cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MOLECULAR STRUCTURE OF BIS(1-METHYLIMIDAZOLE)(MESO-TETRAPHENYLPORPHINATO)IRON(III) PERCHLORATE

The preparation and characterization of the bis(1-methylimidazole)( meso -tetraphenylporphinato)iron(III) perchlorate complex is described. The molecular structure has been determined by an X-ray crystal structure determination. The complex has two axial imidazole ligands that are nearly coplanar and close to eclipsing an FeN p bond. A rhombic distortion in the equatorial bonds is seen; the set that is approximately perpendicular to the imidazole ligand planes has an average value of 1.973(6) A while the other set has an average value of 1.991(4) A. The axial FeN(Im) bond distances average to 1.974 A. The complex has a rhombic EPR spectrum and the derived crystal field parameters are reported. Crystal data: a =10.730(1), b =21.207(4), c =21.231(4) A, and β= 96.82(1)°, monoclinic, space group P 2 1 / n , V =4796.8 A 3 , Z =4, R 1 =0.066, R 2 =0.074 based on 6429 observed data.
Dualism in medicine: a scenario.

Abstract The physician's role has a dualism inherent within it: a concern for society's health problems and generic solutions to them and a need to find specific remedies for the conditions of individual patients. This paper asserts that a recognition of this dualism and of the difficulties encountered nationally and internationally in distributing medical care on an equitable basis has created a favorable climate for evaluating the problems of providing and assessing the quality of health care. Suggestions for solving the problems are discussed and include those of Ivan Illich. The author's suggestions are given in contrast to Illich's non-medical suggested solutions. Among them are improvement in the teaching of population-based medicine in the undergraduate curriculum; training of physicians, which includes special focus on the disciplines involved in population-based medicine; alteration of clinical training; development and promotion of self-care programs; more emphasis on epidemiology and bio-statistics; and the establishment of institutes of law and ethics to deal with health-related problems.
Hallucinatory Phenomena in Childhood: A Critique of the Literature

Abstract The literature on children's hallucinations is reviewed. Contradictions and problems of comparability and generalizability are identified. The possibility of resolving many apparent contradictions is suggested by assuming a developmental approach that considers hallucinations as deviations in the normal development of reality testing and object relations. Diagnosis requires a consideration of multiple aspects of the child's ego functioning, the state of his object relationships, the circumstances under which the purported hallucination was experienced, and its content, duration, and availability to modification.
Modification of the mechanical properties of carbon nanotube arrays using electron irradiation induced oxidation

This paper describes a method of altering the compliance and adhesion of nominally vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays (“turfs”) using oxidation caused by electron irradiation from typical imaging conditions in a scanning electron microscope. A combination of electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy demonstrates that typical imaging conditions lead to the deposition and further oxidation of amorphous carbon on CNT turfs. The elastic modulus of the turfs, as measured by nanoindentation, decreases from approximately 100 to 50 MPa after irradiation and exposure to ambient laboratory conditions. The adhesion between the diamond indenter tip and turf is effectively eliminated once the amorphous carbon coated the turfs. In addition, the CNT turf exhibits decreased energy dissipation capabilities and a decreased viscoelastic response during contact loading. This suggests that further research on characterization of CNT turfs should consider the possibility that electron beam exposure during imaging may impact the subsequently measured properties, and that to lessen these effects, imaging times and accelerating voltages should be minimized.
A circumferential bundle of microfilaments associated with desmosomes near the apex of typical thyroid epithelial cells

Serial cross sections of typical thyroid epithelial cells of the Fischer rat revealed a closely but irregularly spaced circumferential layer of desmosomes just basal to the tight junction. A dense bundle of 60-A diameter microfilaments, running parallel to the lateral plasma membrane, was consistently found near this layer of desmosomes and appeared to be joined to them by microfilaments coming from the desmosomes. Rough ER and mitochondria appeared closely associated with the bundle of microfilaments.
Atypical meningioma: Randomized trials are required to resolve contradictory retrospective results regarding the role of adjuvant radiotherapy

Background: The role of postoperative radiation (RT) in atypical meningioma remains controversial. Materials and Methods: We report a retrospective review of outcomes and prognostic factor analysis in 158 patients treated between 2000 and 2010, and extensively review the literature. Results: Following resection, 23 patients received immediate RT, whereas 135 did not. Median progression-free survival (PFS) with and without RT was 59 (range 43-86) and 88 (range 64-123) months. For Simpson grade (G) 1-3 resection, with and without RT, median PFS was 48 (2-80) versus 96 (88-123) months and for Simpson G4, it was 59 (6-86) versus 47 (15-104) months (P = 0.4). The rate of 5-year overall survival (OS) with and without RT was 89% and 83%, respectively. On univariate analysis, Simpson G4 (HR 3.2, P = 0.0006) and brain invasion (HR 2.2, P = 0.03) were significantly associated with progression, whereas age >60 years (HR 9.7, P = 0.002), mitoses >5 per 10 high-power field (0.2, P = 0.0056), and Simpson G4 (HR 2.4, P = 0.07) were associated with higher risk of death. We summarized 22 additional reports, which provide very divergent results regarding the benefit of RT. Conclusions: In our series, adjuvant RT is surprisingly associated with worse PFS and OS, and this is more likely to be due to selection bias of referring tumors with more aggressive characteristics such as elevated Ki-67 and brain invasion for adjuvant RT, rather than a direct causal effect of adjuvant RT. Although there is a trend toward improved PFS with adjuvant RT after subtotal resection, no improvement was noted in OS. Multivariate analysis did not yield statistical significance for any of the factors including Simpson grades of resection, adjuvant RT, or six pathological defining features. The relatively divergent results in the literature are most likely explained by patient selection variability; therefore, randomized trials to adequately address this question are clearly necessary.
Identification of Fatty Acids, Phospholipids, and Their Oxidation Products Using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry.

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) have found increasing application in the analysis of biological samples. Using these techniques to solve problems in analytical chemistry should be an essential component of the training of undergraduate chemists. We present an experiment that teaches students how to prepare and analyze samples both qualitatively and quantitatively using modern mass spectrometric techniques. Students use ESI-MS and MALDI-MS to analyze phospholipids and mixtures of fatty acids, including those from soybean extracts. Changes in the mixtures upon ozonolysis are also investigated. This laboratory is suitable for upper-level university students enrolled in analytical chemistry or instrumental analysis classes. This experiment combines analytical chemistry with organic chemistry and biochemistry, a situation that students will encounter in their future careers as chemists.
Auroral kilometric radiation: Wave modes, harmonics, and source region electron density structures

A change from extraordinary (X) mode to ordinary (0) mode dominance is observed in the auroral kilometric radiation (AKR) detected on ISIS 1 topside sounder ionograms as the source region plasma to gyrofrequency ratio fN/fH varies from 0.1 to 1.3. The X and 0 mode AKR, Z (the slow branch of the X mode) and whistler (W) mode are also observed. The Z mode is typically slightly less intense than the 0-mode. Thw W-mode is confined to frequencies less than fH/2, suggesting that it is the result of field aligned ducted signals reaching the satellite from a source at lower altitudes. Harmonic AKR bands are commonly observed and the 2nd harmonic appears to be due to propagating signals. The deduced (fN/fH) at the bottom of the AKR source region is always less than 0.4 and is typically less than 0.2 during the generation of X-mode AKR, but approaches 0.9 for 0-mode AKR. No large density enhancements were observed within AKR source region density cavities. It is suggested that the observed INTENSE AKR IS cyclotron X-mode radiation rather than plasma frequency 0-mode radiation.
Right Angle Tetrahedron Chain Externally-Actuated Testbed (RATChET): A Shape-Changing System

Modular robotic systems can form arbitrary shapes that best suit task requirements. Such a system comprised of microscale components could form reconfigurable microstructures or high resolution physical prototypes. This paper presents methods aimed at miniaturization of this programmable matter system towards the millimeter scale or smaller. The Right Angle Tetrahedron Chain Externally-actuated Testbed (RATChET) can be folded into arbitrary 3D shapes. The tetrahedron shaped modules are designed to have limited complexity and employ technologies which can be realized at the microscale. The tools developed to design the module’s compliant mechanism can be used to develop small scale modules in the future. Experiments with centimeter scale modules demonstrate that an external actuator can fold a chain of right angle tetrahedrons into 3D shapes. If given the fold pattern to make a shape, a simulator determines the motion sequence for the 2DOF external actuator to fold that pattern.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Quantitative breast tomosynthesis: From detectability to estimability

Purpose: This work aimed to extend Fourier-based imaging metrics for modeling and predicting quantitative imaging performance. The new methodology was applied to the platform of breast tomosynthesis for investigating the influence of acquisition parameters (e.g., acquisition angle and dose) on quantitative imaging performance. Methods: Two quantitative imaging tasks were considered: Area estimation and volume estimation of a 4 mm diameter spherical target. The maximum likelihood estimator yielded training data to generate a size estimation task function, which was combined with the MTF and NPS to predict estimation performance by computing an “estimability index” analogous to the detectability index. Estimation performance for the two tasks was computed as a function of acquisition angle and dose. The results were used for system optimization in terms of quantitation performance and further compared to the detectability index for the detection of the same spherical target. Results: The estimability index computed with the size estimation tasks correlated well with precision measurements for area and volume estimation over a broad range of imaging conditions and provided a meaningful figure of merit for quantitative imaging performance and optimization. The results highlighted that optimal breast tomosynthesis acquisition parameters depend significantly on imaging task and dose. At nominal dose (1.5 mGy), mass detection was optimal at an acquisition angle of 85°, while area and volume estimation for the same mass were optimal at ∼125° and 164° acquisition angles, respectively. Conclusions: These findings provide an initial validation that the Fourier-based metrics extended to estimation tasks can represent a meaningful metric and predictor of quantitative imaging performance. The optimization framework also revealed trade-off between anatomical noise and system noise in volumetric imaging systems potentially identifying different optimal acquisition parameters than currently used in breast tomosynthesis and CT.
Transport through self-assembled colloidal shells (colloidosomes)

Abstract Colloidosomes, namely, microcapsules coated by a colloidal shell, have been widely studied as potential carriers of active compounds for various applications. The colloidal shell differs from the shells of other ‘somes’ (liposomes, polymersomes) since it is a composite material with an impenetrable phase—the particles, and a penetrable one—the voids or pores between them. Recent analysis shows that in the shells composed of monodisperse and charged particles, the maximal volume fraction of colloids in the self-assembled layer depends on the size ratio between the particle's hard-sphere radius and the effective radius, which includes the range of repulsive electrostatic interactions. Thus, somewhat counter-intuitively, the density of particles in the shell increases with increasing particle radius. However, mixing particle sizes can lead to highly packed shells where the impenetrable phase volume fraction approaches 100%. The diffusional flux through the colloidal shell is highly sensitive to the packing density (or particle volume fraction); this parameter sets the average size of the pores, their distribution through the shell, and their tortuosity. However, while in thick multi-layer shells the flux increases with increasing particle size, in the case of monolayer-thick shells there is no apparent dependence of the flux on the colloid dimensions.
Optical Second-Harmonic Generation Studies Of Ag Layer And 3-D Cluster Growth On Cu(110)

Optical surface second-harmonic generation (SHG) has been used to investigate the nucleation and growth of Ag layers and 3-D Ag nanoclusters (<10 monolayers thick) on a clean Cu(110) single-crystal surface. The surface SH intensity undergoes large changes below coverages corresponding to one Ag(111) monolayer that were highly temperature dependent. At surface temperatures above 300 K, the SH intensity increased three-fold due to the nucleation and growth of three-dimensional Ag nanoclusters on a Ag(111) monolayer thick template. Comparisons of the surface SH intensity and polarization dependences with other surface analysis techniques indicate that SHG provides a strong fingerprint for both changes in the interfacial electronic valence band structure of the surface and the nucleation and growth of Ag nanoclusters. These results are discussed in terms of a simple model relating changes in the SH intensity to changes in surface morphology by separating the coverage dependence of the nonlinear susceptibility of the interface into regions dominated by changes in either the interfacial electronic valence band structure, or structurally enhanced local-field contributions to SHG.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor I in Substrate-Deprived, Growth-Retarded Fetal Rats

ABSTRACT: Plasma, amniotic fluid, and tissue concentrations of IGF-I were examined in nutritionally deprived, growth-retarded fetal rats to determine whether IGF-I concentration serves as a marker for nutritional status. Growth retardation was induced by 72 h of maternal fasting. Twenty-three control and 17 growth-retarded fetuses were individually analyzed and compared. Plasma IGF-I concentrations were significantly lower in test compared with control animals (test 56.8 ± 14.9, control 87.4 ± 17.5 ng/mL, p < 0.01). Amniotic fluid IGF-I concentrations were not different (test 14.0 ± 8.7, control 12.2 ± 2.6 ng/mL). IGF-I concentrations obtained from both placental and hepatic tissues were lower in test compared with control animals [placenta: test 293 ± 25 versus control 655 ± 114 ng/g (p < 0.001); hepatic: test 173 ± 38 versus control 230 ± 51 ng/g (p < 0.01)]. Reductions in fetal, placental, and hepatic weights in test animals were more closely related to changes in placental IGF-I concentration than to either plasma or hepatic IGF-I concentrations. We conclude that fetal plasma IGF-I is a valuable marker for intrauterine substrate deprivation and that the growth-retarded rat fetus is accurately identified and specifically characterized by a low placental concentration of extractable IGF-I.
Relation of protein synthesis to plasma and cell amino acids in neonates.

ABSTRACT. We hypothesized that more rapidly growing preterm infants would have higher rates of protein synthesis than term infants, and that protein synthesis would be more closely related to intracellular than plasma levels of amino acids. Neutrophils, used as a cell model, were isolated from 1-3 ml blood of 63 infants 27-44 wk postconceptual age. Protein synthesis (3H-leucine incorporation, pmol/h/mg DNA), and 19 amino acids in the leukocytes (nmol/mg DNA) and plasma (nmol/ml) were quantified. Protein synthesis was related inversely to birth weight and gestational age, i.e. the smaller and more preterm the infant the higher the rate of protein synthesis. Multiple regression analysis limited to six steps indicated that some plasma amino acids (Val, Ile, Phe, Asp, Ala, Tau) accounted for a significant (p = 0.03), but relatively small, proportion, 23%, of the variance in protein synthesis. A greater proportion of the variance in protein synthesis was explained by a set of six intracellular amino acids (Leu, Met, Tyr, Gly, Ala, Tau), with R2 = 36%, p = 0.001. Further, multiple regression identified specific combinations of six plasma amino acids which best explained (“predicted”) the levels of each intracellular amino acid predictor of protein synthesis (R2 = 0.4-0.5, p<0.001- 0.0001). Activities of some rate-limiting glycolytic enzymes, pyruvate kinase and phosphofructokinase, were correlated with protein synthesis in the leukocytes (p = 0.036, and 0.002, respectively). Phosphofructokinase, the major regulating enzyme in glycolysis, also was negatively correlated with birth weight and gestational age. These data indicate that protein synthesis is higher in smaller neonates, and that its level can be predicted from levels of a few intracellular amino acids whose concentrations, in turn, can be predicted from specific sets of different plasma amino acids.
Conformation dependence of the SH and CS stretch frequencies of the cysteine residue

SYNOPSIS In order to relate the observed SH and CS stretch frequencies of the cysteine residue in proteins more closely to its conformation, we have done normal mode calculations on a model for this structure, viz., (CCONH) (CNHCO)CHCH2SH. A range of x' and x2 were studied, combined with the $,$ of the a-helix, P-sheet, glutathione, and extended-helix conformations. The force field was a combination of a scaled ab initio force field of the -CH2SH group, obtained from ethanethiol and tested on 1-propanethiol and 3-thiol-Nmethylpropionamide, and our empirical force field for the peptide group. The results provide more detailed structure-spectra correlations than are possible from experimental studies of model compounds. 0 1992 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. I NTRODU CTl ON The cysteine residue side chain, -CH2SH, is an important one in proteins, both because of its inherent properties as well as its ability to react with similar groups to form a disulfide bridge, -CH2SSCH2-, between polypeptide chains. It is therefore important to develop detailed spectroscopic correlations for characterizing its conformation. It has long been known that the SH stretch (s) mode, v(SH), is generally found in the range of 2500-2600 cm-' , being weak in the ir and strong in the Raman spectrum. Since v(SH) is sensitive to the presence of SH groups and to their environment, particularly hydrogen bonding, it has been studied in various proteins, such as hemoglobin, 122 eye lens proteins, 3-5 0-lactoglobulin, and virus protein^.^,' Conformational information with respect to the C"Cs-S-H dihedral angle ( x2) has been sought through experimental studies of model alkanethiolsg-" as well as normal mode calculations on such molecule~.'~~~~ Low-frequency torsional modes have also been studied14-16 in order to obtain information on rotational barriers. The v(CS) mode has been known to give rise to Raman bands in the 600-800-cm-' region. Confor
Effect of wound healing and tissue transplantation on the navigation of axons in organ‐cultured embryonic chick eyes

Wound closure and repair of embryonic neuroepithelium were studied in organ-cultured embryonic retinae. Eyes from 3 to 4-day-old embryos were cultured after removing pieces of retinal tissue. During the subsequent 24 hours of incubation, the 150 to 200 μm wide holes in the retina closed completely. Histological studies showed that the wound closure was not accomplished by cell migration or cell proliferation, but by an approximation of the wound edges mediated by extracellular matrix fibrils of the vitreous body. The wound contraction facilitated the integration of transplants into the retinal neuroepithelium with a perfect alignment of the implants with the host at the vitreal surface. Within 24 hours, a continuous inner limiting membrane between transplant and host retina was established. The effect of wound healing and tissue transplantation on the navigation of optic axons in the retina was investigated. The wound contraction in the retina caused the optic axons near the lesion site to grow to the wound center, where the axons traversed the retina and formed a neuroma at the ventricular side, resembling the organization of axons at the optic disc. In the transplantation paradigm, axons from the host retina migrated into the transplant and vice versa. However, due to the wound contraction around the transplant, most axons grew into the interface between the transplant and host tissue. 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Excitation of the supported metal particle surface plasmon with external electron beam

Abstract Classical energy loss theory is used to study the surface plasmon excitations of a supported spherical particle under the non-retardation approximation. The predicted results for the case in which the metal sphere (Al) is half-embedded in dielectric support (AlF 3 ) are in good agreement with the experimental results. Theeffects of the surface oxide layer and of the particle size on the electron energy loss spectrum shape are presented. It is shown that the dipole approximation is not valid in the study of the supported particle structure. The applicabilities of both the results predicted by coherent-state theory and the results of the classical energy loss theory given in this paper for the study of the supported particle are discussed. It is suggested that use of the coherent-state theory for calculating the excitation probabilities of the surface plasmons is in reasonable agreement with the EELS experiment on the supported particle system for thin supports. The classical theoretical results used in this paper are applicable only for the relatively thick supports. The agreement of the experimental EELS results with either of these two theoretical predictions depends on the relative coupling strength of the particle with the support.
The swimming and feeding behavior of Mesocyclops

The swimming and feeding behaviors of Mesocyclops are described from a review of the literature and personal observations.
Artificial skin for closure and healing of wounds created by skin cancer excisions.

Background. A dermal regeneration template indicated for life-threatening third-degree burn injuries is a product with potential application to smaller wounds to aid in healing and closure of complex excision sites. Objective. To assess the effectiveness of dermal regeneration template for closure of skin cancer excision sites that would have otherwise required complicated closures. Methods. Five patients, 61–84 years old, with skin cancer surgery yielding a total of six wounds were treated with the dermal regeneration template to close and heal their wounds. Results. Four of five patients had complete healing (five of six wounds) with cosmetically acceptable results. The one treatment failure was application of the dermal regeneration template over exposed skull where inadequate neodermis formed. Successful healing was observed in five complex skin cancer excision sites including two wounds in previously irradiated grafted skin, a large and deep temporal defect, a wide excision in the supraclavicular region, and an excision down to cartilage on the antihelix of the ear. No infections were noted, although in four of five patients prophylactic oral antibiotics (either erythromycin or cephalexin) were prescribed postoperatively for 1–2 weeks. Conclusion. The product simplified wound care, subjectively appeared to decrease pain and postoperative bleeding, and yielded cosmetically acceptable wound repair. Autografting was not necessary; wounds healed in 2–4 months by epithelialization over neodermis after removal of the silicone layer. Furthermore, the product was a convenient long-term dressing and healing device for wounds where complex repairs, autografts, and/or flaps would otherwise be considered for closure.
'Macrophage' cannabinoid receptor goes up in smoke

CB2 receptors, expressed mainly by immune cells in the periphery, are thought to be minimally involved in cannabinoid signaling in brain. However, a study now finds that brain CB2 receptors may be central to cocaine addiction.
PERSISTENT CURRENTS IN SUPERFLUID HELIUM

Observations of persistent currents in superfluid /sup 3/He-B have been made with use of a recently developed ac gyroscope technique. The persistent currents are generated in a toroidal region filled with a fibrous material with average pore size of 10/sup -2/ cm. In this geometry, a mean critical velocity of 7 x 10/sup -2/ cm/sec was observed. To within experimental error, no decay of the currents was observed for periods of over one hour.
Critical Thinking in Political Science: Evidence from the Introductory Comparative Politics Course

ABSTRACT Political Science programs have long seen part of their mission as the cultivation of “critical thinking” among their undergraduates. But what exactly does critical thinking mean in our Political Science courses? Can we foster critical thinking in our classes and, if so, how? This article, based on a yearlong systematic study of an introductory Comparative Politics course undertaken as part of a university-wide “Critical Thinking Project,” looks at these questions. In this article we consider how critical thinking can be defined, fostered and assessed in the introductory Comparative Politics course; the implications these may have for students' performance in other Political Science courses; and how students themselves view critical thinking. Our data suggests students define critical thinking broadly in accord with those definitions of teachers of Political Science, believe these skills were fostered in the introductory Comparative Politics course and are certain that they carry over into their ...
Beam based alignment for the LCLS FEL undulator

Abstract The linac coherent light source (LCLS) (LCLS Design Study Report, SLAC-R-521, 1998) is an X-ray FEL based on a long, permanent magnet undulator comprised of multiple segments which provide space for electron beam position monitors (BPMs) and quadrupole focusing magnets. The 15 GeV electron trajectory within the undulator must be straight to ∼5 μ m over a gain length of 11 m so that the photon beam overlaps efficiently with the electron beam. This alignment precision is not achievable with available mechanical survey methods. For this reason, an empirical beam-based alignment technique is developed that uses BPM readings in conjuntion with large, deliberate variations in the electron energy. We describe here a detailed alignment simulation including BPM and magnet-mover calibration errors, quadrupole gradient errors, and dipole field errors which demonstrate that the alignment can be achieved with high confidence.
TIME-AVERAGE LOCAL THICKNESS MEASUREMENT IN FALLING LIQUID FILM FLOW

Abstract A method for monitoring time-varying local film thickness variation through the detection of laser scattering from suspended latex particles is briefly described. This method was used in conjunction with the Jeffreys theory of drainage from a flat plate to determine time-average local film thickness. Measurements were made at Reynolds numbers (equal to ( 4Q/ν )) from 145 to 4030 at varying distances along the direction of flow. At the bottom of the flow, 134 cm from the top, average film thickness is given by the expression: h ≈ a 1 Re n i where a i and n i are constants unique to each of the three Reynolds number regions, wavy laminar, transitional and turbulent.
Assessment of Aspirin Absorption Rate from Urinary Excretion Rate Measurements

It is shown on the basis of pharmacokinetic simulations and experimental data that adequate evaluation of aspirin dosage forms with different absorption rates by urinary excretion measurements in man requires that such measurements be made during the first hour after drug administration. Measurements made only after 3 hours are totally inadequate for that purpose. An assessment of the completeness of absorption obviously does not require serial measurements but needs only a determination of the total amount excreted.
The impact of an alternative model of student teacher supervision: Views of the participants

Abstract This study examines the views of student teachers, classroom teachers, and university-based personnel who participated in an alternative model of student teacher supervision and traditional triad model. A variety of data sources including surveys, interviews, and anecdotal evidence was used to determine the perceptions of the participants. Although there were concerns about the alternative model, the participants viewed it more positively than the traditional triad. Recommendations for teacher education programmes and the student teaching experience are made.
Promoter analysis of co-regulated genes in the yeast genome.

The use of high density DNA arrays to monitor gene expression at a genome-wide scale constitutes a fundamental advance in biology. In particular, the expression pattern of all genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae can be interrogated using microarray analysis where cDNAs are hybridized to an array of more than 6000 genes in the yeast genome. In an effort to build a comprehensive Yeast Promoter Database and to develop new computational methods for mapping upstream regulatory elements, we started recently in an on going collaboration with experimental biologists on analysis of large-scale expression data. It is well known that complex gene expression patterns result from dynamic interacting networks of genes in the genetic regulatory circuitry. Hierarchical and modular organization of regulatory DNA sequence elements are important information for our understanding of combinatorial control of gene expression. As a bioinformatics attempt in this new direction, we have done some computational exploration of various initial experimental data. We will use cell-cycle regulated gene expression as a specific example to demonstrate how one may extract promoter information computationally from such genome-wide screening. Full report of the experiments and of the complete analysis will be published elsewhere when all the experiments are to be finished later in this year (Spellman, P.T., et al. 1998. Mol. Biol. Cell 9, 3273-3297).
Modification of footdrumming signatures by kangaroo rats: changing territories and gaining new neighbours

Abstract The banner-tailed kangaroo rat, Dipodomys spectabilis , advertises its territorial ownership with individual footdrumming signatures used in neighbour recognition. The aim of this study was to examine how social experience influences development of the footdrumming signatures of newly dispersed juveniles and older adults. Over 5000 footdrumming signatures were recorded and analysed for 101 different animals over a 7-year period from 1986 to 1992 in which population densities fluctuated. Duuring these years, the footdrumming signatures of individuals differed in structure within neighbourhoods, but those of non-neighbours overlapped when population densities were high. In general, the footdrumming signatures of juveniles varied more than adults, but both juveniles and adults changed elements of the signal if they changed territories, which occurred more frequently at higher population densities. Kangaroo rats, therefore, can modify their footdrumming signatures over their lifetime in response to changes in the social environment. The rat that moves into a new neighbourhood adjusts its footdrumming signal to differ from its new neighbours.
Origin of the Bolivian Andean orocline: a geologic study utilizing Landsat and shuttle imaging radar

Abstract The origin of the major Andean orocline in Bolivia, where the north trending southern Andes abruptly change direction by 45° and continue northwestward into Peru, has been investigated by photogeologic techniques utilizing Landsat imagery and Shuttle Imaging Radar (SIR-A) in conjunction with published literature and maps. The evidence suggests that this orocline might have been formed, beginning in the Miocene, by the Pacific coastal region being bent around the resistant Brazilian Shield as a result of the relative motions between the eastward-moving coastal region and the westward-moving South American continent. The eastward motion of the coast was further increased about 10 m.y. B.P. when the opening of the East Pacific Rise increased the rate of eastward motion of the subducting Nazca Plate. The Brazilian Shield, with its deep roots, provided greater resistance to this motion, resulting in the decoupling of the Andes along a wide, left-lateral, strike-slip fault zone extending east-west from the Altiplano, through Santa Cruz and into the interior. Indicated left-lateral motion across this fault decreases from 180 km on the east side of the Andes to 50 or 60 km in the Altiplano, the difference being taken up in compressing the Eastern Cordillera and sub-Andean Foredeep from an average width of 350 km in southern Bolivia and Argentina to an average width of 220 km in northern Bolivia and Peru. The resistance of the Shield may also have resulted in counter-clockwise rotation of, and lateral angular shear in, the Andes north of the break zone.
LRP: a bright beacon at the blood-brain barrier

The LDL receptor gene family constitutes a class of structurally closely related cell surface receptors that fulfill diverse biological functions in different organs, tissues, and cell types. The role that is most commonly associated with this evolutionarily ancient gene family is the endocytosis and removal of LDL, the main carrier of cholesterol in the circulation of humans, by the liver (1). Indeed, the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis through this mechanism remains the sole known function of the family’s namesake, the LDL receptor. Yet, over the last few years, considerable evidence has accumulated at an increasingly rapid pace that shows that the members of the LDL receptor gene family also have fundamental functions in transmitting or modulating signals between specialized cells in many, if not all, multicellular organisms. Two recent papers, the first by Nassar and colleagues in Blood (2) and the second by Yepes and colleagues in this issue of the JCI (3), now report on a novel role of the LDL receptor–related protein (LRP) and one of its ligands, the proteolytically active serine proteinase tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA), as regulators of vascular tone and permeability of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Using neuroserpin, a plasminogen activator inhibitor that is abundant in the brain, combined with a series of knockout mice lacking tPA, urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), plasminogen, or MMP-9, Yepes et al. now show that an increase in perivascular tPA, as a consequence of experimentally induced cerebral ischemia, results in an opening of the BBB, and that this permeability increase is independent of plasminogen, uPA, and MMP-9. Injection of tPA, but not uPA, into the cerebrospinal fluid increased vascular permeability (as determined by Evans Blue extravasation) even in the absence of ischemia. However, functional blockade of LRP by anti-LRP antibodies or inhibition with the receptor-associated protein, a universal blocker of ligand binding to LRP, abolished the vasoactive effect of tPA. A similar direct effect of LRP on matrix degradation–independent vasoactivity by tPA was also observed by Nassar et al. These findings are complemented by another recent report (4) that showed upregulation of active MMP-9 expression by cerebral endothelial cells in response to in vitro and in vivo tPA exposure. This increase was also dependent on LRP. Taken together, these three studies suggest an important role for LRP in the brain, and more specifically at the BBB, where LRP controls vasoactivity, permeability, and postischemic lesion formation in response to an active proteinase (tPA). This is, of course, of considerable clinical importance, since intracerebral hemorrhages induced or aggravated by tPA are a serious potential complication of its therapeutic use as a thrombolytic agent. In the following, I will briefly review our current understanding of relevant signaling pathways in which members of the LDL receptor family are involved, and I will comment on potential mechanisms by which tPA may act through LRP upon the cerebral vasculature.
Connected Smart Buildings, a New Way to Interact with Buildings

Devices, people, information and software applications rarely live in isolation in modern building management. For example, networked sensors that monitor the performance of a chiller are common and collected data are delivered to building automation systems to optimize energy use. Detected possible failures are also handed to facility management staffs for repairs. Physical and cyber security services have to be incorporated to prevent improper access of not only HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning) equipment but also control devices. Harmonizing these connected sensors, control devices, equipment and people is a key to provide more comfortable, safe and sustainable buildings. Nowadays, devices with embedded intelligences and communication capabilities can interact with people directly. Traditionally, few selected people (e.g., facility managers in building industry) have access and program the device with fixed operating schedule while a device has a very limited connectivity to an operating environment and context. Modern connected devices will learn and interact with users and other connected things. This would be a fundamental shift in ways in communication from unidirectional to bi-directional. A manufacturer will learn how their products and features are being accessed and utilized. An end user or a device on behalf of a user can interact and communicate with a service provider or a manufacturer without go though a distributer, almost real time basis. This will requires different business strategies and product development behaviors to serve connected customers' demands. Connected things produce enormous amount of data that result many questions and technical challenges in data management, analysis and associated services. In this talk, we will brief some of challenges that we have encountered In developing connected building solutions and services. More specifically, (1) semantic interoperability requirements among smart sensors, actuators, lighting, security and control and business applications, (2) engineering challenges in managing massively large time sensitive multi-media data in a cloud at global scale, and (3) security and privacy concerns are presented.
A survey of diverse earth abundant oxygen evolution electrocatalysts showing enhanced activity from Ni–Fe oxides containing a third metal

Mixed metal oxides comprise a diverse class of materials that are appealing as potential water oxidation electrocatalysts. Here we report combinatorial screening of nearly 3500 trimetallic AxByCzOq mixed metal oxide compositions that led to the discovery of electrocatalysts with enhanced activity relative to, inter alia, the well-studied pure oxides, ABO3, and AB2O4 stoichiometries of those metals. Using a fluorescence-based parallel screening method, we directly detect electrolytic oxygen-evolution activity of catalyst arrays under alkaline conditions. From these data, composition–activity relationships amongst mixed oxides composed of earth-abundant elements have been determined. Significant sustained activity is observed only in the presence of Co or Ni, and the data draw attention to synergistic interactions between these redox-active ions and Lewis-acidic cations, such as Fe, Al, Ga, and Cr. The best activities are observed with oxides composed of Ni and Fe, together with another element.
The spectrum of ureteropelvic junction obstructions occurring in duplicated collecting systems

The authors reviewed four cases of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJ) in duplicated systems. Associated abnormalities included contralateral duplication, vesicoureteral reflux, and a case of ipsilateral upper pole ectopic ureter with a dysplastic upper pole moiety. Surgical management included dismembered pyeloplasty, ureteral reimplantation, end-to-side pyeloureterostomy to the upper-pole ureter, and upper-pole heminephrectomy with lower-pole dismembered pyeloplasty. UPJ obstructions occurring in duplicated systems often are associated with other anomalies.
Petrology and Possible Tectonic Significance of Late Cenozoic Volcanic Rocks, Southern California and Baja California

The continental borderland and adjacent land areas of southwestern California, Baja California, and the Gulf of California area were the site of extensive Cenozoic volcanism. Radiometric dates and stratigraphic relations indicate major mid-Miocene volcanism (Jacumba, California basalts 18.7 ± 1.3 m.y.; Tijuana area of Mexico, 14.3 ± 2.6 m.y.; Channel Islands and Los Angeles basin area, California ~15.5 m.y., Luisian stage). High-alumina basalts of both tholeiitic and alkalic types are predominant; andesites and dacites are less voluminous but are locally important. These silicic rocks appear to be differentiates of the basalts. A Pliocene episode of volcanism is characterized by abundant alkalic basalts and low-alumina tholeiites and by lesser amounts of high-alumina tholeiite (Santa Rosa basalts, Murietta, California, 8.3 ± 0.5 m.y.). Scattered outpourings of alkalic and tholeiitic basalt, andesite, and rhyolite continued in the region until latest Pleistocene time. The mid-Miocene volcanism appears to be synchronous with the postulated initial stages of crustal dilational which formed the Gulf of California. All of the late Cenozoic volcanism shows close spatial relations to fault zones of the area, and a genetic relationship between faulting, regional dilation and volcanism is inferred. The compositional trend of the sequence of volcanic rocks over the past 20 m.y. may be generalized as follows: (1) high-alumina basalts of both alkalic and tholeiitic types, (2) high-alumina tholeiite, (3) low-alumina alkalic basalt, (4) low-alumina tholeiite. Andesites and dacite appear as differentiates of steps (2) and (4). The complete sequence is not represented in any one area but may apply to the whole region. The sequence suggests a progressive increase to the depth of magma separation in the mantle and may be related to the progressive change in thermal gradients and in crustal and mantle stresses as the borderland was disrupted.
Altered Glucose Homeostasis in Mice with Liver-specific Deletion of Src Homology Phosphatase 2

The Src homology 2 domain-containing protein-tyrosine phosphatase Shp2 has been implicated in a variety of growth factor signaling pathways, but its role in insulin signaling has remained unresolved. In vitro studies suggest that Shp2 is both a negative and positive regulator of insulin signaling, although its physiological function in a number of peripheral insulin-responsive tissues remains unknown. To address the metabolic role of Shp2 in the liver, we generated mice with either chronic or acute hepatic Shp2 deletion using tissue-specific Cre-LoxP and adenoviral Cre approaches, respectively. We then analyzed insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance, and insulin signaling in liver-specific Shp2-deficient and control mice. Mice with chronic Shp2 deletion exhibited improved insulin sensitivity and increased glucose tolerance compared with controls. Acute Shp2 deletion yielded comparable results, indicating that the observed metabolic effects are directly caused by the lack of Shp2 in the liver. These findings correlated with, and were most likely caused by, direct dephosphorylation of insulin receptor substrate (IRS)1/2 in the liver, accompanied by increased PI3K/Akt signaling. In contrast, insulin-induced ERK activation was dramatically attenuated, yet there was no effect on the putative ERK site on IRS1 (Ser612) or on S6 kinase 1 activity. These studies show that Shp2 is a negative regulator of hepatic insulin action, and its deletion enhances the activation of PI3K/Akt pathway downstream of the insulin receptor.
Acetylcholine (ACH) Stimulated Release of Endothelial Nitric Oxide (EDNO), Prostaglandins (EDPG) but Not Hyperpolarizing Factor (EDHF) Is Dependent on pH in Bovine Newborn Pulmonary Vascular Smooth Muscle (PVSM)

Acetylcholine (ACH) Stimulated Release of Endothelial Nitric Oxide (EDNO), Prostaglandins (EDPG) but Not Hyperpolarizing Factor (EDHF) Is Dependent on pH in Bovine Newborn Pulmonary Vascular Smooth Muscle (PVSM)
Control of plasmaspheric dynamics by both convection and sub- auroral polarization stream

[1] The long-standing hypothesis that plasmaspheric dynamics are described by superposition of corotation and solar-wind-driven sunward convection is tested via direct comparison between plasmasphere observations and simulation output. The observations consist of global plasmasphere images produced by the IMAGE extreme ultraviolet (EUV) imager during plasmasphere erosion on 2 June 2001. The simulation is a plasmapause evolution model driven by a time-varying Volland-Stern (VS) electric potential distribution. On the dawnside and much of the nightside the model matches the EUV plasmapause position to within 0.2–0.5 earth radii (RE). Near dusk the model plasmapause is about 0.7–1.2 RE farther out than the EUV plasmapause, suggesting that an improved model should include the duskside flow enhancement known as the sub-auroral polarization stream (SAPS). We demonstrate that including a simplified ad-hoc SAPS potential can correct the model on the duskside.
Job accessibility and welfare usage: Evidence from Los Angeles

Previous scholars have explored the effects of local labor market conditions on welfare usage. However, none of these studies use direct measures of geographic access to nearby jobs. Responding to this limitation, our research combines data from the 1990 census with three administrative data sets to examine the effect of geographic job access—defined as the relative supply of low-wage jobs located within a three-mile radius of a census tract—on welfare usage rates among the Los Angeles population with a high school degree or less. After controlling for other characteristics likely to affect welfare behavior, we find that welfare usage declines as geographic job access increases. This relationship holds not only among African-Americans, the subject of much of the scholarship on job access and economic opportunity, but also among whites, Asians, and Hispanics.