cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Influence of imaging ability on word transformation.

In the present study, we examined whether individual differences in imaging ability affect visual word recognition. Poor and vivid imagers performed a naming task that involved nonreversed (e.g., JUMP) and reversed (e.g., PMUJ) words (Experiment 1). Poor and vivid imagers were also tested on a naming task that was controlled for verbal ability; all the words were reversed and presentation time was varied (Experiment 2). In both experiments, imaging ability interacted with task difficulty, suggesting that individual differences in imaging ability affect visual word recognition. Specifically, the present data suggest that poor imagers may be less efficient than vivid imagers at processing words analytically. The data are interpreted within a limited-capacity, hybrid, word recognition model, in which words can be processed as either word-level or letter-level codes.
FORMATION OF HYDRONIUM AND METHOXONIUM ON PT(110) : AB INITIO DETERMINATION OF SPECTROSCOPICALLY OBSERVED SPECIES

Previously, other researchers have examined the coadsorption of water and hydrogen on Pt(111) with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and have seen the formation of a new species. This new species was originally designated to be a “hydronium” species, where hydronium referred to H3O+ surrounded by water. However, the formation of H3O+ on platinum has not been widely accepted in the literature because the formation of a bare H3O+ not surrounded by water is not a thermodynamically favored process. In this work, we use ab initio calculations at the MP2(full)/6–31g* level to predict the gas phase frequencies for a host of water and water-cluster species. These frequencies are compared to high resolution EELS spectra to identify which species form on Pt(110). We find that H5O2+, H7O3+, and H9O4+ fit the EELS spectra quite well, while H3O, H3O−, and H3O+ do not show the right vibrational modes. We have also done similar calculations for methanol. Methanol has a higher proton affinity than water, so it see...
Using neutral metastable argon atoms and contamination lithography to form nanostructures in silicon, silicon dioxide, and gold

We describe the fabrication of approximately 70-nm structures in silicon, silicon dioxide, and gold substrates by the exposure of the substrates to a beam of metastable argon atoms in the presence of dilute vapors of trimethylpentaphenyltrisiloxane, the dominant constituent of the diffusion pump oil used in these experiments. The atoms release their internal energy upon contacting the siloxanes physisorbed on the surface of the substrate, and this release causes the formation of a predominantly carbon-based resist. To demonstrate the resolution of the resist formation process, the atomic beam was patterned by a silicon nitride membrane, and the pattern formed in the resist material was transferred to the substrates by chemical etching. Simultaneous exposure of large areas (44 cm2) was also demonstrated. The sensitivity of the resist formation to the internal energy stored in the atom allows a new pattern formation technique based on spatially dependent optical de-excitation of the metastable atoms.© (1997) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The (lack of) Impact of Retraction on Citation Networks

Article retraction in research is rising, yet retracted articles continue to be cited at a disturbing rate. This paper presents an analysis of recent retraction patterns, with a unique emphasis on the role author self-cites play, to assist the scientific community in creating counter-strategies. This was accomplished by examining the following: (1) A categorization of retracted articles more complete than previously published work. (2) The relationship between citation counts and after-retraction self-cites from the authors of the work, and the distribution of self-cites across our retraction categories. (3) The distribution of retractions written by both the author and the editor across our retraction categories. (4) The trends for seven of our nine defined retraction categories over a 6-year period. (5) The average journal impact factor by category, and the relationship between impact factor, author self-cites, and overall citations. Our findings indicate new reasons for retractions have emerged in recent years, and more editors are penning retractions. The rates of increase for retraction varies by category, and there is statistically significant difference of average impact factor between many categories. 18 % of authors self-cite retracted work post retraction with only 10 % of those authors also citing the retraction notice. Further, there is a positive correlation between self-cites and after retraction citations.
Monolayer adsorption of gas mixtures on homogeneous and heterogeneous solids

Abstract A systematic thermodynamic treatment is described for mobile, monolayer adsorption of gas mixtures on homogeneous surfaces. By defining a surface fugacity for each component, nonideality of mixing in the monolayer is related to constants in the two-dimensional equation of state. The results obtained are extended to heterogeneous surfaces using the concept of surface pathes as developed by Ross. To characterize surface heterogeneity for a binary mixture, three heterogeneity parameters are required; two of these are the variances of the adsorption potential distributions for the pure components, while the third is their covariance. For nonpolar gases which are chemically similar, it is possible to make good estimates of mixed-gas adsorption on heterogeneous surfaces using only data obtained for pure components.
What's up sunshine?

The latest solar cycle was supposed to be the most active on record. The trouble is, no one told the sun
FETAL TISSUE TRANSPLANATION IN PARKINSON'S DISEASE

Since the first successful attempts in 1990, human embryonic tissue transplanation has attracted the attention of multiple investigators and clinicians as a serious candidate therapy for Parkinson’s disease. Although over two hundred patients have undergone the procedure, multiple issues and questions remain unresolved. We will address this topic emphasizing the recent advances in the technical aspects of the transplantation procedure in light of the limited animal and clinical experience available. Curr Opin Neurol 11:341–349. © 1998 Lippincott–Raven Publishers
An empirical investigation of investor expectations in the currency market

Abstract Using a new theoretical model of investor expectations in the foreign exchange market, this research finds investor forecasts to be rational. For instance, expectations are not characterized by fat-tailed distributions that might reflect optimistic bubbles and panic. They are also found to rationally predict a correlation between exchange rates and political factors such as modeled “pain” indexes and currency bands. Most importantly, the model detects an ex-ante investor prediction of a small probability of a large currency change that empirically explains ex-post forecasting biases.
Video multicast with joint resource allocation and adaptive modulation and coding in 4G networks

Although wireless broadband technologies have evolved significantly over the past decade, they are still insufficient to support the fast-growing mobile traffic, especially due to the increasing popularity of mobile video applications. Wireless multicast, aiming to exploit the wireless broadcast advantage, is a viable approach to bridge the gap between the limited wireless capacity and the ever-increasing mobile video traffic demand. In this paper, we propose MuVi, a Multicast Video delivery scheme through joint optimal resource allocation and adaptive modulation and coding scheme in OFDMA-based 4G cellular networks. MuVi differentiates video frames based on their importance in reconstructing the video and incorporates an efficient radio resource allocation algorithm to optimize the overall video quality across all users in the multicast group. MuVi is a lightweight solution with most of the implementation in the gateway, slight modification in the base station, and no modification at the clients. We implement MuVi on a WiMAX testbed and compare its performance to a Naive wireless multicast scheme that employs the most robust Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS), and an Adaptive scheme that employs the highest MCS supportable by all clients. Experimental results show that MuVi improves the average video peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) by up to 13 and 7 dB compared to the Naive and the Adaptive schemes, respectively. MuVi does not require modification to the video encoding scheme or the air interface. Thus, it allows speedy deployment in existing systems.
Scholarly Monographs on Rock Music: A Bibliographic Essay

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to give an overview of scholarly monographs on rock music from 1980 to the present. It aims to provide an overview to the literature for practical purposes of collection development as well as giving the reader insight into key issues and trends related to a interdisciplinary topic that attracts scholars from many disciplines in the humanities and social sciences.Design/methodology/approach – This bibliographic essay, focusing on works related to American culture and of a general nature, includes an overview and historical background; a discussion of how music and ethnomusiciological scholars approach the topic; geographic approaches; literature on four key icons (Elvis, Dylan, Springsteen, and Madonna); American studies; subcultures and genres; other methodologies; and concludes by discussing notable recent works.Findings – The scholarly literature on rock incorporates a wide variety of approaches and methodologies. Many music‐related scholars appropriate methodol...
Closed Form Sum Rate of Random Beamforming

In this letter, we carry out analysis to derive the closed form sum rate for a general multi-antenna random beamforming system with an arbitrary but finite number of users. A simple and analytical useful expansion with general utility is first developed to decompose and interpret the probability density function of the selected user's signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio. By using this decomposition, along with standard integration techniques, the closed form result for the sum rate is obtained. The established result explains the interplay between the system parameters for arbitrary but finite number of users.
Formation and synthetic utility of benzyl- and phenyl-cyclopentadienylthallium

Abstract Benzyl- and phenyl-cyclopentadiene have been shown to react with thallium ethoxide in ethanol to give the corresponding benzyl- and phenyl-cyclopentadienylthallium compounds in excellent yields. These reagents are air stable for brief periods, have extended shelf-lives, and have been shown to be superior starting materials for the synthesis of a variety of cyclopentadienylmetal complexes.
Urinary excretion of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) in two children of short stature with malnutrition

A description is given of two 5-year-old malnourished children, with shortness of stature, who excreted 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) in their urine. In response to unlimited food intake, both patients gained weight rapidly and ceased to excrete DOPA in the urine. However, their DOPA excretion was higher than normal when presented with an oral DOPA load. Since this has not been previously noted in malnourished children, there may be a factor contributory to the excretion of DOPA beyond that of malnutrition.
A Proposed Change to Palmetto Bass Proportional Size Distribution Length Categories

Abstract Palmetto bass (female striped bass Morone saxatilis × male white bass M. chrysops) are an important sport fish in the Southeast and Midwest regions of the United States. Because palmetto bass populations must be established and maintained by regular stocking, population assessments are necessary to evaluate and refine stocking plans. A commonly used metric for fish population assessment is the proportional size distribution (PSD). However, the value of this metric is limited for palmetto bass because the original lengths designated for the stock (8 in), quality (12 in), preferred (15 in), memorable (20 in), and trophy length categories (25 in) were based on the old world-record length of 31 in, which is much shorter than the current length of 39 in. Thus, new lengths of 10, 16, 20, 24, and 28 in are proposed for assessing palmetto bass populations via PSD indices. These proposed lengths more accurately reflect the maximal length and life history characteristics (i.e., fast growing, short lived, a...
Dinuclear complex of rhodium(III) with an amine-phenol ligand: synthesis and X-ray crystal structure

A new rhodium(III) complex of an amine-phenol ligand N,NN′-bis-(2-hydroxybenzyl)1,3-diaminopropane was synthesized and characterized by X-ray diffraction studies. Diffraction data were collected by theθ-2θ scan method using MoKα. radiation. The structure was solved by conventional methods resulting in a final R factor of 0.037 for 1954 independent reflections (F o >2σ(F o )). The structure consists of a dinuclear complex with two μ-hydroxy bridges between the two Rh atoms. The overall charge of the molecule is neutral due to deprotonation of all phenolic groups. Crystal data: triclinic, space groupP¯1,a=7.308(3)A;b=9.586(3)A,c=12.686(5)A, α=87.51(2), β=88.28(2), γ=71.70(3)°,V=866.6(6)A3;Z=2.
Coronary angiography and intracoronary thrombolytic therapy in the coronary care unit: An alternative approach

The feasibility, safety and efficacy of performing left heart catheterization, coronary angiography, and intracoronary thrombolytic therapy in the coronary care unit setting were examined in 17 patients with acute ischemic syndromes presenting at a time when routine catheterization facilities were not available. In all cases, cardiac catheterization and coronary angiography were performed in the coronary care unit without difficulty using a portable image intensifier and a portable video recording system, and selective intracoronary streptokinase was safely administered in 13 patients with a total coronary occlusion, with successful thrombolysis in seven patients (54%). No adverse effects attributable to the performance of these procedures in the coronary care unit were observed. This approach might allow for a more prompt response and wider availability of intracoronary thrombolytic therapy for patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction.
Effect on surface thermal properties of calibrated exposure to micrometeoroid environment.

Micrometeoroid environment effect on metal surface thermal properties, using simulated space vehicle placed in solar space environment chamber
A ten-year study of meroplankton in North Carolina estuaries: Amphipods

Occurrence of gammarid and caprellid amphipods in semimonthly nocturnal surface plankton samples taken on flood tide for 10 years at one estuarine station and shorter periods at 11 other stations is summarized on a monthly basis. Fifty-eight species are identified from samples taken during the study but no single station produced this variety. The great diversity of species from stations near the sea is contrasted with the sparse and different fauna of meso-oligohaline waters. Seasonal abundance in samples is summarized for all important species on a station basis. Contrasts in density of 8 species in surface-bottom tows and 33 species in samples taken at alternate lunar phases (new-full) indicate significant behavioral differences. Nocturnal stratification varied with species; about 1/3 showed no apparent abundance in association with lunar phase, another 1/3 showed increase at new, and a final 1/3 at full moon.
Another View of Dynamic Criteria: A Critical Reanalysis of Barrett, Caldwell, and Alexander.

We argue a divergent perspective from that taken by Barrett, Caldwell, and Alexander (1985) in a critical reanalysis of the evidence for dynamic criteria. Those authors distinguished three definitions of the dynamic criterion phenomenon and concluded, on the basis of secondary analyses of several sets of published data, that dynamic criteria do not exist. Moreover, they concluded that most of the temporal changes in criteria reported in those data sets could be explained by methodological artifacts. In several cases these artifacts were listed in summary form, without a complete consideration of the implications of invoking these artifacts as post hoc explanations. The purpose of this comment is to clarify the debate on dynamic criteria by critiquing the Barrett et al. study. We suggest that a fruitful solution to the problem may lie in trying to understand criteria per se rather than searching for artifacts.
Mexican Deaths in the Arizona Desert: The Culpability of Migrants, Humanitarian Workers, Governments, and Businesses

Since the mid-1990s, there has been a rise in the number of deaths of undocumented Mexican migrants crossing the U.S./Mexican border. Who is responsible for these deaths? This article examines the culpability of (1) migrants, (2) humanitarian volunteers, (3) the Mexican government, (4) the U.S. government, and (5) U.S. businesses. A significant portion of the blame is assigned to U.S. free trade policies and U.S. businesses employing undocumented immigrants.
Fluorometric labeling of tetrahydroprogesterones.

Abstract 7-Diethylaminocoumarin-3-carbohydrazide was used to label the ketone group of the tetrahydroprogesterones to form fluorescent derivatives with high sensitivity. The four isomeric 3-hydroxypregnanes separated readily on high-performance, thin-layer chromatography after derivatization. This separation was not possible with the underiuatized isomers. Standards and steroids from biologic mixtures were separated and showed similar characteristics. The methods used are described.
Data fusion system design and adaptive control

This paper addresses performance issues related to experimental validation data fusion systems. The paper considers the question of performance improvement as result of multisensor data fusion. More specifically, it addresses the question of whether it is feasible to design a fusion system so as to guarantee performance improvement beyond what is feasible by processing data from any single sensor only. Two theorems that provide an answer to the question and conditions under which such an improvement is feasible for centralized and distributed fusion are provided. Based on these two theorems, an optimal fusion architecture is discussed for predetection fusion. Shortcomings in applying the optimal fusion rules in the presence of partial statistical knowledge and means to overcome them are discussed. The need of data validation and adaptive sensitivity control in the fusion design, when optimality conditions are not satisfied, is demonstrated and suggestions for designing the feedback loop are given.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Brain oxygen autoregulation: A protective reflex to hypoxia?

Autoregulation mechanisms aimed at maintaining a constant pO2 level in brain cortex and spinal cord even at conditions of severe oxygen lack are described. The regulation is based on an increased cerebral blood flow, decreased neuronal electrical activity and oxygen utilization, and seem to be controlled from oxygen sensors located within the cerebral tissue. Experiments are presented showing changes in neuronal electrical activity elicited by localized hypoxia in distal brain tissue areas. All autoregulation mechanisms are blocked by the α-adrenolytic agent phenoxybenzamine. The possibility of adrenergic mechanisms participating in the autoregulation response is discussed.
A human TOP2A core DNA binding X-ray structure reveals topoisomerase subunit dynamics and a potential mechanism for SUMO modulation of decatenation.

In this issue of the Journal of Molecular Biology, Wendorff et al. describe the first structure of the active-site core of the human TOP2A protein in complex with DNA. This structure complements the X-ray model of the active core of the paralogous human protein TOP2B, which was published last year. Together, these two structures provide key information that will be relevant to understanding how these closely related proteins perform different roles during cell growth and tissue development. The new structure suggests a potential rationale to selectively target drugs to a single enzyme isotype and a functional role for SUMOylation.
Teacher Effectiveness and Student Performance

This paper evaluates the effects of using graduate student instructors rather than regular faculty in a macro course. Experienced faculty presumably have a positive effect on student performance, yet graduate instructors appear to be as effective in teaching macro principles. What may be involved are different sets of skills: experienced faculty may have a greater depth of understanding of the material, more self-confidence, and a more critical approach. Graduate instructorS, on the other hand, may be able to grasp what students don't understand, and may make up in enthusiasm and approachability what they lack in understanding.The author urges using more than one measure of effectiveness in studies of this type because of many things not captured: excitement with the subject, caution in accepting unsupported arguments, a perspective on the economic system, and the like.
Sea ice effective microwave emissivities from satellite passive microwave and infrared observations

Near-simultaneous images from the temperature-humidity IR radiometer and dual-polarization scanning multichannel microwave radiometer of the Nimbus 7 satellite are used to investigate microwave sea ice emissivities on a global scale. Emissivities in several Arctic region study areas are found to be approximately constant during a nine-month pereiod covering the fall, winter and spring months, in the cases of both first-year and multiyear ice. During the onset of summer, emissivity increases of about 30 percent are observed at 37 GHz in multiyear ice. A multichannel cluster analysis over very large study areas during winter indicates considerable variability in emissivities of consolidated ice clusters at 37 GHz, and only 1/3 as much variability at 18 GHz. If the variability within each cluster is quantified and taken into account by means of multispectral analysis, data on ice thickness and surface characteristics may also be obtained.
A study of tool wear using statistical analysis of metal-cutting acoustic emission

Abstract Many aspects of the interactions between cutting tools, workpiece material and the chips formed during machining that affect the wear and failure of the tool are not fully understood. The analysis of acoustic emission signals generated during machining has been proposed as a technique for studying both the fundamentals of the cutting process and tool wear and as a methodology for detecting tool wear and failure on line. A brief review of the theory of acoustic emission is presented. Acoustic emission data from reduced contact length machining experiments and tool flank wear tests are analyzed using distribution moments. The analysis shows that the skew and kurtosis of an assumed β distribution for the r.m.s. acoustic emission signal are sensitive to both the stick-slip transition for chip contact along the tool rake face and progressive tool wear on the flank of the cutting tool.
Could Your Female Patient Be a Gangster

IT'S IMPORTANT FOR NURSES TO UNDERSTAND THE STRUCTURES OF GANGS AND THE LIFESTYLES OF THEIR MEMBERS, SO THAT WOMEN CAN BE EDUCATED ABOUT THE WIDESPREAD HEALTH DANGERS OF GANG LIFE WHENEVER—AND HOWEVER—THEY COME INTO CONTACT WITH THE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM.
Natioonal politics at the village level: paradoxical perspectives on Chinese‐Malaysian “factionalism”

Political collectivities at the local level are simultaneously the sum of their own parts and merely smaller parts of larger, defining wholes. To understand local-level political form and action we must acknowledge the potential for paradox in such dualism and examine such collectivities from a multiplicity of perspectives and time frames. This paper analyzes a case in which political movement and political faction are inextricably interwoven. The encompassing political environment lends its own definition, along with constraints and supports, to local-level political formations. [politics, movements, factions, nested systems, overseas Chinese, Malaysia]
Photodynamic therapy for prostate cancer: One urologist's perspective

Summary Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has slowly found its place in the treatment of human disease. Currently, photodynamic therapy is being explored as a treatment option for localized prostate cancer. PDT for the treatment of prostate cancer will require ablation of both malignant and non-malignant glandular epithelium. Ablation of both malignant and normal epithelium adds a new treatment dimension since traditionally PDT has not targeted normal epithelial tissue. PDT for prostate cancer as currently envisioned will present challenges in terms of in situ monitoring of light, drug concentration, p O 2 levels and biologic endpoints. The introduction of vascular-targeted photosensitizers fundamentally alters the traditional axioms for successful PDT treatment by obviating the need for “selective” tumor localization. Should clinical trials demonstrate the utility of this approach, patients with organ-confined disease will benefit.
The Size of Lipid Rafts: An Atomic Force Microscopy Study of Ganglioside GM1 Domains in Sphingomyelin/DOPC/Cholesterol Membranes

Atomic force microscopy has been used to study the distribution of ganglioside GM1 in model membranes composed of ternary lipid mixtures that mimic the composition of lipid rafts. The results demonstrate that addition of 1% GM1 to 1:1:1 sphingomyelin/dioleoylphosphatidylcholine/cholesterol monolayers leads to the formation of small ganglioside-rich microdomains (40-100 nm in size) that are localized preferentially in the more ordered sphingomyelin/cholesterol-rich phase. With 5% GM1 some GM1 microdomains are also detected in the dioleoylphosphatidylcholine-rich phase. A similar preferential localization of GM1 in the ordered phase is observed for bilayers with the same ternary lipid mixture in the upper leaflet. The small GM1-rich domains observed in these experiments are similar to the sizes for lipid rafts in natural membranes but considerably smaller than the ordered bilayer domains that have been shown to be enriched in GM1 in recent fluorescence microscopy studies of lipid bilayers. The combined data from a number of studies of model membranes indicate that lateral organization occurs on a variety of length scales and mimics many of the properties of natural membranes.
Developmental color perception.

Abstract The purpose of this research is to extend the investigation of surface color perception to several age levels. The 108-item color perception test, originally used with young children, employs six Munsell hue matrices divided into nine combinations each of low, mid, and high chroma and low, mid, and high value across two levels of hue difficulty. The pattern of error results are the same across the age groups comprising kindergartners, fifth graders, high school sophomores, nonartist adults, and professional artists: the lower the chroma and value, the higher the error rate; the higher the chroma and value, the lower the error rate. In hues, green and red are most difficult; orange and yellow are easiest. The frequency of error is linear with respect to age: the younger the group, the higher the error. The latency data differ with respect to age: adults are slowest, followed by kindergartners and fifth graders. High school sophomores are the fastest. The remaining latency results parallel the error results: the lower the chroma and value, the longer the latency and the more difficult the hue, the longer the latency. A set of surface color perception rules are generated.
A Family in which Ax is Transmitted through a Person of the Blood Group A2B

Summary A family is described in which the rare kind of blood known as Ax, A4, Az or Ao occurs. The father's phenotype is Ax, that of his son is A2B and that of the son's daughter is Ax. That an A2B person can transmit Ax emphasizes our ignorance of the genetic background of this kind of blood. Resume Etude d'une famille dans laqueue plusieurs exemples du groupe rare Ax, dgalement designe sous le nom de A4, Az ou Ao, ont ete trouves. Le phenotype du pere est Ax, cdui de son fils est A2B, et celui de la fille de ce dernier est aussi Ax. Le fait que le groupe Ax se trouve chez la descendante d'une personne du groupe A2B sert a souligner notre ignorance du mode de transmission du groupe Ax. Zusammenfassung Eine Familie, bei welcher die seltene, als Ax, A4, Az oder Ao bezeichnete Blutgruppe vorkommt, wird beschrieben. Der Phanotyp des Vaters ist Ax, der seines Sohnes A2B und derjenige der Tochter dieses Sohnes Ax. Die Tatsache, das eine Person der Gruppe A2B Ax ubertragen kann, unterstreicht nur unsere mangelnde Kenntnis uber die Erbweise dieser Eigenschaft.
Chiari Malformation Type 1 with cervicothoracic syrinx presenting as thumb necrosis: A case report

Abstract Finger necrosis has rarely been described as the presenting symptom of Chiari Malformation Type 1 (CM-1). We present a case of a 36-year-old man who presented with extensive thumb necrosis as the first presenting sign of a cervicothoracic syrinx in the setting of CM-1. The patient underwent debridement and partial amputation with groin flap coverage but subsequently developed additional neurological complaints of the left upper extremity. A suboccipital decompressive craniectomy, bilateral C1 laminectomy, and occipital duraplasty successfully relieved most of his symptoms. Healthcare professionals should consider CM-1 as a rare cause of finger necrosis.
Subacute Intramuscular Toxicity of the Acetylcholinesterase Reactivating Agent HI-6 in Rats and Dogs

Studies herein describe the toxicity of HI-6 in Sprague-Dawley rats and Beagle dogs following i.m. injection for 14 days. Dose levels were 0, 50, 150, and 450 mg/kg/day for 10 rats/sex/dose and 0, 35, 70, and 140 mg/kg/day for 4 dogs/sex/dose. Three rats at the high dose, 2 males and 1 female, died prior to scheduled sacrifice. Reduced weight gain, decreased activity, tremors, hunched posture, and poor grooming were seen in high dose survivors. Increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities at the mid and high doses suggested hepatotoxicity, although liver weights and histology were normal. Hematology parameters were unaffected except for slight, dose-related increases of platelets in both sexes. Injection site inflammation was seen; however, serum creatine kinase activity was not altered. In dogs, slight weight loss, vomiting, salivation, and diarrhea occurred at the high dose, but no deaths were observed at any of the doses. As with rats, dose-related increases ...
Analysis of a Novel Prophage-encoded Group A Streptococcus Extracellular Phospholipase A2

Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is an important human pathogen that causes many types of infections, including pharyngitis and severe invasive diseases. We recently sequenced the genome of a serotype M3 strain and identified a prophage-encoded secreted phospholipase A2 designated SlaA. To study SlaA structure-activity relationships, 20 site-specific mutants were constructed by alanine-replacement mutagenesis and purified to apparent homogeneity. Enzymatic activity was greatly reduced by alanine replacement of amino acid residues previously described as crucial in the catalytic mechanism of secreted phospholipase A2. Similarly, substitution of five residues in an inferred Ca2+-binding loop and three residues in the inferred active site region resulted in loss of activity of 76.5% or greater relative to the wild-type enzyme. Analysis of enzyme substrate specificity confirmed SlaA as a phospholipase A2, with activity against multiple phospholipid head groups and acyl chains located at the sn-2 position. PCR analysis of 1,189 GAS strains representing 48 M protein serotypes commonly causing human infections identified the slaA gene in 129 strains of nine serotypes (M1, M2, M3, M4, M6, M22, M28, M75, and st3757). Expression of SlaA by strains of these serotypes was confirmed by Western immunoblot. SlaA production increased rapidly and substantially on co-culture with Detroit 562 human pharyngeal epithelial cells. Together, these data provide new information about a novel extracellular enzyme that participates in GAS-human interactions.
Pigment epithelial growth factor suppresses inflammation by modulating macrophage activation.

Purpose To study the contribution of murine retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells to the innate immune-privilege status of the subretinal space as determined by the ability of pigment epithelial-derived factor (PEDF) and somatostatin (SOM), produced by RPE, to regulate macrophage-mediated inflammation. Methods Serum-free medium was added to RPE eyecups (a healthy monolayer of RPE resting on choroid and sclera) and the supernatants were removed after 24 hours (RPE SN). The RPE SN was assayed for the presence of PEDF and SOM and for its ability to regulate interleukin (IL)-12, IL-10, and nitric oxide (NO) production by resting and activated macrophages. A group of mice received intradermal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and PEDF in one ear and LPS alone in the other ear. Ear thickness was measured before- and 24 hours after ear injections. Results Soluble factors present in the RPE SN inhibited IL-12 production and substantially increased IL-10 while having minimal effects on NO production by activated macrophages. The message for PEDF, SOM, and IL-10 was detected in RPE cells, and the protein for these factors was found in the RPE SN. The stimulation of IL-10 and suppression of IL-12 production by RPE-SN-treated macrophages was neutralized by anti-PEDF antibodies. Neutralization of SOM in the RPE SN, suppressed NO production by activated macrophages. Intradermal injection of PEDF substantially inhibited LPS-induced inflammatory response. Conclusions PEDF inhibits LPS-driven macrophage activation in vitro and in vivo. By producing PEDF, the RPE contributes to innate immune privilege of the eye.
Abstract 964: Gefitinib resistance due to STAT3-mediated Akt activation in lung cancer cells.

Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), including gefitinib and erlotinib, are effective drugs for a subset of non-small cell lung cancer. Gefitinib binds to the tyrosine kinase domain of EGFR and hence inactivates its downstream prosurvival signaling pathways, including PI3k/Akt and MAPK pathways. However, most patients received gefitinib eventually developed resistance to this drug. In this study, we demonstrated that in gefitinib-treated A549 cells (human lung cancer cell line), Akt activation undergoes a time-dependent recovery following an initial inhibition by gefitinib. Since constant activation of Akt has been associated with treatment failure of gefitinib in lung cancer cells, exploring the mechanisms that lead to Akt restoration should provide new insights into the drug resistance and therapeutic efficacy. For that purpose, alterations in Akt activation and other signaling pathways, including MAPK and STAT3, involved in EGFR-mediated cellular responses were determined in A549 cells treated with gefitinib. Among them, we found that activation of STAT3 was inhibited in the cells without gefitinib treatment. Gefitinib treatment inhibited EGFR phosphorylation on tyrosine 1086 (Y1086), which leads to STAT3 activation. Further studies showed that interruption of the STAT3 signaling by either chemical inhibitor or siRNA against STAT3 prevented fast recovery of Akt activation and enhanced gefitinib-induced suppression of cell proliferation. Taken together, these data suggest that activation of STAT3 is an intrinsic mechanism of drug resistance in response to EGFR TKIs. Combinational targeting on both EGFR and STAT3 may enhance the efficacy of gefitinib or other EGFR TKIs on lung cancer. Citation Format: Kai Wu, Yongju Lu, Bailing Chen, Qingshan Chang, Ping Qiu, Miaomiao Yu. Gefitinib resistance due to STAT3-mediated Akt activation in lung cancer cells. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 104th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2013 Apr 6-10; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2013;73(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 964. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2013-964
Interaction of nanomaterials with skin: Aspects of absorption and biodistribution

Skin is an important route of exposure to chemicals after occupational, environmental and consumer product usage, routes also pertinent to nanomaterial exposure. Knowledge of the rate and extent of absorption is required for risk assessments to be made. The primary barrier to chemical absorption is the stratum corneum. The basic question to be answered is how nanomaterial absorption compares to existing paradigms of chemical absorption. Initial studies using topically applied quantum dots suggest that absorption is minimal, yet particle characteristics and species differences exist. If nanomaterial is absorbed via any route of administration, distribution to skin may also occur as was demonstrated in isolated perfused skin studies. Research is beginning to be conducted to define the mechanistic framework describing nanomaterials biodistribution using pharmacokinetic models.
Developmental transitions in the myosin patterns of two fast muscles.

Transitions in myosin patterns were examined in situ by immunofluorescence in two fast muscles of the developing chicken, the pectoralis and the posterior latissimus dorsi. Myosin isoforms were localized using stage-specific monoclonal antibodies against the heavy chain of pectoralis myosin. Two antibodies (12C5 and 10H10) recognize adult and late embryonic myosin. They reacted weakly with both the pectoralis and posterior latissimus dorsi at 10 days in ovo, but intensely at 18 days in ovo. Both muscles were completely unreactive with an adult-specific antibody (5C3), indicating that the staining with 12C5 and 10H10 at 18 days in ovo reflects embryonic myosin. Thus two different embryonic isoforms are expressed sequentially in each muscle. Both 12C5 and 10H10 reacted weakly again with these muscles after hatching. The reappearance of a strong positive response to both antibodies, at 28 days in the pectoralis and after 60 days in the posterior latissimus dorsi, correlated well with the first appearance of a response to the adult-specific antibody, 5C3, signalling the beginning of the adult pattern. Both muscles reacted strongly with an antibody (5B4) specific for ‘neonatal’ myosin between 18 days in ovo and 60 days after hatching. In the pectoralis, embryonic was replaced by neonatal myosin in most fibres by 14 days after hatching; by 28 days, both adult and neonatal myosin were expressed in most fibres; and in the adult, neonatal myosin was replaced entirely by the adult isoform. In contrast, many fibres in the posterior latissimus dorsi still expressed both embryonic and neonatal myosins up to at least 60 days post-hatch, and the remaining fibres expressed the neonatal isoform; the neonatal isoform was present in some fibres even in the adult posterior latissimus dorsi. We have therefore demonstrated in situ four different heavy chain isoforms in two different fast muscles. ‘Early embryonic’, ‘late embryonic’, ‘neonatal’ and eventually ‘adult’ isoforms are expressed in each muscle and more than one isoform often coexists in the same fibre.
THE SUPREME COURT, POLITICAL PARTIES, AND PATRONAGE

While politicians and political scientists have debated the nature and fate of American political parties for over 200 years, the increasing involvement of the Supreme Court over the past two decades marks a new development in this dialogue. Scholars have disagreed about the implications of judicial involvement, but many have concluded that the Court is becoming increasingly sympathetic to partybuilding efforts. This analysis explores the theoretical orientation toward parties evidenced in the Supreme Court decisions on political patronage. It demonstrates that while these cases were framed as First Amendment disputes, the decisions were predicated on progressive reform values and a nonpartisan model of democracy. This raises a number of questions with regard to the Court's support for stronger parties and the appropriateness of using the judicial forum to determine the role of political parties in American governance.
Limitation of the Number of Degrees of Freedom in Fluctuation Analysis

The limitation on the effective number of degrees of freedom (${N}_{\mathrm{eff}}$) due to the possibility that a finite number of statistically independent terms makes up the different amplitudes is considered. A general simple model is considered which leads to a simple expression for ${N}_{\mathrm{eff}}$. A more detailed calculation is made in which it is assumed that independence is associated only with different values of $J$ and $\ensuremath{\pi}$. This last calculation is shown to give some improvement over previous calculations.
Single-step superfinishing using hard machining resulting in superior surface integrity

Abstract Presented are the concept and feasibility of using a single-step hard turning process for superfinishing surfaces that are comparable to bearing races. The following surface integrity requirements of the class of surfaces similar to bearing races are shown to be producible: (1) surface roughness less than 7 μin., (2) surface waviness less than 60 μin., (3) cross-sectional crown of 70 μin., (4) residual stress induced in machining that is favorable for fatigue life, and (5) surface microstructure alteration that is not detrimental to fatigue life. Experimental results of 10 specimens show that the best surface roughness is as good as 1.7 μin. and can be further improved by optimizing the machining conditions. Residual stress induced by the single-step superfinish hard turning process is more compressive in magnitude and is distributed to a significantly greater depth than that produced by conventional abrasive-based superfinishing.
The carbon dioxide system in the oceans

A model of the carbon dioxide system in nature is derived and is used to further our understanding of the factors which control this system in the oceans, the atmosphere, and the sediments.
An Interpretation of the Changing IS/IT- Standard Game, Circa 2001

The game of IS/IT-standard has fundamentally changed its nature. The point we shall make is that standardization on technologies and standardization on business processes are two different games. In the future infocentric corporate environment IS/IT might very well be more motivated towards standardizing their business processes than technologies. Consequently, striving towards interoperability and positioning oneself advantageously in the connected world should be the main concern of business and corporate IS/IT.
Superheavy-quarkonium production and decays: A new Higgs-boson signal.

We study the production and subsequent decays of the S- and P-wave quarkonium states of a heavy quark that may be produced at a multi-TeV hadron collider. Our considerations are focused on the lighter member of a fourth-generation doublet, for which the weak decays of the quark are expected to be suppressed by mixing angles. For quarkonium masses \ensuremath{\lesssim}1 TeV, the dominant production is via gluon fusion. In addition to the decay channels that are present in the charm and bottom systems, heavy quarkonia can decay into ${W}^{+}$${W}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$, ${Z}^{0}$${Z}^{0}$, and ${Z}^{0}$\ensuremath{\gamma} pairs. Furthermore, the latter decay rates may be enhanced due to couplings of the heavy quarks to the longitudinal components of the gauge bosons. We assess the prospects for discovery of a new heavy quark via its bound-state decays. Quarks with masses up to \ensuremath{\approxeq}100 GeV can be found from the decay of the ${1}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ state (\ensuremath{\psi}) into lepton pairs. If the decay of the pseudoscalar quarkonium state into a Z boson and a Higgs boson is kinematically allowed, there is a rather clean signal for the Higgs boson, even for the intermediate-mass Higgs boson with 2${m}_{t}$${m}_{H}$2${M}_{W}$. Furthermore, H\ensuremath{\gamma} and HH pairs would also be present at fairly large rates.
Dual tone pair modulation for narrow-band data transmission

Waveshaping of data bits is used in many digital modulation techniques to control transmission bandwidth. For 99% power-in-channel bandwidth, minimum shift keying (MSK) achieves a channel bandwidth utilization of approximately 1.2 Hz/BPS. While transmitting a message at R/sub b/ bits per second, MSK produces a constant-envelope, continuous-phase, FSK waveform by utilizing a modulating tone of plus or minus 1/4 R/sub b/ Hertz about an apparent carrier signal. This paper describes a modulation method that utilizes both /spl plusmn/ 1/2 R/sub b/ and /spl plusmn/ 1/4 R/sub b/ tones to provide continuous phase of the signaling waveforms, while exhibiting low apparent carrier signal induced by the signaling message. Dual tone pair modulation (DTPM) is a non-constant envelope, linear modulation method achieving a channel bandwidth utilization of 0.66 Hz/BPS. Since DTPM has low apparent carrier, sub-earner signal injection is used to provide a stable phase reference for coherent detection. This paper describes the DTPM method and provides a DTPM performance measure for bit error rate (BER) in an AWGN channel.
Asserting Difference: The Strategic Response of Nonprofit Organizations to Competition

Sociological research on nonprofit organizations has identified several strategies by which nonprofits may respond to environmental challenges. I explicate a strategic response that I call differentiation, and I locate the specific condition under which it is implemented, the condition of competition. I compare the strategic responses adopted by one nonprofit, a large United Way, in two different moments: a period of monopoly and a subsequent period of competition. I show that nonprofits differentiate themselves when facing a crowded market. Differentiation occurs when nonprofits work to convince other actors that they, rather than their competitors, deserve resources. They seek to assert uniqueness and superiority over their rivals by constructing a hierarchical relationship between themselves and others.
The nervous system has an absolute molecular species requirement for proper function

A considerable body of biological evidence has accumulated that suggests that docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n3) is an essential component in the nervous system. Moreover, it appears from these studies that long chain polyunsaturates of the n-6 family such as arachidonate (20:4n6) and docosapentaenoate (22:5n6) cannot substitute for 22:6n3. This evidence is briefly reviewed and two hypotheses centering upon either biochemical or biophysical aspects of polyunsaturate function are presented and discussed. It is concluded that a bioactive metabolite of 22:6n3 is not responsible for its function in brain and that the best hypothesis asserts that a membrane function of a 22:6n3-containing species of phospholipid, such as phosphatidylserine, is critical for optimal neural function. Moreover, data are presented indicating that the biophysical properties of various highly unsaturated species of phospholipid are distinguishable. It is further contended that these species are not randomly distributed in membranes and th...
Difficulties encountered in identification of a nutritionally deficient streptococcus on the basis of its failure to revert to streptococcal morphology.

Difficulties were encountered in the recognition of a nutritionally deficient streptococcus which continued to display aberrant morphologic forms (especially bulbous swellings and filament formation) despite provision of growth factors. With isolates displaying diverse morphologic entities not characteristic of a given species, e.g., Streptobacillus moniliformis or Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, nutritionally deficient streptococci should be considered.