cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Differential effects of bacterial toxins on mitogenic actions of sodium fluoride and those of aluminum fluoride in human TE85 osteosarcoma cells.

This study compared the effects of cholera toxin (CTX) and pertussis toxin (PTX) on the actions of sodium fluoride (NaF) and those of aluminum fluoride (AlF3) on cell proliferation and differentiation, as well as tyrosine phosphorylation level of MAP kinase (MAPK) in human bone cells. NaF and AlF3 each significantly stimulated the proliferation of human TE85 osteosarcoma cells, increased cellular alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and increased MAPK tyrosine phosphorylation level. CTX completely blocked the bone cell anabolic activities of both NaF and AlF3. While PTX (2 ng/ml) inhibited the bone cell actions of NaF, it had no significant effect on those of AlF3. Both CTX and PTX completely blocked the stimulatory action of AlF3 on MAPK tyrosine phosphorylation, but neither toxin had an effect on the action of NaF on MAPK tyrosine phosphorylation. In conclusion, PTX and CTX had contrasting effects on the anabolic bone cell actions of NaF and AlF3 actions. These findings argue against the hypothesis that the osteogenic activity of NaF is mediated via the formation of AlF3 in human TE85 osteosarcoma cells.
Taxing the Rich: Issues and Options

The U.S. economy exhibits high inequality and low economic mobility across generations relative to other high-income countries. The U.S. will need to raise more revenues in order to reduce these disparities, finance much-needed new services and investments, and address the nation’s long-term fiscal needs. This paper outlines policy options for raising a large amount of revenues primarily from the most affluent, first discussing potential incremental reforms and then focusing on four main options for more structural reform: (1) dramatically increasing the top tax rates on labor and other ordinary income, (2) taxing the wealthy on accrued gains as they arise and at ordinary rates, (3) a wealth tax on high-net-worth individuals, and (4) a financial transactions tax. Although we summarize the relative advantages and disadvantages of these approaches, we generally conclude that they all merit serious consideration. Several options are also complementary to one another. In practice, however, the relative strengths of each of these policies will depend to a large extent on how each is designed after it has made its way through the legislative and regulatory process.
Landsat 9 pre-launch sensor characterization and comparison with Landsat 8 results

Landsat 9 is planned for launch in December 2020 to continue the mission of observing changes on the Earth’s surface that began in 1972 with the launch of Landsat 1. Like Landsat 8, Landsat 9 will carry two imaging instruments: Operational Land Imager 2 (OLI-2), designed and built by Ball Aerospace**, and Thermal Infrared Sensor 2 (TIRS-2), manufactured by NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC). As of this writing, both sensors have completed the instrument-level ground testing and are ready for integration into the spacecraft. Data collected during the pre-launch performance testing are analyzed to assess the usability of responses of the video reference pixels (VRPs) located on the focal planes of OLI-2 and Landsat 8 OLI for more accurate detector bias estimates, develop a methodology to correct for nonlinearities in the OLI-2 response and compare it to the OLI correction approach, and determine the spatial performance of TIRS-2.
Allograft Alone vs. Allograft with Intramedullary Vascularized Fibular Graft for Lower Extremity Bone Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Background Limb salvage surgery has become a first-line treatment in the setting of lower extremity cancer. Despite a multitude of techniques, the most effective modality for osseous reconstruction has not been described. We aim to examine outcomes of allograft reconstruction alone compared to an allograft combined with a vascularized fibula graft (VFG) (Capanna Technique) through a meta-analysis of the literature. Methods A systematic review of the literature was conducted through the online databases PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science, examining articles utilizing an allograft with or without an intramedullary VFG for the reconstruction of lower extremity osseous defects following oncological resection. A meta-analysis examined outcomes, including nonunion, infection, fractures, explantation, and functional limb status, that were evaluated dependent upon reconstructive modality. Results Twenty-five articles were deemed appropriate for inclusion. The allograft with VFG group had considerably lower rates of nonunion (13%) in comparison to the allograft alone group (21.4%) (p Conclusions Allograft reconstruction with a supplementary inlay VFG decreases the risk of nonunion and explantation compared to allograft alone reconstruction in the setting of oncological resection of the osseous lower extremity. This technique warrants increased consideration in the operative planning of lower limb reconstruction following tumor extirpation.
The Tribe Has Spoken: Evidence for the Impact of Tribal Differences in Social Science Is Equivocal

In the target article, Clark and Winegard (this issue) attempt to make the case that, in the context of the recent American political system, liberals and conservatives are equally “tribal.”1 They ...
Liver Transplantation for Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune Hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic, progressive, inflammatory, liver disease that responds to immunosuppressive therapy. Liver transplantation (LT) may be needed for AIH patients who present with acute liver failure without a prior diagnosis of AIH or in those who develop decompensated liver disease despite medical therapy. The proportion of all AIH that present as acute hepatitis that may progress to liver failure and need transplantation ranges from 20% to 75%. Approximately 2–3% of all pediatric and 4–6% of adult liver transplants in the US are for AIH. AIH can recur in the allograft with an incidence of recurrence between 8–12% at 1 year and 36–68% at 5 years. Recurrent AIH is characterized by non-organ specific autoantibodies, increased aminotransferases and immunoglobulin G (IgG), and typical histologic features of an interface hepatitis composed of peri-portal plasma cell infiltrates. De novo AIH is the development of features of classical AIH in the allograft of patients who have not been transplanted for AIH. Other names for this condition include ‘graft dysfunction mimicking AIH’ and ‘plasma cell hepatitis’. There is a need for uniform diagnostic criteria. Careful attention to excluding other causes of hepatitis is important in diagnosing de novo AIH. The cause of recurrent or de novo AIH is unknown. Several mechanisms have been implicated in this loss of self-tolerance including impaired thymic regulation, impaired activity of T regulatory cells, molecular mimicry, calcineurin inhibitors, glutathione-s transferase and genetic polymorphisms. While the phenotype of de novo AIH in pediatrics has been uniform, it has been more variable in adults, highlighting the need for uniform diagnostic criteria or scoring system post LT. Better understanding of the development of autoimmunity and its difference from classical rejection after LT will improve therapeutic strategies and outcomes. Experience in pediatric liver recipients suggests that immunosuppressive therapy used in AIH can successfully treat de novo AIH.
Analysis of the Cracking of the Fins of the Thin Tube in the Middle Partition Wall of the Boiler

During the inspection of the heating surface of No. 2 boiler in a thermal power plant, it was found that the fins of the thin tube in the middle partition wall were cracked. In order to find out the cause of fin cracking, a comprehensive experimental study was carried out on the thin tube of middle partition wall with fin cracking by means of appearance analysis, mechanical property analysis, chemical composition analysis and metallographic microstructure detection. The results showed that the fin cracking of thin tube in the middle wall of Chen 2 boiler was due to the large stress on the thin tube in the middle wall caused by the poor expansion of the tube screen during the operation, and finally the fin weld root which was easy to produce stress concentration cracks. It was recommended to find out the causes of the poor expansion of the thinning pipe of the middle partition wall on site, and at the same time, focused on the root of the nearby tube panel fin weld to check whether there was any cracking, and replaced the defects in time to prevent the similar cracking failure from happening again.
Mechanical behavior of nanocrystalline and ultrafine-grained NiTi thin films

Abstract Nanoscale NiTi thin films are highly suitable for high frequency thermal actuation in microelectromechanical devices because of their small thermal mass and large surface-to-volume ratio. However, there have been few studies on the mechanical behavior of NiTi films with thicknesses below 200 nm. Here, we synthesized nanocrystalline (NC) and ultrafine-grained (UFG) NiTi films, 150 and 120 nm thick, respectively, by crystallizing amorphous NiTi films embedded with Cr seed crystals, and investigated their mechanical behavior via uniaxial tensile experiments. The experiments reveal that the stress–strain response of NC and UFG NiTi film samples is considerably different from their bulk counterparts. NC NiTi film samples show a combination of pseudoelasticity and shape memory effect even when the deformation temperature is above the austenite finish temperature, while UFG samples show significant increase in stress during phase transformation from austenite to martensite. Furthermore, small changes in the microstructure cause marked differences in the stress–strain response of the NiTi thin films, emphasizing the need to carefully control their chemical composition and thermal history to achieve reproducible properties.
Biogeography, writing, and the origins of the state

Abstract The state is an entity that allows for common defense, provision of public goods, and the potential to attain a higher level of production. It may benefit the few or the many. Recent work in historical economics has shown that early states emerged in areas where biogeography favored it because of agricultural potential. But maintaining an early state depended not only on economic potential but also on technologies for governing, and there has been less recent empirical analysis of this latter factor. For several millennia now, there are examples where societies have invented technologies of governance from scratch, but the more common pattern has been for societies to borrow from their neighbors. In what follows I will show this with the invention, adoption, and diffusion of writing. Writing is believed to have originated independently in only three societies: in Ancient Sumeria, among the Olmecs in Mesoamerica, and in China under the Shang dynasty. I will show that societies that were closer to these three points of origin were more likely to adopt writing and to develop states, provided that they were also located in areas with favorable geography for the production of cereals. The lesson here is that the formation and development of states—from the earliest to modern nation-states—has depended as much on the capacity of humans to invent new ways of governing themselves as on circumstances dictated by geography or the natural environment.
CHAPTER 10 – Difference Equations, Differentiation and Differential Equations

Publisher Summary This chapter describes difference equations, differentiation, and differential equations. Difference equations occur in many branches of science both directly and indirectly, when one approximates a differential equation to obtain a numerical solution on a digital computer. Linear difference equations are presented with constant coefficients—these have been encountered as recurrence relations. This method is applicable to compute many of the important special functions that arise in various branches of science. Among those who have contributed recently to the analysis of this method are Gautschi, Olver, and Thacher. The chapter discusses the use of Richardson extrapolation to improve the results of Heun integration. The chapter also explains the primitive predictor–corrector method. The disadvantage in these is that special starting procedures are required that make the reduction of mesh size awkward.
Entering the Energy Superhighway

As its very name indicates, energy is the main focus of the ECS Energy Technology Division. Any discussion of energy-related topics usually revolves around statistical data, often presented in different energy units.
Inhibition of PI3K/Akt and ERK signaling decreases visfatin-induced invasion in liver cancer cells.

OBJECTIVES Visfatin is found in adipose tissue and is referred to as nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (Nampt). Visfatin has anti-apoptotic, proliferative, and metastatic properties and may mediate its effects via ERK and PI3K/Akt signaling. Studies have yet to determine whether inhibition of kinase signaling will suppress visfatin-induced liver cancer. The purpose of this study was to determine which signaling pathways visfatin may promote liver cancer progression. METHODS HepG2 and SNU-449 liver cancer cells were exposed to visfatin with or without ERK or PI3K/Akt inhibitor, or both inhibitors combined. These processes that were assessed: proliferation, reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipogenesis, invasion, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP). RESULTS Inhibition of PI3K/Akt and combination of inhibitors suppressed visfatin-induced viability. ERK inhibition in HepG2 cells decreased visfatin-induced proliferation. ERK inhibitor alone or in combination with PI3K inhibitors effectively suppressed MMP-9 secretion and invasion in liver cancer cells. PI3K and ERK inhibition and PI3K inhibition alone blocked visfatin's ROS production in SNU-449 cells. These results corresponded with a decrease in phosphorylated Akt and ERK, β-catenin, and fatty acid synthase. CONCLUSIONS Akt and ERK inhibition differentially regulated physiological changes in liver cancer cells. Inhibition of Akt and ERK signaling pathways suppressed visfatin-induced invasion, viability, MMP-9 activation, and ROS production.
The Inequity of Informal Guidance

The co-existence of formal and informal law is a hallmark feature of the U.S. tax system. Congress and the Treasury enact formal law, such as statutes and regulations, while the Internal Revenue Service offers the public informal explanations and summaries, such as taxpayer publications, website frequently asked questions, virtual assistants, and other types of taxpayer guidance. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the IRS increased its use of informal law to help taxpayers understand complex emergency relief rules implemented through the tax system. In contrast to many other legal scholars who have examined important administrative law issues regarding informal tax guidance, in this Article, we reframe the topic as a social justice issue. We argue that the two tiers of formal and informal law in the U.S. tax system systematically disadvantage taxpayers who lack access to sophisticated advisors. This imbalance occurs irrespective of whether the IRS’s informal law contains statements that, if taxpayers followed them, would be taxpayer favorable or unfavorable. When the guidance contains taxpayer-favorable positions, the IRS is not legally bound by these positions and, during an audit, can contradict or ignore them. But when the guidance contains taxpayer-unfriendly positions, taxpayers who rely on them are bound to these interpretations as a practical matter. Worse yet, these taxpayers have almost no protection against tax penalties for incorrect positions that they claim based on the IRS’s tax guidance. By contrast, taxpayers who can access and apply the formal sources of tax law, such as the Internal Revenue Code and Treasury regulations, often through lawyers, are in a significantly better strategic position. They can rely on binding law, they can try to take the most advantageous positions possible, and if they meet a relatively low bar of reasonableness, they will have penalty protections in doing so. After highlighting the growing gap between formal and informal tax law, and the resulting, systemic inequity it causes, we explore potential policy approaches to address it. We consider reforming the drafting of the formal tax law; changing the drafting of informal tax law to include warnings to taxpayers and cross-references to formal tax law; revising the law regarding taxpayer reliance on informal tax law; and developing IRS research on how reliance on informal tax law varies based on taxpayers’ income, filing status, race, and other personal characteristics.
Vector auto-regressive model (VAR) results’ versus auto-regressive distributive lags model (ARDL) results’

The paper aims to test the possibility of getting the same results when applying two different econometric models in testing the relation between the development of financial sector and the economic growth in Egypt. The paper examines the relation between the improvement of financial segment and the economic growth in Egypt to check the relation’s existence and to determine its direction using the vector autoregressive model VAR. The paper then compares the results obtained with the results of other published paper using auto-regressive distributed lags model ARDL to test the same. relation in Egypt. The main finding of this study is that using two different econometric models to test the existence of the relation between the improvement of the financial segment and the economic growth in Egypt, has contributed to the same result in the long-run; which is the existence of long run relationship between the financial segment improvement and the development of the economic growth indicating that the development of the financial sector leads to the development of economic growth.
Unconstrained testing of spine with bi-axial universal testing machine

Abstract Background In-vitro biomechanical assessment of the spine reveals significant information on the mechanics of spinal disorders, treatment methods, and surgical implants. Specialized devices for the evaluation of spine biomechanics have thus become popular. However, these devices might not be affordable for all research groups. Purpose The purpose of this study was to describe an apparatus to be attached to a standard bi-axial universal testing machine that would make unconstrained testing of the spine possible. Study design/setting A technical note on the definition of a spinal testing fixture with validation. Methods Intact lumbosacral spines (T12-S1) were tested in sagittal and lateral bending and axial rotation. Three-dimensional interlevel rotations at each level (L1-4) were analyzed. Results By comparison with the literature, we found that the new fixture was able to successfully produce reasonable relative rotation values for the lumbar spine. Conclusions We demonstrated that the low cost fixture allowed unconstrained (six degree of freedom, 6 DOF) testing of fresh-frozen cadaveric lumbar spine.
THE REACTION OF HEXACHLORORHODATE(III) AND HEXACHLOROPLATINATE(IV) WITH PIPERIDINE, TRIS(PIPERIDINE) COMPLEXES OF RH(III) AND PT(II)

Abstract Piperidinium hexachlororhodate(III) monohydrate undergoes a rapid reaction with piperidine in refluxing benzene to form trichloro tris(piperidine) rhodium(III) and piperidine hydrochloride. At no time during this investigation, however, was a tetrakis(piperidine)-rhodium species detected. Thus the prolonged refluxing either of a piperidinium hexachlororhodate(III) monohydrate-piperidine-benzene suspension, or of a suspension of piperidinium hexachlororhodate(III) monohydrate in pure piperidine, yields primarily piperidine hydrochloride and rhodium(III) oxide. Ammonium hexachloroplatinate(IV), when subjected to refluxing piperidine for periods ranging from 30 min to 135 hr, reacts to form chloro tris(piperidine) platinum(II) chloride and piperidine hydrochloride. Far i.r. assignments are given for chloro tris(piperidine) platinum(II) chloride and for trichloro tris(piperidine) rhodium(III); and it is concluded from the far i.r. data that the trichloro tris(piperidine) rhodium(III) comprised both 1,2,6- and 1,2,3-isomers, with the former being predominant. No evidence was found during this study for the supposed tetrakis(piperidine) platinum(II) chloride reported by Druding and Shupack; and it is noted that these investigators themselves did not present any evidence to substantiate the synthesis of said compound. The fact that a tetrakis(piperidine) complex has yet to be established for either Rh(III) or Pt(II) is attributed to steric hindrance.
Genetics of human cell lines. II. Method for determination of mutation rates to drug resistance.

Abstract The applicability of the cloning technique to human cell cultures has permitted the development of an operationally simplified method for determination of mutation rates. The procedure is based on the principle of the Luria-Delbruck variance test [1] but eliminates the laborious preparation of multiple subcultures. The rates of two sequential, obligatory single-step mutations in strain D98S, from AG sensitivity (0.12 μg AG/ml) to AG resistance, and from AG resistance (sensitive to 12 μg AG/ml and 0.5 μg AGR/ml) to AGR resistance (30 μg AGR/ml), were found to be 4.9 × 10−4 and 1.2 × 10−6 per cell per division cycle, respectively.
Effusion of the hips in a patient with tetraplegia.

Background: Patients with spinal cord injury are at risk for knee effusion, most likely as a result of repetitive microtrauma. Patients with paralysis are susceptible to effusions of the hip similar to those seen in documented cases regarding the knee. The etiology is likely similar and is related to repetitive microtrauma, such as that experienced when aggressive range of motion exercises are applied.
Two-dimensional distributed effects in graphene SymFETs

The perfect symmetry in the band structure of graphene has motivated the investigation of single-particle inter-layer tunneling in finite area two-terminal graphene-insulator-graphene hetero-structures. Based on this transport mechanism, Zhao et al. [1] recently proposed a symmetric graphene tunneling field-effect transistor (SymFET), where current flows by resonant tunneling between an n-type graphene electrode and a p-type graphene electrode. This device was analyzed in previous works employing a single particle tunneling model and assuming a 1-D approximation of the device. However, two-dimensional effects can be important in tunneling devices based on 2-D materials and alter the predicted characteristics of such devices. In this work, we introduce a rigorous 2-D electrostatic model that takes into consideration: (a) the intra-graphene-layer potential distributions, and (b) the internal current flows through the device, as suggested in the work of Zhao et al. [1] as a proposed future element to be considered in further work.
On optimal truncation of divergent series solutions of nonlinear differential systems

We prove that for divergent series solutions of nonlinear (or linear) differential systems near a generic irregular singularity, the common prescription of summation to the least term is, if properly interpreted, meaningful and correct, and we extend this method to trans–series solutions. In every direction in the complex plane at the singularity (Stokes9 directions not excepted) there exists a non–empty set of solutions whose difference from the ‘optimally’ (i.e. near the least term) truncated asymptotic series is of the same (exponentially small) order of magnitude as the least term of the series. There is a family of generalized Borel summation formulae, B , which commute with the usual algebraic and analytic operations (addition, multiplication, differentiation, etc.). We show that there is exactly one of them, B 0 such that for any formal series solution f , B 0 f differs from the optimal truncation of f by at most the order of the least term of f . We show in addition that the Berry–smoothing phenomenon is universal within this class of differential systems. Whenever the terms ‘beyond all orders’ change in crossing a Stokes line, these terms vary smoothly on the Berry scale ( x ) ~ x –1/2 and the transition is always given by the error function; under the same conditions we show that Dingle9 rule of signs for Stokes9 transitions holds.
Tracking implicit trajectories

Output tracking of implcitly defined reference trajectories is examined. A continuous-time nonlinear dynamical system is constructed that produces explicit estimates of time-varying implicit trajectories. We prove that incorporation of this "dynamic inverter" into a tracking controller provides exponential output tracking of the implicitly defined trajectory for nonlinear control systems having vector relative degree and well-behaved internal dynanmics.
Anti-myeloperoxidase and anti-cathepsin G antibodies in sulphonamide hypersensitivity.

Summary Background Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) are associated with vasculitis in humans. Sulphonamide antimicrobials cause drug hypersensitivity (HS) reactions with some clinical signs that are suggestive of vasculitis. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether sulphonamide HS is associated with anti-neutrophil antibodies, using the dog as a spontaneous clinical model. Methods Thirty-four sulphonamide-HS dogs, 11 sulphonamide-‘tolerant’ dogs, and nine healthy sulphonamide-naive dogs were evaluated for anti-neutrophil antibodies using a commercial ELISA against human myeloperoxidase (MPO), a commercial human ANCA Western blot protocol, and immunoblotting against whole canine neutrophils. Results Using ELISA, anti-MPO antibodies were found with an apparent higher frequency in HS dogs (50%), compared with ‘tolerant’ dogs (18%), which also showed significantly lower absorbances. Among HS dogs, anti-MPO antibodies were significantly more common, with significantly higher absorbances, in dogs that did not survive the HS reaction (78%) compared with survivors (35%). Using immunoblotting, ANCA were detected with similar overall frequencies in HS and ‘tolerant’ dogs. However, one protein targeted by several HS dogs, but no ‘tolerant’ dogs, was identified as cathepsin G. Conclusion These data indicate that anti-MPO antibodies and anti-cathepsin G antibodies are associated with sulphonamide HS. Anti-MPO antibodies have been shown to be pathogenic both in vitro and in vivo, leading to vasculitis lesions and vasculitis-like syndromes. The present study therefore suggests that vasculitis might be one mechanism of tissue damage in this sulphonamide HS. Furthermore, the evaluation of ANCA, and its relationship to disease severity and clinical outcome, should be considered in human patients with sulphonamide drug HS.
The global simulation clock as the frequency domain experiment index

Frequency domain simulation experiments involve inducing sinusoidal variations in the input process. System sensitivities of the output can be detected in the frequency domain. The selection of an appropriate index for these oscillations is critical in running such experiments. The index for the sinusoidal variations has typically been a discrete index such as customer or part number in queueing and production systems respectively. In this paper, the use of the global simulation clock as the index is discussed.
Bessel functions and representation theory, II holomorphic discrete series and metaplectic representations

Abstract This paper presents representation-theoretic applications of the general theory of operator-valued Bessel functions developed in the first paper of this series. Here, the concern is with the circle of ideas relating decomposition of the Fourier transform on F k × n, F a real finite-dimensional division algebra and k ⩾ 2n, to metaplectic representations, holomorphic discrete series, and limits of holomorphic discrete series for the group of biholomorphic automorphisms of the Siegel upper half-plane in the complexification of F n × n.
PTS thermal hydraulic testing in the OSU APEX facility

Abstract The APEX Test Facility at Oregon State University has been modified to simulate a typical 2×4 loop Combustion Engineering nuclear plant. The new configuration, APEX-CE, will be used to perform a series of separate effects and integral systems overcooling tests that examine the conditions that lead to primary loop stagnation and cold leg thermal stratification. RELAP5 calculations will be compared to the test data to assess its ability to predict the onset of loop stagnation. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code will be assessed against the APEX-CE cold leg and downcomer fluid mixing data. This work is part of the US nuclear regulatory commission's (USNRC) effort to review its existing pressurized thermal shock (PTS) guidance.
Konane as a vehicle for teaching AI

The game of Konane is described and suggested as a suitable vehicle for use in teaching artificial intelligence in a classroom situation. Examples of programs played by computers are given. A simple technique for avoiding repeated losses by computers in games against humans is presented.
New electrode for taking electrocardiograms of animals.

New types of electrodes for taking electrocardiograms on lightly or locally anesthetized animals of various sizes from baboons to mice have been developed and are herewith described.
Approximate Controllability of a Stochastic Wave Equation

In this paper we discuss the controllability of a wave equation with random noise. Our main tools are the Ito representation theorem and an adaptation of the Hilbert uniqueness method for the exact controllability of deterministic equations.
Articulate Bodies: Forms and Figures at Çatalhöyük

This paper examines the materializing practices of bodies at the Neolithic site of Catalhoyuk. We focus on the clay and stone figurine corpus (over 1,800 total, with over 1,000 of those being diagnostic), but also consider other media such as wall paintings and sculptured features, as well as the skeletal evidence. This paper is the first attempt to analyze particular bodily characteristics in the Catalhoyuk figurine repertoire from a perspective that investigates, rather than assumes, a priori the representational priorities of their makers. Within a wide range of anthropomorphic and abbreviated figurines, we find that specific areas such as the stomach and buttocks were often clearly delineated and emphasized, whereas demarcation of primary sexual characteristics was typically downplayed. These traits and their material “prominence” might underscore specific bodily areas that have generally been overlooked as potential sites of articulation and attention. Our work challenges older assumptions that figurines were always engaged in projects of either deification or self-making. Instead, we suggest that these body types might mediate other kinds of social concerns and practices.
Biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia in the elderly, and it is characterized by progressive impairment in multiple cognitive domains of sufficient severity to interfere with individuals’ daily living activities. Historically, the diagnosis of AD has been based on the identification of a clinical syndrome, and accuracy studies of the current clinical criteria conducted in referral clinics have shown high sensitivity for AD. However, the identification of the disease is still not perfect, and there is growing evidence that the use of biomarkers will increase our ability to better indentify the underlying biology of AD, especially in its early stages. These biomarkers will improve the detection of the patients suitable for research studies and drug trials, and they will contribute to a better management of the disease in the clinical practice. In this review, we discuss the most studied biomarkers in AD: cerebrospinal fluid proteins, structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional neuroimaging techniques, and amyloid imaging.
Differential neuronal localizations and dynamics of phosphorylated and unphosphorylated type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors

Type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors are phosphorylated by cyclic-AMP-dependent protein kinase A at serines 1589 and 1755, with serine 1755 phosphorylation greatly predominating in the brain. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor protein kinase A phosphorylation augments Ca(2+) release. To assess type 1 protein kinase A phosphorylation dynamics in the intact organism, we developed antibodies selective for either serine 1755 phosphorylated or unphosphorylated species. Immunohistochemical studies reveal marked variation in localization. For example, in the hippocampus the phosphorylated type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor is restricted to CA1, while the unphosphorylated receptor occurs ubiquitously in CA1-CA3 and dentate gyrus granule cells. Throughout the brain the phosphorylated type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor is selectively enriched in dendrites, while the unphosphorylated receptor predominates in cell bodies. Focal cerebral ischemia in rats and humans is associated with dephosphorylation of type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors, and glutamatergic excitation of cerebellar Purkinje cells mediated by ibogaine elicits dephosphorylation of type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors that precedes evidence of excitotoxic neuronal degeneration. We have demonstrated striking variations in regional and subcellular distribution of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor phosphorylation that may influence normal physiological intracellular Ca(2+) signaling in rat and human brain. We have further shown that the subcellular distribution of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor phosphorylation in neurons is regulated by excitatory neurotransmission, as well as excitotoxic insult and neuronal ischemia-reperfusion. Phosphorylation dynamics of type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors may modulate intracellular Ca(2+) release and influence the cellular response to neurotoxic insults.
Molecular dynamics exploration of thin liquid films on solid surfaces. 1. Monatomic fluid films

The thickness of the interfacial region dividing bulk liquid and vapor regions is typically on the order of a few molecular diameters. Furthermore, in systems where the characteristic length scale is the same order of magnitude as the thickness of the interface such as a thin liquid film on a solid surface, behavior may be different than that for larger systems. The small thickness of such films leads to difficult experimental observation of phenomena within various regions of the film: the wall-affected region, the bulk liquid, and the liquid–vapor interfacial region. A hybrid simulation methodology is applied that combines a deterministic molecular dynamics simulation of the liquid regions with a stochastic treatment of the far-field vapor region boundary. In this simulation scheme, the imposed far-field pressure may be held fixed or iterated as the simulation is advanced in time until the mass in the system stabilizes at the specified temperature, which establishes the equilibrium saturation vapor pres...
Borders, contours, and mechanism

Kogo and Wagemans claim that subjective contours are assigned from the earliest processing stages. I argue that in making this claim, Kogo and Wagemans are mistaking subjective experience with the perceptual mechanism. There is ample evidence that before figure assignment occurs object properties on opposite sides of unassigned borders compete for perception as figures. In order for these properties to compete, these must be a point in processing at which a border exists before it is assigned to one side.
A simple way to determine the two asymptotic Nusselt number expressions for in‐tube, laminar forced convective flows employing the method of lines

The principal goal of this educational article is to present an alternative simple way for the determination of the two asymptotic Nusselt number subdistributions for laminar forced convection tube flows subjected to a uniform surface temperature. Under the assumption of developed velocity and developing temperature, the generalized method of lines (MOL) has been adopted here because it is a powerful computational technique that facilitates the determination of the two asymptotic temperature solutions (one for x 0 and the other for x ∞). The semianalytic solution method, MOL, is quite different and possesses unique features that distinguish it from other standard solution methods used in the past. The two asymptotic Nusselt number subdistributions, Nux0 and Nux∞, blend themselves into an approximate Nusselt number distribution of high quality. The unprecedented ease of the computational procedure, along with its adequate results, has proved to be a valuable instructional technique in undergraduate courses on heat transfer. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 6: 79–87, 1998
Cytotoxic effects of ingested Staphylococcus aureus on bovine endothelial cells: Role of S. aureus α-hemolysin☆

Abstract Previously we observed that Staphylococcus aureus phagocytized by cultured bovine endothelial cells do not proliferate intracellularly, but are cytotoxic to bovine endothelial cells. To investigate S. aureus virulence factors which may be produced intracellularly and cause lysis of endothelial cells, we tested S. aureus mutants defective in production of one or more potential virulence factors and corresponding parent strains for cytotoxicity to endothelial cell monolayers subsequent to being ingested. Following incubation of endothelial cell monolayers with S. aureus for 3.5 h, cultures were supplemented with lysostaphin to destroy extracellular but not intracellular S. aureus . At subsequent times, viability of endothelial cells was assayed by retention of 3 H-adenine and the number of intracellular S. aureus was measured. The cytotoxic activity of S. aureus culture supernatants was also characterized. The results indicate that S. aureus α-hemolysin is cytotoxic to bovine endothelial cells and plays an important role in the damage suffered by bovine endothelial cell monolayers following ingestion of S. aureus . Ingestion of α-hemolysin-producing S. aureus by endothelial cells in vivo might be expected to result in destruction of endothelium followed by development of platelet-fibrin vegetations. This possible sequence of events is compatible with the frequently fulminant course of S. aureus endocarditis.
Percutaneous laser disc nucleotomy

In September 1988, the first laser decompression of a symptomatic contained bulging disc was performed in the United States. This author participated in a case study of 333 patients treated with the neodymium (Nd)-impregnated yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) laser of 1064-nm wavelength. He also treated 117 patients with the potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser of 532-nm wavelength. Detailed surgical techniques and followup statistics of the 117 patients treated with the KTP laser are presented and compared with those of a subset of 36 of the 333 patients treated with the Nd:YAG laser. Of the 117 patients treated with the KTP laser, 23 patients were at the 2-year followup, and 46 patients at the 1-year followup, at the time of this writing. A statistically significant reduction in overall average patient pain was documented by disc level as a function of followup duration. Variation in average specific neurologic findings (knee jerk, reflex, toe strength, ankle jerk, pinprick, and Lasague's sign) by disc level as a function of followup duration was not significant. These procedures were accomplished with no major complications. The success rate based on a 2-year followup was 72%. The success rate with the Nd:YAG laser was very similar, at 70%. These data provide encouraging information substantiating the validity of laser surgery for percutaneous disc nucleotomy.
Electron capture dissociation Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry of cyclodepsipeptides, branched peptides, and ε-peptides

Abstract Although electron capture dissociation (ECD) offers many advantages for structural elucidation, a fundamental understanding of all possible processes following electron capture is necessary if ECD is to succeed in the characterization of unknowns. Many biologically active compounds have non-standard structures, e.g, N -alkylation, branching, cyclization, and ester linkages. Here we report ECD of cyclodepsipeptides (valinomycin and beauvericin), including N -methylated structures (beauvericin), branched peptides (AcA 3 K(G 3 )A 3 NH 2 and A 3 K(G 3 )A 3 NH 2 ), and oligomers of e-amino acids (e-peptides) (Ac(Ahx) 6 K and (Ahx) 6 K) to establish the behavior of such non-standard structures. ECD of cyclodepsipeptides yielded numerous backbone fragments but no charge-reduced species, consistent with a radical cascade mechanism. ECD of e-peptides resulted in a and y fragments only, suggesting that the NCα c/z fragmentation channel is impeded in those structures. ECD of branched peptides resulted in complex fragmentation patterns, characterized by the presence of the immonium related m ion from the modified residue.
Maria Guiomar Nates-Parra: biographical sketch and summary of contributions to the melittological knowledge of Colombia

A brief account of some aspects of the academic career of Maria Guiomar Nates-Parra, a Colombian bee biologist who pioneered melittological research in her country, is presented here as a small tribute on the occasion of her 65 th birthday. A summary of her contributions to science and education is provided.
The Use of newborn screening pulse oximetry to detect cyanotic congenital heart disease: A survey of current practice at army, navy, and air force hospitals

ABSTRACTObjective: To determine the prevalence of newborn screening pulse oximetry (+POx) among military hospitals, including barriers to instituting protocols. Methods: An internet-based questionnaire was forwarded to the senior pediatricians at military hospitals worldwide supporting newborn deliveries. Results: Forty seven of 53 hospitals (88%) supporting deliveries responded to the survey. Thirty percent of hospitals utilize a +POx protocol. Eight centers cited no problems with implementation. All hospitals screened at ≥24 hours of life. The site of recording, positive values, and follow-up for positive screens varied. Cardiology consult and echocardiogram were not mandated. Most hospitals (34/47) are unable to obtain a pediatric cardiology consult without transfer. Few hospitals (9/47) utilize a telemedicine system. Seventy-five percent (24/32) of hospitals not utilizing a protocol are interested in instituting one. Conclusion: Though slightly less than one-third of military hospitals use a +POx, the...
STRONG CONSISTENCY IN NONLINEAR REGRESSION

Sufficient conditions are given to ensure the existence of a sequence of strongly consistent estimators of an unknown parameter for a nonlinear regression model. The parameter space includes all separable metric spaces but is not assumed to be compact.
Complex Induction of Bovine Uterine Proteins by Interferon-Tau

Interferon-tau (IFN-tau) is released by the conceptus and induces two uterine proteins during early pregnancy: ubiquitin cross-reactive protein (UCRP) and granulocyte chemotactic protein-2 (GCP-2). The present experiments were designed to determine whether detection (Western blot) of cytosolic UCRP and release of GCP-2 could be used to examine IFN-tau signal transduction in cultured endometrial explants and primary epithelial cells. Recombinant (r) type 1 IFNs (rboIFN-tau and rboIFN-alpha; 5, 25, 100 nM) induced UCRP, but only rboIFN-tau induced GCP-2 in explant culture. Recombinant boIFN-tau and conceptus secretory proteins containing native IFN-tau induced UCRP and GCP-2 in cultured primary epithelial cells. All concentrations of rboIFN-alpha (25, 50, 100 nM) induced UCRP, but only the highest concentration induced GCP-2 in cultured primary epithelial cells. Interestingly, phorbol ester (100, 500, 1000 ng/ml) induced GCP-2, but it had no effect on UCRP. Because type 1 IFNs induce UCRP, IFN-tau probably interacts with the janus kinase (Jak)-associated IFN-alpha receptor to phosphorylate signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) and/or interferon regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1). However, IFN-tau-specific induction of GCP-2 may involve a variant type 1 receptor subunit or activators of transcription that are associated with protein kinase C and the Jak/STAT/IRF-1 pathway.
Internal Leaf Surface and Stomatal Abundance in Arctic and Alpine Populations of Oxyria Digyna

Internal leaf surface is greater in alpine populations of Oxyria digyna than in arctic populations grown under identical conditions. Outlines of lower epidermal cells of leaves vary among 10 arctic and alpine populations. Numbers of stomata, as well as epidermal cells, per unit area in the upper epidermis increase from north to south. Such a trend is not found in the lower epidermis. An alpine population from Mt. Washington has many more stomata per unit area on the lower epidermis than the upper, suggesting a closer affinity to the European alpine populations and to arctic populations than to its western North American and alpine conditions may be due to the development of ecological races which differ in structure and metabolic potential See full-text article at JSTOR
Faculty (Panel Discussion): Recruiting, retraining and retention

Why is it so difficult to attract computer science and information systems professionals to academic departments? Why is it so difficult to retain faculty? What does it take to recruit qualified faculty? Can faculty from other areas be retrained and utilized? The purpose of this panel is to discuss these issues and to suggest some possible solutions to these problems.
Positive Effects of Non-Native Grasses on the Growth of a Native Annual in a Southern California Ecosystem

Fire disturbance is considered a major factor in the promotion of non-native plant species. Non-native grasses are adapted to fire and can alter environmental conditions and reduce resource availability in native coastal sage scrub and chaparral communities of southern California. In these communities persistence of non-native grasses following fire can inhibit establishment and growth of woody species. This may allow certain native herbaceous species to colonize and persist beneath gaps in the canopy. A field manipulative experiment with control, litter, and bare ground treatments was used to examine the impact of non-native grasses on growth and establishment of a native herbaceous species, Cryptantha muricata. C. muricata seedling survival, growth, and reproduction were greatest in the control treatment where non-native grasses were present. C. muricata plants growing in the presence of non-native grasses produced more than twice the number of flowers and more than twice the reproductive biomass of plants growing in the treatments where non-native grasses were removed. Total biomass and number of fruits were also greater in the plants growing in the presence of non-native grasses. Total biomass and reproductive biomass was also greater in late germinants than early germinants growing in the presence of non-native grasses. This study suggests a potential positive effect of non-native grasses on the performance of a particular native annual in a southern California ecosystem.
Hume on Miracles: Would It Take a Miracle to Believe in a Miracle?

Given Hume's theory of belief and belief production it is no small task to explain how it is possible for a belief in a miracle to be produced. I argue that belief in a miracle cannot be produced through Hume's standard causal mechanisms and that although education, passion, and testimony initially seem to be promising mechanisms for producing belief in a miracle, none of these is able to produce the belief in a miracle. I conclude by explaining how this poses a problem for Hume's theory of belief and I briefly investigate the alternatives available for solving this problem.