cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Abstract P6-04-11: Use of synthetic isoprenoids to target protein prenylation and Rho GTPases in breast cancer invasion

Tumor metastasis causes the majority of cancer deaths. Dysregulation of small GTPases such as K-Ras and Rho family GTPases (RhoA, RhoC, Rac1 and Cdc42) is critical to drive the invasion and metastasis of a variety of cancers including breast carcinomas. In order to fulfill their biological functions, these GTPases must properly localize subcellularly and associate with cellular membrane. The association of these proteins to membranes is regulated by a series of post-translational modifications including either farnesylation or geranylgeranylation of the C-terminal CaaX motif, thus providing the rationale to target the farnesyltransferase (FTase) and geranylgeranyltransferases (GGTase) as the potential anti-cancer drugs. However, FTase inhibitors (FTIs) failed in clinic due to alternative prenylation, which causes K-Ras to be geranylgeranylated, and their inability to target geranylgeranylated proteins such as Rho family GTPases. As an alternative, we have developed a unique class of potential anti-cancer therapeutics called Prenyl Function Inhibitors (PFIs), which are synthetic farnesol or geranylgeraniol analogs that act as alternative substrates for FTase or GGTase but do not support normal prenyl function. Here, we test the ability of our lead PFIs anilinogeraniol (AGOH; farnesol analog) and anilinofarnesol (AFOH; geranylgeraniol analog) to impact the migratory and invasive capacities of breast carcinoma cells. We found that AGOH treatment effectively decreased the invasion of MDA-MBA-231 in a two-dimensional invasion assay at 100 mM while it blocked invasive growth in three-dimensional (3D) culture model in as little as 20 μM. Notably, the effect of AGOH on 3D invasive growth was phenocopied by electroporation of cells with C3 exotransferase, which ribosylates and inactivates Rho proteins. The results demonstrate that Rho proteins are essential for the invasive growth of MDA-MB-231 cells. To determine how AGOH impacts Rho signaling, we performed RhoA and RhoC activity assays in MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-468 cells. We determined that AGOH blocked RhoA and RhoC activation in response to LPA and EGF stimulation. Notably, the geranylgeraniol analog AFOH was more potent than AGOH in inhibiting RhoA/C activation and invasive growth where it inhibited RhoA and RhoC activation completely at 20 μM and blocked the invasive growth of MDA-MB-231 cells at ≤ 5 μM. Interestingly, both AGOH and AFOH had no effect on the growth of MCF10A cells in 3D culture. Collectively, this study demonstrates that our lead PFI compounds dramatically inhibited breast cancer invasion, at least in part, through affecting RhoA and RhoC function; thus, suggesting that targeting the function of Rho prenylation by PFIs will offer a promising mechanism for the treatment of breast cancer. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2013;73(24 Suppl): Abstract nr P6-04-11.
Dyslexia: Search for phenotypic and genetic heterogeneity

Dyslexia, or specific reading disability, has been shown in many studies to be familial, though no simple mode of inheritance accounts for all pedigrees. It is likely that the difficulties of genetic analysis are due to heterogeneity within the phenotype. We have undertaken a series of studies of normally intelligent children with dyslexia and their families in a search for phenotypic and genetic evidence of heterogeneity. Family histories with specific attention to difficulties in learning to read and spell were taken for 21 families. School test results were available for probands. Spelling was analyzed and anecdotal information assessed to determine whether visual or auditory difficulties predominated. Among the probands, 11 had predominantly visual problems (with preference for orally presented material) and phonetic spelling errors; 7 had predominantly auditory problems (with preference for visually presented materials), mispronunciations, and dysphonetic spelling errors; and 3 had mixed features. Visual and auditory evoked responses were measured on all the probands and some of the family members, in a search for neurophysiological evidence of abnormality or asymmetry of response. No significant differences were found between hemispheres, between those with visual- and those with auditorypredominant dyslexia, or between left-handed and right-handed individuals. Both anecdotal family histories and spelling performances provide suggestive evidence that dyslexic patients may be delineated into subgroups with predominantly visual or predominantly auditory impairment and that these subtypes may be under separate genetic predisposition. Further neurophysiological investigation will be required to devise ways of identifying cases before learning disability becomes an educational problem.
Using fetal acoustic stimulation to shorten the biophysical profile.

Purpose To determine whether fetal acoustic stimulation can decrease the time required to achieve a reassuring biophysical profile. Methods Patients scheduled for a biophysical profile were prospectively assigned to study and control groups. The study group received 3 seconds of acoustic stimulation if fetal breathing, tone, or movement were not present during the first 5 minutes of the study. The biophysical profile was completed in the standard fashion, for both groups. Results A total of 870 patients were enrolled (458 control, 412 with stimulation). The fetal acoustic stimulation group had decreased testing time (3 minutes) and fewer non-reassuring tests (5%). The fetal acoustic stimulation group had fewer studies without breathing, potentially reducing the need for further testing or intervention. Conclusions Fetal acoustic stimulation can be used to decrease the biophysical profile testing time and to reduce the number of non-reassuring tests. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound33:223–225, 2005
An individual differences pure extinction process

Abstract A pure extinction process memory retrieval latency model is completely characterized by the number of items to be recalled n and the recall rate λ. In this paper λ is allowed to vary across the population of subjects. Results are given for arbitrary individual differences distributions on λ. When λ is distributed gamma the results are very simple and method of moment estimators are easily obtained. In addition the shape parameter of the gamma individual differences distribution turns out to be an index of the degree of heterogeneity of the recall parameter. The pure extinction process model is also appropriate for certain collection and detection tasks.
Radium-226 in bone and soft tissues of man.

Levels of Ra/sup 226/ in man due to natural environmental radioactivity were measured in pooled samples of bone and soft tissues from autopsy material. The findings indicate that about 80% of the body burden of Ra in man is contained in the skeleton. Chemical and counting procedures are described. (C.H.)
Instructional sets and MMPI items.

Summary The MMPI was administered to three groups of nurses (total N = 33) under three different instructional sets: fake good, ideal self, and one year from now. The data were analyzed for the influence of set and the influence of order on Zero items and X items separately. It was found that the three sets clearly operate to produce different scores and that order of set has effect on Zero scores (P <.001) and a somewhat lesser effect (P <.05) on the X items. The psychological significance of current Zero score behavior is discussed.
Reexamination of the dose-response relationship for induction of the hepatic monooxygenase system by 2,3,7,8-TCDD

Abstract The induction of the cytochrome-P-450-dependent monooxygenase system is one of the most sensitive responses associated with exposure to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD). The object of this study was to investigate the induction of the hepatic monooxygenase system over a wide range of doses of 2,3,7,8-TCDD, including those associated with acute toxicity.
Single Wall Carbon Nanotube−Nafion Composite Actuators

Single wall carbon nanotube (SWNT)−Nafion composite actuators have been demonstrated for 0.1−18% w/w doping of purified SWNTs within the polymer matrix. The high purity SWNTs, >95% w/w, were homogeneously dispersed into the polymer through a series of homogenization and high sheer mixing techniques. The efficient distribution of the high aspect ratio, conductive SWNT materials allowed for the actuation of the Nafion membrane to be reached at SWNT doping levels as low as 0.5% w/w. Utilizing a two-electrode bimorph cantilever actuator immersed into an aqueous lithium chloride solution, tip deflections up to 4.5 mm were observed.
Kinetic Stabilization of the Native State by Protein Engineering: Implications for Inhibition of Transthyretin Amyloidogenesis

The amyloidogenic homotetrameric protein transthyretin (TTR) must undergo rate-limiting dissociation to partially denatured monomers in order to aggregate. TTR contains two distinct quaternary interfaces, one of which defines the binding sites for thyroxine and small-molecule amyloidogenesis inhibitors. Kinetic stabilization of the tetramer can be accomplished either by the binding of amyloidogenesis inhibitors selectively to the native state over the dissociative transition state or by the introduction of trans-suppressor subunits (T119M) into heterotetramers to destabilize the dissociative transition state. In each case, increasing the dissociation activation barrier prevents tetramer dissociation. Herein, we demonstrate that tethering two subunits whose quaternary interface defines the thyroxine binding site also dramatically increases the barrier for tetramer dissociation, apparently by destabilization of the dissociative transition state. The tethered construct (TTR-L-TTR)2 is structurally and functionally equivalent to wild-type TTR. Urea is unable to denature (TTR-L-TTR)2, yet it is able to maintain the denatured state once denaturation is achieved by GdnHCl treatment, suggesting that (TTR-L-TTR)2 is kinetically rather than thermodynamically stabilized, consistent with the identical wild-type TTR and (TTR-L-TTR)2 GdnHCl denaturation curves. Studies focused on a construct containing a single TTR-L-TTR chain and two normal monomer subunits establish that alteration of only one quaternary structural interface is sufficient to impose kinetic stabilization on the entire quaternary structure.
Reframing the Responsibilities of Bystanders through Film

Political responsibilities for systemic mass violence have been subordinated to the moral guilt and legal liability of perpetrators and collaborators, while the role of the bystander has been narrowly construed in terms of charitable rescue or negligence. This dominant victim–perpetrator framework ignores the complex political dimensions of bystander responsibilities for systemic mass violence, especially those responsibilities that stem from the benefits that bystanders receive. The films of Claude Lanzmann, Rithy Panh, and Yael Hersonski contain elements of an alternative framework of bystander responsibility and also can serve as catalysts for the political education of bystander beneficiaries and those from whom they have benefited.
LaPbCuS3: Cu(I) insertion into the α-La2S3 framework

Abstract The compound LaPbCuS3, lanthanum lead copper sulfide, has been prepared and characterized from single crystal X-ray data. LaPbCuS3 crystallizes in space group D162h-Pnma of the orthorhombic system, a = 8.091(3), b = 4.093(1), and c = 15.996(5) A, V = 529.7 A3 (T = 293 K), Z = 4, Mr = 505.84, Dx = 6.341 g/cm3, λ(MoKα1) = 0.7093 A, μ = 448.8 cm−1, and R(Fo) = 0.030 and Rw(Fo) = 0.042 for 732 unique data with F2o > 3σ(F2o). The structure, which is related to that of α-La2S3, has 7-coordinate La and Pb atoms disordered unequally over two sites, with MS bond lengths in the range from 2.864(3) to 3.168(3) A. The Cu atoms are in tetrahedral sites that form corner-sharing chains along the b direction, with CuS distances ranging from 2.336(4) to 2.385(4) A.
Implementation and performance of application-controlled file caching

Traditional file system implementations do not allow applications to control file caching replacement decisions. We have implemented two-level replacement, a scheme that allows applications to control their own cache replacement, while letting the kernel control the allocation of cache space among processes. We designed an interface to let applications exert control on replacement via a set of directives to the kernel. This is effective and requires low overhead.We demonstrate that for applications that do not perform well under traditional caching policies, the combination of good application-chosen replacement strategies, and our kernel allocation policy LRU-SP, can reduce the number of block I/Os by up to 80%, and can reduce the elapsed time by up to 45%. We also show that LRU-SP is crucial to the performance improvement for multiple concurrent applications: LRU-SP fairly distributes cache blocks and offers protection against foolish applications.
A novel detection technique of non-uniform airgap in frictionless linear induction transportation systems

The applications of linear induction machines (LIM) in propulsion have been investigated vastly in the past few decades. The advantages of LIM when applied in the propulsion system are that of easy maintenance and high acceleration/deceleration, to name a few. One of the applications is to combine the LIM with magnetically levitated system (Maglev) to achieve frictionless transportation system. However, in case Maglev can not maintain a uniform airgap length, major magnetic characteristics of the machine will be influenced. In this paper, the impact of this type of imperfection on the existing control strategies will be investigated. Furthermore, a simple detection technique is proposed.
Regression with Graphics: A Second Course in Applied Statistics

1. Variable Distributions 2. Bivariate Regression Analysis 3. Basics of Multiple Regression 4. Regression Criticism 5. Fitting Curves 6. Robust Regressions 7. Logit Regression 8. Principle Components and Factor Analysis
The Neuron-Enriched Splicing Pattern of Drosophila erect wing Is Dependent on the Presence of ELAV Protein

Although the Drosophila melanogaster erect wing (ewg) gene is broadly transcribed in adults, an unusual posttranscriptional regulation involving alternative and inefficient splicing generates a 116-kDa EWG protein in neurons, while protein expression elsewhere or of other isoforms is below detection at this stage. This posttranscriptional control is important, as broad expression of EWG can be lethal. In this paper, we show that ELAV, a neuron-specific RNA binding protein, is necessary to regulate EWG protein expression in ELAV-null eye imaginal disc clones and that ELAV is sufficient for EWG expression in wing disc imaginal tissue after ectopic expression. Further, analysis of EWG expression elicited from intron-containing genomic transgenes and cDNA minitransgenes in ELAV-deficient eye discs shows that this regulation is dependent on the presence of ewg introns. Analyses of the ewg splicing patterns in wild-type and ELAV-deficient eye imaginal discs and in wild-type and ectopic ELAV-expressing wing imaginal discs, show that certain neuronal splice isoforms correspond to ELAV levels. The data presented in this paper are consistent with a mechanism in which ELAV increases the splicing efficiency of ewg transcripts in alternatively spliced regions rather than with a mechanism in which stability of specific splice forms is enhanced by ELAV. Additionally, we report that ELAV promotes a neuron-enriched splice isoform of Drosophila armadillo transcript. ELAV, however, is not involved in all neuron-enriched splice events.
The Medically Uninsured: Problems, Policies, and Politics

The ranks of the medically uninsured have grown significantly in recent years, but no consensus on a policy solution has emerged. After summarizing the characteristics of the uninsured population, this paper reviews diverse policy responses and their troubled political prospects.
Molecular Basis of l-Rhamnose Branch Formation in Streptococcal Coaggregation Receptor Polysaccharides

The presence of l-rhamnose (Rha) branches in the coaggregation receptor polysaccharides (RPS) of Streptococcus gordonii 38 and Streptococcus oralis J22 was eliminated by replacement of wefB with ermAM in these strains. The expression of this gene in S. oralis 34 did not, however, result in the addition of Rha branches to the linear RPS of this strain, which is identical to that produced by the wefB-deficient mutant of S. gordonii 38. This paradoxical finding was explained by a subtle difference in acceptor specificity of the galactose-1-phosphotransferases encoded by downstream wefC in S. gordonii 38 and wefH in S. oralis 34. These genes were distinguished by the unique ability of WefC to act on the branched acceptor formed by the action of WefB.
Thermal Resistance of Fine Powders at Atmospheric Pressure and under Vacuum

Heat transport measurements are reported on candidate insulation systems with relatively high thermal resistances for use in appliances. The thermal resistances of small diameter silica powders at atmospheric pressure and under vacuum were measured from 295 to 340 K using unguarded radial heat flow techniques. The thermal resistances of rectangular panels containing perlite or silica powder at reduced pressure were determined using an unguarded linear heat flow technique. Values of 1.2m/sup 2//center dot/K/W for 0.0254 m (R-7 per inch) were obtained at atmospheric pressure for powders of pure, fumed, amorphous 0.01 ..mu..m dia silica particles compacted to about 10% of theoretical density. Values of 0.7 m/sup 2//center dot/K/W for 0.0254 m (R-4 per inch) were obtained at atmospheric pressure for powders of impure, amorphous (0.3 ..mu..m dia) silica particles. Under vacuum these particle systems yielded thermal resistances as high as 6 m/sup 2//center dot/K/W for 0.0254 m (R-34 per inch), and mixtures with the pure silica particles yielded over 9 m/sup 2//center dot/K/W for 0.0254 m (R- 50 per inch). Evacuated panels of pure silica particles yielded thermal resistance values over 3 m/sup 2//center dot/K/W for 0.0254 m (R-17 per inch) and decreased about 5% in resistance in 39 months.more » Evacuated panels of a perlite powder yielded similar values. 18 refs, 8 figs, 2 tabs.« less
Thinking Outside the Classroom: Providing Student-centered Informatics Instruction to First- and Second-year Medical Students

With the increasing amount of health information available, the Association of American Medical Colleges recommends that medical students be proficient in information management. Librarians can and should play a role in teaching students these skills. Medical information management instruction is most effective if integrated into the curriculum. However, if options are limited for librarians to teach within courses, there are ways to reach students outside the classroom. This article describes strategies librarians are implementing, outside the curriculum, to teach Texas A & M Health Science Center's first- and second-year medical students how to use library resources.
Perceptual metrics for character animation: sensitivity to errors in ballistic motion

Motion capture data and techniques for blending, editing, and sequencing that data can produce rich, realistic character animation; however, the output of these motion processing techniques sometimes appears unnatural. For example, the motion may violate physical laws or reflect unreasonable forces from the character or the environment. While problems such as these can be fixed, doing so is not yet feasible in real time environments. We are interested in developing ways to estimate perceived error in animated human motion so that the output quality of motion processing techniques can be better controlled to meet user goals.This paper presents results of a study of user sensitivity to errors in animated human motion. Errors were systematically added to human jumping motion, and the ability of subjects to detect these errors was measured. We found that users were able to detect motion with errors, and noted some interesting trends: errors in horizontal velocity were easier to detect than errors in vertical velocity, and added accelerations were easier to detect than added decelerations. On the basis of our results, we propose a perceptually based metric for measuring errors in ballistic human motion.
Adaptive Control of the False Discovery Rate in Voxel-Based Morphometry

Voxel-based morphometry (VBM) is widely used as a high-resolution approach to understanding the relationship between anatomical structures and variables of interest. Controlling for the false discovery rate (FDR) is an attractive choice for thresholding the resulting statistical maps and has been commonly used in fMRI studies. However, we caution against the use of nonadaptive FDR control procedures, such as the most commonly used Benjamini-Hochberg procedure (B-H), in VBM analyses. This is because, in VBM analyses, specific risk factors may be associated with volume change in a global, rather than local, manner, which means the proportion of truly associated voxels among all voxels is large. In such a case, the achieved FDR obtained by nonadaptive procedures can be substantially lower than the nominal, or controlled, level. Such conservatism deprives researchers of power for detecting true associations. In this article, we advocate for the use of adaptive FDR control in VBM-type analyses. Specifically, we examine two representative adaptive procedures: the two-stage step-up procedure by Benjamini, Krieger and Yekutieli (2006: Biometrika 93:491-507) and the procedure of Storey and Tibshirani ([2003]: Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 100:9440-9445). We demonstrate mathematically, with simulations, and with a data example that these procedures provide improved performance over the B-H procedure.
Design for a practical laboratory detector for solar axions.

We present a practical design for a detector sensitive to axions and other light particles with a two-photon interaction vertex. Such particles would be produced in the solar interior by Primakoff conversion of blackbody photons and could be detected by their reconversion into x rays (average energy about 4 keV) in a strong laboratory magnetic field. An existing large superconducting magnet would be suitable for this purpose. The transition rate is enhanced by filling the conversion region with a buffer gas (${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$ or He). This induces an effective photon mass (plasma frequency) which can be adjusted to equal the axion mass being searched for. Axion-photon conversion is then coherent throughout the detector volume for all axion energies. Axions with mass in the range 0.1 eV\ensuremath{\lesssim}${m}_{a}$\ensuremath{\lesssim}5 eV can be detected using gas pressures of 0.1--300 atm. Axions with the standard coupling strength to photons would give counting rates of ${10}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}5}$--10 ${\mathrm{sec}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}1}$ over this mass range. The search would definitively test one of the only two regions of axion parameters not excluded by astrophysical constraints.
Genomic and Functional Analyses of SXT, an Integrating Antibiotic Resistance Gene Transfer Element Derived from Vibrio cholerae

SXT is representative of a family of conjugative-transposon-like mobile genetic elements that encode multiple antibiotic resistance genes. In recent years, SXT-related conjugative, self-transmissible integrating elements have become widespread in Asian Vibrio cholerae. We have determined the 100-kb DNA sequence of SXT. This element appears to be a chimera composed of transposon-associated antibiotic resistance genes linked to a variety of plasmid- and phage-related genes, as well as to many genes from unknown sources. We constructed a nearly comprehensive set of deletions through the use of the one-step chromosomal gene inactivation technique to identify SXT genes involved in conjugative transfer and chromosomal excision. SXT, unlike other conjugative transposons, utilizes a conjugation system related to that encoded by the F plasmid. More than half of the SXT genome, including the composite transposon-like structure that contains its antibiotic resistance genes, was not required for its mobility. Two SXT loci, designated setC and setD, whose predicted amino acid sequences were similar to those of the flagellar regulators FlhC and FlhD, were found to encode regulators that activate the transcription of genes required for SXT excision and transfer. Another locus, designated setR, whose gene product bears similarity to lambdoid phage CI repressors, also appears to regulate SXT gene expression.
Adjustment following the mass shooting at Virginia Tech: The roles of resource loss and gain.

University of HoustonUnfortunately, many individuals will be exposed to traumatic events during theirlifetime. The experience of loss and gain of valued resources may represent importantpredictors of psychological distress following these experiences. The current studyexamined the extent to which loss and gain of interpersonal and intrapersonal resources(e.g., hope, intimacy) predicted psychological distress among college women followingthe mass shooting at Virginia Tech (VT). Participants were 193 college women fromwhom preevent psychological distress and social support data had been obtained. Thesewomen completed surveys regarding their psychological distress, coping, and resourceloss and gain 2- and 6-months after the VT shooting. Structural equation modelingsupported that resource loss predicted greater psychological distress 6 months after theshooting whereas resource gain was weakly related to lower levels of psychologicaldistress. The study also revealed that social support and psychological distress prior tothe shooting predicted resource loss, and social support and active coping with theshooting predicted resource gain. Implications of the results for research examining theroles of resource loss and gain in posttrauma adjustment and the development ofinterventions following mass trauma are discussed.Keywords:
Focal Features of Papillary Carcinoma of the Thyroid in Fine-Needle Aspiration Material Are Strongly Associated With Papillary Carcinoma at Resection

The cytologic features of papillary carcinoma of the thyroid in fine-needle aspiration material have been well described. The significance of finding these features in only a small population of cells is not well characterized. I reviewed the results of 28 thyroid fineneedle aspirates processed as direct smears and cell blocks in which only a small population (<20 cells) showed features of papillary carcinoma. Papillary carcinoma was considered in 142 (8.98%) of 1,581 aspirates, and in 28 cases (1.77%), 20 cells or fewer showed features of papillary carcinoma and follow-up was available. Papillary carcinomas greater than 1 cm were identified in 11 cases (39%; 3 follicular variants), papillary carcinomas less than 1 cm were identified in 4 cases (14%), and benign lesions in the remaining 13 cases (46%). The background material (either scant or abundant benign epithelium) did not correlate significantly with the result of resection. Identifying features of papillary carcinoma in a small population of cells in either a scant or an abundant thyroid aspirate are associated with a high rate of papillary carcinomas at resection, only a minority of which represent either the follicular variant or incidental tumors. The classic cytologic criteria for papillary carcinoma of the thyroid have been studied and delineated by numerous authors 1-11 and consist primarily of enlarged, often overlapping nuclei with fine, dusty or powdery chromatin; intranuclear cytoplasmic inclusions; and linear chromatin ridges (grooves) with irregular nuclear outlines. When these features are present in numerous cells, there is little diagnostic difficulty. When these features are present in only a few cells, either in a scanty specimen or in a specimen with abundant benign material in the background, the diagnosis is less certain. Whether these patients are best served by clinical follow-up, repeated aspiration, or resection is not clear. Recent studies suggest that cases with only “focal features” of papillary carcinoma often are associated with the follicular variant of papillary carcinoma at resection. 12 To further characterize aspirates with these features, I correlated a large group of patients with these findings on fine-needle aspiration with the results of subsequent surgical resection.
Use of a biosynthetic material to repair the surgical defect following excision of an epibulbar melanoma in a cat

A limbal melanoma was surgically excised from the OS of a 4-year-old castrated male Domestic Short-haired cat (DSH). The resultant scleral defect was repaired by placement of A-cell bio-scaffold material. The patient responded well in the postoperative period with no apparent discomfort, nor any observable complications. No signs of recurrence have been evident nearly 2.5 years following surgical removal. A-cell appears to be a safe and reasonable option to lend support to corneoscleral defects following removal of neoplastic lesions. It carries with it the advantages of availability, minimal host rejection, and reduced potential for iatrogenic spread of infections agents.
Diamond, diamond cells, and the structure of element 11.

Almost exactly 200 years ago, sodium was isolated as an elemental metal during electrolysis of molten sodium hydroxide (caustic soda). This was announced on November 19, 1807, by Sir Humphry Davy, in the Bakerian Lecture of the Royal Society, along with another new alkali metal, potassium (from molten caustic potash). Sodium made its initial appearance as liquid metal “ … globules having a high metallic lustre” (1), and Davy established an approximate “fusion” (or freezing) point from liquid to solid between 120°F and 180°F, now accepted as 208°F (371 K). The article by McMahon et al. (2) in a recent issue of PNAS concerns the structure of a solid phase of sodium, not at the one atmosphere conditions of Davy, but at pressures corresponding to almost 4-fold relative compression. For homogeneous densification, this corresponds to reductions in average near-neighbor separations by upward of 40% that are sufficient to bring into play the hitherto mostly passive core states of the sodium ion. The arrangements assumed by the ions are surprisingly complex, and the implications for our understanding of the physics of sodium and other metals variously described as “simple” in the electronic context but now at higher densities may be considerable.
TiN prepared by plasma source ion implantation of nitrogen into Ti as a diffusion barrier for Si/Cu metallization

A method of forming TiN films for Si/Cu metallization by using plasma source ion implantation (PSII) of nitrogen into Ti is described. The PSII process utilizes a dose of 1 × 1017 ions/cm2 and peak voltages of –10, –15, and –20 kV. The properties of such TiN films as diffusion barriers between Cu and Si were investigated by annealing Cu(2000 A)/TiN/Ti/Si films in vacuum from 500 °C to 700 °C, and by analyzing with four-point probe sheet resistance measurements, Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RBS), and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). The TiN films made at peak voltages of –15 and –20 kV were stable barriers against Cu diffusion after annealing at temperatures higher than 600 °C.
Do Parenting Practices and Pro-social Peers Moderate the Association between Intimate Partner Violence Exposure and Teen Dating Violence?

OBJECTIVE: Teen dating violence (TDV) affects the lives of millions of adolescents each year. The current study examined the association between intimate partner violence (IPV) exposure and TDV perpetration and victimization. In addition, positive parenting practices and prosocial peer relationships were examined as potential moderators of the association between IPV and TDV. METHOD: Participants were 41 adolescents (ages 12-15) and their caregivers. Youth were currently or recently in an out-of-home placement due to maltreatment. Youth reported on their exposure to violence, involvement in TDV, and association with prosocial peers. Caregivers reported on their parenting practices. RESULTS: There was a significant, positive association between IPV exposure and TDV victimization, but not between IPV and TDV perpetration. In addition, positive parenting practices and prosocial peer relationships moderated the association between IPV and TDV perpetration, such that there was a positive association between IPV exposure and TDV perpetration at lower, but not higher levels of these moderators. Similarly, there was a positive association between IPV exposure and TDV victimization at lower, but not higher levels of positive parenting practices. CONCLUSIONS: These results highlight the importance of positive parenting practices and prosocial peers as key protective factors that may attenuate TDV involvement for high-risk adolescents.
Natural language access to a large data base: an engineering approach

An intelligent program which accepts natural language queries can allow anon-technical user to easily obtain information from a large non-uniform data base. This paper discusses the design of a program which will tolerate a wide variety of requests including ones with pronouns and referential phrases. The system embodies a certain amount of common sense, so that for example, it "knows when it does or does not understand a particular request and it can bypass actual data base search in answering unreasonable requests. The system is conceptually simple and could be easily adapted to other data bases.
Retransmission-based partially reliable transport service: an analytic model

Many applications such as video and audio can tolerate loss. When the network layer provides a best-effort service such as on the Internet, the loss rate of the underlying network service may be higher than an application's tolerance for loss. This paper analytically studies retransmission-based partially reliable transport (layer protocol) service. Results show that a partially reliable transport service provides increasingly higher throughput and lower delay than a reliable transport service as an application's loss tolerance increases and as the underlying network service gets more lossy. Also, to some degree, a partially reliable transport service eases the negative effects of ack losses on throughput. Three cost functions associated with the reliability level that a system can support are introduced. These cost functions help demonstrate the penalty when a transport service does not support the ideal reliability level for an application. Results show that the use of a reliable transport service when an application only needs a partially reliable transport service can cause considerable throughput drops and delay increases in lossy networks. On the other hand, at high loss rates, an unreliable transport service is unable to respect an application's loss tolerance. Thus, in lossy environments, a partially reliable transport service is necessary to avoid the extra cost of a reliable transport service, and, at the same time, to guarantee the minimal reliability that an application requires.
Variational data assimilation for atmospheric CO2

The sources and sinks of important climatic trace gases such as carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) are often deduced from spatial and temporal variations in atmospheric concentrations. Reducing uncertainties in our understanding of the contemporary carbon budget and its underlying dynamics, however, requires significantly denser observations globally than is practical with in situ measurements. Space-based measurements appear technically feasible but require innovations in data analysis approaches. We develop a variational data assimilation scheme to estimate surface CO 2 fluxes at fine time/space scales from such dense atmospheric data. Global flux estimates at a daily time step and model-grid spatial resolution ( 4°× 5° here) are rapidly achieved after only a few dozen minimization steps. We quantify the flux errors from existing, planned and hypothetical surface and space-borne observing systems. Simulations show that the planned NASA Orbital Carbon Observatory (OCO) satellite should provide significant additional information beyond that from existing and proposed in situ observations. Improvements in data assimilation techniques and in mechanistic process models are both needed to fully exploit the emerging global carbon observing system. DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0889.2006.00218.x
FOUR GENEALOGIES FOR A RECOMBINANT ANTHROPOLOGY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

INTRODUCTORY OVERTURE The call of and for an Anthropology of Science and Technology requires a new generation of robust switches to translate legacy genealogies to public futures. Just as we have moved from Mertonian sociologies of science (stressing the regulative ideals of organized skepticism, disinterested objectivity, universalism, and communal ownership of ideas) to analyses of what scientists actually do (the slogans of the “new sociologies of science,” i.e., social studies of knowledge (SSK), and “social construction” of technology [SCOT], and of the anthropologically informed ethnographies of science and technology of the 1990s), so too we need now to formulate anthropologies of science and technology that attend to both the cultural switches of the heterogeneous communities within which sciences are cultured and technologies are peopled, and to the reflexive social institutions within which medical, environmental, informational, and other technosciences must increasingly operate. Public futures are playing out in culturally and socially contested sites around the world where knowledges are generated and infrastructures are assembled, empowering some and disempowering others, calling for effective engagement across cultural difference. These public futures can be seen emerging in today’s sciences of climate change and biodiversity built on knowledge of the Amazon, Indonesia, or the environment of circumpolar populations (Callison 2007; Lahsen 2001, 2004, 2005; Lowe 2006; Tsing 2005); in the way knowledge of the risks of
MEASUREMENT OF DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID IN THE OCEAN AND ITS ECOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE1

A method is described for the quantitative dctcrmination of deoxyribonucleic acid ( DNA ) by measurement of the fluorescence of the complex formed by incubating samples containing DNA with diaminobenzoic acid dihydrochloride. The sensitivity and range (from 0.2 to 40-,ug of DNA) of this method permit DNA determination on seawater samples of 1 liter or less from the euphotic zone and on 1 to 4 liters from deep samples. The concentration of DNA has been measured at various stations in the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, together with measurements on chlorophyll, zooplankton, and organic carbon and nitrogen of the particulate material. These data are discussed in relation to the possible use of DNA as a biomass indicator. The DNA content of laboratory cultured cells of Skeletonema costatum, DunaZieZZa tertioZecta, and Monoch~ysb Zutheri have been determined relative to the cellular contents of organic carbon, nitrogen, and chlorophyll. When expressed as a percentage of the total cellular drv weight, the DNA contents of these three marine phytoplankton species were 0.43, 0.66,and 0.4&‘& respcctivcly.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations Pertaining to Islamic Capital Markets

A book chapter providing an overview of select aspects of legal and regulatory issues affecting Islamic capital markets. The categories of issues discussed are (ad) securities laws and regulatory regimes, (b) securitization laws, including laws and regulations applicable to sukuk, and legal regime matters, including both legal opinion matters that are critical to capital markets transactions and general systemic matters.
Estimating the covariance matrix from unsynchronized high frequency financial data

This paper proposes an estimator of the covariance matrix of currencies using unsynchronized and noisy high frequency observations. The estimator allows us to estimate the covariance matrix over a shorter time interval with more accuracy. The estimator is not f-consistent when there are so-called observation noises. Increasing observation frequency infinitely does not always increase the accuracy of the estimation. Optimal observation frequency is dependent on the ratio of the total volatility over the noise level. Daily covariance matrices of three exchange rates are calculated to demonstrate the methodology. The empirical results show that the correlations of the three currencies are strong but vary over time.
Effect of slow-release urea inclusion in diets containing modified corn distillers grains on total tract digestibility and ruminal fermentation in feedlot cattle

Ruminal degradable intake protein (DIP) deficit may result when cattle are fed diets containing a greater inclusion of processed corn grain and small to moderate inclusion of corn distillers grains (DG). This deficit may arise from greater proportions of rapidly fermentable carbohydrates and RUP in corn grain. Urea-derived N is 100% DIP; however, rates of degradation of carbohydrates and conventional urea (CU) may not match. Therefore, beneficial effects may result from the use of slow-release urea (SRU) sources over CU when added to DIP-deficient diets. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of increasing DIP concentration through inclusion of 1 of 2 SRU sources or CU in DG-containing feedlot diets on ruminal fermentation and total tract digestibility. In addition, an in situ experiment was conducted to characterize N disappearance of urea sources from polyester bags. Four ruminally cannulated steers (initial BW = 588 ± 8 kg) were arranged in a 4 × 4 Latin square design and assigned randomly to 1 of 4 dietary treatments containing 0% (CON) or 0.6% urea in the form of CU (UREA) or SRU as Optigen II (polymer-encapsulated urea; OPTI) or NitroShure (lipid-encapsulated urea; NITRO), and 30% corn earlage, 20% modified corn DG with solubles, 7.8% corn silage, 4.3% dry supplement, and dry-rolled corn (DM basis). Dietary DIP was estimated at 6.6% and 8.3% for CON and urea-containing dietary treatments, respectively. Steers were fed ad libitum once daily. Differences in purine derivatives-to-creatinine (PDC) index between treatments were used as indicators of differences in microbial CP synthesis. Intake of OM, digestibility of OM, NDF, CP, and starch, ruminal pH, total VFA ruminal concentration, and PDC index were not affected by treatment ( ≥ 0.21). Concentration of ammonia-N noticeably peaked at 4 h after feed delivery for cattle fed UREA (treatment × time, = 0.06) and measured at least 5.5 mg/dL for any treatment and at any hour after feed delivery. During the first 12 h after incubation, N disappearance was greater for CU and NitroShure than Optigen II (urea source × time, < 0.01). Supplementing DIP through inclusion of CU or SRU did not affect feed intake, digestibility, or most of the ruminal fermentation parameters evaluated, which may relate to the lack of need of urea supplementation in the present experiment. More research is warranted to evaluate the use of SRU in DIP-deficient diets.
Dispersion Model of Two Simultaneously Propagating Spatial Domain Multiplexing (SDM) Channels of Same Wavelength in Step Index Multimode Fibers

Spatial domain multiplexing allows co-propagation of spatially separated channels of same wavelength over a single strand of step index multimode fiber. Dispersion model for spatially multiplexed helically propagating channels is presented.
Simulated fiber-optic interrogation of autofluorescence from superficial layer of tissue-engineered construct

Monte Carlo simulations were used to predict optimal fiber-optic probe configurations for selectively interrogating autofluorescence from the superficial (50 μm) middle layer of a tissue-engineered construct with a different native fluorophore in each layer.
The Quest for an HIV-1 Vaccine Adjuvant: Bacterial Toxins as New Potential Platforms.

While tremendous efforts are undergoing towards finding an effective HIV-1 vaccine, the search for an HIV-1 vaccine adjuvant lags behind and is understudied. More recently, however, efforts have focused on testing adjuvant formulations that can boost the immune response and generate broadly neutralizing antibodies to HIV-1 ENV (gp160). Despite this, there remain a number of challenges towards achieving this goal. These include safety of adjuvant formulations; stability of the incorporated antigens; maintenance of ENV immunogenicity; optimal inoculation sites; the effective combination of adjuvants; stability of ENV neutralizing epitopes in some adjuvant formulations; mucosal immunity; and long-term maintenance of the immune response. A new class of adjuvants for HIV-1 proteins is suggested to overcome many of the limitations of some other adjuvants. Type 1 (LT-I) and type 2 (LT-II) human E. coli enterotoxins (HLTs) and their non-toxic B-subunits derivatives are strong systemic and mucosal adjuvants and effective carriers for other proteins and epitopes. Their stable molecular structure in the presence of fused proteins and epitopes, and their ability to target surface receptors on antigen presenting cells make them ideal for delivery of HIV-1 ENV or HIV other proteins. Importantly, unlike some other adjuvants, HLTs and derivatives have well defined modes of immune system activation. The challenges in finding optimal HIV-1 vaccine adjuvant formulation and important properties of HLTs are discussed.
Vitamin B12 deficiency--A 21st century perspective

OVERVIEW Please submit letters for the editor9s consideration within three weeks of receipt of Clinical Medicine. Letters should ideally be limited to 350 words, and sent by email to: clinicalmedicine@rcplondon.ac.uk
EVALUATING TRANSMISSION-EMISSION MISALIGNMENT IN BRAIN PET

Objective: Proper alignment of the transmission and emission images in PET is crucial for appropriate attenuation correction and other uses, such as registration of the PET emission data with data from another modality. The patient may be removed from the table after the transmission scan and later repositioned for the emission scan using a laser beam projected onto fiducial marks on the patient. Repositioning the patient introduces the possibility of misalignment between the transmission and emission scans. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the magnitude of any transmission-emission scan misalignment. Methods: An immediate postemission transmission scan was obtained on 17 patients. The usual preinjection transmission image was registered to the postemission transmission image using a surface-matching algorithm. The rotations and translations necessary to register the two data sets are a measure of patient repositioning error. Results: The average X, Y and Z translations were 2.32 mm (range 0.54–4.66 mm), 1.35 mm (0.11–4.33 mm) and 4.6 mm (0.66–16.61 mm), respectively. The average X, Y and Z rotations were 1.32° (0.07–4.79°), 0.84° (0.10–2.12°) and 2.67° (0.01–13.03°), respectively. Conclusion: We conclude that while our transmission and emission data are generally repositioned within acceptable limits for the purpose of attenuation correction, significant errors are most likely to occur in the Z axis repositioning.