cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sensor Performance Considerations for Aviation Weather Observations for the NOAA Consolidated Observations Requirements List (CORL CT-AWX)

Airspace system demand is expected to increase as much as 300 percent by the year 2025 and the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) is being developed to accommodate the super-density operations that this will entail. Concomitantly, significant improvements in observations and forecasting are being undertaken to support NextGen which will require greatly improved and more uniformly applied data for aviation weather hazards and constraints which typically comprise storm-scale and microscale observables. Various phenomena are associated with these hazards and constraints such as convective weather, in-flight icing, turbulence, and volcanic ash as well as more mundane aviation parameters such as cloud tops and bases and fuel-freeze temperatures at various flight levels. Emerging problems for aviation in space weather and the environmental impacts of aviation are also occurring at these scales. Until recently, the threshold and objective observational requirements for these observables had not been comprehensively documented in a single, authoritative source. Scientists at NASA and NOAA have recently completed this task and have established baseline observational requirements for the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) and expanded and updated the NOAA Consolidated Observations Requirements List (CORL) for Aviation (CT-AWX) to better inform National Weather Service investments for current and future observing systems. This paper describes the process and results of this effort. These comprehensive aviation observation requirements will now be used to conduct gap analyses for the aviation component of the Integrated Earth Observing System and to inform the investment strategies of the FAA, NASA, and NOAA that are needed to develop the observational architecture to support NextGen and other users of storm and microscale observations.
Diapedesis and the permeability of venous microvessels to protein macromolecules: the impact of leukotriene B4 (LTB4).

Abstract The cellular basis of the reported neutrophil-dependent increase in microvascular permeability evoked by leukotriene B 4 (LTB 4 ) was probed using protein intravascular fluorescent and electron dense tracers in conjunction with intravital, light and electron microscopy. LTB 4 (1 μ M ) applied topically to the hamster cheek pouch promoted neutrophil (PMN) adherence to endothelial cells (ECs) and resulted in limited, diffuse leakage of fluorescein-labeled albumin from pericytic venules. ECs to which PMNs adhered displayed many vesicles and a prominent cytoskeletal reorganization of microfilaments. During emigration, microfilament-rich luminal extensions of ECs effectively resealed the endothelial barrier prior to or in conjunction with PMN penetration of the basal lamina. Intimate associations between PMNs and ECs, coupled with efficient bridging of the lumen by EC processes, argued against significant transendothelial escape of macromolecules concomitant with PMN egress. Studies employing horseradish peroxidase as an intravascular tracer suggested minimal enhancement of junctional permeability in small venules and refuted a role for vesicular transport. The primary apparent barrier defect was a selective alteration in the membrane integrity of a proportion of ECs.
Continuous overnight observation of human premolar eruption

Such observation was made possible by transmitting the image of a mobile ceramic ruling on the erupting maxillary second premolar to a video-microscope via a coaxial fibreoptic cable. The cable was inserted into a reference bar secured to the adjacent first molar and first premolar. The image of the ruling was superimposed with the image from a surveillance camera focused on the patient and continuously recorded on video-tape along with the participant's blood pressure, pulse rate, electromyographic activity and occlusal contact sounds. Overnight data from 12 individuals clearly revealed a circadian rhythm in eruption during the prefunctional spurt. On average, the maxillary second premolar erupted 41 microns during an 11-h overnight observation, with almost all the eruption occurring in the late evening from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. After 1 a.m., eruption typically ceased, with a tendency for intrusion to occur until 7 a.m. Sleep increased the rate of eruption during the late evening, but did not influence the eruption rate during the early morning. Haemodynamic changes, including blood pressure and pulse rate, did not have a significant impact on the rhythm of eruption. The observed eruption rhythm is most probably caused by changing hormone levels and their effect on the periodontal ligament. The late-evening eruption of human premolars coincides with the late-evening secretion of growth hormone and thyroid hormone typically found in humans.
On the Electronic Structure of the New "Intermetallics" LnNi2B2C

The electronic structure of the new series of intermetallic compounds LnNi[sub 2]B[sub 2]C (Ln = lanthanide element) is calculated and discussed in terms of local chemical bonding in order to elucidate how superconductivity may be possible for some of these materials. The Fermi level occurs in a region that allows for a second-order Jahn-Teller mixing and can contribute to significant electron-phonon coupling in these systems. Moreover, the trend in the a lattice parameter for different Ln cations shifts the position of the x[sup 2]-y[sup 2] band, which significantly changes its occupation and affects the superconducting transition temperature. We also compare the electronic structures of LnNi[sub 2]B[sub 2]C with those from the related compounds LnNiBC. 20 refs., 7 figs., 2 tabs.
Speleothem carbon isotopic records of Holocene environments in the Ozark Highlands, USA

Abstract The carbon isotopic compositions of six stalagmites from five caves in the Ozark Highlands of central and southern Missouri and northern Arkansas provide a detailed record of early and late Holocene vegetation dynamics. A rapid decrease in speleothem ∂ 13 C values between ∼9500 and ∼8200 yr BP indicates a period of increased C3 vegetation, suggesting cool and/or moist conditions relative to the earliest Holocene and the prairie-dominated middle Holocene. A second negative ∂ 13 C excursion from ∼4500 to ∼3000 yr BP interrupts a predominantly C4-rich middle Holocene prairie environment that became established at ∼7500 yr BP. Speleothem mineralogical indicators of cave aridity do not support previous inferences of increased regional dryness between 3800 and 3100 yr BP.
Mortality among the elderly in the U.S., 1956–1987: Demonstration of the upper boundary to Gompertzian mortality

Abstract Mortality in the United States among individuals aged 85 years and older between the years 1956 and 1987 was analyzed using a cumulative summation technique. This analysis demonstrates that general mortality conforms to Gompertzian dynamics through age 96 years for both men and women. Of the 33 320 985 deaths in men in the U.S. between 1956 and 1987, only 123 643 (0.37%) occurred in men aged 97 years and older. Of the corresponding 26 946 599 deaths in women, only 327 291 (1.21%) occurred in women aged 97 years and older. These results suggest that the competitive and deterministic features of the Gompertzian model of human aging and mortality remain valid through age 96 years and cover the vast majority of human mortality.
Weight gain in pregnancy: Does the Institute of Medicine have it right?

Objective We aimed to examine whether women who adhered to Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines for gestational weight gain (GWG) had improved perinatal outcomes. Study design This is a population-based retrospective cohort study of nulliparous women with term singleton vertex births in the United States from 2011 through 2012. Women with medical or obstetric complications were excluded. Prepregnancy body mass index was calculated using reported weight and height. Women were categorized into 4 groups based on GWG and prepregnancy body mass index: (1) weight gain less than, (2) weight gain within, (3) weight gain 1-19 lb in excess of, and (4) weight gain ≥20 lb in excess of the IOM guidelines. The χ(2) test and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used for statistical comparisons. Results Compared to women who had GWG within the IOM guidelines, women with excessive weight gain, particularly ≥20 lb, were more likely to have adverse maternal outcomes (preeclampsia: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.82-2.93; eclampsia: aOR, 2.51; 95% CI, 2.27-2.78; cesarean: aOR, 2.1; 95% CI, 2.14-2.19), blood transfusion (aOR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.11-1.33), and neonatal outcomes (5-minute Apgar 6 hours: aOR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.15-1.33; seizure: aOR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.24-1.89). Women who gained less than IOM guidelines had lower risks of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and obstetric interventions but were more likely to have small-for-gestational-age neonates (aOR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.52-1.59). Conclusion Women whose GWG is in excess of IOM guidelines have higher risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes, particularly in women with ≥20 lb excess weight gain above guidelines while women who had weight gain below the IOM guidelines were less likely to have maternal morbidity but had higher odds of small for gestational age.
Shame in psychodynamic psychotherapy of post-traumatic states

Shame is a universal affect that everyone would like to avoid. Responses to trauma include profound experiences of shame, which re-emerge in the transference and can be recognized in reciprocal countertransference responses. Primitive defense mechanisms associated with borderline states such as projection, projective identification and splitting, are often encountered during the course of intensive psychotherapies involving traumatic shame. Attempts to avoid shame reactions may involve regressive reactions, even in non-borderline individuals. Shame avoidance may produce transference-countertransference enactments leading to a negative therapeutic reaction. Addressing shame-related issues may be difficult for both therapist and patient, but ultimately are essential for productive therapy and recovery from trauma.
Studies on α-actinin-like proteins liberated during trypsin digestion of α-actinin and of myofibrils

Abstract When the Z-band region of isolated myofibrils is digested away by trypsin, a protein with α-actinin activity becomes solubilized (Z-protein). Prolonged digestion of α-actinin itself with trypsin leads to the appearance of a separate protein fraction with most of the activity (A-protein). Both A- and Z-protein are more active than α-actinin in various tests: the two proteins are very similar. During the digestion of myofibrils, specific changes visible in the electron microscope occur in the Z-band region. The results are compatible with the hypothesis that actinin is a constituent of the Z-band and of adjacent regions of the I-filaments of the myofibril.
Tolerance, rebound, and time-zero effect of nitrate therapy.

Abstract Both nitroglycerin and long-acting nitrates have proved effective in treating acute anginal pain. In recent years, however, development of tolerance with the continuous use of these agents has been documented. A pilot study demonstrated attenuation of the therapeutic effect of high-dose, continuous transdermal nitroglycerin therapy, despite adequate plasma nitroglycerin levels. In a subsequent, larger Transdermal Nitroglycerin Cooperative Study, evidence of tolerance was detected within 24 hours of initiation of continuous nitroglycerin patch therapy at several different dose levels. Sustained pharmacologic activity has been achieved wtth the intermittent use of transdermal nitroglycerin, usually for 12 hours followed by a 12-hour drug-free period. When the patch is discontinued, however, some patients experience exacerbation, or rebound, of anginal symptoms and a worsening of exercise tolerance at the end of the drug-free period. Additional clinical research Is therefore needed to determine the optimal Intermittent dosing strategy.
Some postulates characterizing volitive NPs

D. A. Cruse's ‘Some thoughts on agentivity’ (1973: 11–23) makes the useful distinction of [volitive] and [agentive] NPs. Recognizing this difference is the first step in avoiding some of the difficulties encountered by Jackendoff (1972), Fischer and Marshall (1969) and others in their discussion of how an NP is characterized as [volitive] in a clause and how some predicates can characterize an NP in an embedded clause as [volitive]. These discussions have been relatively inconclusive because of the very common assumption that [ ±volitive] or something like it should be represented as a feature of predicates, or predictable from one. If one believes that lexical selectional features are semantic (as McCawley (1968) argues), one arrives at the kind of ‘referential’ criterion for volitivity that Cruse rightly wishes to shun and that other writers have found so dismaying (see e.g. Jackendoff, 1972: 221). The way to avoid this is to suppose that [volitive] is not a ‘feature’ at all, but rather abbreviates an assumption entailed (or ‘presupposed’) by saying certain things. In this way, some sentences can be marked as contradictory, but many will simply seem queer outside of an explicating context, set of special assumptions, and so on. It follows that a great many sentences starred in recent grammatical literature as inherently bad regardless of context ought not to be. We mark: I asked John to be tall.
Testing terrorism theory with data mining

This research demonstrates the application of multiple data mining techniques to test theories of the macro-level causes of terrorism. The unique dataset is comprised of terrorist events and measures of social, political and economic contexts in 185 countries worldwide between the years 1970 and 2004. The theories are assessed using the iterative expert data mining (IEDM) methodology with classification mining and then association mining. The resulting 100 rules suggest that the level of democracy in a country is an integral part of the explanation for terrorism. This research shows that a multi-method data mining approach can be used to test competing theories in a discipline by analysing large, comprehensive datasets that capture multiple theories and include large numbers of records.
The agrarian origins of US capitalism: The transformation of the northern countryside before the civil war

This essay attempts to bring insights from the debates on the European transition to capitalism to the discussions among US historians about the transformation of the northern countryside in the century before the US Civil War. Neither the ‘market’ (Lemon, Rothenberg) nor ‘social’ (Clark, Merrill, Kulikoff) historians’ analysis of the character of antebellum agriculture or their explanation of its transformation are adequate. Borrowing Brenner's concept of ‘social property relations’ and the role of class conflict in transforming rural social structures, the article presents an alternative analysis of the development of antebellum northern US agriculture.
Toward a strategic surface science : Progress and pitfalls

Current discussion on how science is being practiced has focused on the issue of whether fundamental research is sufficiently relevant to societal goals. In this article, it is demonstrated that fundamental surface science, which seeks an atomic level understanding of surface processes, is to a significant extent strategic in nature. Examples of research in the areas of nucleation and growth, fundamentals of environmental remediation, semiconductor processing chemistry, and the development of new analytical tools are used to support this thesis. The argument is advanced that a broader implementation of strategic research is desirable and could be achieved though an articulation of societal goals which is clearer and more detailed. A systems approach to coordinating education and research at universities and in industry would promote strategic research as well as lead to a smoother transition for young scientists from the university to the workplace.
Spatial and temporal correlation of nitric oxide synthase expression with CuZn-superoxide dismutase reduction in motor neurons following axotomy.

: Axotomized neurons expressing neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) may use nitric oxide (NO), known for its antioxidant activities and ability to scavenge free radicals, to protect against oxidative stress. This hypothesis was tested by immunohistochemical examination of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in neurons of the hypoglossal nucleus (HGN) and dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve (DMV) one day to ten weeks after unilateral hypoglossal nerve crush or avulsion combined with vagus nerve crush in adult rats, and also in neurons of the anterior horn (AH) one week after unilateral sciatic nerve crush or avulsion. In the HGN, emergence of nNOS coincided temporally with reduction of CuZn-SOD immunoreactivity (ir), and the level of reduction correlated with that of nNOS induction, differing only in magnitude between nerve crush and nerve avulsion. The two nerve lesion models further revealed the concurrence of nNOS abatement with recovery of CuZn-SOD ir, and absence of nNOS abatement with persistent low CuZn-SOD ir. In the AH, reduced CuZn-SOD ir was localized in the segments containing nNOS positive neurons as a result of sciatic nerve avulsion. CuZn-SOD ir was unchanged in the absence of nNOS induction following sciatic nerve crush. DMV neurons were devoid of CuZn-SOD ir. However, increased Mn-SOD ir one and two weeks post crush was similar to that in HGN neurons. DMV neurons lacked both nNOS abatement and CuZn-SOD ir, which may explain their particular vulnerability to cell death from axotomy in comparison with other peripheral neurons. These data suggest that axotomy-induced nNOS expression is causally linked to oxidative stress, and that NO is neuroprotective, but can become neurodestructive when produced in excess.
Extratubal secondary trophoblastic implants: Clinicopathologic correlation and review of the literature

Extratubal secondary trophoblastic implants (ESTI) are a rare complication of conservative laparoscopic procedures for tubal ectopic pregnancies. These implants present with persistent β-hCG titers postoperatively and are probably the result of disruption of the ectopic pregnancy at salpingostomy or morcellation of the fallopian tube at salpingectomy. We describe the case of a 32-year-old woman who underwent a laparoscopic salpingectomy for a tubal ectopic pregnancy that was complicated postoperatively by peritoneal ESTI including extensive omental implants. Intraoperatively the lesions appeared as 0.3 cm red-black nodules and, microscopically, consisted of degenerating chorionic villi associated with implantation changes in the surrounding tissue. To the pathologist unaware of the clinical entity of ESTI, these lesions may present a diagnostic challenge.
Inverted pyramid texturisation without photolithography for multicrystalline solar cell

New surface texturing method including formation of inverted pyramids has been further investigated in this study. Electroless deposition of Ag particles as metal catalyst in HF/H 2 O 2 etching solution is found to be efficient for drilling nano-size holes into c-Si or m-Si. After etching back by KOH solution, the inverted pyramids structure gradually appears in c-Si (100) surface. Although the m-Si wafers have different orientation grains, the average reflection after texturing demonstrates lower than that of traditional acid treatment. The new texturing wafers were processed into cells with a conventional process including POCl 3 diffusion (leading to 65 Ω/□), removal of native oxide by BOE solution. The deviations of sheet resistance on 5″ wafers are controlled below 5% which are consistent with that of acidic or alkaline treatment wafers. The SiNx antireflection coating was deposited uniformly by PECVD deposition. From the results of IV measurement, the conversion efficiency of new texturing has 0.1% higher than that of acidic treatment (texturied by Rena facilities). We expect the optimization of texturisation will lead to more short-circuit current density( J sc ) and gain more conversion efficiencies.
Dating fossil bone from cornelia, orange free state, south africa

The important Middle Pleistocene fauna1 site of Cornelia, Orange Free State, South Africa comprises a major fossiliferous horizon that overlies an archaeological level with late Acheulian artifacts. The geological context and the archaeological and palaeontological significance at this site are described in a recent monograph on Cornelia by Butzer et al. (1974). This paper provides a uranium-series date on a molar of Equus cf. burchelli from the major fossil level (Member 1, bed 6) of the Cornelia Formation, Dating bones that are associated with archaeological materials has been attempted previously (Szabo et al., 1969; Howell et al., 1972; Szabo et al., 1973; Sakanoue & Yoshioka, 1974; Szabo & Collins, 1975). The dates are derived by measuring 230Th and 231Pa isotopes that are produced through time by their radioactive parents 234U and 235U, respectively. The requirements for reliable dating are the following: the sample initially takes up uranium, but no thorium or protactinium; this occurs in a short time early in its history; and the sample remains closed to gain or loss of the nuclides of uranium and their long-lived decay products 230Th and 231Pa. The uranium concentration is low in modern bones, less than 0.1 ppm. In contrast, uranium contents in fossil bones may vary from l-1000 ppm; thus a measurable time lag is expected for the uptake of uranium. It appears that uranium, that is readily soluble in ground waters, enters the bone after the death of the animal and it is reduced and precipitated by the decaying organic matter within the fossil. This process of uranium emplacement continues until all active organic matter is decomposed. Szabo (1974) has reported that the average time lag for uranium uptake in eight samples from varied geological environments is about 3000 years when compared with radiocarbon dates on shells, bones and other dateable materials found in close association with the uraniumseries dated bones. The method presently available for scrutinizing the closed system assumption is to obtain both 230Th and 231Pa ages for each fossil bone. One may place confidence in single sample dating only if these independent ages are concordant. Very few uranium-series dating studies that yield apparently reliable concordant 230Th and 231Pa dates have been tested against other methods in the age range greater than the upper range of radiocarbon dating, about 30,000 years. One date for an Acheulian
Pregnancy-associated endometrial expression of antileukoproteinase gene is correlated with epitheliochorial placentation.

Uterine expression of the mRNA encoding antileukoproteinase (ALP) is highest in pig uterus during mid- to late pregnancy, suggesting a stage of pregnancy-dependent role for this elastase/cathepsin G protease inhibitor in feto-maternal interactions. To examine a potential relationship between uterine synthesis of ALP and the type of placentation in mammalian species, the expression of ALP mRNA and/or protein in pregnant mares, cows, rats, and mice was evaluated. Genomic DNA and mRNA hybridization analyses were performed using a porcine ALP cDNA as probe. The concentration of ALP protein in reproductive tissues was determined by RIA using a polyclonal antibody raised against a synthetic peoptide (ALP 16P) corresponding to amino acid residues 21–36 of the porcine ALP protein. A single ALP mRNA transcript of approximately 0.8 kb in length was detected in equine and bovine uterine tissues. The relative abundance of ALP mRNA in equine endometrium increased between days 125–170 (mid-pregnancy), and then decreased by day 215 of pregnancy. Similarly, the steady state levels of ALP mRNA in bovine endometrium and myometrium were higher during mid- to late than during early pregnancy. The levels of ALP mRNA in bovine fetal cotyledon were low and did not change significantly with stage of pregnancy. No hybridization was detected to pregnant rat endometrial tissues, although high stringency Southern blot analysis of porcine, bovine, and rat genomic DNAs using porcine ALP cDNA as probe predicted a high degree of nucleotide sequence homology in their respective ALP genes. In pregnant cows, concentrations of ALP protein were higher in maternal endometrium and myometrium than in fetal cotyledon. Tissue ALP content in bovine uterus increased between days 17–89, and then decreased by day 248 of pregnancy. In contrast, no ALP protein was detected in cytosolic extracts prepared from endometrium of pregnant rats and mice. THe demonstrated synthesis of ALP mRNA and/or protein in the endometrium of the mare and the cow similar to that of the pig, but not in the endometrium of the rat and mouse, during pregnancy indicates a potential correlation between endometrial ALP expression and epitheliochorial type of placentation in mammalian species. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Calpains: Intact and active?

Calpains are a family of calcium-dependent thiol-proteases which are proposed to be involved in many physiological processes as well as pathological conditions. Calpains are likely to be involved in processing of numerous enzymes and cytoskeletal components, thereby linking their activity to a variety of intracellular events. Although widely studied, the precise mechanism(s) involved in calpain activation and activity in vivo remain poorly understood. Initial studies suggested that calpain exists primarily as an inactive proenzyme that required autolytic cleavage for activation. It was also hypothesized that calpain associated with membrane phospholipids, serving to increase calcium sensitivity, facilitating autolytic conversion and thus activating the enzyme. These hypotheses, however, have not been universally accepted and there is increasing evidence that intact, non-autolyzed calpain is the physiologically active calpain form.
Opioid modulation of gonadotropin and prolactin secretion in domestic farm animals

Endogenous opioid peptides (EOP) are each derived from one of three distinct precursor molecules: proopiomelanocort in (POMC), proenkephalin and prodynorphin. The POMC molecule gives rise to [3-endorphin while methionine-enkephalin and leucine-enkephalin are pentapeptides produced from the proenkephalin precursor molecule. Finally, the prodynorphin precursor molecule gives rise to ~xand 13-neo-endorphins, as well as dynorphin A and dynorphin B. These products are found in loci throughout the brain and in the pituitary gland. It is not the intention of this review to discuss the biochemistry of the EOP as several reviews have been published addressing this area (1,2,3). At least three major subtypes of EOP receptors appear to exist, namely the m#.-, 8and K-opioid receptors. The classification of receptors is based upon relative affinities and bioassay potencies of different EOP agonists and antagonists (4). Although EOP interact with all types of opioid receptors, provided their concentrations are high enough, products of the prodynorphin and proenkephalin precursors are generally associated with K and B receptors, respectively, while f~-endorphin preferentially binds 8 and mp, receptors (4). Anatomical evidence from immunocytochemical studies in the pig (5), sheep (6), and cow (7), indicate that POMC-immunoreactive perikarya are located within the arcuate area of the hypotha lamus while POMC-immunoreact ive fibers are found in the median eminence.
Raman scattering and phase transitions in stressed SrTiO3

Abstract Application of a [111] uniaxial stress to the low-temperature phase of strontium titanate is found to shift the frequency of the lowest two Raman-active modes. Comparison with a phenomenological theory shows that the results support other evidence for a stress-induced tetragonal-to-trigonal phase transition. Application of stress in the [110] direction produced no evidence of a phase change.
Hydrogen cyanide polymers: from laboratory to space

Abstract Hydrogen cyanide polymers—heterogeneous solids ranging in color from yellow to orange to red to black—may be among the organic macromolecules most readily formed within the solar system The non-volatile black crust of comet Halley for example, may consist largely of such polymers. It seems likely. too, that HCN polymers are a major constituent of the dark. CN bearing solids identified tentatively by IR spectra in the dust of some other comets. HCN polymerization could also account for some of the yellow-orange-red coloration of Jupiter and Saturn, and perhaps for the orange haze high in Titan's atmosphere. Studies of these polymers show that a yellow-brown powder can be extracted by water and further hydrolyzed to vield α-amino acids. Several instrumental methods used for the separation and identification of these intriguing materials. including pyrolysis mass spectrometry, Fourier transform IR photoacoustic spectroscopy and supercritical fluid extraction chromatography, reveal fragmentation patterns and chemical functionalities consistent with the presence of polymeric peptide precursors—polyamidines—in HCN polymers. Implications for prebiotic chemistry are profound. Primitive Earth may have been covered by HCN polymers and other organic products through bolide bombardment or terrestrial synthesis, producing a proteinaceous matrix able to bring about the molecular interactions leading to the emergence or life. Cyanide polymerization could also he a preferred pathway beyond Earth and the solar system, on planetary bodies and satellites around other stars and in the dusty molecular clouds of spiral galaxies.
E-government support for people in crisis: An evaluation of police department website support for domestic violence survivors using "person-in-situation" information need analysis

Abstract The crisis of intimate partner violence (IPV) requires a comprehensive array of government services in law enforcement, health, and social services. Impacting over 5 million victims in the U.S. annually, the beating, rape, stalking, assault, and other abuse of IPV force survivors to face multiple points of crisis. Repeatedly, most of these individuals move through separate dynamic situations that require different types of information. Building from the research literature on IPV survivors' experiences, this paper presents an original four-part framework of the Everyday Life Information Seeking (ELIS) information needs of IPV survivors. Using the person-in-progressive-situation approach of ELIS, this framework delineates 16 concrete information needs which occur throughout the four points of change: considering leaving an abuser, actually leaving an abuser, surviving after leaving, and long-term survival after leaving. Police departments are the local government first-responders most directly responsible for IPV survivors at the point of crisis. Their well-established use of community policing techniques requires police to serve as key information gatekeepers for all crime victims but particularly for IPV survivors. Police departments are examined in light of this original framework to determine the extent to which their websites address these situational information needs of IPV survivors. Using the original four-part framework as an analytic lens, this examination of 172 police department websites in the nation's 100 largest metropolitan areas reveals major gaps in provision of essential information. Solving these problems requires more than simply filling the information gaps. The fundamental approach to local e-government social service information delivery must be firmly rooted in the information experiences of individuals' situations. Findings are contextualized in terms of information theory most relevant to individuals in crisis; future research needs are delineated.
Characterization, mutagenesis and mechanistic analysis of an ancient algal sterol C24-methyltransferase: Implications for understanding sterol evolution in the green lineage

Sterol C24-methyltransferases (SMTs) constitute a group of sequence-related proteins that catalyze the pattern of sterol diversity across eukaryotic kingdoms. The only gene for sterol alkylation in green algae was identified and the corresponding catalyst from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (Cr) was characterized kinetically and for product distributions. The properties of CrSMT were similar to those predicted for an ancient SMT expected to possess broad C3-anchoring requirements for substrate binding and formation of 24β-methyl/ethyl Δ(25(27))-olefin products typical of primitive organisms. Unnatural Δ(24(25))-sterol substrates, missing a C4β-angular methyl group involved with binding orientation, convert to product ratios in favor of Δ(24(28))-products. Remodeling the active site to alter the electronics of Try110 (to Leu) results in delayed timing of the hydride migration from methyl attack of the Δ(24)-bond, that thereby produces metabolic switching of product ratios in favor of Δ(25(27))-olefins or impairs the second C1-transfer activity. Incubation of [27-(13)C]lanosterol or [methyl-(2)H3]SAM as co-substrates established the CrSMT catalyzes a sterol methylation pathway by the "algal" Δ(25(27))-olefin route, where methylation proceeds by a conserved SN2 reaction and de-protonation proceeds from the pro-Z methyl group on lanosterol corresponding to C27. This previously unrecognized catalytic competence for an enzyme of sterol biosynthesis, together with phylogenomic analyses, suggest that mutational divergence of a promiscuous SMT produced substrate- and phyla-specific SMT1 (catalyzes first biomethylation) and SMT2 (catalyzes second biomethylation) isoforms in red and green algae, respectively, and in the case of SMT2 selection afforded modification in reaction channeling necessary for the switch in ergosterol (24β-methyl) biosynthesis to stigmasterol (24α-ethyl) biosynthesis during the course of land plant evolution.
Effects of the α1-adrenergic agonist cirazoline on locomotion and brown adipose tissue thermogenesis in the rat

Abstract Anorexia is induced by injection of α1-adrenergic receptor agonists into the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) in rats. Of the agonists tested to date, cirazoline is the most potent when administered either into the PVN or systemically. The present experiments assess the effects of systemically administered cirazoline, at doses that suppress food intake, on dopamine and norepinephrine systems as evident in locomotion and stereotypy and in the induction of brown adipose tissue (BAT) thermogenesis. In Experiment 1, adult male rats were treated with either vehicle (0) or 0.05, 0.1, 0.2 or 0.4 mg/kg cirazoline (IP) prior to 30 minutes assessment of horizontal and vertical locomotion and stereotypy in Omnitech activity chambers. Horizontal activity and sterotypy were significantly suppressed at 0.05 mg/kg cirazoline but these effects waned at higher cirazoline doses. In Experiment 2, interscapular BAT temperature in adult male rats was monitored for 30 minutes after injection (IP) of either vehicle or 0.4 mg/kg cirazoline. Cirazoline, at 0.4 mg/kg did not influence BAT temperature whereas a positive control treatment (phenylpropanolamine: 40 mg/kg) rapidly increased BAT temperature during a 15 minute period after injection. These results suggest that cirazoline-induced anorexia is not the result of competing motor responses and that this drug, at a dose that produces maximal suppression of feeding, does not alter BAT thermogenesis.
TORC1 Is Essential for NF1-Associated Malignancies

Summary Inactivating mutations in NF1 underlie the prevalent familial cancer syndrome neurofibromatosis type 1 [1]. The NF1- encoded protein is a Ras GTPase-activating protein (RasGAP) [2]. Accordingly, Ras is aberrantly activated in NF1 -deficient tumors; however, it is unknown which effector pathways critically function in tumor development. Here we provide in vivo evidence that TORC1/mTOR activity is essential for tumorigenesis. Specifically, we show that the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin potently suppresses the growth of aggressive NF1-associated malignancies in a genetically engineered murine model. However, in these tumors rapamycin does not function via mechanisms generally assumed to mediate tumor suppression, including inhibition of HIF-1α and indirect suppression of AKT, but does suppress the mTOR target Cyclin D1 [3]. These results demonstrate that mTOR inhibitors may be an effective targeted therapy for this commonly untreatable malignancy. Moreover, they indicate that mTOR inhibitors do not suppress all tumor types via the same mechanism, suggesting that current biomarkers that rely on HIF-1α suppression may not be informative for all cancers. Finally, our results reveal important differences between the effects of mTOR inhibition on the microvasculature in genetically engineered versus xenograft models and indicate that the former may be required for effective preclinical screening with this class of inhibitors.
Opossum: a flexible schema visulaization and editing tool

In the spirit of interdependence of the different areas of CHI research, we present a description of OPOSSUM, a visualization tool inspired by concepts from heterogeneous databases. OPOSSUM is a tool for visualizing and editing structured data; we use it to view and modify objectoriented database schemas. OPOSSUM is based on a formalism that allows declarative descriptions of the following: 1) a model describing the schema to be visualized, 2) a model describing visualizations, and 3) a mapping between the two models. The formal approach makes OPOSSUM very flexible, and promises solutions to several problems of schema visualization.
Characterization of Edible Coatings Consisting of Pea Starch, Whey Protein Isolate, and Carnauba Wax and their Effects on Oil Rancidity and Sensory Properties of Walnuts and Pine Nuts

Abstract: Edible coatings made of whey protein isolate (WPI), pea starch (PS), and their combinations with carnauba wax (CW) were prepared and characterized. WPI combined with CW formed stable emulsion while PS with CW formed unstable emulsion and both formulations produced non-homogeneous films. Addition of PS to WPI: CW combination at the ratio of 1: 1: 1, respectively, resulted in stable emulsion and homogenous films. The emulsion PS: WPI: CW (1: 1: 2) was stable and formed a continuous film but had less homogenous droplets size distribution when compared to 1: 1: 1 film. Combined films had a reduced tensile strength and elongation compared to single component films. WPI : CW (1: 1) films had higher elastic modulus than the WPI films, but the modulus reduced by the addition of PS. All the coating formulations were effective in preventing oxidative and hydrolytic rancidity of walnuts and pine nuts stored at 25 °C throughout the storage (12 d) but were less effective at 50 °C. Increasing the concentration of CW from 1: 1: 1 to 1: 1: 2 in PS: WPI: CW formulation did not contribute in further prevention of oil rancidity at 25 °C. Using of PS: WPI: CW (1: 1: 1) coating on both nuts significantly (P < 0.05) improved their smoothness and taste but the PS: WPI: CW (1: 1: 2) coatings imparted unacceptable yellowish color on walnuts. Practical Application: Edible coating of walnuts and pine nuts by whey protein isolate, pea starch, and carnauba wax reduced the oxidative and hydrolytic rancidity of the nuts and improved sensory characteristics.
The preparation of purified collagenase.

Abstract Two methods are described for the purification of Clostridium histolyticum collagenase. One method involves gel filtration on columns of Sephadex G-200, the other, ion-exchange chromatography on DEAE Sephadex A-50. In both cases, calcium-containing buffers were found necessary for good recoveries of enzyme. Yields of collagenase activity up to 94%, free of nonspecific proteolytic activities, were consistently obtained.
Apolipoprotein E but Not B Is Required for the Formation of Infectious Hepatitis C Virus Particles

Our previous studies have found that hepatitis C virus (HCV) particles are enriched in apolipoprotein E (apoE) and that apoE is required for HCV infectivity and production. Studies by others, however, suggested that both microsomal transfer protein (MTP) and apoB are important for HCV production. To define the roles of apoB and apoE in the HCV life cycle, we developed a single-cycle HCV growth assay to determine the correlation of HCV assembly with apoB and apoE expression, as well as the influence of MTP inhibitors on the formation of HCV particles. The small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated knockdown of apoE expression remarkably suppressed the formation of HCV particles. However, apoE expressed ectopically could restore the defect of HCV production posed by the siRNA-mediated knockdown of endogenous apoE expression. In contrast, apoB-specific antibodies and siRNAs had no significant effect on HCV infectivity and production, respectively, suggesting that apoB does not play a significant role in the HCV life cycle. Additionally, two MTP inhibitors, CP-346086 and BMS-2101038, efficiently blocked secretion of apoB-containing lipoproteins but did not affect HCV production unless apoE expression and secretion were inhibited. At higher concentrations, however, MTP inhibitors blocked apoE expression and secretion and consequently suppressed the formation of HCV particles. Furthermore, apoE was found to be sensitive to trypsin digestion and to interact with NS5A in purified HCV particles and HCV-infected cells, as demonstrated by coimmunoprecipitation. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that apoE but not apoB is required for HCV assembly, probably via a specific interaction with NS5A.
A manifestation of endometriosis that will take your breath away: a case report.

• Pneumothorax should be included in the differential diagnosis of any patient presenting with sudden onset chest pain or dyspnea, and the diagnosis should be made promptly and accurately.
Use of 64-Row Multidetector CT Angiography in Blunt and Penetrating Trauma of the Upper and Lower Extremities

Computed tomographic (CT) angiography is rapidly becoming the preferred imaging test for the initial evaluation of patients suspected to have arterial injuries after blunt and penetrating trauma to the extremities. The increasingly widespread use of 64-row multidetector CT technology offers considerable benefits in extremity CT angiography in the trauma setting. These include the ability to generate isotropic data sets of long vascular territories, with the acquisition performed in a short time (10 seconds or less). Isotropic voxels make CT a fully multiplanar modality, a capability that is particularly useful for evaluating tortuous vessels. Sixty-four-row multidetector CT angiography of the extremities has the ability to demonstrate a variety of vascular injuries such as occlusion, pseudoaneurysm, active extravasation, and intimal dissection. Radiologists should be aware of the various potential pitfalls and limitations of extremity CT angiography in evaluation of trauma patients suspected to have extremity vascular injuries, including inadequate arterial enhancement, motion artifact, inadequate positioning, and streak artifact. By demonstrating the extent, location, and type of injury, CT angiography aids in the decision-making process to determine the appropriate management for each injury in each patient.
Increased protein structural resolution from diethylpyrocarbonate-based covalent labeling and mass spectrometric detection.

Covalent labeling and mass spectrometry are seeing increased use together as a way to obtain insight into the 3-dimensional structure of proteins and protein complexes. Several amino acid specific (e.g., diethylpyrocarbonate) and non-specific (e.g., hydroxyl radicals) labeling reagents are available for this purpose. Diethylpyrocarbonate (DEPC) is a promising labeling reagent because it can potentially probe up to 30% of the residues in the average protein and gives only one reaction product, thereby facilitating mass spectrometric analysis. It was recently reported, though, that DEPC modifications are labile for some amino acids. Here, we show that label loss is more significant and widespread than previously thought, especially for Ser, Thr, Tyr, and His residues, when relatively long protein digestion times are used. Such label loss ultimately decreases the amount of protein structural information that is obtainable with this reagent. We find, however, that the number of DEPC modified residues and, thus, protein structural information, can be significantly increased by decreasing the time between the covalent labeling reaction and the mass spectrometric analysis. This is most effectively accomplished using short (e.g., 2 h) proteolytic digestions with enzymes such as immobilized chymotrypsin or Glu-C rather than using methods (e.g., microwave or ultrasonic irradiation) that accelerate proteolysis in other ways. Using short digestion times, we show that the percentage of solvent accessible residues that can be modified by DEPC increases from 44% to 67% for cytochrome c, 35% to 81% for myoglobin, and 76% to 95% for β-2-microglobulin. In effect, these increased numbers of modified residues improve the protein structural resolution available from this covalent labeling method. Compared with typical overnight digestion conditions, the short digestion times decrease the average distance between modified residues from 11 to 7 A for myoglobin, 13 to 10 A for cytochrome c, and 9 to 8 A for β-2-microglobulin.
DETERMINATION OF CATHETER WALL HEAT TRANSFER IN CARDIAC OUTPUT MEASUREMENT BY THERMODILUTION

1. A model system of the thermal dilution technique was used to determine in vitro the loss of thermal indicator across different sizes of polyethylene catheters. 2. Thermal indicator loss (caloric gain by the indicator fluid or caloric loss by the catheter) per unit length of catheters (H/L) increased as a function of the outer radius (OR) of the catheters. Linear regression analysis gave the following equation: H/L=0.337OR+0.073 (r=0.88, P<0.05). 3. Thermal indicator loss per unit surface area (H/SA) decreased almost linearly with the following regression equation: H/SA=-1.860 OR+0.364 (r=0.97, P<0.97, P<0.01). 4. Thermal indicator loss per unit volume contained in the catheter (H/vol) decreased exponentially according to the following equation: H/vol =89.le-25.4(OR) (r=0.97, P<0.01). 5. This study indicates that there is a measurable loss of thermal indicator during injection corresponding to a loss between 9 and 16% (for a 11.5 cm length of PE 50 and PE 240) of the required calories for warming the injectate to 37 degrees C. Data is provided for correction of heat loss across the wall of a given length and diameter of polyethylene tubing.
DNA topoisomerase poisons as antitumor drugs.

PERSPECTIVES AND SUMMARY .. . . ...... . ... 351 MAMMALIAN DNA TOPOISOMERASES . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 353 Mammalian DNA Topoisomerase I . . . . . .. 353 Mammalian DNA Topoisomerase II 356 MAMMALIAN DNA TOPOISOMERASE II POISONS . . . . . . ... . . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 358 Intercalative Antitumor Drugs . .. . . 358 Nortintercalative Antitumor Epipodophyliotoxirts .... 361 Altered Regulation of Topoisomerase II in Tumor Cells......... . . . . . ..... 363 MAMMALIAN DNA TOPOISOMERASE I POISONS-CAMPTOTHECINS . . . ....... 364 BACTERIAL DNA TOPOISOMERASE II POISONS-QUINOLONE ANTIBIOTICS . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 366 POSSIBLE MECHANISM(S) OF CELL KILLING BY MAMMALIAN TOPOISOMERASE POISONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368 Inhibition of DNA Synthesis . . 368 Inhibition of Cell Division .. . .. 369 DNA Degradation..... ... . . 370 OTHER CELLULAR RESPONSES AND DRUG RESISTANCE . . ...... 370