cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Single-Molecule Protein Conformational Dynamics and Molecular Interaction Dynamics under Enzymatic Reactions

Enzymatic reactions are traditionally studied at the ensemble level, despite significant static and dynamic inhomogeneities. Subtle conformational changes play a crucial role in protein functions, and these protein conformations are highly dynamic rather than being static. Protein-molecular interactions define the enzymatic reaction potential surface, pathway, and dynamics. The single-molecule protein-protein interaction dynamics reveals the nature of the molecular complex formation and recognition that are critical for an enzymatic reaction to occur. We applied AFM-enhanced single-molecule spectroscopy to study the mechanisms and dynamics of enzymatic reactions involved with kinase and lysozyme proteins. Enzymatic reaction turnovers and the associated structure changes of individual protein molecules were observed simultaneously in real-time by single-molecule FRET detections. We obtained the rates for single-molecule conformational active-site open-close fluctuation and correlated enzymatic reactions. We have demonstrated a specific statistical analysis to reveal single-molecule FRET anti-correlated fluctuations from a high background of fluorescence correlated thermal fluctuations. Our new approach is applicable to a wide range of single-molecule FRET measurements for protein conformational changes under enzymatic reactions.
Histochemical identification of the striated muscle of the canine esophagus.

Summary Histochemistry on the cervical, thoracic, and abdominal esophageal muscle of immature, young, and adult normal dogs revealed type IIA striated musculature in contrast to some other species. No other types or subtypes were observed. This suggests that esophageal muscle type is established at birth and does not vary or that any variation has been completed by 4 weeks-of-age unlike some canine limb musculature.
Metallic Composites Phase-Change Materials for High-Temperature Thermal Energy Storage

Inorganic materials and organic salts are usually used as phase change materials (PCMs) for thermal energy storage. Some of these materials have high latent heat of fusion; however one major drawback of these materials is the low thermal conductivity, which limits the rate of charging and discharging process. In this paper, we studied metallic alloys (eutectic alloys or alloys with a narrow melting temperature range) as phase-change materials, which have both high thermal conductivity and high latent heat of fusion. A formula was presented from entropy change to predict the latent heat of fusion of metallic alloys. We found that the latent heat of fusion of alloys can be expressed from three different contributions: the latent heat from each element, the sensible heat, and the mixing entropy. From the theory we also showed that latent heat of fusion could be greatly increased by maximizing the entropy of mixing, which can be realized by introduce more elements in the alloys, i.e., form ternary alloys by adding elements to binary alloys. This idea is demonstrated by the synthesis and measurement of the binary alloy 87.8Al-12.2Si (at%) and ternary alloy 45Al-40Si-15Fe (at%). The metallic alloy is synthesized by hot pressing method. The latent heat of fusion of 45Al-40Si-15Fe (at%) is about 865 kJ/kg with melting temperature from 830 °C to 890 °C from the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurement, comparing with 554.9 kJ/kg and 578.3 °C for the binary alloy 87.8Al-12.2Si (at%). From the binary to the ternary alloy, the contribution to the latent heat from mixing entropy increases by 17%.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
High thermal stability of soft magnetic (Fe,Co)–Mo–B–C–P–Si metallic glasses

The effects of metalloids on the thermal stability and magnetic properties of (Fe,Co)–Mo–B–C–P–Si metallic glasses are presented. The alloys exhibit high thermal stability, despite only a 40 K width of the supercooled liquid (SCL) region and a reduced glass transition temperature of 0.55. The amorphous phases and their high saturation magnetization (∼1.44 T) and low coercive field (∼20 A/m) are retained upon long-term annealing in the SCL region. Temperature–time transformation (TTT) studies and investigation of crystallization properties using transmission electron microscopy confirm the beneficial effect of cobalt on the thermal stability, rendering the present alloys promising for scientific study and soft magnet applications.
Enzymatic and chromosomal characterization of HeLa variants.

Seven strains of HeLa cells have been characterized by the number of chromosomes and the activity of the enzymes alkaline phosphatase, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, 6-phosphogluconic dehydrogenase, and lactic dehydrogenase. All seven strains were found to differ as to chromosome numbers and enzyme levels despite the fact that two strains were called HeLa and three were called HeLa S3. Three strains were found to have a stemline in which greater than 60% of the cells demonstrated a single chromosome number, and this characteristic was stable for at least 6 months. A nomenclature for these clones has been suggested by the use of the stemline chromosome number as a subscript following HeLa. These three clones were, therefore, designated HeLa65, HeLa71, and HeLa75. Karyotypes were made of the stemlines of these clones and were compared with enzyme levels. Alkaline phosphatase showed the greatest variation from cell line to cell line with a 200-fold difference in levels, whereas glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase showed variation in activity over a 12-fold range, lactic dehydrogenase over an 8-fold range, and 6-phosphogluconic dehydrogenase over a 2-fold range. It is suggested that human cell strains can be used for biochemical studies if they are cloned and if the clones are relatively stable at least with respect to modal chromosome number and karyotype.
Sodium Green as a potential probe for intracellular sodium imaging based on fluorescence lifetime.

Abstract We characterized the use of the fluorescent probe Sodium Green for measurements of intracellular free sodium using frequency–domain, phase–modulation fluorometry. The intensity decays were found to be strongly Na + dependent, with mean lifetime increasing from 1.13 ns in the absence of Na + to 2.39 ns in the presence of 140 m m Na + . Detailed analysis of the intensity decays in the presence of Na + and K + in the concentration range from 0 to 500 m m is provided. Sodium sensing using data measured at a single modulation frequency is described. Phase and modulation data showed high sensitivity to Na + and substantially lower sensitivity to K + . Additionally, exposure of Sodium Green to intense illumination indicated that Sodium Green is much more photostable than its precursor, fluorescein. These results indicate that lifetime-based measurements with Sodium Green can be used for imaging of intracellular free [Na + ] in the range from about 0.5 to 50 m m with high accuracy.
What is Communicated in the Antipredator Calls of Lemurs: Evidence from Playback Experiments with Ringtailed and Ruffed Lemurs

Two hypotheses of signal specificity in antipredator calls (“referential signalling” and “response urgency”) are discussed in light of prior research on ground squirrels and vervet monkeys. These hypotheses then are examined with data on responses of semi-captive ringtailed and ruffed lemurs to antipredator call playbacks. Although the responses of ringtailed lemurs support a referential-signalling interpretation of their antipredator calls, those of ruffed lemurs do not conform well to either hypothesis. Rather, ruffed lemur antipredator calls seem best viewed as “affective” signals that may only reflect underlying emotional/motivational states.
Understanding ‘The Panty Shanty’: off-campus house signs as cultural texts on gender and sexuality

Students at a large, prestigious, public university in the Midwestern region of the USA have a long-standing tradition of naming their rented houses off campus and communicating those names to the student body through displaying prominent and eye-catching house signs. Examples of signs names and visual characteristics are: ‘Betty Ford Clinic’ (featuring an image of a martini glass); ‘Morning Wood’ (referencing male sexual arousal and depicting a tent with a man's legs sticking out); ‘Time Well Wasted’ (written in pink over a beach scene and a martini glass); ‘Fox Den’ (images of a fox tail and a well-known sorority symbol); ‘Tequila Mockingbird’ (a play on words); and ‘Down on U’ (the sign references a sexual act for a house located on University Avenue). Through a socio-feminist and social constructionist perspective, the researchers use content analysis to explore how these house signs serve as cultural texts on gender and sexuality norms in the American undergraduate college setting. Based on our data,...
Shifts in Benthic Algal Community Structure and Function Following the Appearance of Zebra Mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) in Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron

Zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha (Pallas), proliferation in Saginaw Bay, Lake Huron is associated with increased water clarity and increased light levels on benthic substrata in the littoral zone. We hypothesized that the filtering activities of Dreissena and associated increases in light penetration should affect the structure and function of benthic algae in the bay. Monthly quantitative benthic algal samples were collected from natural substrata by SCUBA in the littoral zone of the bay through the growing seasons of 1991 (initial Dreissena colonization), 1992 and 1993 (post-Dreissena colonization). Algal community structure was examined microscopically and productivity rates were measured using carbon-14 in sealed acrylic chambers in situ. Our data demonstrate that, following Dreissena proliferation, light penetration, benthic algal biomass, chlorophyll concentrations and rates of benthic primary productivity have increased. These changes coincided with a shift from diatom domination of the benthic algal community to a flora dominated by filamentous green algae (Zygnematales). We suggest that these shifts have the potential to affect benthic food webs within littoral zones of the Great Lakes.
Dissolving metal reduction of acetylenes: a computational study.

The two-electron, two-proton reduction of alkynes to trans-alkenes has been studied computationally using the polarizable continuum regime to model liquid ammonia, the solvent in which such reductions are generally carried out. Two computational approaches have been used. In one, the energies of species (alkyne, radical anion, vinyl radical, vinyl anion, dianion, and alkene) that are implicated as possible participants in the reduction are obtained using high level ab initio single-point computations under the polarizable continuum model (PCM) conditions. In the other approach, the same species are surrounded by ten explicit ammonia molecules before undergoing the same single-point PCM analysis. It has been shown that the two methods provide nearly identical results in terms of relative energies. Other findings include the probable bent nature of the radical anion species in ammonia, the likelihood that the trans stereochemistry of the reduction is determined at the vinyl anion stage, and the elimination ...
Effects of El Niño on distribution and reproductive performance of Black Brant.

Climate in low-latitude wintering areas may influence temperate and high-latitude breeding populations of birds, but demonstrations of such relationships have been rare because of difficulties in linking wintering with breeding populations. We used long-term aerial surveys in Mexican wintering areas and breeding areas in Alaska, USA, to assess numbers of Black Brant (Branta bernicla nigricans; hereafter brant) on their principal wintering and breeding area in El Nino and non-El Nino years. We used Pollock's robust design to directly estimate probability of breeding and apparent annual survival of individually marked brant at the Tutakoke River (TR) colony, Alaska, in each year between 1988 and 2001. Fewer brant wintered in Mexico during every El Nino event since 1965. Fewer brant were observed on the principal breeding area following each El Nino since surveys began in 1985. Probability of breeding was negatively related to January sea surface temperature along the subtropical coast of North America during the preceding winter. Between 23% (five-year-olds or older) and 30% (three-year-olds) fewer brant nested in 1998 following the strong El Nino event in the winter of 1997-1998 than in non-El Nino years. This finding is consistent with life history theory, which predicts that longer-lived species preserve adult survival at the expense of reproduction. Oceanographic conditions off Baja California, apparently by their effect on Zostera marina (eelgrass), strongly influence winter distribution of brant geese and their reproduction (but not survival), which in turn affects ecosystem dynamics in Alaska.
Radar observations of Venus at 3.6 centimeters

Abstract Radar observations of Venus at 3.6 cm have shown that the planet appears extremely “rough” at this wavelength. Apparent reflectivity of the surface was found to be one-tenth that measured at longer wavelengths, raising the interesting possibility of absorption in the Cytherean atmosphere.
Why Arguments over Communion Matter to Allegory: Or, Why are Catholics like Orgoglio?

(2002). Why Arguments over Communion Matter to Allegory: Or, Why are Catholics like Orgoglio? Reformation: Vol. 6, No. 1, pp. 163-177.
Cholera toxin augments the release of endothelium-derived relaxing factor evoked by bradykinin and the calcium ionophore A23187.

Abstract 1. 1. Experiments were designed to examine the effect of cholera toxin and forskolin on the release of relaxing factor(s) from superfused cultured endothelial cells under basal conditions and upon stimulation with bradykinin, adenosine diphosphate or the calcium ionophore A23187. 2. 2. Exposure of cultured porcine aortic endothelial cells to cholera toxin (30 μg/ml, for 3 hr) and forskolin (10 −6 M, for 45 min) significantly increased the intracellular content in cyclic AMP. Cholera toxin but not forskolin stimulated the accumulation of cyclic GMP. 3. 3. Exposure to cholera toxin did not modify the basal release of endothelium-derived relaxing factor nor that induced by adenosine diphosphate, but significantly increased that evoked by bradykinin and the calcium ionophore A23187. Forskolin did not significantly affect the basal or the stimulated release of endothelium-derived relaxing factor. 4. 4. These results suggest that cholera toxin potentiates the release of endothelium-derived relaxing factor (presumably nitric oxide) from endothelial cells by a mechanism other than augmented production of cyclic AMP.
The Power of a Mentor: Protégés' and Nonprotégés' Perceptions of Their Own Power in Organizations

Do proteges report having more power than nonproteges? Do male proteges report having more power than female proteges? Do high-level proteges report having more influence than low-level proteges? T...
Employee Awareness of Workplace Violence Policies and Perceptions for Addressing Perpetrators at Colleges and Universities

Most of the research on workplace violence has focused on workplace violence incidents and the development of models to predict and address the phenomenon. The assumption that all organizations are essentially similar in nature underlies this research. However, colleges and universities differ from for-profit businesses. Little, if any, research has been conducted to determine employees’ awareness of workplace violence policies and employee perceptions of potential perpetrators and how to address perpetrators which is necessary for increasing such policies’ effectiveness. The present study examines the awareness of employees at a large, public university in the Midwestern United States concerning WPV. Respondents indicate which sources they perceive to be likely perpetrators of workplace violence, and the actions that organization should take if WPV occurs. Based on this information, steps to increase employee awareness of workplace violence policies in colleges and universities are suggested.
Rural development in China 1949–72, and the lessons to be learned from it

Abstract Rural development in China since 1949 has been based on land reforms, collectivization of agricultural production, mechanization of agriculture, and improved terms of trade in favour of the countryside. The land reforms redistributed wealth and income from the rich to the poor, eliminated the former ruling classes, and raised both peasant consumption and rural savings. Collectivization raised rural output through better utilization of labour. The mechanization of agriculture further boosted output by raising labour productivity. Finally, rural development was promoted by the lowering of prices paid by peasants and raising those received by them.
Redirecting North Korea's Nuclear Workers

Threat reduction programs with former Soviet states can serve as models to create new, peaceful jobs for the North’s cadre of nuclear scientists and bomb makers.
Resistance of γA/γ′ Fibrin Clots to Fibrinolysis

Elevated plasma fibrinogen levels are a major risk factor for thrombosis. This report shows two mechanisms by which fibrinogen can affect the fibrinolysis rate in vitro and thus may lead to thrombosis. First, the lysis rate of fibrin decreases as the initial concentration of fibrinogen increases. Second, a minor variant form of fibrinogen decreases the rate of fibrinolysis. This variant, γA/γ′ fibrinogen, has one altered γ chain and is known to bind to factor XIII zymogen. In a fibrinolysis assay containing purified thrombin, fibrinogen, tissue-type plasminogen activator, and plasminogen, clots from γA/γA and γA/γ′ fibrinogen lysed at similar rates. However, when factor XIII was added, slower lysis was seen in γA/γ′ fibrin clots when compared with γA/γA fibrin clots. A D-dimer agglutination assay showed that the γA/γ′ clots were more highly cross-linked than the γA/γA clots. The lysis rates of γA/γ′ clots were similar to γA/γA clots in the presence ofN-ethylmaleimide, a specific inhibitor of factor XIIIa. The γA/γ′ fibrin clots made in the presence of factor XIII showed increased proteolytic resistance to both plasmin and trypsin. Clots made from afibrinogenemic plasma reconstituted with γA/γ′ fibrinogen also showed significant resistance to lysis compared with γA/γA fibrinogen. These data demonstrate γA/γ′ fibrin is resistant to fibrinolysis, possibly as a result of concentrating factor XIII on the clot. The total fibrinogen concentration and the amount of γA/γ′ fibrinogen increase clot stability in vitro and thus may contribute independently to the risk of thrombosis in humans.
Designing a Quality Improvement Program With Electronic Health Records: New York City’s Health eQuits

Despite clear recommendations for identifying and intervening with smokers, clinical preventive practice is inconsistent in primary care. Use of electronic health records could facilitate improvement. Community health centers treating low-income and Medicaid recipients with greater smoking prevalence than the general population were recruited for a pilot program. Key design elements used to engage centers’ participation include designating a project champion at each organization, confirming ability to transmit data for reporting and participation, and offering money to facilitate initial engagement; however, financial incentives did not motivate all organizations. Other methods to elicit participation and to motivate practice change included building on centers’ previous experiences with similar programs, utilizing existing relationships with state cessation centers, and harnessing the “competitive” spirit—sharing both good news and areas for improvement to stimulate action. These experiences and observat...
Ultrasonic velocity measurements in supercritical jet fuel

Abstract For advanced engine and heat-exchanger design, it is essential to know the critical points of the fuel and fuel-product mixtures. Ultrasonic velocity measurements provide critical-point information, and can also be used to obtain compressibilities. A novel system has been designed and constructed to measure the velocities of sound at temperatures up to 400 °C and pressures to 300 bar. A quartz crystal has been used to generate and receive the ultrasonic waves. Methylcyclohexane is used as a model for new endothermic fuels, and critical points have been measured for methylcyclohexane and mixtures of methylcyclohexane and benzene. Experimental velocities and critical points are compared to values calculated from a Benedict-Webb-Rubin equation of state, the corresponding-states principle, and mixing rules.
Microbial alteration of stable nitrogen and carbon isotopic compositions of organic matter

Abstract An understanding of the interaction between microbes and organic matter can help elucidate the diagenesis of organic materials in sediments. Vibrio harveyi, a marine, aerobic, heterotrophic bacterium, was cultured on individual compounds each containing carbon and nitrogen, i.e. amino acids or amino sugars. When grown on different substrates, the bacteria fractionated the isotopes uniquely. These fractionations were related to the chemical nature of the substrate. Specifically, the C/N of the substrate, or the biosynthetic and metabolic pathways of these substances, or both, are important in determining the isotopic composition of the total organism. For example, bacterial nitrogen was enriched in 15N (up to 22%) when the bacterium was cultured on either glutamic or aspartic acid. These amino acids enter the metabolic pathways directly, and the remainder of cellular nitrogen is derived via transamination. When other amino acids, i.e. alanine and serine, enter the microbe, they are immediately deaminated, and free ammonia is then transferred to glutamic acid. Bacteria that have been cultured on alanine or serine are depleted of 15N by up to − 12%. The results are important in determining isotope effects in respiration and biosynthesis. Moreover, the results could be used to demonstrate that microbes have the potential to alter to a highly variable extent the isotopic composition of organic matter entering the sedimentary record.
Real-time sonoelastography of hepatic thermal lesions in a swine model

Sonoelastography has been developed as an ultrasound-based elasticity imaging technique. In this technique, external vibration is induced into the target tissue. In general, tissue stiffness is inversely proportional to the amplitude of tissue vibration. Imaging tissue vibration will provide the elasticity distribution in the target region. This study investigated the feasibility of using real-time sonoelastography to detect and estimate the volume of thermal lesions in porcine livers in vivo. A total of 32 thermal lesions with volumes ranging from 0.2 to 5.3 cm3 were created using radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) technique. Lesions were imaged using sonoelastography and coregistered B-mode ultrasound. Volumes were reconstructed from a sequence of two-dimensional scans. The comparison of sonoelastographic measurements and pathology findings showed good correlation with respect to the area of the lesions (r2=0.8823 for RFA lesions, r2=0.9543 for HIFU lesions). In addition, good correspondence was found between three-dimensional sonoelastography and gross pathology (3.6% underestimate), demonstrating the feasibility of sonoelastography for volume estimation of thermal lesions. These results support that sonoelastography outperforms conventional B-mode ultrasound and could potentially be used for assessment of thermal therapies.
Micron‐sized particles detected in the vicinity of Jupiter by the Voyager plasma wave instruments

Wideband waveform data obtained by the plasma wave instruments onboard the Voyager 1 and 2 spacecraft have been used to study micron-sized dust particles in the vicinity of Jupiter. The technique used was developed during the flybys of Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, and makes use of the fact that a particle striking the spacecraft at 10-20 km/s causes a voltage pulse in the plasma wave receiver. The waveform of the voltage pulse is much different than the waveform of plasma waves and provides a highly reliable method of detecting micron-sized dust particles. Although the dust impact rate observed in the vicinity of Jupiter is much lower than the rates at Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, the particles are easily detectable. Approximately 1200 48-second frames of wideband waveform data were examined in the vicinity of Jupiter. Dust impact signatures were found in approximately 20% of these frames. The peak impact rates are about 1 impact per second, and the peak number densities are about 10(exp -5) m(exp -3). Most of the impacts occurred near the equatorial plane at radial distances less than about 35 R(sub j) from Jupiter. Analysis of the detection threshold indicates that the particles have masses greater than 10(exp -11) g, which corresponds to particles with diameters of a few micrometers or larger.
In Vivo Pharmacodynamics of Ceftobiprole against Multiple Bacterial Pathogens in Murine Thigh and Lung Infection Models

Ceftobiprole medocaril is the parenteral prodrug of ceftobiprole, a novel pyrrolidinone broad-spectrum cephalosporin with in vitro and in vivo bactericidal activities against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae (PRSP). We have used murine thigh and lung infection models in neutropenic and normal mice to characterize the in vivo pharmacokinetic (PK)-pharmacodynamic (PD) activities of ceftobiprole against multiple strains of S. aureus (including MRSA), S. pneumoniae (including PRSP), and gram-negative bacilli. Serum levels of ceftobiprole following the administration of multiple doses were determined by a microbiological assay. In vivo bactericidal activities and postantibiotic effects (PAEs) of ceftobiprole against MRSA and PRSP strains were determined from serial CFU/thigh values following single doses of ceftobiprole (40 and 160 mg/kg of body weight). Dose fractionation studies were used to determine which PK-PD index correlated best with activity. Magnitudes of the PK-PD indices were calculated from MICs and PK parameters. A sigmoid dose-response model was used to estimate the dose (mg/kg/24 h) required to achieve a static and 2-log(10) kill effects over 24 h. PK results showed area under the concentration-time curve/dose values of 1.8 to 2.8 and half-lives of 0.29 to 0.51 h. MICs ranged from 0.015 to 2 microg/ml. Ceftobiprole demonstrated time-dependent killing; its in vivo PAEs varied from 3.8 h to 4.8 h for MRSA and from 0 to 0.8 h for PRSP. The time above MIC (T > MIC) correlated best with efficacy for both MRSA and PRSP. The T > MIC values required for the static doses were significantly longer (P < 0.001) for Enterobacteriaceae (36 to 45%) than for S. aureus (14 to 28%) and S. pneumoniae (15 to 22%). The drug showed activities in the lung model similar to those in the thigh model. The presence of neutrophils significantly enhanced the activity of ceftobiprole against S. pneumoniae but only slightly against Klebsiella pneumoniae. Based on its PD profile, ceftobiprole is a promising new beta-lactam agent with activity against gram-negative and gram-positive organisms including MRSA and PRSP.
New sensing application to diagnose power semiconductor aging in actuator power drive systems

This paper presents a new sensing application to diagnose power semiconductor aging in power drive systems. It has been shown previously that device parasitic characteristics change during the aging process which results in detectable changes in their frequency response. This change is manifested in the current signal at very high frequencies. Therefore, using a wideband AC current sensor, high frequency components of the current can be acquired, providing a way to detect device aging.
An integrated cell‐free metabolic platform for protein production and synthetic biology

Cell-free systems offer a unique platform for expanding the capabilities of natural biological systems for useful purposes, i.e. synthetic biology. They reduce complexity, remove structural barriers, and do not require the maintenance of cell viability. Cell-free systems, however, have been limited by their inability to co-activate multiple biochemical networks in a single integrated platform. Here, we report the assessment of biochemical reactions in an Escherichia coli cell-free platform designed to activate natural metabolism, the Cytomim system. We reveal that central catabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and protein synthesis can be co-activated in a single reaction system. Never before have these complex systems been shown to be simultaneously activated without living cells. The Cytomim system therefore promises to provide the metabolic foundation for diverse ab initio cell-free synthetic biology projects. In addition, we describe an improved Cytomim system with enhanced protein synthesis yields (up to 1200 mg/l in 2 h) and lower costs to facilitate production of protein therapeutics and biochemicals that are difficult to make in vivo because of their toxicity, complexity, or unusual cofactor requirements.
Nonlinear absorption and optical limiting of laser pulses in a liquid-cored fiber array

Recently observed nonlinear-propagation and optical-limiting effects of nanosecond and picosecond laser pulses through a fiber are analyzed with a model that accounts for various molecular photonic-absorption processes including linear, two-photon, intermediate, and excited-state absorptions. Explicit expressions for the laser-induced molecular-level density changes, the thermal–density effects following photoabsorption, and their effects on the laser propagation transmission are obtained for conditions corresponding to the experimental situations. These theoretical considerations are found to correlate very well with experimental results for the transmission of picosecond and nanosecond laser pulses through the nonlinear fiber. Our analyses show that in the picosecond regime, nonlinear photonic absorptions are efficient optical-limiting processes, whereas in the nanosecond regime, thermal–density effects are the dominant contributor. We also identify a particular nonlinear core liquid that gives very low optical-limiting thresholds and clamped transmission for picosecond as well as nanosecond laser pulses.
Design of optimum discrete finite duration orthogonal Nyquist signals

A design technique is presented for constructing a discrete finite duration signal having a spectral energy that is maximized in a given band. The method involves the minimization of a constrained nonlinear functional by the method of steepest descent. The constructed signal is orthogonal to the block-shifted version of itself. >
Life on steroids: Bodybuilders describe their perceptions of the anabolic-androgenic steroid use period

A significant amount of attention has been given to the psychological effects of anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use in sport (Bahrke, Yesalis, & Wright, 1996). However, apart from a few selected case studies, a relative dearth of information has been provided concerning the subjective experience of people using AAS. The purpose of this study was to examine the perceptions of 10 men who were using or had previously used AAS. The participants in this study were weight trainers with primarily a bodybuilding emphasis. All had used AAS at some point in their training experience. The study involved in-depth interviews focusing on the AAS use experience. Nine of the 10 men described their AAS use experience in a very favorable manner. The men perceived increases in muscle mass, strength, peer recognition, social status, sexual performance, and vocational performance. These findings are discussed relative to current AAS educational programs and interventions.
Single-structure heater and temperature sensor using a p-type polycrystalline diamond resistor

Heat generation and temperature sensing are reported in a single p-type diamond resistor fabricated on an oxidized Si substrate using diamond film technology compatible with integrated circuit (IC) processing. Power densities in excess of 600 W/in./sup 2/ are observed for the heaters. The temperature response of the sensor is characterized in the temperature range of 300-725 K. Such a diamond heater/sensor device is reported for the first time.
THz polarimetric components based on metamaterials

The interrelation between transmission amplitude and phase spectra of anisotropic metamaterials enables us to develop realistic designs for a terahertz quarter-wave plate and a polarizing terahertz beam splitter based on an anisotropic metamaterial structure.
Confidentiality and medical information.

Abstract [Clayton PD. Confidentiality and medical information. Ann Emerg Med. September 2001;38:312-316.]
Matrilin-3 Inhibits Chondrocyte Hypertrophy as a Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 Antagonist

Increased chondrocyte hypertrophy is often associated with cartilage joint degeneration in human osteoarthritis patients. Matrilin-3 knock-out (Matn3 KO) mice exhibit these features. However, the underlying mechanism is unknown. In this study, we sought a molecular explanation for increased chondrocyte hypertrophy in the mice prone to cartilage degeneration. We analyzed the effects of Matn3 on chondrocyte hypertrophy and bone morphogenetic protein (Bmp) signaling by quantifying the hypertrophic marker collagen type X (Col X) gene expression and Smad1 activity in Matn3 KO mice in vivo and in Matn3-overexpressing chondrocytes in vitro. The effect of Matn3 and its specific domains on BMP activity were quantified by Col X promoter activity containing the Bmp-responsive element. Binding of MATN3 with BMP-2 was determined by immunoprecipitation, solid phase binding, and surface plasmon resonance assays. In Matn3 KO mice, Smad1 activity was increased more in growth plate chondrocytes than in wild-type mice. Conversely, Matn3 overexpression in hypertrophic chondrocytes led to inhibition of Bmp-2-stimulated, BMP-responsive element-dependent Col X expression and Smad1 activity. MATN3 bound BMP-2 in a dose-dependent manner. Multiple epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domains clustered together by the coiled coil of Matn3 is required for Smad1 inhibition. Hence, as a novel BMP-2-binding protein and antagonist in the cartilage extracellular matrix, MATN3 may have the inherent ability to inhibit premature chondrocyte hypertrophy by suppressing BMP-2/Smad1 activity.
Two mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana that become chlorotic in atmospheres enriched with CO2

Abstract. Two nonallelic, nuclear recessive mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. which become chlorotic when grown in an atmosphere enriched to 20000 cm3 CO2 m-3 have been isolated. For one of the mutants, chlorosis begins at the veins and gradually spreads to the interveinal regions. A minimum photon flux density of ca 50 μmol m-2 s-1 is required for this response. For the other mutant, the yellowing is independent of the light intensity and begins at the basal regions of the leaves and spreads to the tips. The injurious effects of CO2 seem to be restricted to photosynthetic tissues, since root elongation and callus growth were not inhibited by a high atmospheric CO2 concentration for either mutant. Neither mutant became chlorotic in a low O2 atmosphere that suppressed photorespiration as effectively as the elevated CO2 does. Thus, the mutations do not impose a requirement for photorespiration. The possibilities that the high CO2-sensitive phenotypes are caused by an effect of CO2 in stomata, on ethylene synthesis, or on mineral uptake are discussed but are considered unlikely.
Aircraft Ice Detection using Time Domain Reflectometry with Coplanar Sensors

Ice accretion on the wings and various parts of an aircraft remains a serious problem in aviation. Ice on the external tank of a space shuttle can also be a source of debris hazard at liftoff. Recent efforts to combat this problem have employed time domain reflectometry (TDR) technique with limited success. This is because the structure of conventional TDR sensors is not suitable for accurate measurements. This work proposes the use of more compatible coplanar transmission lines as TDR sensors for ice detection. The coplanar lines, being one-sided structures, allow the test material to be placed conveniently on the sensor for non-destructive measurements. The fringing fields of the coplanar line enhance a strong coupling between the test material and the sensor, while the dielectric substrate provides base support. This paper examines the feasibility of using coplanar transmission lines as TDR sensors for thickness measurements. Numerical analysis is carried out using quasi-static design equations obtained by conformal mapping techniques. The results show that the propagation characteristics of electromagnetic waves in a loaded coplanar line depend on the permittivity and thickness of the test material. By measuring these characteristics (the travel time, phase velocity, effective dielectric constant, etc.) when the sensor is loaded with known dielectric materials, their presence and thickness can be detected. Since ice and water do not show dispersive behavior at low microwave frequencies, accurate measurements can be made using time-domain techniques. This work, which is motivated by the recent call by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) for more icing research, will enhance the development of effective ice detectors.
Greek temples, tropical kine and recombination load

Abstract New breeds typically arise from the cross of two or more existing breeds, often chosen to complement each other. For about 100 years, efforts have been made in the tropics to produce a milking breed combining zebu tropical adaptation with taurus production ability. All attempts have failed, although the F1 in nearly all instances has been superior. The Greek Temple Model (GTM) is a graphical representation of crossbreeding theory which completely accounts for intralocus genetic effects, but not epistatic effects. All crosses except the F1 may lose merit due to destruction by recombination at meiosis of favorable epistatic combinations built up during reproductive isolation. Data from a meta analysis of 80 reports of taurus-indigenous breed crosses in the tropics were used to fit the GTM and to estimate recombination load. Data for lactation length and calving interval fit the GTM (P≈0.3) indicating that epistasis was not an important source of genetic variance in the crosses; however, data for lactational milk yield, age at first calf and annual milk yield did not. The GTM was extended to include recombination load under a two-locus model, and satisfactory agreement was found for the remaining traits (0.6
A comparison of amphibian communities through time and from place to place in Bornean forests

We sampled riparian frogs along 18 streams at eight localities in Borneo. At four of these sites we sampled during more than one year. Altogether 49 species were included in our study and total sample size was 13,249. We measured overlap in species occurrences and arrays of abundances within and among localities. Variation over the time span of our study was minor within communities. Overlaps between streams at a locality were generally higher than overlaps of pairs of streams from different localities. Environmental variation, particularly in stream width and gradient, had a clear effect on both intra-and inter-locality overlaps. Although rainfall varied between localities and within localities over time, that variation did not seem to affect overlaps among or within communities. Environmental factors did not account for all differences in overlaps between communities. Instead, regional processes, perhaps the timing of barriers or speciation events, appear to have been responsible for geographic restrictions of several species, leading to variation in overlap values.
Paleoproterozoic evolution of the Farmington zone: Implications for terrane accretion in southwestern Laurentia

Precambrian rocks in the Farmington zone in northeastern Utah provide important constraints on the accretionary history of southwestern Laurentia because they lie at the orogenic intersection of the Wyoming, Yavapai-Colorado, and Mojave provinces. Approximately 200 U-Pb analyses of zircons from Paleoproterozoic rocks in the Wasatch Mountains (Farmington Canyon and Little Willow complexes) and Uinta Mountains (Owiyukuts and Red Creek complexes) indicate: (1) U-Pb ages of 2.446 ± 0.011 Ga for igneous zircons from a meta-igneous rock and 2.42 Ga for the youngest detrital zircon from a metasedimentary rock constrain the age of the Farmington Canyon complex and represent a heretofore unreported Paleoproterozoic event in southwestern North America; (2) Most lithologies in all areas are metasupracrustal and U-Pb ages of most detrital zircons and whole-rock Sm-Nd data clearly indicate a primarily Archean provenance for the metasedimentary rocks; and (3) Metamorphism, including partial melting, occurred at 1.674 ± 0.012 Ga (2σ) based on U-Pb ages of 36 of 38 zircons (overgrowths and whole grains with Th/U <0.1) from metamorphic rocks, including leucosomes, from both the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains. These observations combined with previous work suggest a geologic history that begins with development of a Paleoproterozoic passive or rifted margin along the southwestern edge of the Wyoming craton and terminates with Paleoproterozoic accretion of Mojavia (±Yavapai-Colorado) to the Wyoming Province. Crystallization and model ages of the Farmington sequence suggest a possible genetic link between Mojavia, the Farmington zone, and the Wyoming Province, which would provide new constraints on proposed Neoproterozoic conjugates and the role of the Cheyenne belt in the accretionary tectonics of southwestern Laurentia.
A Revised Assessment of the North Korean KN-08 ICBM

The mobile ICBM displayed in Pyongyang last April is analyzed in light of North Korea's known and reasonably suspected capabilities in the field, particularly those demonstrated in the recent and successful Unha-3 launch. Several possible configurations for the “KN-08” missile are given, and performance estimates are presented. While the displayed missiles are clearly mock-ups, they are consistent with an ongoing development program for a missile with limited intercontinental capability using only existing North Korean technology. The lack of flight testing strongly suggests that operational deployment is still months or years in the future, though an initial test could come at any time. Even with a successful test program, any such North Korean ICBM would likely be unreliable, limited in mobility and performance, and available only in small numbers.
Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Gene Mutation and Lung Cancer Risk

Abstract The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) holds an important role in retaining lung function, but its association with lung cancer is unclear. A case-control study was conducted to determine the possible associations of the genetic variants in the CFTR gene with lung cancer risk. Genotypes of the most common deletion ΔF508, one functional SNP, and eight tag SNPs in the CFTR gene were determined in 574 lung cancer patients and 679 controls. A logistic regression model, adjusting for known risk factors, was used to evaluate the association of each variant with lung cancer risk, as confirmation haplotype and sub-haplotype analyses were performed. ΔF508 deletion and genotypes with minor alleles in one tag SNP, rs10487372, and one functional SNP, rs213950, were inversely associated with lung cancer risk. The results of haplotype and sub-haplotype analyses were consistent with single variant analysis, all pointing to deletion ΔF508 being the key variant for significant haplotypes and sub-haplotypes. Individuals with ‘deletion-T' (ΔF508/rs10487372) haplotype had a 68% reduced risk for lung cancer compared to common haplotype ‘no-deletion-C' (OR=0.32; 95% CI=0.15–0.68; p =0.01). Genetic variations in the CFTR gene might modulate the risk of lung cancer. This study, for the first time, provides evidence of a protective role of the CFTR deletion carrier in the etiology of lung cancer.
The Interplay of Al and Mg Speciation in Advanced Mg Battery Electrolyte Solutions

Mg batteries are an attractive alternative to Li-based energy storage due to the possibility of higher volumetric capacities with the added advantage of using sustainable materials. A promising emerging electrolyte for Mg batteries is the magnesium aluminum chloride complex (MACC) which shows high Mg electrodeposition and stripping efficiencies and relatively high anodic stabilities. As prepared, MACC is inactive with respect to Mg deposition; however, efficient Mg electrodeposition can be achieved following an electrolytic conditioning process. Through the use of Raman spectroscopy, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy, (27)Al and (35)Cl nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and pair distribution function analysis, we explore the active vs inactive complexes in the MACC electrolyte and demonstrate the codependence of Al and Mg speciation. These techniques report on significant changes occurring in the bulk speciation of the conditioned electrolyte relative to the as-prepared solution. Analysis shows that the active Mg complex in conditioned MACC is very likely the [Mg2(μ-Cl)3·6THF](+) complex that is observed in the solid state structure. Additionally, conditioning creates free Cl(-) in the electrolyte solution, and we suggest the free Cl(-) adsorbs at the electrode surface to enhance Mg electrodeposition.
Temperature compensated MEMS oscillator using structural resistance based temperature sensing

This work presents a micro-ovenized 77.7 MHz silicon MEMS oscillator using resonator's structural resistance as an embedded temperature sensor. The structural resistance of a silicon microresonator exhibits a large temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) and is used as a sensitive self-temperature sensor to accurately and locally monitor resonator's temperature. A novel cross-sectional Lame-mode resonator fabricated using the HARPSS™ process with wafer-level hermetic packaging is used as the high-Q frequency reference. A resistance temperature detector (RTD) circuit along with a high gain loop filter are implemented to extract the temperature information and generate a resistance error signal to control the heater amplifier. A micro-oven adjacent to the resonator and on the same die is automatically controlled by the temperature monitoring loop to provide an active temperature compensation for stabilization of the frequency reference. The resonator is interfaced with a sustaining amplifier implemented in TSMC 0.35μm CMOS process, consuming 17mA from a 3V supply.