modified polyethylene to obtain extra mechanical and barrier protections. Two ASTM standard tests were conducted to evaluate the corrosion durability and tensile adhesion of the two-layer system, in which the system demonstrated superior performance. The Scanning Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (SKPFM) was used to provide the microscopic evidences for the outstanding performance. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:1186–1195, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Application of a Key–Value Paradigm to Logic Factoring

Over three decades ago an algebraic factoring algorithm was created as part of active logic synthesis efforts in the semiconductor industry. It initiated logic synthesis successes and steered synthesis in the direction of practical design tools: they can now take a design from its initial state to the final chip that meets a complex set of constraints. The evolved computing platforms today stimulate new exploratory avenues to extend the functionality of fundamental synthesis algorithms. We reexamine logic factoring in an effort to establish a stronger connection to the functional intent rather than structural implications of a design description within synthesis. A scalable factoring algorithm that reduces its dependence on the two-level minimization is described to improve the area of synthesized circuits. It is implemented using a new distributed environment that harnesses the key–value concept to find solutions through systematic transformations of a data set.
Metabolic functions of Pseudomonas fluorescens strains from Populus deltoides depend on rhizosphere or endosphere isolation compartment

The bacterial microbiota of plants is diverse, with 1000s of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) associated with any individual plant. In this work, we used phenotypic analysis, comparative genomics, and metabolic models to investigate the differences between 19 sequenced Pseudomonas fluorescens strains. These isolates represent a single OTU and were collected from the rhizosphere and endosphere of Populus deltoides. While no traits were exclusive to either endosphere or rhizosphere P. fluorescens isolates, multiple pathways relevant for plant-bacterial interactions are enriched in endosphere isolate genomes. Further, growth phenotypes such as phosphate solubilization, protease activity, denitrification and root growth promotion are biased toward endosphere isolates. Endosphere isolates have significantly more metabolic pathways for plant signaling compounds and an increased metabolic range that includes utilization of energy rich nucleotides and sugars, consistent with endosphere colonization. Rhizosphere P. fluorescens have fewer pathways representative of plant-bacterial interactions but show metabolic bias toward chemical substrates often found in root exudates. This work reveals the diverse functions that may contribute to colonization of the endosphere by bacteria and are enriched among closely related isolates.
New application for well test analysis: Locating closed perforation zones and damaged sections

Abstract Closed perforations and damaged sections are two great challenges in the petroleum industry. Several reasons may cause these problems. Few of them depend on the type of formation and wellbore while others come from drilling, completion and stimulation activates before production process. Production rate and pressure drop may lead significantly to these two problems; therefore, production management sometimes plays a great role in controlling them. Millions of dollars are spent annually for the remedial process of these two problems. Therefore locating these closed or damaged sections is considered of great importance as an attempt to control them or reduce their negative impact on wellbore deliverability. This paper introduces a technique to locate the closed perforations and damaged sections using pressure transient analysis. Pressure behaviors and flow regimes in the vicinity of horizontal wellbores are affected by the existence of the closed perforated zones and the formation sections where the resistance to reservoir fluid flow toward the wellbore is maximized. This resistance occurs because of the damaged permeability and high skin factor. Analytical models for locating these sections and determining how many zones of the horizontal well that are considerably closed have been introduced in this study. These models have been derived based on the assumption that wellbore can be divided into multi-subsequent segments of producing and non-producing intervals. Producing intervals represent free flowing zones where there is no problem and both formation and wellbore are assumed to be clean. Non-producing intervals represent zones where both formation and wellbore's perforations are closed or damaged. The effective length of horizontal well where the perforated zones and the formation sections can not be considered problematic and the damaged length where both of them are significantly closed and damaged can be calculated. The numbers of the damaged zones can be calculated also. In addition, the locations of the damaged sections or closed perforated zones can be determined. Type-curve matching technique and the analytical models can be used for this purpose.
Radiation‐induced skin cancer in humans*

The principal epidemiologic studies of ionizing radiation and skin cancer have all shown that radiation causes basal cell carcinoma but have not found dose-related excesses of squamous cell carcinoma or malignant melanoma. The Japanese atomic bomb study indicates that doses of radiation under about 1 Gy confer less risk per unit dose than higher doses do. All available studies show that skin cancer risk is greater from radiation exposure at young ages than at older ages. Finding few excess skin cancers among irradiated African-Americans as compared to Caucasians with a comparable dose indicates that skin susceptibility to ultraviolet exposure modifies the excess risk from ionizing radiation. Available evidence indicates that the excess risk of skin cancer lasts for 45 years or more following irradiation. Several studies indicate a risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) following cancer therapy; however, most of the studies reporting on NMSC have not distinguished between patients who received radiotherapy versus chemotherapy. Some, but not all, follow-up studies of cancer patients have reported excesses of malignant melanoma as second malignant neoplasms. It is not clear from the studies how much, if any, of the excess melanoma risk is attributable to radiotherapy.
Influence of anti-platelet drugs on platelet-vessel wall interactions.

Abstract The influence of in vitro treatment of platelets with antiplatelet drugs on the interaction of these cells with the subendothelium was studied using citrated human blood obtained from normal control donors. Reconstituted blood following drug treatment was circulated thwaigh a special chamber which housed averted segments of de-ardothelialized rabbit aorta. The wall shear rate used in these studies was 800 sec−l. Surface coverage of platelets on the subsndothelium were morptrically evaluated. Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Prostaglandin El and 13 Azaprostanoic acid significantly reduced platelet thrombi an exposed sabendothelium. The calcium antagonists, Quin 2 and Diltiazem, exerted similar inhibitory effects, whereas Verapamil was a poor inhibitor. Aspirin treatment significantly enhanced platelet adhesion to the exposed vascular surface. Salicylate and Salicylamide did not enhance platelet. Only Aspirin enhanced the formation of lipcaygonase metabolites of radiolabeled arachidonate.Results suggest that drugs which inhibit platelet aggregation and seerertion of granule cot*Ants reduce formation of platelet thrombi. However, these drugs may or may not have a similar influence on platelet interaction with the subendathelium leading to spreading, adherence or formation of aggregates.
Thin Film Sensors for Minimally-Intrusive Measurements in Harsh High Temperature Environment

Advanced thin film sensors are being developed to provide accurate surface temperature, heat flux and strain measurements for components used in hostile propulsion environments. These sensors are sputter deposited and microfabricated directly onto the test articles with no additional bonding agent. The thickness of the sensors is only a few micrometers which creates minimal disturbance of the gas flow over the test surface. Thus thin film sensors have the advantage over conventional wire- based sensors by providing minimally intrusive measurement and having a faster response. These thin film sensors are being developed for characterization of advanced materials and structures in hostile, high-temperature environments, and for validation of design codes. This paper presents the advances of three high temperature thin film sensor technologies developed at NASA Lewis Research Center: thermocouples, heat-flux gages and strain gages. The fabrication techniques of these thin film sensors which include physical vapor deposition, photolithography patterning and lead Wire attachment are described. Sensors demonstrations on a variety of engine materials, including superalloys, ceramics and advanced ceramic matrix composites, in several hostile, high-temperature test environments are presented. The advantages and limitations of thin film sensor technology are also discussed.
A model for the controlled release of tri‐n‐butyltin fluoride from polymeric molluscicides and mosquito larvicides

Tri-n-butyltin fluoride (TBTF) is used as a controlled release mosquito larvicide and molluscicide. The Ecopro 1370, which was used in this work, is a commercially available larvicide containing 20% TBTF in low density polyethylene. The larvicide has a theoretical life of 3.7 years. The release mechanism was studied in water and yields a strange type IB release curve with an initial peak after 10 days, a minimum release at 13 days, and steady state release after 24 days. The strange release curve is due to the initial release of TBTF from the surface of the formation. The release is inhibited as water diffuses into the matrix where it reacts with the TBTF to form immobile tri-n-butyltin hydroxide. The latter dehydrates to bis(tri-n-butyltin) oxide which diffuses into the aqueous layer to yield the steady state system. A model containing three reaction zones can be used to explain these phenomena.
Influence of Diet on Early Mortality among Inbred Lines of Chickens

Abstract CHICK mortality similar to that described by Temperton and Bythell (1944) and termed “six day chick disease” has been prevalent for several years among the chickens of certain inbred lines maintained at the Regional Poultry Research Laboratory. Temperton and Bythell state that “commencing on the sixth day, heavy losses occurred and continued until the group was 12 to 14 days old with a peak in mortality on the eighth, ninth and tenth days. The manner of death was characteristic and not symptomatic of any known pathological condition.” This statement describes satisfactorily the situation observed among the chickens in the present report. Analysis of mortality statistics from hatching to 21 days of age for a four-year period (1945–1948) indicates that excessive mortality occurred in the chickens of certain lines, while the losses in other lines were low. Late in the fall of 1948, chick mortality in some lines became alarmingly . . .
Stimulation of Growth of Peppermint (Mentha piperita) by Phosfon, a Growth Retardant

The shoot growth and fresh weight of Mentha piperita grown in soil were stimulated at concentrations of 1.26 × 10−5M to 7.77 × 10−4M phosfon (2,4-dichlorobenzyl tributyl phosphonium chloride) while higher concentrations resulted in retardation of growth. Concentrations of 6.30 × 10−7M to 3.78 × 10−5M caused retardation of growth in mineral nutrient solution, and even death at the highest concentrations. However, when the M. piperita plants were grown in mineral nutrient solutions at concentrations of phosfon which had been sequentially lowered from 2.52 × 10−8M to 2.52 × 10−12M, the shoot growth and fresh weight were stimulated as in the case of plants grown in phosfon treated soil.
Novel fiber lasers and amplifiers for telecommunications

Fiber lasers have the potential for cost reduction in amplifiers for DWDM applications. This is achieved through efficient use of broad-area lasers. Yb fiber lasers operating at or near the gain peak of 978nm are of particular interest. Lasing on this transition can be realized through either a tapered multi-mode oscillator or a strictly designed double-clad fiber. This work will be reviewed and compared to alternative power scaling techniques.
Thor tax ruling after 5 years: Its effect on publishing and libraries

Anyone who has looked for a special book lately knows the probable outcome: it is out of print. The changing economics of the book business have sharply raised the cost of holding inventories, and publishers are reluctant to maintain extensive “backlists.” As a result, people who want (or need) to read older books must increasingly depend on libraries—which have financial troubles of their own. [1]
Cooking times, cooking losses and energy used for cooking lamb roasts.

Cooking times and losses were monitored during cooking often each of eight kinds of lamb roasts. Roasts were cooked (163°C oven, not preheated) to be rare (60°C), medium (70°C) or well done (77°C). Cooking times and cooking losses significantly increased with increasing degrees of doneness. Cooking time recommendations were made based on the data. In a second study, cooking times, cooking losses and energy consumption were monitored during cooking of 100 each of boneless legs and boneless shoulder roasts. Ovens were either non-preheated or preheated and roasts were fresh, frozen, thawed 12 h at 21°C, thawed 24 h at 1°C or thawed by microwaves. Gas consumption was slightly less for boneless shoulders roasted in non-preheated ovens (21.2 cu. ft.) than for those roasted in preheated ovens (22.6 cu. ft.). Cooking times and losses were lower for fresh boneless shoulders and leg roasts versus those in the frozen or frozen-thawed treatments. Statistically significant differences in gas consumptions for the five treatment groups were observed, but differences in cost of purchased energy were negligible.
Mean Flowfield Scaling of Supersonic Shock-Free Three-Dimensional Turbulent Boundary Layer

The mean flowfield of a three-dimensional supersonic turbulent boundary layer, generated by a 20-deg isentropic compression, was studied experimentally and numerically. Experimental data include surface flow visualization, wall static pressures, surface skin friction, and surveys of pitot pressures, yaw angles, and static pressures. Earlier published comparisons with data computed from the three-dimensional Reynolds-averaged compressible Navier-Stokes equations with an algebraic turbulence eddy viscosity closure show good agreement within experimental and computational uncertainties. Focus of the current work is the presentation of different scalings of the experimental data and the proposal of a new model for the mean flowfield scaling. Comparison to a subsonic three-dimensional boundary layer is made for this new scaling law
Safe efficacy of three strychnine alkaloid bait concentrations for hand-baiting control of plains pocket gophers

In November 1990, field efficacy studies using milo baits formulated with 0.35%, 0.75%, or 1.30% strychnine alkaloid were compared to a placebo (0.0% strychnine) for controlling plains pocket gophers (Geomys bursarius) near Pleasanton, Texas. These data were required by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as partial fulfillment for the maintenance of the rodenticide registrations of the US Department of Agriculture. Each of four treatment units (TUs) within a block (2) was randomly assigned one of the four baits. Within each TU, 15 gophers were captured (balanced roughly for gender) and instrumented with radio transmitters. Following a pretreatment acclimation averaging 4.1 days, bait (4 g) was placed in active pocket gopher burrows by hand-baiting. Pocket gopher mortality was measured by monitoring the fate of radio-equipped pocket gophers (n = 123) both pretreatment and posttreatment. Lack of gopher movement on two consecutive days indicated death, and the carcass was retrieved. Strychnine mortality was based on chemical analyses of carcasses, and it occurred in 0.0%, 66.7%, 96.3%, and 89.7% of gophers from the 0.0%, 0.35%, 0.75% and 1.30% TUs, respectively. Natural mortality was 7% on the placebo TUs. All three strychnine treatments provided significantly increased mortality over the placebo (P < 0.0001) using Fisher's exact test for paired comparisons. A difference in gopher mortality occurred between the 0.32% and 0.77% strychnine treatments (P = 0.003), but not between the other comparisons (0.32% vs 1.30%, P = 0.18 and 0.77% vs. 1.30%, P = 0.24). Gopher carcasses recovered posttreatment indicated 68 of 86 (79.1%) had strychnine alkaloid residues. The non-target strychnine hazard (using least-squares means) by treatment were 4.85 ppm (0.35%), 8.04 ppm (0.75%), and 9.47 ppm (1.30%). Carcass residue differences were not detected among strychnine treatments (F = 2.48, df = 2, 3, P = 0.23). Fortunately, non-target exposure was greatly decreased because all carcasses with strychnine residues were recovered underground at a mean depth of 0.51 m (SE = 0.027, range 0.15-1.17 m). Placebo-baited TUs had 27 survivors and 2 deaths from unknown causes. None had detectable strychnine levels. No non-target mortalities were documented during carcass searches and radio-tracking activities.
Stathmin 1, a marker of PI3K pathway activation and regulator of microtubule dynamics, is expressed in early pelvic serous carcinomas

Background Most high-grade pelvic serous carcinomas (HGPSCs) arise from fallopian tube epithelium (FTE). To date, few markers have been shown to characterize FTE transformation. Stathmin 1 (STMN1) is a candidate oncogene whose activity is influenced by p53, p27Kip1 (p27), and PI3K/Akt pathway activation. As a microtubule destabilizing protein, STMN1 regulates cytoskeletal dynamics, cell cycle progression, mitosis, and cell migration. This study examines the expression of STMN1 and its negative regulator p27 along the morphologic continuum from normal FTE to invasive carcinoma.
Nucleation and growth during the atomic layer deposition of W on Al2O3 and Al2O3 on W

Abstract Nucleation and growth are critical during the atomic layer deposition (ALD) of ultra thin films and nanolaminates. This study examined the nucleation and growth during tungsten (W) ALD on aluminum oxide (Al2O3) surfaces and Al2O3 ALD on W surfaces using Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). W ALD was performed using alternating exposures of WF6 and Si2H6. Al2O3 ALD was performed using alternating exposures of Al(CH3)3 and H2O. AES signals were measured after each WF6 and Si2H6 exposure during W ALD on Al2O3 and after each Al(CH3)3 and H2O exposure during Al2O3 ALD on W. The AES measurements revealed that 3 WF6/Si2H6 reaction cycles were required to nucleate the W ALD film on Al2O3 surfaces at 473 K. Subsequently, the W ALD film grew linearly at a rate of 2.6–3.5 A per WF6/Si2H6 reaction cycle. The AES measurements also revealed that only one H2O/Al(CH3)3 cycle was needed to nucleate Al2O3 ALD on W at 450 K. Subsequently, the Al2O3 ALD film grew linearly at the rate of 1.0 A per Al(CH3)3/H2O reaction cycle. As expected from the W ALD surface chemistry, the W and Si AES signals oscillated dramatically during the sequential WF6 and Si2H6 exposures. Many parameters were varied to determine their effect on the W ALD nucleation period. The WF6 surface reaction was surprisingly insensitive to the Al2O3 substrate temperature and the initial hydroxyl coverage on the Al2O3 surface. These results for the nucleation and growth during W ALD on Al2O3 and Al2O3 ALD on W are relevant to the growth of W/Al2O3 nanolaminates that have potential as X-ray mirrors, thermal barrier coatings and tribological films.
Mouse amnionless, which is required for primitive streak assembly, mediates cell-surface localization and endocytic function of cubilin on visceral endoderm and kidney proximal tubules

Impaired primitive streak assembly in the mouse amnionless (amn) mutant results in the absence of non-axial trunk mesoderm, a derivative of the middle region of the primitive streak. In addition, the epiblast of amn mutants fails to increase significantly in size after E7.0, indicating that middle primitive streak assembly is mechanistically tied to the growth of the embryo during gastrulation. Amn, a novel transmembrane protein, is expressed exclusively in an extra-embryonic tissue, visceral endoderm (VE), during the early post-implantation stages. We show that Amn is also expressed in kidney proximal tubules (KPT) and intestinal epithelium, which, like the VE, are polarized epithelia specialized for resorption and secretion. To explore whether Amn participates in the development or function of KPT and intestinal epithelia and to gain insight into the function of Amn during gastrulation, we constructed Amn(-/-) ES cell +/+ blastocyst chimeras. While chimeras form anatomically normal kidneys and intestine, they exhibit variable, selective proteinuria, a sign of KPT malfunction. In humans, AMN has been genetically connected to Cubilin (CUBN), a multi-ligand scavenger receptor expressed by KPT, intestine and yolk sac. Loss of CUBN, the intestinal intrinsic factor (IF)-vitamin B12 receptor, results in hereditary megaloblastic anemia (MGA1), owing to vitamin B12 malabsorption. The recent report of MGA1 families with mutations in AMN suggests that AMN functions in the same pathway as CUBN. We demonstrate that Cubn is not properly localized to the cell surface in Amn(-/-) tissues in the embryo and adult mouse, and that adult chimeras exhibit selective proteinuria of Cubn ligands. This study demonstrates that Amn is an essential component of the Cubn receptor complex in vivo and suggests that Amn/Cubn is required for endocytosis/transcytosis of one or more ligands in the VE during gastrulation to coordinate growth and patterning of the embryo. Furthermore, as AMN is apparently not required for gastrulation in humans, the developmental requirements for Amn/Cubn function may not be evolutionarily conserved, possibly reflecting differences between species in the role and organization of extra-embryonic tissues.
Importance of molecular Rayleigh scattering in the enhancement of clear sky reflectance in the vicinity of boundary layer cumulus clouds

[1] Clouds increase the complexity of atmospheric radiative transfer processes, particularly for aerosol retrievals in clear regions in the vicinity of clouds. This study focuses on identifying mechanisms responsible for the enhancement of nadir reflectance in clear regions in the vicinity of cumulus clouds and quantifies the relative importance of each mechanism. Using cloud optical properties and surface albedo derived from Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), we performed extensive Monte Carlo simulations of radiative transfer in two cumulus scenes in a biomass burning region in Brazil. The results show that the scattering of radiation by clouds, followed by upward Rayleigh scattering by molecules above cloud top over clear gaps, is the dominant mechanism for the enhancement of visible reflectance in clear regions in boundary layer cumulus field over dark surfaces with aerosols trapped in the boundary layer. The Rayleigh scattering contributes ∼80% and ∼50% to the total enhancement for wavelengths 0.47 μm (with aerosol optical thickness 0.2) and 0.66 μm (with aerosol optical thickness 0.1), respectively. Out of the total contribution of molecular scattering, ∼90% arises from the clear atmosphere above cloud top height. The mechanism is valid for a large range of aerosol optical thicknesses (up to 1 in this study) for 0.47 μm, and for aerosol optical thickness up to 0.2 for 0.66 μm. Our results provide a basis to develop simplifications for future aerosol remote sensing from satellite.
Weaker solar wind from the polar coronal holes and the whole Sun

[1] Observations of solar wind from both large polar coronal holes (PCHs) during Ulysses' third orbit showed that the fast solar wind was slightly slower, significantly less dense, cooler, and had less mass and momentum flux than during the previous solar minimum (first) orbit. In addition, while much more variable, measurements in the slower, in-ecliptic wind match quantitatively with Ulysses and show essentially identical trends. Thus, these combined observations indicate significant, long-term variations in solar wind output from the entire Sun. The significant, long-term trend to lower dynamic pressures means that the heliosphere has been shrinking and the heliopause must be moving inward toward the Voyager spacecraft. In addition, our observations suggest a significant and global reduction in the mass and energy fed in below the sonic point in the corona. The lower supply of mass and energy may result naturally from a reduction of open magnetic flux during this period.
Diamond nucleation on surfaces using carbon clusters

Thin solid films of C60 and C70 have been used as nucleating layers for the growth of diamond thin films on a variety of substrate surfaces, including metal, insulator, and semiconductors. Compared to other forms of carbon, such as graphite, amorphous carbon, soot, etc., it is found that the nucleation density on a C70 film is equivalent to that of diamond seeds themselves. On the other hand, diamond nucleation on a C60 film is less favorable. We argue from our experiments that the reason for C70 film to have such favorable nucleating properties is its chemical stability and geometry. A working model is proposed to explain the nucleation of diamond on solid C70 films. Application of this work extending to the growth of diamond on a wide range of substrates is also discussed.
The neurologist and patient safety.

Background:The objective of this article is to acquaint neurologists with the current status of evidence and opinion on patient safety in neurology. Research data on errors and preventable adverse events (harm from medical management) in neurology are sparse, with little light being cast thus far on
Environmental mobility of cesium-137

During a 2-year study, erosion, soil losses of 53, 2·5 and 0·9 metric tons/ha were coupled with 137Cs losses of 43, 19 and 7 per cent, on 2·3 × 2·3 m bare soil, poor meadow and good meadow plots respectively. Runoff and erosion losses of 137Cs from vegetation-covered plots occurred primarily in the initial stages following the application, due to washoff from vegetation, at a rate approximately ten times greater than would be expected on the basis of soil loss alone. Evidence of 137Cs redistribution was determined by sampling and analysis techniques which facilitate a fair material balance. Uptake of 137Cs by new vegetation was only a small fraction of originally applied 137Cs. An empirical relationship between cesium loss and soil loss of the form: ψ = A(x/b)n, where Ψ = Cs loss, x = soil loss, b = a units constant, A = a coefficient and n = an exponent, fits the data well. These results indicate that movement of radionuclides by runoff and erosion may be quite important.
Inegalitarian Biocentric Consequentialism, the Minimax Implication and Multidimensional Value Theory: A Brief Proposal for a New Direction in Environmental Ethics

Perhaps the most impressive environmental ethic developed to date in any detail is Robin Attfield's biocentric consequentialism. Indeed, on first study, it appears sufficiently impressive that, before presenting any alternative theoretical approach, one would first need to establish why one should not simply embrace Attfield's. After outlining a seemingly decisive flaw in his theory, and then criticizing his response to it, this article adumbrates a very different theoretical basis for an environmental ethic: namely, a value-pluralist one. In so doing, it seeks to give due weight to anthropocentric, zoocentric, biocentric and ecocentric considerations, and argues that the various values involved require trading off. This can be accomplished by employing multidimensional indifference curves. Moreover, after considering a three-dimensional indifference plane superimposed upon a three-dimensional possibility frontier, it becomes apparent that a moral-pluralist environmental ethic is, contrary to widespread assumptions, capable, in principle at least, of providing determinate answers to moral questions.
Selective muscle fiber hypoplasia and epiphyseal osteolysis

Summary: This paper reports the investigation of a case associating grotesque skeletal deformities, selective hypoplasia of muscle fiber types I and HA, and a decrease in skeletal mineral plus increased skeletal resorption. The investigation also included administration of synthetic salmon calcitonin, a hormone that reduces bone resorption. The patient, a 10-year-old female, presented with foreshortened, clawlike hands and feet, joint stiffness with contractures, marked muscle atrophy, and severe joint pain. Radiologic survey revealed muscle atrophy, osteoporosis and epiphyseal osteolysis. 47Ca turnover was accelerated. Muscle biopsy revealed a population of hypoplastic muscle fibers, 10–22 μm in diameter, scattered singly or in small groups among a majority of larger morphologically normal fibers. Myofibrillar ATPase stains showed that all types I and HA fibers present were hypoplastic, and all large fibers present were type HB. Electron microscopic study of the skeletal muscle showed normal myofibrils but vacuolated mitochondria with disorganized cristae in the hypoplastic fibers. Synthetic salmon calcitonin given at 2 MRC units/kg 3 days a week produced a marked improvement in bone pain and reduced urinary excretion of hydroxyproline from 110.3 and 155.9 mg/24 hr during the two control periods to 136.2 and 84.2 mg/24 hr. Calcium metabolic balance changed from an average control value of +124.4 to + 248 mg/day during calcitonin therapy. Iliac crest biopsy before calcitonin revealed increased uncalcified bone matrix and increased osteoclastic activity. After 3 months of calcitonin there was a decrease in the amount of uncalcified matrix and an apparent decrease in osteoclastic activity. Skin biopsy was normal. Speculation: One may speculate as to the relationship between the muscle and bone abnormalities in the present case. Joint contractures are not uncommon in children with muscle disease, and it is likely that the joint deformities are at least in part related to the muscle hypoplasia and weakness. The osteomalacia and epiphyseal osteolysis, on the other hand, have not been reported in association with other types of congenital muscle disease, and appear much too severe to be secondary phenomena. The selective muscle fiber hypoplasia and severe osteomalacia are apparently two associated aspects of one clinical syndrome. Whether the mitochondrial abnormalities noted in the muscle reflect the underlying metabolic defect of this syndrome remains to be investigated.
The work environment impact assessment: A methodologic framework for evaluating health-based interventions

Background A new conceptual framework is needed to evaluate health-based interventions based on the premise that like the environment, workplaces are complex ecologies. The proposed Work Environment Impact Assessment (WEIA) is analogous to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), a concept and method developed 30 years ago in the environmental policy arena to evaluate potential consequences of human activity for the natural environment. WEIA entails identifying and evaluating both intended and unintended consequences, or outcomes, associated with a particular intervention. Because the workplace is a complex ecology, changes in one aspect may lead to changes in other aspects. WEIA calls for a systematic and comprehensive approach to the total work environment. Methods To illustrate the utility of WEIA we use this approach to evaluate an intervention to reduce the public's exposure to the pesticide Alar®, which had been used on apples until it was withdrawn from the market in 1989. Results While this intervention did indeed reduce the public's exposure to Alar, it also led to other unintended consequences, namely new ergonomic hazards for apple pickers, increased stress levels in the orchards for both pickers and growers, as well as new worker, and perhaps public, exposure to potent neurotoxins. Conclusions The goal of using WEIA is not to engage in a risk–risk debate that stalls worthwhile interventions. Rather, we propose that by conducting a Work Environment Impact Assessment, all possible positive and negative “ripple” effects stemming from an intervention can be considered, so that the intervention can be designed to achieve maximum benefit. Am. J. Ind. Med. 39:218–226, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Thermal equilibrium noise of space charge limited current in silicon for holes with field-dependent mobility

Abstract Measurements of the limiting white noise of space charge limited hole current in silicon were made at d.c. voltages where the hole mobility becomes field-dependent. The surprising result is established that the hole temperature is equal to the lattice temperature at 110°K within 10 per cent at voltages where the deviations from constant mobility reach 50 per cent. This result contradicts accepted theories relating carrier temperature to field-dependent mobility.
No one loves a political realist

(1996). No one loves a political realist. Security Studies: Vol. 5, Realism: Restatements and Renewal, pp. 3-26.
Metal ion extraction by cone p - tert -butylcalix[4]arene-1,3-crown-5 with two N -(X)sulfonyl carbamoylmethoxy side arms and -1,3-monothiacrown-5 analogues

Four cone p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene-1,3-monothiacrown-5 ligands each with two N-(X)sulfonyl carbamoylmethoxy side arms are synthesized for comparison with analogs having only oxygen heteroatoms in the crown ether ring. Solvent extractions of hard alkali metal and alkaline earth metal cations, intermediate Pb2+, and soft Hg2+ from aqueous solutions into chloroform by these ligands are utilized to probe the effects of sulfur replacement in the crown ether ring on metal ion complexation.