cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Science of History: Why the Egyptians Never Smiled for Pictures [NYU School of Medicine, New York Institute of Technology, Stony Brook School of Medicine]

The Ancient Nubians have historically been renowned for their significant contributions to medicine. In spite of this, extremely poor oral health plagued this population. Paleopathological studies depict pronounced dental deterioration patterns far exceeding normal physiological progression. The advanced wear is popularly attributed to sand particle contamination of their daily diets. However, considering that individual wear mechanisms rarely act in isolation, we propose that adverse biochemical factors arising from regular consumption of tetracycline- fortified beer induced calcium malabsorption, and thus provided a synergistic diathesis in potentiating these effects. We examine these implications within the context of prevalent therapeutic remedies, bone fluorescence labeling data, and sociocultural attitudes when making the link between tetracycline and the compromised integrity of teeth, while citing the emergence of antibiotics actually predating formally-accepted convention.
RXTE Observations of 0.1-300 Hz QPOs in the Microquasar GRO J1655-40

We have investigated 52 RXTE pointed observations of GRO J1655-40 spanning the X-ray outburst that commenced on 1996 April 25 and lasted for 16 months. Our X-ray timing analyses reveal four types of QPOs: three with relatively stable central frequencies at 300 Hz, 9 Hz, and 0.1 Hz, and a fourth that varied over the range 14-28 Hz. The 300 Hz and 0.1 Hz QPOs appear only at the highest observed luminosities (Lx > 0.15 Ledd), where the power-law component dominates the X-ray spectrum. At lower luminosity, the disk flux exceeds the power-law flux and only two of the QPOs are observed: the spectrally "soft" 9 Hz QPO, and the narrow, "hard" QPO that varies from 14-28 Hz as the hard flux decreases. The 300 Hz QPO is likely to be analogous to the stationary QPO at 67 Hz seen in the microquasar GRS1915+105. We discuss models of these high-frequency QPOs which depend on effects due to general relativity. The 9 Hz QPO displays a spectrum consistent with a thermal origin, but this frequency does not appear to be consistent with any of the natural time scales associated with the disk, or with the inferred values of the mass and rapid spin of the black hole. The mechanism for the 14-28 Hz QPOs appears to be linked to the power-law component, as do the 1-10 Hz QPOs in GRS1915+105. Finally, we show data for GRO J1655-40 and GRS1915+105 as each source teeters between relative stability and a state of intense oscillations at 0.1 Hz. A comparison of the sources' spectral parameters allows us to speculate that the black hole mass in GRS1915+105 is very large, possibly in the range 39-70 Msun.
Plant Hormones: Some Glimpses on Biosynthesis, Signaling Networks, and Crosstalk

Plant hormones are major cellular signaling molecules that modulate growth and development and respond to internal and external cues in plants although differently than is understood about hormones specific to animals. The fortuitous discovery of hormones in animal/human systems and plants occurred around the similar time span. Hormones are also functional in the same cells where they are synthesized as well as in the neighboring or distant cell. Although at least nine plant hormones are now recognized, many more could be discovered and characterized in the future. Their perception, intra- and intercellular movement/communication, and interaction with receptors and gene regulators are better understood now; however, the intimate details are yet to be discovered. Each plant hormone has a unique/specific function and also regulates networks of other hormones via crosstalks involving specific transcription factors and small RNAs. This new knowledge has brought to light the fact that the regulation of plant physiological processes involves a complex crosstalk among different hormones. The new developments in various technologies, including forward genetics, ease of plant transformation systems, and the gain-of-function and loss-of-function model systems, have contributed to the progress made thus far. This chapter provides salient features on hormone biology and selected crosstalks between hormones impacting various plant processes and the responses to abiotic stresses.
Anticoagulant profile of subcutaneous enoxaparin in healthy dogs

Our study objective was to identify a subcutaneous enoxaparin dosage that provided a consistent anticoagulant intensity in dogs. Our hypotheses were that a dose of 0.8 mg/kg would provide inconsistent anticoagulation, a higher dose would provide consistent anticoagulation over a greater duration of time, and viscoelastometry would effectively monitor the anticoagulant status. Six healthy dogs received two subcutaneous enoxaparin doses (0.8 and 2 mg/kg) for anti-Xa activity determinations and pharmacokinetic modeling. Based on calculations derived from these results, 1.3 mg/kg, SC, q8 h was administered for seven doses. Target ranges for anticoagulant intensity were defined as anti-Xa activity of 0.5-1 U/ml, and change from baseline of two viscoelastometric parameters: activated clotting time (ΔACT; ≥40 s), and clot rate (CRpost; ≤20 U/min). Following an initial injection at 1.3 mg/kg, anti-Xa activity of 5/6 dogs reached or exceeded the target range. Following the final dose, anti-Xa activity reached or exceeded the target range in all dogs, and ΔACT and CRpost values exceeded target for 2-6 and 4-12 h, respectively. At an enoxaparin dosage of 1.3 mg/kg, SC, q8 h, anti-Xa activity was consistently above the minimum threshold of the target range; however, the safety of this dosage remains to be determined.
The structure and evolution of the international human rights network: unpacking the influences of countries’ contextual factors and network configurations

Guided by the multi-theoretical, multilevel (MTML) framework, this study draws from the World Polity Theory and World System Theory to examine factors shaping the structure and evolution of an inte...
Effects of Experience on Tempo Preference for Selected Wind Band Masterworks

We conducted two studies to complement extant tempo preference work. In Study 1, we explored preferred tempos for excerpts from selected wind band masterworks of band directors and undergraduate in...
Rational Polymer Design of Stretchable Poly(ionic liquid) Membranes for Dual Applications

Many functional polymeric materials are inherently fragile at ambient conditions. Making them elastic and flexible is a challenging task, and such achievement is especially meaningful in a wide ran...
Uṟumi Mēḷam: a musical sanctuary for at-risk Tamil youth in Singapore

This article investigates why uṟumi mēḷams are successful in empowering Singaporean Tamil Hindu youths and keeping them away from gangs and crime. Drawing on oral history resources, historical news...
The impact of program design and coaching support on novice teachers’ induction experience

Program surveys of over 2,000 novice teachers and 1,000 of their reflective coaches are analyzed to explore the impact of induction, generally, and coaching, specifically, on two program outcomes. ...
Novel synthetic opioids

Abstract Novel synthetic opioids (NSOs), such as fentanyl, fentanyl derivatives and newly emerging analogues, have become increasingly available in the recreational drug market worldwide in recent years. Fentanyl is a synthetic phenylpiperidine with analgesic and anaesthetic properties. It is available as a stand-alone product, as an adulterant in heroin, cocaine and amphetamines or as a constituent of illicit prescription medications. In addition to fentanyl and the fentanyl analogues such as carfentanyl, acetylfentanyl, butyrylfentanyl and furanylfentanyl, numerous other potent NSOs have recently appeared on the illicit drug market; many of these have chemical structures that do not resemble morphine or fentanyl, however, they are active at the μ-opioid receptor. These novel synthetic opioids include the benzamide-based opioids U-47700 and AH-7921, tianeptine and MT-45. Novel synthetic opioids are amongst the most abundant and potentially lethal new psychoactive substance (NPS) chemical subclass. Currently, the true prevalence of use of NSOs is hard to determine as newer modified compounds that circumvent existing drug laws are being synthetized and introduced into the drug market on a regular basis. This necessitates the availability of reference material and rapid analytical method developments to keep track of these emerging opioids. Opioids, whether natural or synthetic, cause respiratory depression leading to acute hypoxia and hypercapnia through central nervous system depression. This chapter will focus on selected synthetic opioids including fentanyl, its NPS derivatives, and other common NSOs. The physical and chemical properties, pharmacology, toxicity and abuse potential of these synthetic opioids are discussed in this chapter.
Driver air bag effectiveness by severity of the crash.

OBJECTIVES: This analysis provided effectiveness estimates of the driver-side air bag while controlling for severity of the crash and other potential confounders. METHODS: Data were from the National Automotive Sampling System (1993-1996). Injury severity was described on the basis of the Abbreviated Injury Scale, Injury Severity Score, Functional Capacity Index, and survival. Ordinal, linear, and logistic multivariate regression methods were used. RESULTS: Air bag deployment in frontal or near-frontal crashes decreases the probability of having severe and fatal injuries (e.g., Abbreviated Injury Scale score of 4-6), including those causing a long-lasting high degree of functional limitation. However, air bag deployment in low-severity crashes increases the probability that a driver (particularly a woman) will sustain injuries of Abbreviated Injury Scale level 1 to 3. Air bag deployment exerts a net injurious effect in low-severity crashes and a net protective effect in high-severity crashes. The level of crash severity at which air bags are protective is higher for female than for male drivers. CONCLUSIONS: Air bag improvement should minimize the injuries induced by their deployment. One possibility is to raise their deployment level so that they deploy only in more severe crashes.
Valuing from Life’s Perspective

Nietzsche launches powerful critiques of traditional moral values on the basis of "life's perspectives and objectives." But what does this mean? Several recent commentators have tried to provide an explanation by ascribing to Nietzsche a will-to-power metaphysic, but there are solid reasons for thinking that Nietzsche did not intend to provide any comprehensive metaphysical system. This paper explains "life's perspectives" by showing how to construct a theoretical entity ("Life") that has a perspective and can do the philosophical work Nietzsche requires. Moreover, it shows why employing such a construct, as a heuristic, does not lead to ascribing a robust metaphysical system to Nietzsche.
Hypothalamic malonyl-CoA and CPT1c in the treatment of obesity

Metabolic integration of nutrient sensing in the central nervous system has been shown to be an important regulator of adiposity by affecting food intake and peripheral energy expenditure. Modulation of de novo fatty acid synthetic flux by cytokines and nutrient availability plays an important role in this process. Inhibition of hypothalamic fatty acid synthase by pharmacologic or genetic means leads to an increased malonyl-CoA level and suppression of food intake and adiposity. Conversely, the ectopic expression of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase in the hypothalamus is sufficient to promote feeding and adiposity. Based on these and other findings, metabolic intermediates in fatty acid biogenesis, including malonyl-CoA and long-chain acyl-CoAs, have been implicated as signaling mediators in the central control of body weight. Malonyl-CoA has been hypothesized to mediate its effects in part through an allosteric interaction with an atypical and brain-specific carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT1c). CPT1c is expressed in neurons and binds malonyl-CoA, however, it does not perform the same biochemical function as the prototypical CPT1 enzymes. Mouse knockout models of CPT1c exhibit suppressed food intake and smaller body weight, but are highly susceptible to weight gain when fed a high-fat diet. Thus, the brain can directly sense and respond to changes in nutrient availability and composition to affect body weight and adiposity.
Chloroplast biogenesis. Metabolism of protochlorophyllide and protochlorophyllide ester in developing chloroplasts.

Abstract The interconversion of protochlorophyllide and Protochlorophyllide ester and the relationship of these two protochlorophylls to some of the reactions of the chlorophyll biosynthetic pathway were investigated with the use of a cell-free system. Developing chloroplasts were isolated from greening Cucumis cotyledons in a cofactor-enriched medium and were incubated in the dark with 14C-labeled and unlabeled protochlorophyllide and protochlorophyllide ester. The metabolic pools between Mg-protoporphyrin monoester and chlorophyll were monitored radiochemically and spectrofluorometrically. (a) It was shown that protochlorophyllide and protochlorophyllide ester were not interconvertible or metabolically interconnected as previously assumed, (b) It was further observed that the reactions between Mg-protoporphyrin monoester and protochlorophyll were not reversible. These conclusions were drawn from experiments in which exogenous protochlorophyllide appeared to reach the metabolic sites in the plastids and was convertible to chlorophyll a in vitro.
Term limits and electoral competitiveness: Evidence from California’s state legislative races

California's legislative term limits have dramatically reduced campaign expenditures. Real expenditures during the three general elections after the term limits initiative passed in 1990 were lower than in even 1976. This drop has occurred at the same time that races have become closer contests and more candidates are running for office. By any measure, term limits have coincided with large changes in the level of political competition, even before term limits have forcibly removed a single politician from office. The changes are so large that more incumbents are being defeated, races are closer, more candidates are running, and fewer single candidate races than occur at any other time during our sample period from 1976 to 1994.
The Optimization of Spectrum Sensing Frame Time

With the application and development of radio technology in all fields, the problem of spectrum scarcity is getting more and more attention. The cognitive radio is introduced to perform opportunistic usage of spectrum of primary user by a secondary user. Therefore a secondary user should be capable of spectrum sensing. In this paper, we analyze the problem of designing the optimal spectrum sensing frame time, under considering dynamics of the state of the operating chnnel and restriction on collision probability, in order to maximize the expected reward in throughput of a multiple-channel cognitive radio network in which there is at least a idle channel at one time, meanwhile, the energy cost of spectrum sensing and data transmission and channel switching is taken into account. We study the problem using the framework of partially observable Markov decision processes (POMDP).
Patterns of skin injury in nonaccidental and accidental injury

The patterns of soft tissue injuries in a group of 154 children reported to protective services for child abuse or neglect were compared with patterns of soft tissue injury found in a group of 91 emergency room patients who sustained an accidental injury and 105 children seen in a pediatric ambulatory clinic. All children in the three groups were 1 to 12 years old. Children in the suspected child abuse and neglect group had significantly more (P less than .01) soft tissue injuries over the cheeks, trunk, genitals, and upper legs. Lacerations were significantly more common (P less than .001) in the emergency room group.
Effect of heroin on corticosteroid production in pregnant addicts and their fetuses.

Abstract Corticosteroid concentrations were measured in the umbilical cord blood of 18 infants of heroin-addicted mothers and 15 normal control infants, all born by normal vaginal delivery. In addition, maternal concentrations were measured in 17 addicted mothers and 12 normal control subjects at the time of delivery. While fetal concentrations were approximately equal in both groups, addicted mothers had significantly lower blood corticosteroid concentrations than nonaddicted mothers.
Bioenergetics in Plant-Pathogen Interactions

The objective of this chapter is to understand how disease affects energy-capture and energy-utilization processes in plants. Since energy capture and utilization take place mainly in chloroplasts and mitochondria, respectively, certain concepts of photosynthesis and respiration and their metabolic regulation will be briefly reviewed. In higher plants, energy for metabolic machinery comes from the sun’s energy. The sun’s energy is first converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP which in turn is used to fix carbon dioxide into organic compounds. The process, photosynthesis, takes place in chloroplasts. The organic compounds are converted to carbohydrates and are translocated to various parts of the plant. The energy stored in carbohydrates is released by the respiration process in mitochondria for metabolism, growth, and reproduction. Thus, photosynthesis in chloroplasts and respiration in mitochondria govern bioenergetics in higher plants. Fig. 3-1 summarizes the relationship between energy capture and energy utilization in higher plants. Monographs that detail the structure and function of the chloroplast and mitochondrion are available (Hall and Rao, 1994; Hoober, 1984; Lawlor, 1993; Tzagoloff, 1982). Biochemistry and physiology of these two subcellular organelles also have been extensively reviewed (Avron, 1981; Robinson and Walker, 1981). Plant pathogens have numerous ways to affect directly and indirectly structure and function of chloroplasts and mitochondria. Consequently, bioenergetics are altered. For bioenergetics in host-parasite interactions, readers are referred to Kosuge and Kimpel (1981) and Hutcheson and Buchanan (1983).
CTL Effector Function Within the Central Nervous System Requires CD4+ T Cells

CTL responses induced during most viral infections are independent of help derived from the CD4+ T cell population. However, clearance of virus from the central nervous system (CNS) during infection with the neurotropic JHM strain of mouse hepatitis virus is inhibited in the absence of CD4+ T cells. Adoptive transfer of activated CD8+ T cells with virus-specific cytolytic activity into CD4+ T cell-depleted hosts demonstrated that CD4+ T cells were one component of the host response required for expression of CTL effector function(s) within the CNS. Analysis of mice infected with the JHM strain of mouse hepatitis virus demonstrated that, in contrast to CD8+ T cells, few CD4+ T cells entered the brain parenchyma. Although fewer CD8+ T cells entered the brain parenchyma in mice depleted of CD4+ T cells, access of CTL was not inhibited in the absence of CD4+ T cells. The number of apoptotic lymphocytes in the CNS increased in the absence of CD4+ T cells, suggesting that CTL enter the CNS during viral infection in a CD4-independent manner. However, these cells rapidly undergo apoptosis, indicating that expression of CTL effector function with the parenchyma of the CNS is CD4 dependent. These data raise the possibility that programmed cell death of CD8+ T cells within the CNS is due to the increased Ag present in the CNS of infected CD4 depleted mice or that autocrine cytokines, which maintain CTL activity within peripheral tissues, are inhibited in the microenvironment of the CNS.
Image-based synthetic CT: simulating arbitrary low dose single and dual energy protocols from dual energy images

While the imaging protocol determines radiation dose and image quality, it is difficult to find the lowest dose protocol (kVp, mAs, filtration) that provides appropriate diagnostic quality images. Recently, we developed a method for retrospectively synthesizing CT scans of arbitrary protocols using a previously acquired dual energy scan that relies on projection space data. Here, we propose a new variant of synthetic CT that only requires reconstructed dual energy images to simulate realistic images from arbitrary low dose protocols. Axial scans of a phantom were acquired on a GE CT750 HD system at 80 kVp and separately at 140 kVp, enabling material decomposition. Additional scans at 100 and 120 kVp and at different exposures were made to compare with synthesized results. Raw data for any spectrum can be estimated by forward transmission through the material decomposition images, but these have degraded spatial resolution. To avoid blurring, the synthesized image is represented as a linear combination (i.e., mixed or blended image) of the 80/140 kVp images. Noise with the correct statistics is then added so that the total noise matches the expected noise of the simulated protocol (estimated from forward transmission). For the studied object, the resulting synthesized images are indistinguishable from the actual images. Synthetic CT enables users to visualize the impact of protocol changes on the contrast and noise of CT scans, which can be used to develop lower dose protocols by demonstrating dose/noise/protocol trade-offs. Our new image domain implementation significantly increases the accessibility of synthetic CT to potential users.
Optical Mapping of Langendorff-perfused Rat Hearts

Optical mapping of the cardiac surface with voltage-sensitive fluorescent dyes has become an important tool to investigate electrical excitation in experimental models that range in scale from cell cultures to whole-organs[1, 2]. Using state-of-the-art optical imaging systems, generation and propagation of action potentials during normal cardiac rhythm or throughout initiation and maintenance of arrhythmias can be visualized almost instantly[1]. The latest commercially-available systems can provide information at exceedingly high spatiotemporal resolutions and were based on custom-built equipment initially developed to overcome the obstacles imposed by more conventional electrophysiological methods[1]. Advancements in high-resolution and high-speed complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) cameras and intensely-bright, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as well as voltage-sensitive dyes, optics, and filters have begun to make electrical signal acquisition practical for cardiovascular cell biologists who are more accustomed to working with microscopes. Although the newest generation of CMOS cameras can acquire 10,000 frames per second on a 16,384 pixel array, depending on the type of sample preparation, long-established fluorescence acquisition technologies such as photodiode arrays, laser scanning systems, and cooled charged-coupled device (CCD) cameras still have some distinct advantages with respect to dynamic range, signal-to-noise ratio, and quantum efficiency[1, 3]. In the present study, Lewis rat hearts were perfused ex vivo with a crystalloid perfusate (Krebs-Henseleit solution) at 37°C on a modified Langendorff apparatus. After a 20 minute stabilization period, the hearts were intermittently perfused with 11 mMol/L 2,3-butanedione monoxime to eliminate contraction-associated motion during image acquisition. For optical mapping, we loaded hearts with the fast-response potentiometric probe di-8-ANEPPS[4] (5 μMol/L) and briefly illuminated the preparation with 475±15 nm excitation light. During a typical 2 second period of illumination, >605 nm light emitted from the cardiac preparation was imaged with a high-speed CMOS camera connected to a horizontal macroscope. For this demonstration, hearts were paced at 300 beats per minute with a coaxial electrode connected to an isolated electrical stimulation unit. Simultaneous bipolar electrographic recordings were acquired and analyzed along with the voltage signals using readily-available software. In this manner, action potentials on the surface of Langendorff-perfused rat hearts can be visualized and registered with electrographic signals.
Iodination-induced alterations in biochemical properties of human placental insulin receptor

Insulin receptors from human placenta have been labeled by using an oxidative iodination procedure (iodogen-mediated or chloramine-T-mediated), Bolton-Hunter reagent or [3H]acetic anhydride. The oxidative iodination procedure reduces the affinity for 131I-insulin and the receptor protein becomes fragmented into smaller pieces with an s20,w value of 5-6. However, treatment with Bolton-Hunter reagent or [3H]acetic anhydride does not alter the Kd of 131I-insulin binding and the s20,w value remains unchanged with respect to the native receptor. It is proposed that for labeling multisubunit sulfhydryl-linked protein drastic oxidative iodination procedures should be avoided.
SU-E-I-191: Effective-Dose Rate Comparison between the Micro-Angiographic Fluoroscope (MAF) and the X-Ray Image Intensifier (XII) Used during Neuro-Endovascular Device Deployment Procedures

Purpose: To compare the effective‐dose rate delivered to the patient using the small field‐of‐view (FOV) MAF to that of the standard larger FOV XII during clinical neuro‐interventional procedures. Methods: The MAF camera has been installed for clinical evaluation during neuro‐interventional procedures on a Toshiba Infinix fluoroscopic c‐arm system so it can be interchangeably used with the standard imaging system. This camera has a small FOV (3.6×3.6 cm) but provides high‐resolution (35—micron pixels) and high‐sensitivity. The standard system is a 9‐inch XII, with the 5‐inch mode (124‐micron pixels) being used most frequently. We used the program PCXMC 2.0 (STUK, Helsinki, Finland) to calculate effective‐dose rates for the MAF and 5‐inch mode of the XII using the technical parameters employed in patient procedures. Parameters such as kVp, mAs, beam filtration, and frame rate were logged during the procedure so the dose could be retrospectively calculated. The effective‐dose rates for the PA projection were calculated for the fluoroscopy and DSA components of 15 neuro‐interventional procedures. Results: The effective dose for fixed mAs was found to increase with increasing x‐ray tube voltage for PA imaging of the neurovasculature for both FOV's. The effective‐dose rate in the clinical procedures was substantially lower for the MAF compared to the 5‐inch mode of the XII, ranging from a factor of about 4 to 12 times lower for fluoroscopy and 12 to 46 times lower for DSA. Conclusions: Effective dose is very much dependent on the FOV. Substantial reduction in effective‐dose rate is realized using the MAF as compared to the standard imaging system; this reduction could allow the dose with the MAF to be increased by over an order of magnitude to provide increased contrast resolution without increasing the stochastic risk to the patient compared to full‐FOV imaging. (Support: Toshiba Medical Systems, NIH R01EB002873 and NIH R01EB008425)
Stress, anxiety, and depression: Review of biological, diagnostic, and nosologic issues

Abstract Stress, anxiety, and depression are distinct but interrelated concepts. The stress response, which has psychological and biological components, may be a common pathway leading to affective and/or anxiety reactions. Biologic systems implicated in this response include the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the autonomic nervous system, and neurotransmission systems. Research on these biologic responses has shown distinctions between the anxiety and affective disorders. On the other hand, pharmacologic agents are often effective for both anxiety and depression. Increasing our understanding of the relationship between stress, anxiety, and depression is crucial for improved clinical management of these disorders.
Measurement of temperature gradients through local extinction using Raman scattering spectroscopy

Measurements of temperature in laminar flames with localised extinction points were made using line imaging of spectrally resolved laser Raman scattering through the extinction process. A fit to the nitrogen scattering spectrum was used to determine temperature with an accuracy of 30 K. Temperature gradients through the extinction process were measured as the flame strength prior to extinction and the rate of extinction was separately controlled. The results were compared to previously reported numerical simulations for this flame and were found to validate the modelling of the flame extinction process. The measured temperature gradient is affected by the radial rate at which strain is increased, as well as inner flame strength. Measurements of integrated flame emission were also made at the extinction point and indicate that reactions persist at temperatures well below the onedimensional extinction temperature, which is consistent with reaction rate profiles from the numerical simulations.
Second Harmonic Hectometric Radio Emission at Jupiter

Galileo has been in orbit around Jupiter since December 1995. The plasma wave instrument on board the spacecraft has occasionally detected a rotationally modulated attenuation band in the hectometric (HOM) emission that most likely is due to scattering of the radiation from density fluctuations along the Io L-shell, as reported earlier. The occurrence of the attenuation band is likely to be dependent on Io activity and the presence of density scattering centers along the Io L-shell as well as the location of the source region. Some of the attenuation bands show clear indications of second harmonic emission. Without polarization measurements, it is difficult to place constraints on the local generation conditions based on the cyclotron maser instability, but the results imply that second harmonic emission could be present in the decametric (DAM) radiation as well. A survey of the data has revealed about 30 examples of second harmonic HOM.
Grassroots and Gewaltfreie Aktionen: A Study of Mass Mobilization Strategies in the West German Peace Movement

The West German peace movement of the eighties has been subject to many of the 'ebbs and flows' cha racteristic of protest movements of the late sixties and early seventies, with one important exception. In contrast to the more doctrinaire Marxist/socialist orientations evinced by those earlier movements, the mobilization against the deployment of Pershing II and cruise missiles has been grounded in sincere ef forts on the part of core activists to develop a German tradition of non-violence and civil disobedience. The author presents a catalogue of strategies employed by movement participants since the pro mulgation of the 1979 NATO double-track decision, divided into the subcategories of consciousness- raising or 'mobilization' activities, and direct action or 'escalation' activities. The extensive but by no means comprehensive list of possible protest actions seeks to maximize the opportunities for participa tion and to intensify one's personal identification with the movement at the grassroots level. E...
SERVICEABILITY OF 35KHF STEEL IN HYDROGEN-SULFIDE MEDIA

Corrosion and corrosion-mechanical properties of 35KhF low-alloyed steel in hydrogen-sulfide media are investigated. The corrosion resistance and resistance to hydrogen-induced cracking of the steel of different heats in NACE solution and artificial seawater, and its resistance to hydrogen-sulfide stress corrosion cracking in the NACE solution are determined. It is shown that 35KhF steel can be used for the manufacture of critical components of a lift string for pumping-over stratal water.
Cellular antioxidant activity of phenylaminoethyl selenides as monitored by chemiluminescence of peroxalate nanoparticles and by reduction of lipopolysaccharide-induced oxidative stress

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), produced in living cells by oxidases and by other biochemical reactions, plays an important role in cellular processes such as signaling and cell cycle progression. Nevertheless, H2O2 and other reactive oxygen species are capable of inducing damage to DNA and other cellular components, and oxidative stress caused by overproduction of cellular oxidants has been linked to pathologies such as inflammatory diseases and cancer. Therefore, new approaches for reducing the accumulation of cellular oxidants are of considerable interest from both a biotechnological and a therapeutic perspective. Recognizing that selenium is an essential component of the active sites of several antioxidant enzymes, we have developed a family of novel phenylaminoethyl selenide compounds that are readily taken up into cells and have low toxicity in vivo. We now report chemiluminescent imaging of hydrogen peroxide consumption by phenylaminoethyl selenides, via the use of peroxalate nanoparticle methodology. Further, we demonstrate the ability of phenylaminoethyl selenides to decrease lipopolysaccharide-induced oxidative stress in human embryonic kidney cells. We also report the successful encapsulation of a phenylaminoethyl selenide within poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles, and we show that these selenide-loaded nanoparticles exhibit antioxidant activity in cells. Taken together, these results significantly enhance the attractiveness of phenylaminoethyl selenides as potential agents for supplementing cellular defenses against reactive oxygen species.
Breast Cancer Chemoprevention: Current Approachesand Future Directions

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer globally among women and is the leading cause of cancer death. Breast cancer prevention trials have shown up to 50% reduction in breast cancer incidence among women at increased risk for breast cancer with the use of chemopreventive agents. Despite such a large potential reduction in breast cancer risk, the uptake of these agents has been poor as compared with the use of preventive agents for other health outcomes. This review provides an update of the trials evaluating chemoprevention agents for breast cancer and highlights the populations likely to benefit from them. Healthcare providers need to be comfortable with the use of chemopreventive agents for breast cancer, as they are a real option for women at increased risk, particularly those with early precursor lesions. Work is ongoing to identify agents for estrogen receptor–negative cancer and agents with minimal toxicity for more general use.
A Near Edge X-ray Absorption Fine Structure Spectroscopy Investigation of the Structure of Self-Assembled Films of Octadecyltrichlorosilane

Polarization-dependent near edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy was used to determine the ordering of octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS) molecules in self-assembled (SA) films on Si/SiOx. Coverages of adsorbed material for different SA films were determined by integration of the NEXAFS signal due entirely to the C 1s absorption. The structures and coverages of the SA films deposited by chemisorption from solution in toluene were determined for two different deposition conditions: (1) open to the atmosphere and (2) water- and oxygen-free conditions inside a drybox. SA films of OTS deposited under ambient air conditions grew as islands on the substrate and were well-ordered as indicated by a strong polarization-dependence in the NEXAFS spectra. For depositions performed in the drybox, ordered or disordered films grew uniformly over the substrate. Ordered SA films deposited in the drybox exhibited higher average tilt angles and lower coverages of adsorbed material than SA films deposited u...
Inhibition of paclitaxel-induced apoptosis by the specific COX-2 inhibitor, NS398, in epithelial ovarian cancer cells.

Abstract Objective In vitro studies have revealed that treatment of various human cancer cell lines with specific cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2) inhibitors induces apoptotic cell death. It is currently proposed that the combination of COX-2 inhibitors with chemotherapeutic agents improves the efficacy of cancer treatment. Materials and methods In this study we sought to determine the effects of combining paclitaxel and the COX-2 inhibitor NS398 on apoptosis of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) cells. Two EOC cell lines, SKOV3 and MDAH2774, were exposed to increasing concentrations of paclitaxel (0.1, 10, and 100 μM) and NS398 (10, 100 μM) as well as a combination of both drugs. Apoptosis was evaluated by the Tunel assay. The fluorescein-labeled DNA was visualized directly by fluorescence microscopy and quantitated by flow cytometry. Results While NS398 did not significantly alter apoptosis of either EOC cell lines after 24 h of continuous exposure, treatment of both cell lines with paclitaxel resulted in a significant increase in the rate of apoptosis (60–70%). Concomitant treatment of both SKOV3 and MDAH2774 cells with paclitaxel and NS398 resulted in marked impairment of paclitaxel-induced apoptosis. Similarly, sequential treatment during which both cell lines were treated with NS398 for 4 h, triple-washed, and then exposed to paclitaxel for 24 h resulted in a significant inhibition of paclitaxel-induced apoptosis. Similar inhibition was seen when NS398 was replaced by aspirin. Conclusion Combining COX-2 inhibitors and paclitaxel does not have an additive or synergistic tumoricidal effect. On the contrary, NS398 treatment markedly inhibited the apoptotic effects of paclitaxel in each of these two EOC cell lines.
Political self-characterization of US women physicians.

The political self-characterization of US physicians, especially including women physicians, has been poorly described. We used data from the 4,501 respondents to the Women Physicians' Health Study (WPHS), a stratified random sample of US women M.D.s surveyed in 1993-1994, to assess US women physicians' political characteristics. US women physicians were most likely to consider themselves politically moderate (36.6% of respondents). More considered themselves liberal (28.4%) or very liberal (8.8%) than considered themselves conservative (20.5%) or very conservative (5.8%). US women physicians predominantly bring moderate and liberal voices to political discourse. Organizations that wish to attract US women physician members should consider promoting less conservative policies.
The synthesis and X-Ray crystallographic analysis of a stable norbornadienone: 17-Oxo-7,16-methano-7,16-diphenylcyclopenta[d,e]tribenzo[a,h,j]anthracene

The reaction of 4,5-didehydroacenaphthene with phencyclone yields the title compound, a stable dibenzo-fused norbornadienone (8). The X-ray structure of8 is presented and compared with the structure predicted from a MM3, PM3, and a MMX calculation. Thermal decomposition of 8 produces, 7,16-diphenylcyclopenta[d,e]tribenzo[a,h,j]anthracene (9), a hydrocarbon that is computed to have a significantly twisted polycyclic aromatic skeleton with 19 kcal/mole of strain energy.
Studies on the detection of salmonellae in municipal solid waste and incinerator residue

Significant factors in recovering Salmonella organisms from solid waste/sludge mixture, municipal solid waste, and incinerator residue and quench water were sample weight, number of samples, enrichment and subculture media, and incubation temperature. The optimal sample weight was 30 g; the optimal incubation temperature of inoculated enrichment medium, 39.5°C. The two enrichment media, Selenite F and Selenite brilliant green/sulfa, were equally efficient. The plating media were also important; best results were obtained with salmonella/shigella agar. Field studies conducted at four municipal incinerators of different operational design indicated that when enteric pathogens are present in the solid waste they can survive the incineration process.
Second harmonic generation at oblique angles in photonic bandgap structures

Second harmonic generation generated by an obliquely incident fundamental wave in a nonlinear photonic bandgap structure is analyzed by applying the transfer matrix method, where multiple reflection and interference effects are taken into account. The radiation of fundamental and second harmonic waves from the exit plane of the nonlinear photonic bandgap structure, and the distribution of the fields within the structure are discussed. Under the non-depleted pump wave assumption, the conversion efficiency of the second harmonic wave versus the incident angle of the fundamental is studied in detail.
Characteristics of sources, channels, and contents for scientific and technical information systems in industrial R and D

Reports on the use of various scientific and technical information sources by scientists, engineers, and managers. By using a Thurstone scaling technique, the frequency of use of the various sources, channels, and contents were correlated with various characteristics. For the sources of scientific and technical information, the following characteristics were of interest: the skill necessary to use effectively, the utility of information, source availability, ease and cost of use. For the content, these characteristics were looked at: the skills necessary to use effectively, utility of information, coherence of information, and ease of use. Finally, for the channels, the skills necessary to use effectively, dependability, availability, physical distance, and cost were investigated. The data from a large number of respondents from a large corporation showed that source availability and ease of use are the determinants for use of a specific source. Availability, cost, and physical distance are most important in use of a specific channel of information. Utility of information and coherence of information are the only factors related to use.
Successful coil embolization for diffuse, multiple pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas

Although many patients with pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas (PAVF) remain asymptomatic in infancy and early childhood,‘* 2 symptoms and serious complications may occur in later childhood or adulthood and may necessitate some type of intervention. Previously, surgical resection was the accepted treatment for symptomatic patients with PAVF.” More recently, however, it has been shown that some of these lesions are amenable to less invasive therapy4-g such as balloon10-13 or coil spring emboiization’4-*6 that spares normal pulmonary parenchyma.r3-I5 A 24-year-old woman became aware of cyanosis and clubbing about 1 year prior to consultation after she had begun to experience fatigue on exertion. Physical examination confirmed cyanosis and marked clubbing but revealed a normal heart size and heart sounds with no cardiac or pulmonary murmur. Blood pressure was 102170 mm Hg. She had no cutaneous vascular lesions or other abnormalities. Red blood cell (RBC) count was 6.88 million, the hemoglobin was 17.5 gm, and the hematocrit was 55.9 (Table I). Oxygen saturation in room air by pulse oximetry was 87 %. The electrocardiogram and echocardiogram were normal, Chest roentgenogram revealed a heart of normal size with average pulmonary vascularity in the right lung but diffuse interstitial markings in the mid and lower left lung field, where a prominent vascular shadow was seen within the cardiac silhouette (Fig. 1, A). A diagnosis of pulmonary arteriovenous fistulas was made. Prior to cardiac catheterization, the patient underwent a ventilation-perfusion lung scan. The results, consistent with abnormality of the left lung, are seen in Table II. The images from the scan showed no segmental or subsegmental defects. There was slightly decreased perfusion in the region of the left major fissure. The distribution of radionuclide medium suggested the presence of a right-to-left shunt. Cardiac catheterization and selective arteriography of the left and right pulmonary arteries and their major branches was then carried out using intraarterial digital
Central helix role in the contraction-relaxation switching mechanisms of permeabilized skeletal and smooth muscles with genetic manipulation of calmodulin.

Abstract A prominent common feature of calmodulin and troponin structures is the unusually long central helix which separates the two lobes, each containing two Ca2+-binding sites. To study the role of certain highly conserved residues in the helix in the contraction-relaxation switching mechanism in muscle, we measured the Ca2+-activated force of permeabilized skeletal and smooth muscles with three genetically manipulated forms of calmodulin. Mutated calmodulin was made to substitute for troponin-C in vertebrate skeletal fiber. The mutants had 1–4 deletions in the conserved cluster (positions 81–84) in the solvent-exposed region of the central helix, which also substantially shortened the helix. The force of the maximally activated fiber was found to be diminished only with the mutant in which the entire cluster Ser-81 to Glu-84 (CaMΔ81–84) was deleted. All such deletions were found to be completely ineffective in blocking the Ca2+-switching process in smooth muscle strips. The results show for the first time that at least a part of the highly conserved four-residue cluster in the central helix is critical for the contraction mechanism of striated muscle. Further, the possibility is raised that the reduced length of the central helix may be a determining factor in the Ca2+-switching mechanism in fast-twitch muscle. These findings combined with the results on smooth muscle indicate diversity in the structure-function specifications for the central helix of calmodulin for different target proteins.
Polarization splitting and rotating through adiabatic transitions

A polarization splitter and rotator that is compatible with optical integration is presented. In contrast to prior efforts to achieve this functionality, the adiabatic nature of this approach allows for nearly ideal performance over the 1.5-1.6 micron regime.
Procedural interpolation with curvature-continuous cubic splines

Abstract A local G2 curve interpolation method in R 2 is described. The method offers a free choice of a tangent direction, two derivatives, and a curvature at each interpolation point. This flexibility can be achieved by constructing two cubic segments for each adjacent pair of vertices. The method is also compared with other local schemes for curve construction.
Urenchelys abditus, new species, the first undoubted eel (Teleostei: Anguilliformes) from the Cretaceous of North America

ABSTRACT Urenchelys abditus n. sp. represents the first authentic record of a Cretaceous eel from North America. “Anguillavus” hackberryensis Martin is not an eel, but probably a dercetid. Urenchelys resembles Recent eels in lacking pelvic fins, but resembles the Cretaceous genus Anguillavus in having a separate caudal fin. Urenchelys may or may not be a monophyletic group, the species are not known to share a derived character common only to themselves. Urenchelys abditus differs from other species of the genus from the English Chalk and Lebanon in having fewer vertebrae between the anterior insertion of the anal fin and (in the case of U. anglicus) thinner skull roofing bones. The only referred specimen was found in a pelecypod shell.
Reduction, Dynamics, and Julia Sets of Rational Functions☆

Abstract We consider a rational function φ ( z )∈ K ( z ) in one variable defined over an algebraically closed field K which is complete with respect to a valuation v . We study how the reduction (modulo v ) of such functions behaves under composition, and in particular under iteration. We also investigate the relationship between bad reduction and the Julia set of φ . In particular, we prove that under certain conditions, bad reduction is equivalent to having a nonempty Julia set. We also give several examples of maps not satisfying those conditions and having both bad reduction and an empty Julia set.