cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Absolute surface manometry: thermodynamic fixed points for air-water monolayers of pentadecanoic acid at 25°C

An extensive series of experiments on pentadecanoic acid monolayers has been made at 25°C with several independent methods of surface manometry. The purpose of the study was to establish a set of surface pressures for the three monolayer phase transitions to act as surface manometric standards. It was coincidentally demonstrated in high purity systems that the so-called liquid-expanded-liquid-condensed transition is simply first order. The experimental requirements for reproducible surface manometry are described. Less extensive data on hexadecanoic acid are also given to invite further critical experiments.
LocateMe: Magnetic-fields-based indoor localization using smartphones

Fine-grained localization is extremely important to accurately locate a user indoors. Although innovative solutions have already been proposed, there is no solution that is universally accepted, easily implemented, user centric, and, most importantly, works in the absence of GSM coverage or WiFi availability. The advent of sensor rich smartphones has paved a way to develop a solution that can cater to these requirements. By employing a smartphone's built-in magnetic field sensor, magnetic signatures were collected inside buildings. These signatures displayed a uniqueness in their patterns due to the presence of different kinds of pillars, doors, elevators, etc., that consist of ferromagnetic materials like steel or iron. We theoretically analyze the cause of this uniqueness and then present an indoor localization solution by classifying signatures based on their patterns. However, to account for user walking speed variations so as to provide an application usable to a variety of users, we follow a dynamic time-warping-based approach that is known to work on similar signals irrespective of their variations in the time axis. Our approach resulted in localization distances of approximately 2m--6m with accuracies between 80--100p implying that it is sufficient to walk short distances across hallways to be located by the smartphone. The implementation of the application on different smartphones yielded response times of less than five secs, thereby validating the feasibility of our approach and making it a viable solution.
Satisfaction of need for achievement in work and leisure time activities

Abstract This paper examines the relationship between two explanatory variables—level of need for achievement (n-Ach) and degree of achievement opportunity on the job—and type of leisure time activities people choose. Combining the two explanatory variables into an indicator of need deprivation, the authors hypothesize that people whose need for achievement is not satisfied on the job (cases of greater need deprivation) will be more likely to engage in high achievement-oriented leisure time activities than will those whose need for achievement is satisfied on the job (cases of lesser need deprivation). A further hypothesis states that the need deprivation approach will be more useful in predicting type of leisure time activities (high vs low achievement-oriented) than will either n-Ach or achievement opportunity alone. The sample consisted of 100 business people. Level of n-Ach was measured by using part of the Edwards' Personal Preference Schedule, and an eight-item questionnaire developed by the authors was used to measure degree of achievement opportunity on the job. A leisure time activities score was obtained for each subject, and subjects were split at the median into high vs low achievement-oriented leisure time activities groups. A significant relationship between need deprivation indicators and type of leisure time activities supported the hypothesis that people who are unable to satisfy their achievement needs on the job are likely to do so in their leisure time activities. The need deprivation approach was shown to be superior to either explanatory variable alone in predicting type of leisure time activity. Implications of the findings for organizations are presented.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa outer membrane protein F produced inEscherichia coli retains vaccine efficacy

Pseudomonas aeruginosa outer membrane protein F was purified by extraction from polyacrylamide gels of cell envelope proteins of anEscherichia coli strain expressing the cloned gene for protein F. Antisera directed against protein F purified fromP. aeruginosa PAO1 reacted with thisE. coli strain by immunofluorescence assay and immunoblotting, whereas these antisera were nonreactive withE. coli strains lacking thePseudomonas protein F gene. The protein F purified from thisE. coli strain was used to immunize mice by intramuscular injection of 10 µg of protein F preparation on days 1 and 14, followed by burn and challenge of the mice on day 28. As compared with control mice immunized withE. coli K-12 lipopolysaccharide, immunization with theE. coli-derived protein F afforded significant protection against subsequent challenge with heterologous Fisher-Devlin immunotype 5 and 6 strains ofP. aeruginosa. Antisera from mice immunized with theE. coli-derived protein F reacted at bands corresponding to protein F and 2-mercaptoethanol-modified protein F upon immunoblotting against cell envelope proteins of the PAO1, immunotype 5, and immunotype 6 strains ofP. aeruginosa and theE. coli strain containing the cloned F gene, but failed to react at these sites in anE. coli strain lacking the F gene. These data demonstrate thatP. aeruginosa protein F produced inE. coli through genetic engineering techniques retains its vaccine efficacy in the complete absence of anyP. aeruginosa lipopolysaccharide.
Revitalizing NASA? A five-point plan

Abstract Following its early successes, NASA has taken a number of mis-steps, resulting in a loss of focus at the agency. Over-reliance on the Space Shuttle, treating it as an operational rather than an experimental vehicle, and the massive-cost-for-limited-results debacle of the ISS are chief among them, while the new and expensive Project Constellation targetting the Moon and Mars also promises little return. NASA needs to revitalize itself by pursuing missions more relevant to ordinary people—solar energy generation, planetary protection and sustainability, development of a robotically assembled Moon colony, among others—by restructuring itself and by working much more closely with industry and private entrepreneurs.
Resonant bimorph-driven high-torque piezoelectric rotary motor

A compact high-torque rotary motor was developed for use in large-displacement structural shape control applications. The main principle underlying its operation is rectification and accumulation of small resonant displacement of piezoelectric bimorphs using roller clutches as mechanical diodes. On the driving half of each cycle, the forward motion of the bimorph is converted to rotation of the shaft when the hub drive torque exceeds that of the load. On the recovery half of each cycle, a second, fixed, roller clutch prevents the load from backdriving the shaft. This approach substantially increased the output mechanical power relative to that of previous inchworm-type motor designs. Experiments to date, conducted under conditions of continuous operation at a 90 Vrms drive level, have demonstrated a stall torque of about 0.4 N-m, a no-load speed of about 750 RPM, peak power output greater than 1 W, and power density of about 5 W/kg. While not yet competitive with conventional motor technologies, this motor may also be fabricated in unusual (i.e., non-cylindrical) form factors, enabling greater geometric conformability than that of typical motors. The use of commercial roller clutches, piezoelectric bimorphs, and single frequency drive signals also results in a simple, inexpensive design.
Liver transplantation for HELLP syndrome

Hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count (HELLP) syndrome is a rare complication of pregnancy that is associated with preeclampsia and may result in rupture of the liver. Although there have been case reports of liver transplantation for HELLP syndrome, the outcomes of transplantation for this rare indication have not been reported. Furthermore, the optimal management of complicated HELLP syndrome and indications for liver transplantation are unclear. Our objective was to review the national experience with liver transplantation for HELLP syndrome and to develop a comprehensive algorithm for the management of liver complications of HELLP syndrome, including indications for transplantation. A recent case from our institution is reported and the literature is reviewed. The results of liver transplantation for HELLP syndrome were analyzed from the United Network for Organ Sharing database. Between October 1987 and November 2003 there have been 8 deceased donor liver transplants performed for complications related to HELLP syndrome. As of the most recent follow-up, 6 of the 8 patients are alive, with both deaths occurring within 1 month of transplantation, and 2 patients have required retransplantation. This review supports that good results can be obtained with liver transplantation for patients with complicated HELLP syndrome that have either ongoing, uncontrolled hemorrhage or liver necrosis and failure. Patients with complicated HELLP syndrome are best managed at a center with expertise in liver transplantation.
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers in human gestational membranes from women in southeast Michigan.

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been incorporated into many consumer products as flame retardants. Due to their persistence and ability to bioaccumulate, PBDEs are ubiquitous in human blood and breast milk samples from industrialized nations. Although there exists a potential for environmental pollutants such as PBDEs to adversely impact birth outcomes and perinatal health, reports of PBDE levels in human reproductive tissues are limited. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the total levels and congener-specific profiles of PBDEs from human extraplacental gestational membranes. Gestational membranes from five term pregnancies were obtained from nonlaboring caesarian deliveries at the University of Michigan Women’s Hospital Birth Center. Duplicate samples were extracted and analyzed by GC-MS for twenty-one PBDE congeners. Total PBDE loading was 17.4 ± 3.9 pg/g tissue (5.62 ± 1.28 ng/g lipid). Seventy-eight percent of the total measurable PBDE loading was due to BDEs 47, 49, 99, 100, and...
Follow-up computerized tomography (CT) scans in moderate and severe head injuries: correlation with Glasgow Coma Scores (GCS), and complication rate.

Background: The wide availability of computerized tomography (CT) scan has popularized its use in initial and follow-up evaluations of head trauma patients. Follow-up CT scans of clinically stable patients, however, may not provide additional information, but could potentially subject the patients to secondary injuries. The authors investigated the correlation between CT scans and Glasgow coma score (GCS), and complication rate during follow-up CT scans in an attempt to dissuade clinicians from obtaining unnecessary follow-up CT scans.
Spectra and structure of small ring compounds. LII—Raman and far‐infrared spectra of solid 1,1‐dicyanocyclopropane and ab initio calculations of cyclopropane, cyanocyclopropane and 1,1‐dicyanocyclopropane

The Raman (3500–10 cm−1) and far-infrared (400–70 cm−1) spectra of solid 1,1-dicyanocyclopropane have been recorded. The molecular structure of cyclopropane, cyanocyclopropane and 1,1-dicyanocyclopropane have been calculated by ab initio methods at the 4-31G basis set level. The harmonic force fields for cyanocyclopropane and 1,1-dicyanocyclopropane have also been calculated using the same basis set. By the combination of experimental data and normal coordinate calculations with scaled ab initio force constants, the vibrational assignments for these two molecules have been revised. Discrepancies between the previously reported and present assignments are discussed. The molecular structures of cyanocyclopropane and 1,1-dicyanocyclopropane obtained in this work are compared with the molecular structure of cyclopropane.
Immunologic mechanisms of antitumor activity.

The growth and metastatic spread of tumors, to a large extent, depends on their capacity to evade host immune surveillance and overcome host defenses. All tumors express antigens that are recognized to a variable extent by the immune system, but in many cases an inadequate immune response is elicited because of partial antigen masking or ineffective activation of effector cells. Tumor antigens presented in the context of major histocompatability antigen (MHC) class I complexes on either the tumor cell itself or on antigen-presenting cells are capable of inducing tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes. The presence of costimulatory molecules, such as B7-1 and B7-2, on antigen-presenting cells and the secretion of IL-2 promote the differentiation of recruited CD8+ lymphocytes into cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Tumor escape from immune effectors is most often caused by weak immunogenicity of tumor antigens, antigen masking, or overall immunosuppression, a characteristic of advanced cancer. Failure of antigen processing or binding to MHC molecules, inadequate or low-affinity binding of MHC complexes to T-cell receptors, or inadequate expression of costimulatory adhesion molecules in conjunction with the antigen-presenting MHC complex may all lead to poor immunogenicity of tumor-associated peptides and impaired antitumor response. Therapeutic interventions to augment tumor antigenicity include vaccination with immunogenic peptides, administration of in vitro expanded and activated immune effector cells, in vivo effector cell expansion with cytokine therapies, or genetic modification of either immune effectors or tumor cells with cytokine genes or genes encoding costimulatory molecules to effectively activate the immune response.
White Matter Stroke: Autoprotective Mechanisms with Therapeutic Implications

The incidence of stroke involving CNS white matter is relatively high, yet there are currently no protective treatments that limit irreversible dysfunction in white matter stroke. The events that lead
Low thrust transfer of Large Space Systems

A study which defined an optimized low-thrust orbit transfer vehicle (OTV) is presented. The objectives of this NASA study were to (1) characterize missions which require or benefit from low-orbit transfer; (2) evaluate and compare candidate low-thrust liquid propulsion orbit transfer vehicle concepts; (3) determine propulsion/system characteristics which have the greatest influence on system suitability/capability; and (4) identify and describe propulsion technology requirements. A computerized optimization procedure was developed to determine the effect of thrust level and transients, number of burns, and payload structure material; a baseline hydrogen/oxygen low thrust OTV configured specifically for orbit transfer of large space systems was defined. Finally, the requirements for the engine for an optimized low thrust stage and the optimum vehicle for low acceleration missions were specified.
Role of vasopressin in the management of septic shock

Vasopressin is a potent vasopressor for improving organ perfusion during septic shock. The rationale for the use of vasopressin is its relative deficiency of plasma levels and hypersensitivity to its vasopressor effects during septic shock. Growing evidence suggests that low-dose (<0.04 U/min) vasopressin is safe and effective for the treatment of vasodilatory shock. Although it is being used more frequently, there are no randomized clinical trials comparing vasopressin as a first-line agent to commonly used vasopressors. However, vasopressin causes arterial smooth muscle cell contraction through a non-catecholamine receptor pathway, thus it represents an attractive adjunct to the management of septic shock, especially when catecholamines are ineffective.
A Three-Segment Hydraulic Model for Cuttings Transport in Horizontal and Deviated Wells

A three-layer mathematical model has been developed to predict and interpret the cuttings transport in a wellbore that has been deviated from horizontal to vertical during coiled tubing drilling. The model is a new approach for a two-phase (solid-liquid) fluid in horizontal and near horizontal section. It was determined that nominal annual velocity of drilling fluids play a key role in terms of pressure gradient and cuttings transport. The choice of fluids annulus velocity and its operations conditions are crucial for economic and efficient horizontal drilling using coiled tubing. It was recommended that in order to obtain an optimum hole cleaning in transient segments, there should be a balance between cuttings bed, pressure gradient and rheology of the fluid. It was also recommended that the conventional drilling fluid velocity range of 2 to 3 ft/s should be avoided for coiled tubing horizontal drilling. The nominal annual velocity range of 3.5 to 4.5 ft/s can be used for wells having long horizontal sections because the lowest pressure gradient is obtained at this range. The model predictions based on simulations were in good agreement with experimental data. 26 refs., 4 tabs., 14 figs.
Ingestive behavior and body temperature of pigeons during long-term cold exposure

Pigeons well adapted to living in 21 degrees C ambient temperature (T(a)) were continuously exposed to cold T(a) for 6 days (Experiment 1) or 30 days (Experiment 2). The pigeons lived on a 12:12 L:D cycle where they could obtain short access to food and water at any time in the light phase by making 12 keypeck responses. Across the two experiments, the levels of cold exposure were 6 degrees C, 1 degrees C, and 0.6 degrees C. In cold, total daily food intake increased gradually across the first few days of the exposure, and the new level of food intake was inversely related to T(a). The daily ratio of total water drunk to total food eaten averaged approximately 1.3 in 21 degrees C, fell to approximately 1.0 on day 1 of cold exposure, and remained at that level for as long as 30 days. The day-night cycle in core body temperature was not changed by cold exposure. The bimodal temporal pattern of feeding in the light phase, which is characteristic of pigeons in moderate T(a), was preserved in the cold although the absolute level of feeding activity was enhanced. An analysis of the ways individual pigeons achieved total daily food intake by combining a number of feeding episodes with an average amount eaten per episode revealed considerable variation between birds, but a relatively constant feeding style within bird over time. In the colder temperatures used, however, the pigeons all increased the number of feeding episodes per day. The results provide the first detailed analysis of cold-induced changes in ingestive behavior in the pigeon and raise several questions about the behavioral expression of cold-sensitive regulatory processes.
Time course of physostigmine effects on neuroendocrine responding at varying environmental temperatures

Abstract 1. 1. Hypothermia was found to be related to both the dose of physostigmine and the environmental temperature. 2. 2. Plasma corticosterone levels were elevated above controls regardless of dose of physostigmine or environmental temperature. 3. 3. Plasma free fatty acid levels appeared to be inversely related to physostigmine-induced hypothermia. 4. 4. A hyperglycemic response was observed under all experimental conditions at 0.5 hours and 1.0 hour post injection. 5. 5. Significant inhibition of brain acetylcholinesterase was observed, whereas, plasma and erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase activity was inconsistent.
A strategy for word processing training

The Catholic University of America chose a word processor which included Computer Based Instruction that would allow users to learn word processing at their own pace. A training outline was developed to provide a structured approach to this learning. Though the outline described here pertains to the DECmate II, its general philosophy can be applied to any equipment with self-teaching capabilities.
Measurements of the electric field distribution in high-power diodes.

We have measured the electric field in the high-voltage gap of a magnetically insulated intense--ion-beam diode by observation of the Stark shift of line emission from ions accelerating in the gap. The electric field distribution as a function of distance from the anode plasma has been compared with a theoretical model and is not consistent with a well confined electron sheath near the cathode. Furthermore, a very rapid gap closure at early time in the pulse was clearly observed.
Mechanical considerations for the implant tooth-supported fixed partial denture

The implant tooth-supported fixed partial denture presents a biomechanical design problem, because the implant is ridigly fixed within the alveolus, and the tooth is surrounded by a periodontal ligament that allows movement. Nonrigid fixed partial denture designs are advocated by some dentists as a method of compensating for this differential movement. Rigid fixed partial denture designs, however, are advocated by many clinicians. Studies have failed to show the advantage of one design over the other. This study developed an in vitro method for testing such prosthesis designs and measured movement of a natural tooth abutment during simulated function. The movement of the natural tooth abutment was not found to change substantially with the fixed partial denture designs tested.
Progressive activation of DNA replication initiation in large domains of the immunoglobulin heavy chain locus during B cell development.

Summary In mammalian cells, the replication of tissue-specific gene loci is believed to be under developmental control. Here, we provide direct evidence of the existence of developmentally regulated origins of replication in both cell lines and primary cells. By using single-molecule analysis of replicated DNA (SMARD), we identified various groups of coregulated origins that are activated within the Igh locus. These origin clusters can span hundreds of kilobases and are activated sequentially during B cell development, concomitantly with developmentally regulated changes in chromatin structure and transcriptional activity. Finally, we show that the changes in DNA replication initiation that take place during B cell development, within the D-J-C-3′RR region, occur on both alleles (expressed and nonexpressed).
A preliminary report: Severe respitatory distress in transitional newborn lambs with recovery following nonnutrivite sucking

Summary This article reports experiences with three transitional newborn lambs in severe respiratory distress. Two of these lambs demonstrated almost immediate reversal of their symptoms when they were given nonnutritive sucking opportunities. Three and five hours later they were symptom free. Experimental research is planned with lamb and human newborns to test for cause and effect relationships. Sucking and gentle sensory stimulation are inherent in selfregulatory mother-young interaction following birth. Such interaction may facilitate the transitional newborn's adaptation to extrauterine life and the mother's postpartum adaptation. The absence of ongoing mother-young interaction, a common phenomenon in western culture, is implicated as a possible contributory factor in the development of, or failure to alleviate, the respiratory distress syndrome in human transitional newborns. Recommendations are offered which may facilitate successful mother-transitional newborn interaction.
Intertrial intervals and kindled seizures.

Abstract The effects of nonuniform intertrial intervals on the development and retention of kindled amygdaloid seizures in rats were evaluated. Six consecutive grouped trial sessions (GTSs) consisting of five stimulations with 1-h intertrial intervals each day significantly reduced the average afterdischarge duration and behavioral seizure response of rats previously kindled by single, daily stimulations. Another group was treated with 32 consecutive stimulations at 1-h intervals. The development of kindling in this group was disrupted and only half the group exhibited occasional rank 5 seizures during the hourly stimulations. When the hourly group was subsequently stimulated once daily, kindled seizures were elicited in all animals. These data demonstrate that hourly stimulations or short, massed-trial paradigms disrupt kindled seizures and produce a convulsive response that is different from that produced by a single daily stimulation, suggesting that the pattern of stimulations must be taken into account when interpreting neurophysiologic, biochemical, or pharmacologic data from animals presumably kindled by the stimulations.
Elevated COX-2 expression in cervical carcinoma : Reduced cause-specific survival and pelvic control

The purpose of this study was to correlate the level of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in carcinoma of the cervix with the clinical endpoints: local control, cause-specific survival, and patterns of failure in patients treated with radiotherapy. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor biopsies were stained for COX-2. Clinical factors such as stage, grade, tumor size, pre- and posttreatment hemoglobin level, and radiotherapy dose were also evaluated. Actuarial local control rates and cause-specific survival were determined according to the Kaplan-Meier method. COX-2 distribution staining was the only prognostic factor that was associated with local control and cause-specific survival. High COX-2 distribution staining was associated with decreased local control and decreased cause-specific survival by log rank comparison of Kaplan-Meier survival curves. The 5-year cause-specific survival rates for tumors with low versus high COX-2 distribution values were 90% and 22%, respectively (p = 0.0003). Actuarial pelvic control at 5 years was superior in patients with low COX-2 distribution staining (92%) compared with high staining (42%, p = 0.005). COX-2 staining intensity was found to correlate positively with tumor size (p = 0.02). These findings indicate that increased expression of COX-2 yields reduced pelvic control and cause-specific survival in patients with invasive carcinoma of the cervix treated with radiotherapy. Previously, inhibition of COX-2 has been demonstrated to sensitize tumors to radiation without effect on normal tissue. Taken together, these data may support a novel therapeutic application of COX-2 inhibitors in the treatment of carcinoma of the cervix.
SIGIRR, a negative regulator of Toll-like receptor-interleukin 1 receptor signaling.

The Toll-like receptor–interleukin 1 receptor signaling (TLR–IL-1R) receptor superfamily is important in differentially recognizing pathogen products and eliciting appropriate immune responses. These receptors alter gene expression, mainly through the activation of nuclear factor-κB and activating protein 1. SIGIRR (single immunoglobulin IL-1R-related molecule), a member of this family that does not activate these factors, instead negatively modulates immune responses. Inflammation is enhanced in SIGIRR-deficient mice, as shown by their enhanced chemokine induction after IL-1 injection and reduced threshold for lethal endotoxin challenge. Cells from SIGIRR-deficient mice showed enhanced activation in response to either IL-1 or certain Toll ligands. Finally, biochemical analysis indicated that SIGIRR binds to the TLR–IL-1R signaling components in a ligand-dependent way. Our data show that SIGIRR functions as a biologically important modulator of TLR–IL-1R signaling.
Effects of pentobarbital and d-amphetamine on oral phencyclidine self-administration in rhesus monkeys

Three rhesus monkeys self-administered phencyclidine (0.25 mg/ml) during daily 3-hr sessions. Water was also available under a concurrent fixed-ratio (FR) 16 schedule. In Experiment 1, saline or three doses of pentobarbital (2.5, 5 or 10 mg/kg) were injected 10 min before phencyclidine (and water) self-administration sessions. The 2.5 mg/kg pentobarbital dose increased phencyclidine-maintained responding, the 5 mg/kg dose produced mixed effects among the three monkeys, and the 10 mg/kg dose consistently decreased phencyclidine-maintained responding. Subsequently, a saccharin solution (0.03% wt/vol) replaced phencyclidine, and the pentobarbital pretreatment procedure was repeated. Pentobarbital produced dose-related decreases in saccharin-maintained responding. In Experiment 2, saline or three doses of d-amphetamine (0.05, 0.1 or 0.2 mg/kg) were injected 10 min before the phencyclidine self-administration sessions. The 0.05 mg/kg dose produced increases in phencyclidine-maintained responding, while the two higher doses produced dose dependent decreases in responding. When a saccharin solution (0.03%, wt/vol) replaced phencyclidine during the daily sessions, d-amphetamine produced only dose-related decreases in saccharin-maintained responding. These results indicate that pentobarbital and d-amphetamine have a biphasic effect on phencyclidine-maintained behavior; low doses increased responding and high doses decreased responding.
Antitumor effect of β-elemene in non-small-cell lung cancer cells is mediated via induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptotic cell death

β-Elemene is a novel anticancer drug, which was extracted from the ginger plant. However, the mechanism of action of β-elemene in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unknown. Here we show that β-elemene had differential inhibitory effects on cell growth between NSCLC cell lines and lung fibroblast and bronchial epithelial cell lines. In addition, β-elemene was found to arrest NSCLC cells at G2-M phase, the arrest being accompanied by decreases in the levels of cyclin B1 and phospho-Cdc2 (Thr-161) and increases in the levels of p27kip1 and phospho-Cdc2 (Tyr-15). Moreover, β-elemene reduced the expression of Cdc25C, which dephosphorylates/activates Cdc2, but enhanced the expression of the checkpoint kinase, Chk2, which phosphorylates/ inactivates Cdc25C. These findings suggest that the effect of β-elemene on G2-M arrest in NSCLC cells is mediated partly by a Chk2-dependent mechanism. We also demonstrate that β-elemene triggered apoptosis in NSCLC cells. Our results clearly show that β-elemene induced caspase-3, −7 and −9 activities, decreased Bcl-2 expression, caused cytochrome c release and increased the levels of cleaved caspase-9 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase in NSCLC cells. These data indicate that the effect of β-elemene on lung cancer cell death may be through a mitochondrial release of the cytochrome c-mediated apoptotic pathway.
Faithful Dissenters: Sunni Skepticism about the Miracles of Saints

Abstract Belief in the miracles of saints (karāmāt al-awliyāʾ) is a requirement in Sunni Islam. Challenges to this position are generally seen as limited to Islamic modernists affected by Western historical criticism. This article demonstrates that there have actually been leading Sunni Muslim scholars from the fourth/tenth century until the modern period who held positions regarding the miracles of saints that were much more skeptical than the mainstream Sunni stance. These ‘faithful dissenters’ were motivated by both theological and social concerns, and the methodologies they presented for sifting true from false miracle claims were based entirely on indigenous Islamic epistemological and textual criticism.
Effect of images in six sense modalities on detection of visual signal from noise

Ss were asked to generate images in six different sense modalities, and a visual display was presented while they were imaging. The display consisted of a geometric pattern, and a small dim colored figure was present within the pattern on half the trials. Ss’ ability to detect the figure was compared in the imaging task and in a standard discrimination task without imagery. Sensitivity (d’) was significantly poorer during imaging than during discrimination, was worse during visual imagery than during imagery of auditory, olfactory, gustatory, tactile, or kinesthetic objects, and was worse with images of relatively unfamiliar items. This phenomenon seems due to selective attentional effects.
Stiffness following shoulder arthroplasty: To manipulate or not

Abstract While the definition of "stiffness" after shoulder arthroplasty remains controversial, loss of range of motion in the post-arthroplasty setting can be a disabling functional complication. Cause of limitations in the range of motion after shoulder arthroplasty can be attributed to four potential etiologies: failure to address preoperative indications, implant complications, surgical technical errors, and finally soft tissue management and soft tissue results. Preoperative diagnostic error, implant failures, and intraoperative technical errors are often managed with revision surgery; however, there appears to be a role for contracture releases in the treatment of shoulder stiffness.
Prospects for nanoporous metal-organic materials in advanced separations processes

New materials spur new technologies. Nanoporous metalorganic materials — “soft materials”analogues of zeolites, but with all of the chemical diversity of carbon compounds — may be compelling examples of this path from materials to technologies. Research teams investigating this new class of materials are trying to develop adsorbents and membranes that will revolutionize small-molecule separations, as well as new kinds of catalysts that behave as powerful arrays of artificial enzymes. In addition, metal-organic materials hold promise to act as ultra-low-density sponges that can store and release extraordinary amounts of molecular hydrogen for next-generation vehicles. Driving these materials discoveries are advances in supramolecular coordination chemistry and metal-based directedassembly chemistry. These tools are enabling scientists and engineers around the world to construct imaginative new metalorganic materials in synthetically predictable ways. This article describes some of these materials and results to date that suggest their potential for performing, among other things, demanding chemical separations. Comprising the new materials are ones based on extended porous crystalline lattices, as well as others based on aggregates of individual hollow molecules. Each type appears to offer advantages for specific applications. What they have in common, however, are good permeability, high void volumes, and well defined tailorable cavities of uniform size — precisely the properties needed for catalysis, separations, and storage/release applications. This is still an emerging field, with many opportunities; numerous new materials are being made and the potential appears great, but the performance of metal-organic materials in industrially important technologies is still a mostly unexplored frontier. The New Materials: What They Are and What They Are Already Good For
Stand-alone anterior lumbar discectomy and fusion with plate: initial experience.

Abstract Background The stability of the lumbar spine after ALIF with lateral plate fixation and/or posterior fixation has previously been investigated; however, stand-alone ALDF with plate has not. Previous clinical studies have demonstrated poor fusion rates with stand-alone anterior interbody fusion in the absence of posterior instrumentation. We review our initial experience with stand-alone ALDF with segmental plate fixation for degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine and compare these results with our experience with traditional ALIF and supplemental posterior instrumentation. Methods Forty-nine patients treated at the University of California, San Francisco between 2002 and 2005 were included in this analysis. The study was retrospective in nature. All patients presented with discogram-positive back pain and had failed conservative treatment. Twenty-four patients underwent ALDF with plate, and 25 underwent ALIF with posterior instrumentation. Patients underwent flexion/extension imaging at 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. All patients completed ODI and VAS questionnaires at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively. Results Average follow-up was 11.6 and 21.7 months in the ALDF with plate and ALIF with instrumentation groups, respectively. All patients demonstrated radiographic evidence of fusion at last follow-up. None developed instability at the fusion level, and none developed hardware failure (plate back-out, screw lucency, etc). Average subsidence at 6 months postoperatively was 2.2 and 2.5 mm, respectively. The VAS and ODI scores are presented in Tables 3 and 4. Conclusions Preliminary results of stand-alone ALDF with plate suggest it may be safe and effective for the surgical treatment of patients with degenerative disc disease of the lumbar spine. Long-term follow-up is clearly needed. Subsidence is diminished with ALDF and plating compared with ALIF with posterior instrumentation. It is unclear at this time which subset of patients may ultimately require posterior hardware supplementation, but those with circumferential stenosis or severe facet disease are not ideal candidates for ALDF with plate. For some patients in whom lumbar arthroplasty is not indicated, or as a salvage procedure, ALDF with plate may be a satisfactory alternative and may eliminate the need for a supplemental posterior procedure.
Recovery Kinetics of Cold-Deformed Cr-Mo Steels

The recovery kinetics of cold deformed (2.6 and 7 pct) Cr-Mo steel during isothermally and continuous annealing was studied in the 450 °C to 680 °C temperature range. The recovery evolution was monitored by measuring the annealed material yield stress at room temperature, and the microstructure was characterized by the Williamson–Hall X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. Different responses of the material were observed after long annealing times depending on the amount of prestrain. For low prestrains (2.6 pct), complete recovery was found. For high prestrains (7 pct), partial recovery was observed after long annealing times, with asymptotic yield stress values that depend on the annealing temperature. From XRD measurements, this was ascribed to the formation during annealing of stable structures characterized by low annihilation kinetics with no formation of cells within the grains. This was confirmed by transmission electron observations. To describe the recovery kinetics, a model based on the solution of the differential equation of the dislocation density was used; the process was assumed to be thermally activated, with an activation energy that depends on the dislocation density. The model parameters were fitted with the isothermal annealing results, and an excellent agreement was found when compared to the continuous annealing results.
The phosphoglyceride composition of Gram-negative bacteria and the changes in composition during growth.

Abstract 1. 1. With one exception, Agrobacterium tumefaciens in stationary growth phase, phosphatidylethanolamine was the major phospholipid present at all stages of growth in 8 species of Gram-negative bacteria studied. Phosphatidylglycerol and diphosphatidylglycerol were also always present. 2. 2. The species studied could otherwise be divided into two groups on the basis of whether N - methyl derivatives of phosphatidylethanolamine were also present. This classification and the discrimination of two additional groups on the basis of published reports are discussed. 3. 3. In addition to the major lipids indicated above, phosphatidic acid was also generally detected and phosphatidylglycerol phosphate was found in measurable amounts in some strains. 4. 4. With a few exceptions, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidyl- N - monomethylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine rise to a maximum concentration in late log or early stationary phase and then decrease in concentration. Diphosphatidylglycerol rises during the transition between log and stationary phase and then increases to a maximum concentration in stationary phase.
Learning leg movement patterns using neural oscillators

This paper discusses an approach to learning in order to find the joint movement patterns of a legged robot. In particular, we concentrate on a movement exploration technique based on patterns generated by a neural oscillator. The current stage of development and project status are presented along with a philosophy and implementation plan.
Mobilization of software developers: the free software movement

Purpose – The paper has three purposes: the first is to provide a deeper understanding of the ideology and work practices of free and open source software development, the second to characterize the free software movement as a new type of computerization movement and the third to present a conceptual diagram and framework with an analysis showing how the free software computerization movement has evolved into an occupational community.Design/methodology/approach – Qualitative data were collected over a four year period using a virtual ethnography in a study of free and open source software development and, in particular, a study of a free software community, GNUenterprise, located at www.gnuenterprise.org, which has the goal of developing a free enterprise resource planning software system.Findings – It is concluded that the ideology of the free software movement continues to be one of the factors which mobilize people to contribute to free and open source software development. This movement represents a ...
ANGIOTENSIN II STIMULATES ACTIVATION OF FOS-REGULATING KINASE AND C-JUN NH2-TERMINAL KINASE IN NEURONAL CULTURES FROM RAT BRAIN

c-Fos/c-Jun dimers (activating protein-1 transcription factor) are involved in the modulatory actions of angiotensin II (Ang II) on brain norepinephrine neurons, effects mediated via Ang II type 1 (AT1) receptors. The transcriptional activities of c-Fos and c-Jun can be augmented by Fos-regulating kinase (FRK) and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), respectively. In this study, we investigated the effects of Ang II on FRK and JNK activities in neurons cultured from newborn rat hypothalamus and brain stem, which include a population of catecholaminergic cells containing AT1 receptors. Ang II caused time-dependent increases in the activation of FRK and JNK, effects completely inhibited by the AT1 receptor antagonist losartan but not by the Ang II type 2 (AT2) receptor blocker PD123,319. The stimulation of FRK activity by Ang II was abolished by the protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor GF109203X or the calcium chelator BAPTA, but not by inhibition of calmodulin or calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II. However, the activation of JNK by Ang II was not dependent on PKC or another calcium-dependent mechanism. These data demonstrate that Ang II stimulates activation of FRK and JNK in neuronal cells, actions that may contribute to the neuromodulatory effects of this peptide.
Research Note: Utilization of Inedible Eggshells and Technical Egg White Using Extrusion Technology

Abstract An extruded eggshell product (ESP) was formulated into a laying ration of a commercial flock of 6,500 hens to provide 75% of the total calcium from 59 wk to 70 wk of age. A control treatment (22,500 laying hens) with calcium supplied by limestone was also utilized during the same time period. The formulation for ESP including 70% eggshells, 8% technical albumen (shell wringings), 5% corn, 17% soybean meal, and .15% propionic acid was blended and extruded using an extruder. Extrusion temperatures reached in excess of 121.1 C (250 F), which produced a Salmonella-free product The ESP contained 13.1% protein and 24.0% calcium. Rate of lay, feed conversion, and mortality were not adversely affected by the ESP. Also, shell thickness and breaking strength were not significantly affected by the ESP diet Extrusion technology may provide an avenue for better utilization of egg shells as well as other wastes from egg processing plants.
Application of CCD array digital fiber optic spectrometers in determination of within-tree and within-canopy irradiances of UV-B radiation

Although our understanding of the effects of UV-B radiation on annual and crop plants has improved considerably over the past three decades, knowledge of effects on perennial plants, particularly trees, remains much more limited. Understanding the effects of enhanced UV-B radiation on forest trees has been hampered by an inability to develop realistic dose-response relationships, which in turn, has resulted from lack of instrumentation sufficient to accurately determine biologically effective UV irradiances within the canopy. Traditional spectroradiometers equipped with spherical domes have sensor heads that are too large to make within-canopy measurements, especially at individual leaf locations or other small targets. Broad-band sensors, which are smaller, lack the wavelength discrimination necessary to calculate biological effective UV-B radiation. Measurement of UV radiation above a plant canopy provides little information about the radiation environment of individual leaves within the canopy. This is important because whole plant response to UV-radiation is an integrated response of all of the leaves, though obviously not all leaves contribute equally. Within leaves, stress stimuli may induce compensatory responses in unaffected portions of the same leaf, in other adjacent leaves, and even in remote leaves. It is not known if this is true for W radiation; the only way of finding out is to have a probe small enough to measure diminutive and precise locations within the canopy. In this study a StellarNet EPP2000C spectrometer equipped with a 400 μm optical fiber and Teflon diffuser was used to determine solar UV-B irradiances above and within the canopy of representative forest trees. Data was collected at different times during the day, for equivalent leaf and canopy positions in several representative trees. Data collected in the open and below-canopy positions are compared with an Optronics OL-754 spectroradiometer and data obtained at the USDA UVB Monitoring and Research Program field site at Albion, Washington. Results are considered in the context of precision, accuracy and logistical attributes. Sufficient precision and accuracy were shown to suggest that, with proper calibration, this inexpensive and highly portable instrument can be used to make precise measurements of solar UV-B radiation within tree canopies.
Predissociation and Λ-doubling in the even-parity Rydberg states of the nitrogen molecule

Abstract Predissociations in the y 1 Π g and x 1 Σ g − Rydberg states of N 2 (configurations 1π u −1 4pσ and 1π u −1 3pπ , respectively) and their likely causes, are discussed. Peaking of rotational intensity at unusually low J values, without sharp breaking off, is interpreted as due to case c − or case c i predissociation. Λ doubling in the y state, attributed to interactions with the x 1 Σ g − state and with another, 1 Σ + , state of the same electron configuration as x , is analyzed. From this analysis the location of the (unobserved) 1 Σ g + state, here labeled x ′, is obtained. It is concluded that the predissociation in the Π + levels of the y state is an indirect one mediated by the interaction with x ′ coupled with predissociation of x ′ by a 3 Σ g − state dissociating to 4 S + 2 P atoms: combined, however, with perturbation of the y state by the k 1 Π g Rydberg state (configuration 3σ g −1 4dπ ), whose Π + levels are completely predissociated.
Expression of a pokeweed antiviral protein in Escherichia coli and its characterization

Two expression vectors were constructed to produce a putative mature α-pokeweed antiviral protein (α-PAP) in Escherichia coli with its NH2- and COOH-terminal extrapeptides excised. One was for its intracellular expression with a methionine at its NH2-terminal. The other was for its secretion using an ompA signal peptide. The former product was purified from the total soluble proteins of the transformant with a yield of 1.74 mg/liter and the latter had a yield of 5.55 mg/liter. Both products exhibited RNA N-glycosidase activity on wheat ribosomes and inhibitory activity to protein synthesis in a rabbit reticulocyte system.