cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Measurement of Progesterone and Androgen Receptors in Human Prostate: A Microassay*

The characteristics of binding of radiolabeled progesterone, promegestone [17α,21-dimethyl-19-nor-4,9-pregnadiene- 3,20-dione (R5020)], medroxyprogesterone acetate (4- pregnen-6a-methyl-17α-ol-3,20-dione acetate), and methyltrienolone [17β-hydroxy-17α-methyl-4,9,ll-estratriene-3-one (MT)] to the progesterone receptor in human prostatic cytosol have been compared. MT binds to both androgen and progesterone receptors with high affinity (Kd = 0.9 and 0.6 nM, respectively). The binding of MT to the progesterone receptor can be blocked by adding an excess of unlabeled triamcinolone acetonide [9afluoro- llβ,16α,17α,21-tetrahydroxy-l,4-pregnadiene-3,20-dione- 16,17-acetonide (TAC)]. The difference between the binding of [3H] MT in the absence and presence of TAC (i.e. [MT - (MT + TAC)]) represents specific binding of MT to the progesterone receptor. Ligand specificity studies demonstrated that this binding was typical of a progesterone receptor. Furthermore, progesterone receptor levels measured in this way were...
High-resolution accelerator alignment using x-ray optics

We propose a novel alignment technique utilizing the x-ray beam of an undulator in conjunction with pinholes and position-sensitive detectors for positioning components of the accelerator, undulator, and beam line in an x-ray free-electron laser. Two retractable pinholes at each end of the undulator define a stable and reproducible x-ray beam axis (XBA). Targets are precisely positioned on the XBA using a pinhole camera technique. Position-sensitive detectors responding to both x-ray and electron beams enable direct transfer of the position setting from the XBA to the electron beam. This system has the potential to deliver superior alignment accuracy ($1\char21{}3\text{ }\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{m}$) for target pinholes in the transverse directions over a long distance (200 m or longer). It can be used to define the beam axis of the electron-beam\char21{}based alignment, enabling high reproducibility of the latter. This x-ray\char21{}based concept should complement the electron-beam\char21{}based alignment and the existing survey methods to raise the alignment accuracy of long accelerators to an unprecedented level. Further improvement of the transverse accuracy using x-ray zone plates will be discussed. We also propose a concurrent measurement scheme during accelerator operation to allow real-time feedback for transverse position correction.
Distrust of the health care system and self-reported health in the United States.

CONTEXT: Despite theoretical concerns that health care related distrust may lead to poor health outcomes by interfering with effective health care, little is currently known about the prevalence or outcomes of distrust of the health care system in the United States.
Watching single protons bind

Using single-molecule biophysical studies in an ion channel, the protonation state of engineered basic amino acids was measured in real time, making it possible to calculate the pKas of the substituted residues and creating a unique, comprehensive dataset for theorists studying the effects of an electrostatic environment on integral membrane protein function.
Comparison of the effects of the benzodiazepine midazolam and three serotonin antagonists on a consummatory conflict paradigm.

Abstract A consummatory conflict procedure that involves an abrupt reduction in magnitude of an expected reward (negative contrast) has been shown to be particularly sensitive to the effects of anxiolytic agents. As previously reported with chlordiazepoxide, another benzodiazepine (BDZ), midazolam released suppressed consummatory performance in a dose-dependent manner. This effect was not due to a general appetite stimulatory effect of the drug. The effects of three 5-HT antagonists on negative contrast were examined to evaluate the role serotonin may play in the anxiolytic action of BDZ. Methysergide was found to be ineffective, cinanserin tended to reduce contrast at two intermediate doses, and cyproheptadine eliminated the contrast effect in a similar fashion as midazolam. The effectiveness of cyproheptadine may not be attributed to its anticholinergic or antihistaminergic actions since scopolamine and pyrilamine did not produce similar effects. The results are discussed in terms of the role serotonin may play in the anti-conflict action of BDZ, as well as possible interactional effects of GABA.
Plain concrete as a composite material

The purpose of this paper is to study the consequences of the composite nature of concrete. A plausible energy balance equation is postulated and the Green-Rivlin invariance principle is applied to it to derive the linear and angular momentum balance laws. General constitutive equations are discussed with the aid of thermodynamic potentials and Coleman's method. The distribution of the applied stresses between mortar and aggregate is also studied in detail, showing for instance that substantial tensile lateral stresses may appear in mortar under uniaxial compressive loading. These results are used to derive a criterion for the onset of inelasticity in concrete.
Manipulating basic taste perception to explore how product information affects experience

Abstract We introduce a novel physiologically-based methodology to consumer research—using the glycoprotein miraculin to manipulate the ability to sense and perceive specific taste elements in gustatory experiences. We apply this approach to exploring how information extrinsic (e.g., product reviews) to a product's inherent sensory facets influences reported consumption experiences and experienced utility. Results from two experiments suggest that extrinsic information distorts the basic sensory and perceptual character of consumption experiences, rather than simply biasing self-reports of the experiences or serving as an independent input to overall taste and utility evaluations. Such evaluations are distorted in the direction of extrinsic product information only when the ability to actually perceive the experience as being consistent with the extrinsic signal is not disrupted by miraculin. Conversely, disruption by miraculin of the ability to perceive an experience as being consistent with an extrinsic signal ablates or reverses such effects. Implications, applications to brands and branding, and other possible research directions for the miraculin taste-manipulation methodology are also discussed.
Green tea polyphenols attenuate glial swelling and mitochondrial dysfunction following oxygen-glucose deprivation in cultures.

Abstract Astrocyte swelling is a major component of cytotoxic brain edema in ischemia. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction have been hypothesized to contribute to such swelling in cultures. We investigated the protective effects of polyphenol-rich green tea extract (GTE) on key features of ischemic injury namely cell swelling, nitric oxide (NO) production, and depolarization of the inner mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm). C6 glial cultures were subjected to 5-h oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) and cell volume was determined using the 3-O-methyl-glucose method. At 90 min after the end of OGD, cell volume increased by > 33% and this increase was attenuated by GTE but not by the individual polyphenol components including catechin, epicatechin, or epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). However, a combination of catechin, epicatechin and EGCG prevented swelling. OGD-induced increase in NO was further increased by GTE. OGD-induced decline in Δψm was also attenuated by green tea extract, EGCG and a com...
Quantum-mechanical formulation of the electron-monopole interaction without Dirac strings

A relativistic wave equation is used to describe the interaction of an electron with a magnetic monopole at rest. A quasipotential, defined in terms of an integral involving the pseudoscalar potential ${\ensuremath{\phi}}_{m}=\frac{g}{r}$, is used in this Dirac string-free formalism. This equation, written in nonrelativistic form, is used in conjunction with the appropriate angular momentum operators to obtain the Dirac quantization condition. An argument using gauge invariance shows that this condition is not modified by a relativistic treatment. A detailed comparison is made with conventional string theory, which is also formulated relativistically.
Approximating the distribution functions in stochastic networks

Abstract In this paper an analytical procedure to approximate the distribution functions in stochastic networks is presented. The procedure is efficient in the sense of its accuracy and its computational requirements. Contrary to the existing approximating procedures, it can be applied to large networks. Examples and computational experiences involving large networks are provided.
Contribution of water vapor to index of refraction structure parameter at microwave frequencies

A theoretical calculation provides an estimate of the contribution of atmospheric water vapor to the structure parameter of the index of refraction for microwave frequencies. For altitudes below about 10 km this contribution is generally dominant. The relationship between the structure parameters for temperature and index of refraction is considered for a moist atmosphere.
Creation of topological states in spinor condensates

We present a simple scheme for generating topological phase states such as dark soliton and vortex states of a spinor Bose-Einstein condensate using applied magnetic fields. The realization of complex composite spinor vortices is described and we examine the subsequent dynamical evolution of these states.
Role of outer shells in Born cross sections for K-shell ionization by charged particles

Many standard applications of the Born approximation to $K$-shell vacancy production apply first-order perturbation theory to the interaction between a projectile and an atomic target represented by a product wave function. It is shown that these standard Born predictions need not be restricted to one-electron ionization, but should be compared to experimental observations summed over all states corresponding to single-$K$-vacancy production to include multiple-vacancy production in other shells. These results are applicable to all targets in which the $K$ shell is weakly perturbed even though the other shells may be strongly perturbed.
Effect of Polymer Blending on the Release of Ganciclovir from PLGA Microspheres

The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of polymer blending on entrapment and release of ganciclovir (GCV) from poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres using a set of empirical equations. Two grades of PLGA, PLGA 7525 [d,l-lactide:glycolide(75:25), MW 90,000–126,000 Da] and Resomer RG 502H [d,l-lactide:glycolide(50:50), MW 8000 Da], were employed in the preparation of PLGA microspheres. Five sets of microsphere batches were prepared with two pure polymers and their 1:3, 1:1, and 3:1 blends. Drug entrapment, surface morphology, particle size analysis, drug release, and differential scanning calorimetric studies were performed. In vitro drug-release data were fitted to a set of empirical sigmoidal equations by nonlinear regression analysis that could effectively predict various parameters that characterize both diffusion and degradation cum diffusion-controlled release phases of GCV. Entrapment efficiencies of GCV ranged from 47 to 73%. Higher amounts of GCV were entrapped in polymer blend microspheres relative to individual polymers. Triphasic GCV release profiles were observed, which consisted of both diffusion and degradation cum diffusion-controlled phases. In vitro GCV release was shortest for Resomer RG 502H microsphere (10 days) and longest for PLGA 7525 microspheres (90 days). Upon blending, the duration of release gradually decreased as the content of Resomer RG 502H in the matrix was raised. Equations effectively estimated the drug-release rate constants during both the phases with high R 2 values (>0.990). GCV release was slower from the blend microsphere during the initial diffusion phase. Majority of entrapped drug (70–95%) was released during the matrix degradation cum diffusion phase. Drug entrapment and release parameters estimated by the equations indicate more efficient matrix packing between PLGA 7525 and Resomer RG 502H in polymer-blended microspheres. The overall duration of drug release diminishes with rising content of Resomer RG 502H in the matrix. Differential scanning calorimetry studies indicate stronger binding between the polymers in the PLGA 7525/Resomer RG 502H∷ 3:1 blend. Polymer blending can effectively alter drug-release rates of controlled delivery systems in the absence of any additives.
Common mitochondrial DNA mutations generated through DNA-mediated charge transport.

Mutation sites that arise in human mitochondrial DNA as a result of oxidation by a rhodium photooxidant have been identified. HeLa cells were incubated with [Rh(phi)2bpy]Cl3 (phi is 9,10-phenanthrenequinone diimine), an intercalating photooxidant, to allow the complex to enter the cell and bind mitochondrial DNA. Photoexcitation of DNA-bound [Rh(phi)2bpy]3+ can promote the oxidation of guanine from a distance through DNA-mediated charge transport. After two rounds of photolysis and growth of cells incubated with the rhodium complex, DNA mutations in a portion of the mitochondrial genome were assessed via manual sequencing. The mutational pattern is consistent with dG to dT transversions in the repetitive guanine tracts. Significantly, the mutational pattern found overlaps oxidative damage hot spots seen previously. These mutations are found within conserved sequence block II, a critical regulatory element involved in DNA replication, and these have been identified as sites of low oxidation potential to which oxidative damage is funneled. On the basis of this mutational analysis and its correspondence to sites of long-range oxidative damage, we infer a critical role for DNA charge transport in generating these mutations and, thus, in regulating mitochondrial DNA replication under oxidative stress.
The growing gap between rich and poor countries: A proposed explanation

Abstract Making use of data in the Penn World Table (Mark 5), this study seeks to explain the widely reported pattern of increasing divergence of per capita income levels between high and low-income countries and among low-income countries. Tests based on one-on-one comparisons of real growth in 1960–1988 with starting levels of income per capita imply that increasing divergence of per capita income levels was largely due to differences between population growth and labor force growth that varied with income level. Further evidence is provided in the form of crosscountry growth regressions in which, with population growth divided into labor force growth and the amount by which population growth exceeds labor force growth, only the part of population growth that represents changes in the dependency ratio is closely linked to long-term growth.
Component nextgen: a sound and expressive component framework for java

Developing a general component system for a statically typed, object-oriented language is a challenging design problem for two reasons. First, mutually recursive references across components are common in object-oriented programs-an issue that has proven troublesome in the context of component systems for functional and procedural languages. Second, inheritance across component boundaries can cause accidental method overrides. Our recent research shows that a component framework can be constructed for a nominally typed object-oriented language supporting first-class generic types simply by adding appropriate annotations, syntactic sugar, and component-level type-checking. The fundamental semantic building blocks for constructing, type-checking and manipulating components are provided by the underlying first-class generic type system. To demonstrate the simplicity and utility of this approach we have designed and implemented an extension of Java called Component NEXTGEN (CGEN). CGEN, which is based on the Sun Java 5.0 javac compiler, is backwards compatible with existing Java binary code and runs on current Java Virtual Machines. The primary contribution of this paper is a technical analysis of the subtle design issues involved in building a component framework for a nominally typed object-oriented language supporting first-class generics. In contrast to component systems for structurally typed languages, mutual recursion among components is accommodated in the type system and semantics without incorporating any special machinery. Our analysis includes a presentation of Core CGEN (CCG), a small, core language modeling the CGEN framework. It is based on Featherweight GJ and incorporates some ideas from MIXGEN. CCG adds the essential features to support components, but nothing more. Our discussion includes the type rules and semantics for CCG, as well as a proof of type safety.
Concerning zwitterionic peroxide or diradical intermediates in the singlet oxygen-olefin ene reaction

Abstract Arguments are presented which show the zwitterionic or diradical intermediates in the singlet oxygen-olefin ene reaction would lead to a prediction that geminal groups would be competitive in the C-H abstraction reaction. Isotope effect data available from previous studies clearly show that such is not the case. Thus, these intermediates are inappropriate as a general description of this reaction.
Raman-scattering studies of homogeneous K3C60 films.

Raman-scattering studies (T=300 K) have been carried out on homogeneous ${\mathrm{K}}_{3}$${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ films grown on Suprasil substrates. Seven Raman lines have been observed in the range of 2001800 ${\mathrm{cm}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$. Substantial broadening of the ${\mathit{H}}_{\mathit{g}}$-derived modes has been observed and tentatively identified with electron-phonon coupling. The lowest-frequency mode in the ${\mathrm{K}}_{3}$${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ spectrum exhibits a Breit-Wigner-Fano line shape, indicating a coupling between the lowest-frequency intramolecular mode of ${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ and a broad continuum with the same symmetry lying lower in frequency.
Searching for non-Fermi liquids under holographic light

By expanding the set of background geometries beyond the commonly studied ones we identify those dual gravity models that may provide holographic descriptions for some prototypical non-Fermi liquid states of strongly correlated condensed matter systems. Specifically, we discuss prospective gravity duals of such iconic examples as the nonrelativistic fermions coupled to gauge fields and Dirac fermions with Coulomb interactions.
Antidepressants reduce phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC) activity and the mRNA and protein expression of selective PLC β1 isozyme in rat brain

Abstract In order to examine whether antidepressants mediate their action by interacting with one of the key components of the phosphoinositide (PI) signaling pathway, i.e. PI-specific phospholipase C (PLC), and whether this represents a common mechanism of action of antidepressants, we determined the effects of antidepressants of various classes on PI-PLC activity and on the expression of PLC isozymes in rat brain. It was observed that chronic (21-day) but not acute (1-day) administration with desipramine (DMI), fluoxetine (FLX) and phenelzine (PHLZ), decreased PI-PLC activity in membrane and cytosol fractions of cortex and hippocampus. Similar changes were observed with alprazolam (ALP) and buspirone (BUS), who possess anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. On the other hand, an anxiogenic drug, metachlorophenylpiperazine (MCPP), increased PI-PLC activity in both membrane and cytosol fractions of cortex and hippocampus. The immunolabeling studies showed that all the antidepressants and anxiolytics that caused a decrease in PI-PLC activity also selectively decreased the protein levels of a specific isozyme of PLC, i.e. PLCβ 1 , in membrane and cytosol fractions of cortex and hippocampus, whereas MCPP increased the levels of this particular isozyme. These changes were accompained with changes in the mRNA levels of PLCβ 1 , as determined by quantitative RT-PCR. These antidepressants and anxiolytics did not cause significant changes in the expression of PLC δ 1 or γ 1 isozyme. Our results thus suggest that modulation of PI-PLC may be common to all classes of antidepressants, which in turn, may be associated with their mechanisms of action.
Predisposing and Causative Factors in Childhood Epilepsy

We review information from large studies of defined populations, examining the role of known factors and especially of prenatal and perinatal factors in contributing to nonfebrile seizure disorders of early childhood. We depend especially, but not exclusively, on the recently completed analyses from the Collaborative Perinatal Project of the National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke, the NCPP. About 4% of children in the NCPP who had at least one nonfebrile nonsymptomatic seizure by the age of 7 years had a previous seizure during acute neurologic illness, such as meningitis or during the acute illness after trauma. Many such seizures should potentially be preventable. Of children with seizures, 10% had had a neonatal seizure and 13% had had a febrile seizure. Among the hundreds of prenatal and perinatal factors explored as predictors of childhood seizure disorders, the principal predictors identified were congenital malformations of the fetus, cerebral and noncerebral; family history of certain neurologic disorders; and neonatal seizures. In agreement with the British National Child Development Study, labor and delivery factors in the NCPP appeared to contribute very little to childhood seizure disorders. Maldevelopment, rather than damage at birth to an initially intact nervous system, appeared to be the more common mechanism. Most seizure disorders of early childhood remained unexplained by the large set of prenatal and perinatal characteristics examined.
Biotic resistance to invasion along an estuarine gradient

Biotic resistance is the ability of native communities to repel the establishment of invasive species. Predation by native species may confer biotic resistance to communities, but the environmental context under which this form of biotic resistance occurs is not well understood. We evaluated several factors that influence the distribution of invasive Asian mussels (Musculista senhousia) in Mission Bay, a southern California estuary containing an extensive eelgrass (Zostera marina) habitat. Asian mussels exhibit a distinct spatial pattern of invasion, with extremely high densities towards the back of Mission Bay (up to 4,000 m−2) in contrast with near-complete absence at sites towards the front of the bay. We established that recruits arrived at sites where adult mussels were absent and found that dense eelgrass does not appear to preclude Asian mussel growth and survival. Mussel survival and growth were high in predator-exclusion plots throughout the bay, but mussel survival was low in the front of the bay when plots were open to predators. Additional experiments revealed that consumption by spiny lobsters (Panulirus interruptus) and a gastropod (Pteropurpura festiva) likely are the primary factors responsible for resistance to Asian mussel invasion. However, biotic resistance was dependent on location within the estuary (for both species) and also on the availability of a hard substratum (for P. festiva). Our findings indicate that biotic resistance in the form of predation may be conferred by higher order predators, but that the strength of resistance may strongly vary across estuarine gradients and depend on the nature of the locally available habitat.
Anesthesia for non-cardiac surgery in the patient with cardiac disease

HIS talk will describe an approach to the patient with heart disease who is undergoing non-cardiac surgery. Emphasis will be placed on the pathophysiology of the lesion, the preoperative evaluation, anesthetic goals and pertinent therapeutic options. Because of the time limitations of the presentation, not all cardiac conditions will be addressed. Instead, this talk will focus on five important lesions that have been chosen because of their severity and prevalence: coronary artery disease, aortic stenosis, hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, rheumatic mitral stenosis, and mitral valve prolapse. In managing patients with valvular heart disease there are two important philosophies to remember. First, "the enemy of good is better." Most valvular lesions cannot be completely treated by medical management. In other words, don't over-treat these patients; aim for stability, not "normal" hemodynamics. Second, for the reasons that will become clearer in the discussion of aortic stenosis, in patients with multiple valvular lesions which may suggest contradictory anesthetic goals, always give the highest priority to the aortic stenosis. Coronary artery disease Coronary artery disease affects over seven million Americans and thus it is not uncommon to have to care for these patients in non-cardiac surgery. Proper preoperative evaluation of these patients is critical to identify patients with either acute myocardial infarction or unstable angina. This topic is covered in another refresher course, and this talk will focus on the intraoperative management. The main anesthetic goals are avoiding extremes of blood pressure and tachycardia. However, because ischemia can occur in the absence of significant hemodynamic changes, careful monitoring is essential. Patients with active ischemia prior to the operation require more aggressive monitoring and treatment, than those with chronic stable ischemic heart disease. In addition to a multilead electrocardiogram, this aggressive monitoring may include an arterial line, a pulmonary artery catheter, and transesophageal echocardiography. Therapeutically, in addition to nitroglycerine, betablockers, and calcium channel blockers, anticoagulation may be a useful pharmacologic modality. Placement of an intra-aortic balloon pump may also be useful. In non-emergent situations in patients with unstable angina, revascularization prior to non-cardiac surgery must be considered. It should be noted that non-cardiac surgery within two weeks of coronary stenting has been associated with "catastrophic outcomes." It appears that coronary arteries need time to heal after interventional procedures.
Elastin Contributes to the Tensile Response of Medial Collateral Ligament

Elastin provides a restorative force after deformation, stretching and recoiling through both entropic and hydrophobic mechanisms.[1, 2] Selective degradation with elastase cleaves tropoelastin, creating a fragmented network with segments that vary in size and number of crosslinks.[3] Fragments may contribute to the tissue response, so degradation level may incrementally affect the mechanics of the tissue.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Another Look at the Study of Regulatory Forms and Outcomes

Although efficiency fascinates economists, policymakers seldom are concerned with the textbook view of efficiency; the authors argue that economists should emphasize wealth transfers.
My Late Night Hypnagogic Fantasy: Conversation With Heinz Kohut (II)

This “imaginary” conversation focuses on certain recurrent questions about the nature of the analyst's responsiveness to the patient's selfobject transference. Specifically, it focuses here on what mirroring is and how this is actually done in the psychoanalytic process. This leads me to recount what I learned in supervision with Heinz Kohut many years before and appreciatively attributed to his “supervisory pedagogy.” Kohut's statement “let the patient teach you how to analyze him” left a lasting impact on my development as a psychoanalyst, supervisor and teacher. He avoided direct suggestions as to how I should respond but drew me out to report to him about all aspects of my verbal and non-verbal interactions (as far as those became available to me on reflection in the supervisory sessions) which then led me interventions that emerged from such experiences. His pedagogy was to let me discover what I need to understand and how that had to be conveyed to the patient.
Compact Robotically Steerable Image-Guided Instrument for Multi-Adjacent-Point (MAP) Targeting

Accurately targeting multi-adjacent points (MAPs) during image-guided percutaneous procedures is challenging due to needle deflection and misalignment. The associated errors can result in inadequate treatment of cancer in the case of prostate brachytherapy, or inaccurate diagnosis during biopsy, while repeated insertions increase procedure time, radiation dose, and complications. To address these challenges, we present an image-guided robotic system capable of MAP targeting of irregularly shaped volumes after a single insertion of a percutaneous instrument. The design of the compact CT-compatible drive mechanism is based on a nested screw and screw-spline combination that actuates a straight outer cannula and a curved inner stylet that can be repeatedly straightened when retracted inside the cannula. The stylet translation and cannula rotation/translation enable a 3-D workspace to be reached with the stylet's tip. A closed-form inverse kinematics and image-to-robot registration are implemented in an image-guided system including a point-and-click user interface. The complete system is successfully evaluated with a phantom under a Siemens Definition Flash CT scanner. We demonstrate that the system is capable of MAP targeting for a 2-D shape of the letter “H” and a 3-D helical pattern with an average targeting error of 2.41 mm. These results highlight the benefit and efficacy of the proposed robotic system in seed placement during image-guided brachytherapy.
Extending the applicability of multigrid methods

Multigrid methods are ideal for solving the increasingly large-scale problems that arise in numerical simulations of physical phenomena because of their potential for computational costs and memory requirements that scale linearly with the degrees of freedom. Unfortunately, they have been historically limited by their applicability to elliptic-type problems and the need for special handling in their implementation. In this paper, we present an overview of several recent theoretical and algorithmic advances made by the TOPS multigrid partners and their collaborators in extending applicability of multigrid methods. Specific examples that are presented include quantum chromodynamics, radiation transport, and electromagnetics.
Light-Induced Ascorbate-Dependent Electron Transport and Membrane Energization in Chloroplasts of Bundle Sheath Cells of the C4 Plant Maize

Chloroplasts in bundle sheath cells (BSC) of maize perform photosystem I (PSI)-mediated production of ATP. In this study, the participation of ascorbate (Asc) as an electron donor to PSI in light-induced electron transport in isolated maize BSC was demonstrated. It was found that Asc, at physiological concentrations, rapidly reduced photooxidized reaction center chlorophyll of PSI (P700). The rate of Asc donation of electrons to P700+ reached rates of 50-100 microequivalents (mg Chl)(-1) h(-1) at 70-80 mM ascorbate with methyl viologen as an electron acceptor. Electron transport supported by Asc was coupled with membrane energization, as demonstrated by the light-induced formation of a trans-thylakoid electric field measured by the electrochromic shift of carotenoids. The possible physiological function of Asc-dependent electron transport in bundle sheath chloroplasts of maize, as an electron donor for linear electron flow versus sustaining cyclic electron transport, is discussed.
Minimal model for dark matter and unification

Gauge coupling unification and the success of TeV-scale weakly-interacting dark matter are usually taken as evidence of low-energy supersymmetry (SUSY). However, if we assume that the tuning of the Higgs can be explained in some unnatural way, from environmental considerations for example, SUSY is no longer a necessary component of any beyond the standard model theory. In this paper we study the minimal model with a dark matter candidate and gauge coupling unification. This consists of the standard model plus fermions with the quantum numbers of SUSY Higgsinos, and a singlet. It predicts thermal dark matter with a mass that can range from 100 GeV to around 2 TeV and generically gives rise to an electric dipole moment (EDM) that is just beyond current experimental limits, with a large portion of its allowed parameter space accessible to next-generation EDM and direct detection experiments. We study precision unification in this model by embedding it in a 5D orbifold GUT where certain large threshold corrections are calculable, achieving gauge coupling and b-{tau} unification, and predicting a rate of proton decay just beyond current limits.
The Graying of the Baby Boomers: Implications for Senior Adult Ministry

ABSTRACT As they move toward late adulthood, the baby boom generation is impacting the activities of churches in a number of ways including the configuration of senior adult ministries. Using a survey of 951 church members, the religious habits and preferences of senior adults and baby boomers are compared in order to illustrate the distinct generational perspectives that exist. The implication of these differences is discussed with particular attention being given to the changing face of senior adult ministry.
Climate Change Effects on Hydrology and Ecology of Wetlands in the Mid-Atlantic Highlands

Global climate change has received increased attention in the Mid-Atlantic Highlands (MAH) Region of the United States in recent years. Several climate models predict increases in mean temperature of 1–5°C over the next one hundred years for the region, which has considerable implications for wetland ecosystems already encumbered by numerous anthropogenic stressors; however, historical (i.e., 1890s–current) data from the MAH presented here show increasing trends in precipitation intensity and decreasing trends in temperature. Continuation of historical trends for the next 90 years are used to predict potential impacts on regional wetland extent and function using empirical and conceptual models. Recommendations for management of climate related impacts on wetlands include analysis of historical climate trends at regional and local scales, establishment of wetland monitoring networks to quantify impacts of climate induced stress on wetland ecosystems, and integration of historical trends and research findings into empirical and conceptual models. Management strategies of this nature will facilitate early detection and mitigation of climate induced effects on wetlands in the MAH.
Neuroendocrine ACTH-Producing Tumor of the Thymus—Experience with 12 Patients over 25 Years

Context: ACTH-producing neuroendocrine tumor (NET) of the thymus is a rare cause of Cushing's syndrome (CS). The literature consists mainly of isolated case reports. Patients: We studied 12 cases (eight males and four females) diagnosed between 1986 and 2010 with CS and thymic NET who underwent surgical resection. Main Outcome Measures: We measured time from onset of CS to diagnosis of thymic NET, tumor size, histological grade, time to recurrence, and survival and performed a meta-analysis of other published cases of CS associated with thymic NET. Results: Eleven of 12 patients presented with classic features of CS at a median age of 21 yr (range, 7–51). Four were children. The 24-h urine free cortisol was greater than 16-fold of normal, and biochemical testing was consistent with ectopic ACTH production in all 11. Another patient presenting with pulmonary embolus had a thymic mass and was later diagnosed with CS. All patients underwent thymectomy, and nine of 10 tumors exhibited positive ACTH immunochem...
Electromagnetic properties of tungsten nuclei

Abstract Quadrupole collectivity in 182,184 W has been studied by Coulomb excitation with 58 Ni and 136 Xe projectiles. The yields of the de-excitation γ-rays, measured in coincidence with the scattered ions, were used to determine a fairly complete set of electromagnetic matrix elements for the low-lying states. A separate experiment measured lifetimes for five and eight states respectively in 182 W and 184 W by the recoil distance method following Coulomb excitation with a 245 MeV 58 Ni projectile. These lifetime measurements are in good agreement with the results for the Coulomb excitation yield measurements. The correlations of the extracted E2 matrix elements are examined using the Cline-Flaum sum-rule technique and discussed in the framework of the various collective models. These correlations are well described with quadrupole shape degrees of freedom. Strong mixing between the β- and γ-vibration degrees of freedom, claimed in the pairing-plus-quadrupole model of Kumar and Baranger, is not supported by the present results.
Geochemical approach to estimate the quality of water entering abandoned underground coalmines

Geochemical modeling was employed to estimate the chemistry of water infiltrating into abandoned underground flooded and unflooded coalmines of the Uniontown syncline, Fayette County, Pennsylvania. This was done to help evaluate factors governing the long-term evolution of coalmine discharge water quality in the Uniontown syncline area. The subsurface structure and lithology was delineated using borehole, mine shaft, and stratigraphic information. Hydrogeologic analyses indicated that most of the recharge to mine voids occurs in the zones of shallow overburden cover of less than 20 m in thickness. The water–rock contact period in the recharge areas of the overburden was estimated to be 5 days or greater for the flooded mines, and a day or less for the unflooded mines. Flow-through reaction-path models were applied to the topsoil and shale–sandstone lithological units identified in the recharge areas. The model predicted water entering the flooded mines at a pH of 6.65, alkalinity of 6.92 mequiv. l−1 and a total sulfate concentration of 7.33 mM, and the unflooded mines at a pH of 6.68, alkalinity of 6.99 mequiv. l−1 and a total sulfate concentration of 3.08 mM. The model predictions for the flooded and unflooded mines are consistent with groundwater data from the study site, indicating the usefulness of this approach in evaluating the contribution of overburden chemistry to the evolution of mine discharge quality.
Linear Electro-Optic (Pockels) Effect in Hexamethylenetetramine: Influence of Crystal Strain

The linear electro-optic (Pockels) effect has been measured in the organic molecular crystal hexamethylenetetramine. Crystals were grown from water, alcohol, and chloroform solutions and from the vapor. Electro-optic coefficients computed from Senarmont-compensator data range from 0.71 × 10−10 cm V−1 to 0.8 × 10−10 cm V−1 or, equivalently, in terms of half-wave voltage: V1/2λ = 85±5 kV. Crystal strain is not responsible for the much wider variation reported in the literature. Electric-field inhomogeneities are considered a more likely cause.
A review of micropumps

We survey progress over the past 25 years in the development of microscale devices for pumping fluids. We attempt to provide both a reference for micropump researchers and a resource for those outside the field who wish to identify the best micropump for a particular application. Reciprocating displacement micropumps have been the subject of extensive research in both academia and the private sector and have been produced with a wide range of actuators, valve configurations and materials. Aperiodic displacement micropumps based on mechanisms such as localized phase change have been shown to be suitable for specialized applications. Electroosmotic micropumps exhibit favorable scaling and are promising for a variety of applications requiring high flow rates and pressures. Dynamic micropumps based on electrohydrodynamic and magnetohydrodynamic effects have also been developed. Much progress has been made, but with micropumps suitable for important applications still not available, this remains a fertile area for future research.
EHD2 Interacts with the Insulin-Responsive Glucose Transporter (GLUT4) in Rat Adipocytes and May Participate in Insulin-Induced GLUT4 Recruitment†

Insulin-induced GLUT4 recruitment to the plasma membrane involves GLUT4 trafficking through multiple subcellular compartments regulated by multiple proteins, many of which are yet to be identified. Here we describe a 65 kDa protein found in purified GLUT4 vesicles of rat adipocytes as a potential GLUT4 traffic regulatory protein. On the basis of MALDI-TOF MS, RT-PCR, gene cloning, protein sequencing, and immunoreactivity data, we identified this protein as EHD2, a member of the EH domain-containing proteins that have been implicated in vesicle trafficking. EHD2 in rat adipocytes was 85% membrane-associated, including approximately 10% in immunopurified GLUT4 vesicles. This association of EHD2 with GLUT4 vesicles occurred in PM and three distinct endosomal fractions and was not significantly affected by cellular insulin treatment. In co-immunoprecipitation experiments, however, EHD2 physically interacted with GLUT4 in each of these fractions, and cellular insulin treatment selectively enhanced this interac...
Near-infrared spectroscopic analysis of macronutrients and energy in homogenized meals

Abstract Near-infrared (NIR) reflectance spectroscopy was evaluated as a rapid and environmentally benign technique for the simultaneous determination of macronutrients and energy in commercially available, packaged meals. Reflectance spectra (400–2498 nm) of homogenized meals were obtained with a dispersive NIR spectrometer. Protein and moisture were measured by AOAC reference methods, total fat by a semi-automated acid hydrolysis, solvent extraction, gravimetric method and total carbohydrate calculated. Energy was calculated using Atwater factors. Using multivariate analysis software, PLS models (n = 113–115 products) were developed to relate NIR spectra of homogenized meals to the corresponding reference values. The models predicted components and energy in validation samples (n = 37–38 products), overall, with r2 of above 0.96. Ratios of deviation to performance were between 3.6 and 6.6, and indicated adequacy of the models for screening, quality control, or process control. Performance of the models varied substantially when used to predict sub-groups of meals within the validation set.
In situ observation of Cu segregation and phase nucleation at a solid-liquid interface in an Al alloy

Abstract This paper presents a systematic study comparing experimental in situ transmission electron microscopy observation of microstructural and compositional evolution with complementary thermodynamic calculations, to better understand the redistribution of solute elements and the nucleation behavior of different phases in a commercial Al-alloy powder (AA390). The results show that Cu segregation to the solid Si–liquid Al interface, as well as the significant undercooling achieved in the liquid under non-equilibrium conditions because the Al phase cannot nucleate homogeneously, play a important roles in nucleating Al 2 Cu at the interface prior to the Mg 2 Si phase in the alloy. Although Cu segregation can occur at various locations along the interface, the Al 2 Cu phase appears to preferentially nucleate at a high-index Si–liquid interface as opposed to a low-index one. The Cu concentration during segregation remains essentially constant with time, indicating that the observed segregation behavior is a thermodynamic and not a kinetic phenomenon. These in situ observations and complementary thermodynamic calculations substantially enhance our understanding of potential crystal nucleation and growth processes.
Effects of microhabitat, time of day, and weather on predation of gypsy moth larvae

Wire cages with different-sized meshes were placed on trunks and around leaves at different heights in oak trees and in forest litter. Gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar, instars II–V tethered with threads were placed in each cage (instars II–III only in leaf cages) as well as outside the cages. Predation of larvae decreased from near ground to mid-crown in trees and was highest in litter and very low on leaves. Predation in litter was not strongly related to cage type, suggesting that small, invertebrate predators were active there, but IV–V instars on trunks were mainly killed by relatively large predators, probably forest mice and shrews. Influences of the time of day and weather on predation were evaluated by observing tethered V–VI instars in litter and on tree trunks hourly. Ants, particularly carpenter ants (Camponotus ferrugineus) and Formica sp., and probably vertebrates, were conspicuous predators in the litter. Ants were most active at lower relative humidities, while other predators were apparently not influenced by humidity. No daily activity rhythms of predation were noted. Invertebrates appear to be important predators of larvae only in the litter whereas vertebrates, such as forest mice and shrews, also readily attack larvae on tree trunks.
Adequacy of lattice dynamics for high-temperature point-defect properties

Comparison with existing Monte Carlo and molecular-dynamics data of novel quasiharmonic lattice-dynamics (LD) calculations for formation and migration of lattice vacancies in rare-gas crystals at melting shows that the effect of residual anharmonicity on atomic diffusion is not large. Inclusion of vibrational contributions to the free energy and pressure ensures, for the first time, thermodynamic consistency between LD results at constant volume, pressure, and lattice spacing. Lattice-statics predictions are badly in error. Constant-volume defect entropies are negative and surprisingly large.
A low-cost PCI-bus-based ultrasound system for use in image-guided neurosurgery

A low-cost PCI-bus-based ultrasound sub-system has been developed and integrated into the image-guided neurosurgery system currently in use at the Cleveland Clinic. Two software applications have been developed that integrate real-time ultrasound images with preoperative MR and CT data sets. By tracking the position of the ultrasound probe during surgery, it is possible to display a real time ultrasound image and the corresponding (preoperative) oblique CT or MR slice. This provides immediate positional feedback to the neurosurgeon during the surgical procedure.
A commutation theorem and duality for free Bose fields

We first present an elementary commutation theorem for operator algebras on Hilbert space. This theorem is then applied to give an elementary proof of duality for free Bose fields.
New preparations and molecular structures of cis-MCl2(Ph2PCH2PPh2)2, M = Ru, Os and trans-RuCl2(Ph2PCH2PPh2)2

Abstract The title compounds were made by reacting bis(diphenylphosphino)methane (dppm) with reduced solutions of OsCl64− and Ru2OCl104−. The crystal and molecular structures of these compounds have been determined form three-dimensional X-ray study. The cis-isomers crystallize with one CHCl3 per molecule of the complex. All three compounds crystallize in the monoclinic space group P21/n with unit cell dimensions as follows: Cis-OsCl2(dppm)2·CHCl3: a = 13.415(4) A, b = 22.859(4) A, c = 16.693(3) A, β = 105.77(3)°, V = 4926(3) A3, Z = 4. cis-RuCl2(dppm)2·CHCl3: a = 13.442(3) A, b = 22.833(7) A, c = 16.750(4) A, β = 105.53(2)°, V = 4953(3) A3, Z = 4. trans-RuCl2(dppm)2: a = 11.368(7) A, b = 10.656(6) A, c = 18.832(12) A; β = 103.90(6)°, V = 2213(7) A3; Z = 2. The structures were refined to R = 0.044 (Rw = 0.055) for cis-OsCl2(dppm)2·CHCl3; R = 0.065 (Rw = 0.079) for cis-RuCl2(dppm)2·CHCl3 and R = 0.028 (Rw = 0.038) for trans-RuCl2(dppm)2. The complexes are six coordinate with stable four-membered chelate rings. The PMP angle in the chelate rings is ca. 71° in each case.