cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The platelet as a therapeutic target for treating vascular diseases and the role of eicosanoid and synthetic PPARγ ligands

The platelet was traditionally thought only to serve as the instigator of thrombus formation, but now is emerging as a pivotal player in cardiovascular disease and diabetes by inciting and maintaining inflammation. Upon activation, platelets synthesize eicosanoids such as thromboxane A2 (TXA2) and PGE2 and release pro-inflammatory mediators including CD40 ligand (CD40L). These mediators activate not only platelets, but also stimulate vascular endothelial cells and leukocytes. These autocrine and paracrine activation processes make platelets an important target for attenuating inflammation. The growing interest and recent discoveries in platelet biology has lead to the search for therapeutic platelet targets. Recently, platelets, although anucleate, were discovered to possess the transcription factor PPARgamma. Treatment with eicosanoid and synthetic PPARgamma ligands blunts platelet release of the bioactive mediators, soluble (s) CD40L and TXA2, in thrombin-activated platelets. PPARgamma ligand treatment may prove useful for dampening unwanted platelet activation and chronic inflammatory diseases such as cardiovascular disease.
T- and B-cell recognition of hepatitis B viral antigens

Abstract In the absence of an inbred animal model of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, several laboratories have chosen to study the murine immune response to HBV-encoded proteins as immunogens as opposed to an infectious agent. In this article, David Milich reviews the immunogenicity and the fine specificity of T- and B-cell recognition of HBV antigens, and the genetic influences that regulate these responses. This approach should increase our understanding of immune-mediated viral clearance mechanisms during HBV infection, and may provide the framework for the design of second and third generation HBV vaccines.
A Transformation of the Radiative Transfer Equation Useful for Problems with Steep Source Gradients

Abstract A simple transformation of the dependent variable in the radiative transfer equation is described which eliminates most numerical solution problems caused by rapidly varying (spatially or temporally) sources. Numerical results for several problems illustrate the improved accuracy obtained with the transformed equation.
Adaptive Control of Nonminimum Phase Systems Using Sensor Blending With Application to Launch Vehicle Control

The goal of this paper is to investigate the use of a very simple direct adaptive controller in the guidance of a large, flexible launch vehicle. The adaptive controller, requiring no on-line information about the plant other than sensor outputs, would be a more robust candidate controller in the presence of unmodeled plant dynamics than a model-based fixed gain linear controller. NASA’s seven-state FRACTAL academic model for ARES I-X was employed as an example launch vehicle on which to develop the controller.To better understand the difficult dynamic issues, we started with a simplified model that incorporated the inherent instability of the plant and the nonminimum phase nature of the dynamics: an inverted pendulum with an attachable slosh tank. We formulated controllers for this simplified plant with slosh dynamics using control algorithms developed only on a reduced–order model consisting of the rigid body dynamics without slosh. The controllers must be designed to reject three different persistent input disturbances: persistent pulse, step, and sine. We assumed that only position feedback was available, and that rates would have to be estimated.For comparison, a fixed gain linear controller was developed using the well-known Linear Quadratic Gaussian methodology employing state estimation to obtain rate estimates. For a stable adaptive controller, we used direct adaptive control theory developed by Balas, et al. For this theory we need CB > 0 and a minimum-phase open-loop transfer function. We employed a new transmission zero selection method to develop a blended output shaping matrix which would satisfy these conditions robustly. We used approximate differentiation filters to obtain rates for the adaptive controller. Again for comparison, we redesigned the LQG controller to use the same blended output matrix and filters.Following the work on the pendulum, the same method was applied to develop an adaptive controller for the FRACTAL launch vehicle model. An adaptive controller stabilizes a rigid body version of FRACTAL over a very long timeline while exceeding all reasonable state and output limits.Copyright © 2012 by ASME
A Borda count for partially ordered ballots

The application of the theory of partially ordered sets to voting systems is an important development in the mathematical theory of elections. Many of the results in this area are on the comparative properties between traditional elections with linearly ordered ballots and those with partially ordered ballots. In this paper we present a scoring procedure, called the partial Borda count, that extends the classic Borda count to allow for arbitrary partially ordered preference rankings. We characterize the partial Borda count in the context of weighting procedures and in the context of social choice functions.
Hydroxyproline content of the tadpole tail in response to hypothyroidism

Abstract 1. 1. Tail tips from normal and hypophysectomized R. pipiens tadpoles, grown in vitro and in vivo, were analyzed at weekly intervals for protein and hydroxyproline content. 2. 2. Soluble hydroxyproline content of tails varied directly with the growth rate of intact and hypophysectomized tadpoles. 3. 3. Treatment in vivo and in vitro with propylthiouracil caused existing collagen to become more soluble, indicating a direct tissue effect. 4. 4. Methimazole, administered in vivo or in vitro tail cultures, had no effect upon existing collagen but did depress protein synthesis in vitro. 5. 5. Alterations in tail collagen in the hypothyroid tadpole appear to be sequelae of an impaired growth rate rather than due to direct effects upon collagen metabolism.
Aspirin and NSAID use in older women: Effect on bone mineral density and fracture risk

Prostaglandin inhibition by aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) may inhibit bone loss and preserve bone mineral density (BMD) in vitro and in animal models. The effect of these agents on BMD and fracture risk in postmenopausal women in unknown. We assessed the risk factors for osteoporosis and the use of aspirin and NSAIDs in 7786 white women over age 65. Axial BMD was measured at the same time, and fractures were prospectively documented over the subsequent 4 years of follow-up. In age-adjusted analyses, daily use of aspirin or NSAIDs was associated with a 2.3-5.8% increase in BMD of the hip and spine. The relationship persisted even after adjustment for weight, a variety of medications, self-reported arthritis, and for radiographic findings of osteoarthritis, but the multiply adjusted increase in BMD was only 1.0-3.1%. Fracture risk was similar among daily users of aspirin and NSAIDs and nonusers. After adjustment for potential confounders, among daily aspirin users the relative risk of hip fracture was 1.1 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.7, 1.6), and among daily NSAID users the risk was 0.9 (CI: 0.6, 1.4). Considering all nonspine fractures together, the risk among aspirin users was 1.0 (CI: 0.8. 1.2), and among NSAID users the risk was also 1.0 (CI; 0.8, 1.2). Regular use of aspirin or NSAIDs may have a modest beneficial effect on BMD in postmenopausal women. This effect persists after adjustment for obesity and the presence of osteoarthritis. However, among women who take aspirin or NSAIDs regularly, there is no clinically significant protective effect on the subsequent risk of fractures.
Effect of bromide ions on junctional transmission.

THE efficacy of bromides as hypnotics or sedatives has long been recognized, but their mode of action is unknown. Many drugs which affect the central nervous system, alcohols and barbiturates, for example, have been shown to influence synaptic activity1–3 and it seemed likely that bromides might act similarly. The effect of bromide ions on transmission at the neuromuscular junction has therefore been investigated.
Effects of short-term and long-term theobromine administration to male dogs.

Abstract Thirty-three dogs were each given a single oral dose of theobromine which ranged from 15 to 1000 mg/kg. Three dogs died, one each given theobromine 300, 500, and 1000 mg/kg. Ten dogs were continued on theobromine (75 to 150 mg/kg/day) for periods of 21 or 28 days; seven died and the others were killed with pentobarbital sodium. None had thymic or testicular atrophy, as has been reported in rats, but a degenerative, fibrotic cardiomyopathy limited to the right atrial appendage occurred in 6 of these 10 dogs. Theobromine was given to two groups of dogs for 1 year in doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg/day, respectively. Other dogs were given theobromine 25 or 50 mg/kg/day for 4 months and the dose was then increased to 100 or 150 mg/kg/day for 8 months. Three dogs (one each at 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg/day) died during the course of the year. The right atrial appendage of one, the dog at 100 mg/kg/day, was obliterated by fibrosis, but no heart lesions were found in the other two dogs. At the end of 1 year all surviving dogs including controls were killed and subjected to complete necropsies. As in the short-term study, the only gross and microscopic change associated with theobromine was a fibrotic lesion in the right atrium of the heart, in three of five dogs given theobromine 150 mg/kg/day and in two of the four dogs given 100 mg/kg/day. Plasma theobromine concentrations were determined during the last 2 months of the year. While right atrial cardiomyopathy occurred in dogs given theobromine 100 or 150 mg/kg/day, a clear relationship between dose, plasma concentration, frequency, and severity of the lesion could not be determined.
THE GEOGRAPHIC RANGE OF THE HISTORIC BISON IN THE SOUTHEAST

(1960). THE GEOGRAPHIC RANGE OF THE HISTORIC BISON IN THE SOUTHEAST. Annals of the Association of American Geographers: Vol. 50, No. 4, pp. 395-407.
Extension of a temporal model of frequency discrimination: Intensity effects in normal and hearing-impaired listeners

The effects of intensity on the difference limen for frequency (DLF) in normal‐hearing and in hearing‐impaired listeners are incorporated into the temporal model of frequency discrimination proposed by Goldstein and Srulovicz [Psychophysics and Physiology of Hearing, edited by E. F. Evans and J. P. Wilson (Academic, New York, 1977)]. A simple extension of the temporal mode, which includes the dependence of phase locking on intensity, is sufficient to predict the effects of intensity on the DLF in normal‐hearing listeners. To account for elevated DLFs in hearing‐impaired listeners the impairment is modeled as a reduction in the synchrony of the discharge from VIIIth‐nerve fibers that innervate the region of hearing loss. Constraints on the optimal processor and the validity of the temporal model at high frequencies are discussed.
Guerrillas, bandits, and independent republics: US counter‐insurgency efforts in Colombia 1959–1965

(1995). Guerrillas, bandits, and independent republics: US counter‐insurgency efforts in Colombia 1959–1965. Small Wars & Insurgencies: Vol. 6, No. 3, pp. 304-327.
Reconstruction of severe transmetacarpal mutilating hand injuries by combined second and third toe transfer

This paper reports on nine instances of combined second and third toe-to-hand transfers in eight patients for severe transmetacarpal mutilating hand injuries. In four cases, the transfer included an innervated flap from the fibular side of the great toe to provide sensibility to a previously constructed osteoplastic thumb. Prehensile.function was significantly improved by providing chuck or tripod pinch as well as improved pulp-to-pulp and lateral pinch. At a mean follow-up of 20.3 months, there was only one failure.
Studies on fluorescein—VI: Absorbance of the various prototropic forms of yellow fluorescein in aqueous solution

The absorbance of yellow fluorescein in water, at ionic strength 0.10, as a function of pH at 437, 455, 464, 475 and 490 nm has been resolved into four components, the absorbances of the individual prototropic forms of fluorescein in water. The molar absorptivity of each species at each of the five wavelengths is reported. A novel type of isosbestic point is described.
The mycobacterial cell wall: structure, biosynthesis and sites of drug action

Structural analysis has been successfully implemented recently to obtain valuable information on the mycobacterial cell wall components, many of which have formed the basis for biosynthesis and functional studies towards developing better drugs and possible vaccines. The highly complex and well organized structure unique to mycobacteria, represents the best target for novel antimycobacterial agents. Until recently, our knowledge of the enzymes responsible for the biogenesis of the cell wall components was almost negligible. The pathways are now being elucidated in several laboratories. Highlights of this review include significant advances in the structure and biochemistry of the major cell wall components and potential targets for generation of new drugs.
Selection of the Lowest Level for Fusion in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract Study design A systematic review of studies reporting pain as a long-term outcome after spinal fusion surgery for treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Objective To identify studies that report pain after spinal fusion surgery for scoliosis based on the distal extent of fusion and to combine results to determine if there is an increased incidence of back pain in patients treated with fusion to the lower lumbar spine. Summary of Background Data The methods and results of existing studies are inconsistent and only occasionally reach statistical significance. No thorough review of the available information has been published. Methods An electronic literature search was performed to identify studies that met predetermined eligibility criteria. Data extracted included number of cases fused to L3 or above, to L4 or L5, and the number of those cases experiencing pain. Further, when possible, the pain variable was stratified into severe or mild categories to allow a more specific subanalysis. Results Eight studies met inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis for occurrence of pain, the primary outcome, resulted in a final odds ratio of 1.29 (95% CI 0.91–1.82, n = 1,155). When pain was stratified according to severity and only those cases in the severe category considered for meta-analysis, the resulting odds ratio was 1.43 (95% CI 0.72–2.82, n = 900). Neither analysis reached statistical significance. Conclusions Although there was a trend toward increased pain in patients whose fusion extended to L4 or L5, there was no statistically significant association between the distal level of fusion and incidence of subsequent back pain, both with and without stratification according to severity of back pain. Because of the limitations of published research, the effect of fusion into the lower lumbar spine on back pain is unknown. Higher quality studies with long-term follow-up and consistent reporting of outcomes are needed.
Review: Microfluidic Applications in Metabolomics and Metabolic Profiling

Metabolomics is an emerging area of research focused on measuring small molecules in biological samples. There are a number of different types of metabolomics, ranging from global profiling of all metabolites in a single sample to measurement of a selected group of analytes. Microfluidics and related technologies have been used in this research area with good success. The aim of this review article is to summarize the use of microfluidics in metabolomics. Direct application of microfluidics to the determination of small molecules is covered first. Next, important sample preparation methods developed for microfluidics and applicable to metabolomics are covered. Finally, a summary of metabolomic work as it relates to analysis of cellular events using microfluidics is covered.
Simulacra, Symbolic Exchange and Technology in Michel Tournier's La Goutte d'Or

Critique de l'hyperrealite de la culture occidentale et alternative poietique de l'echange symbolique dans La Goutte d'Or de M. Tournier, a la lumiere des relations entre les theories de Baudrillard du simulacre et de l'economie politique du signe et les meditations heideggeriennes sur la technologie
Chemical Control of Moulting in Arthropods

INSECTS are the only group of arthropods in which the control of moulting is well understood. A group of steroids—the ecdysones, thought to be produced by the prothoracic or ecdysial glands—cause moulting in almost all insect groups in which they have been tested1. Ecdysones isolated from a crustacean2 and from several different plants3 were active in insects4,5. No reports exist of moulting induced by ecdysones in arthropods other than insects, but ecdysterone shortened the period between moults in crayfish which had been induced to moult by removal of their eyestalks6.
HALFWAY HOUSE OR PROBATION: A COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVE DISPOSITIONS

ABSTRACT Halfway house programs have a long history in American corrections. Current concerns over prison crowding have led to increased interest in the use of halfway house placements for convicted offenders. This article compares a sample of offenders placed in halfway house programs with a sample of offenders receiving regular probation supervision. Data concerning the legal, social and demographic characteristics of both groups were collected from agency records. Similar information about services rendered to the two samples was also gathered. Police records were checked over a three year period to compare the two groups in terms of post-release criminal behavior. Using analysis of variance and covariance as well as discriminant function analysis, the groups were compared on three indicators of outcome; program completion, positive social adjustment, and new offense behavior. No significant differences were found between the two groups based on any of these indicators, although the halfway house sampl...
Effects of soup preloads on gastric emptying and fullness ratings following an egg sandwich meal

Abstract To identify the source of inhibitory signals from the stomach or intestine that lead to satiation, the effects of 300-g tomato soup preloads on the gastric emptying of a solid meal and on hynger and fullness ratings were examined. Subjects were nine healthy women who each ingested an egg sandwich: 1) with no soup, 2) immediately after the soup, and 3) 20 min after the soup. Emptying of the sandwich was measured using radionuclide scintigraphy. Soup significantly prolonged the lag phase (period before significant emptying occurred, p
Estimation of the molecular weights of the polypeptide chains from the isolated hemagglutinin and neuraminidase subunits of influenza viruses.

Estimation of the molecular weights of the polypeptide chains of the isolated hemagglutinin and neuraminidase of influenza viruses by exclusion chromatography gave values of 47,000 for the hemagglutinin and 58,000 for the neuraminidase. The denatured hemagglutinin and neuraminidase existed in an equilibrium between lower molecular weight polypeptides and aggregates even in the presence of 6M guanidine hydrochloride and reducing agents. Studies on the neuraminidase by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis gave two closely spaced bands that migrated slightly more rapidly than a bovine serum albumin marker protein. The evidence suggests that the neuraminidase contains at least two polypeptide chains with a molecular weight of approximately 58,000 that cannot be resolved by exclusion chromatography. The efficiency of the denatured hemagglutinin and neuraminidase in blocking the activity of antibodies to these subunits was very low, suggesting that the antigenic determinants were not composed of adjacent amino acids on a single polypeptide chain.
Association of race, heart failure and chronic kidney disease

Heart failure and kidney disease are two important emerging epidemics. The importance of pre-end stage kidney disease was introduced in the 2002 publication of the National Kidney Foundation’s Chronic Kidney Disease Guidelines. One in nine US adults has some degree of kidney disease, many of whom also have heart failure. Among all patients with heart failure, approximately half have significant kidney disease. The distribution of etiologies of these conditions varies among races; blacks tend to have heart and kidney disease predominantly due to hypertension, while whites tend to be affected by ischemic heart disease and Hispanics by diabetic kidney disease. The burden of disease is disproportionately borne by minorities, the cause of which remains to be fully elucidated. The bulk of knowledge of these diseases is based on studies involving predominantly white subjects. Recent studies have suggested that there are racial differences in patients’ responsiveness to various classes of drugs. Designs of future...
Pairwise Comparisons for Proportions: A Note on Cox and Key

This article focuses on a large-sample post hoc procedure for pairwise comparisons of proportions that was recently proposed by Cox and Key in 1993. Problems with the procedure are discussed, and a correct procedure is described. The method is then extended to planned comparisons of proportions.
Rationale, limitations, and assumptions of a northeastern forest growth simulator

A cooperative agreement between Yale University and the 1970 summer program of the IBM Research Division resulted in a flexible computer program to simulate the growth of the uneven-aged, mixed-species stands of trees on the 10-meter by 10-meter experimental plots of the Hubbard Brook Ecosystem Study in the White Mountains of northern New Hampshire. Annual increments of tree growth are based on species, tree size, and allocation of available light among the competing trees of the plot. Site quality differences between plots are assigned primarily by the concept of tree-growing degree-days, although soil moisture storage during the growing season and plot rockiness are also considered. Species succession, individual tree suppression and release, and other dynamic properties of forest stands have been successfully reproduced using the program. Additional field measurements are needed to further verify the model and to extend its applicability to nutrient cycling and other aspects of the Hubbard Brook Ecosystem Study. We believe that the simulator could readily be extended to include most other tree species of northeastern North America and also to match data from other sites through appropriate adjustment of program parameters.
Structures of Annealed Decanethiol Self-Assembled Monolayers on Au(111): an Ultrahigh Vacuum Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Study

While the structures of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of alkanethiols on Au(111) are extensively studied and well-known, new structures and complex phase behavior have been progressively discovered when coverage of these layers falls below saturation. Structures and phase transitions of annealed decanethiol monolayers on Au(111) surfaces were systematically investigated using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) under ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) conditions. Rich structures were revealed as a result of annealing in UHV. At temperatures below 345 K, no significant changes in coverage were observed, although the size of two-dimensional crystalline c(4√3 × 2√3)R30° domains increases as annealing progresses. A two-dimensional melting occurs at 345 ± 5 K and was captured in situ from time-dependent STM studies. Above 400 K, significant desorption takes place. In the temperature range of 345−400 K, within which desorption progresses to gradually decrease the surface coverage, a variety of striped phases have been o...
Parallel and serial heuristics for the minimum set cover problem

We present a theoretical analysis and an experimental evaluation of four serial heuristics and four parallel heuristics for the minimum set cover problem. The serial heuristics trade off run time with the quality of the solution. The parallel heuristics are derived from one of the serial heuristics. These heuristics show considerable speedup when the number of processors is increased. The quality of the solution computed by the heuristics does not degrade with an increase in the number of processors.
Time-dependent spectrum of resonance fluorescence for atoms prepared in pure dressed states.

We study the transient fluorescence spectra of two-level atoms driven by a strong optical field when the atoms are initially prepared in pure dressed states of the atom-field Hamiltonian. Spectra obtained here differ qualitatively from those observed in the steady state. In the case of steady-state resonant excitation, a three-peaked spectrum symmetric about the laser frequency is obtained; with pure-dressed-state preparation, the symmetry of the spectrum about the driving field is broken---one side peak is initially enhanced and the other is initially suppressed. Furthermore, the temporal oscillations of fluorescence intensity observed in previous calculations of transient fluorescence spectra appropriate to atoms prepared in a superposition of dressed states [J. H. Eberly et al., J. Phys. B 13, 217 (1980)] are suppressed when pure-dressed-state preparation is considered.
Transition to chaos in the Duffing oscillator

It is observed in the Duffing oscillator that a bifurcation from a solution composed of only odd harmonics to one composed of both even and odd harmonics precedes the period-doubling bifurcations. Keeping all parameters fixed except for the amplitude of the driving force $F$, we determine the value of $F$ at which the bifurcation occurs. Results are compared with experiment. A mechanism for the period-doubling bifurcations is suggested.
CULTURAL CHANGE AND THE ACTING CONSERVATORY IN LATE NINETEENTH-CENTURY FRANCE

decay. Infact, the major shift in recruitment was the growing number of women from respectable, bourgeois backgrounds. The new pattern signalled an expansion in women's autonomy as individuals. Thus, the writers' pessimism obscured the fact that the early Third Republic was keeping some of its democratic promises. Thefindings indicate that a reassessment of France's capacityfor progressive cultural change in the fin de siecle is in order.
Radiation effects in Be and Al for a magnetic fusion production reactor

Estimates of the expected performance of beryllium and several aluminum alloy structural components of the breeding blanket of a magnetic fusion production reactor are made based on the known behavior and properties of these materials in fission reactor applications. Comparisons of the irradiation damage effects resulting from the fission reactor neutron spectra and the fusion reactor blanket spectra indicate that beryllium will perform well in the breeding blanket for at least one year and the aluminum alloy 5052 will retain structural integrity for about 5 years.
Diversity and Leadership

Comments on the six articles contained in the special issue of the American Psychologist (January 2007) devoted to leadership, written by W. Bennis; S. J. Zaccaro; V. H. Vroom and A. G. Yago; B. J. Avolio; R. J. Sternberg; and R. J. Hackman and R. Wageman. The current authors express concern that the special issue failed to include attention to issues of diversity and intersecting identities as they pertain to leadership. A Special Issue Part II on Diversity and Leadership is being proposed to (a) advance new models of leadership, (b) expand on existing leadership theories, and (c) incorporate diversity and multiple identities in the formulation of more inclusive leadership research and theory. The goal of this special issue will be to revise our theories of leadership and our understanding of effective leadership to include gender, racial/ethnic minority status, sexual orientation, and disability status.
Unique reactivity of a 1,4-dilithiobutadiene with methyl iodide

Abstract Reactions of 1,4-dilithiobutadiene 5 with MeI in THF gave predominantly methyl iododiene 6 . Monolithio monoiodo intermediate 8 was shown not to be involved in the formation of 6 , but the results were consistent with the involvement of monolithio monomethyl intermediate 11 , which could lead to 6 by metal–halogen exchange. Several other lithioalkenes also reacted with MeI to give alkenyl iodides.
Flow behavior of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose/polyacrylic acid interpolymer complexes in aqueous media

The intermolecular complexation of non-ionic polymers with weak acids having chemically complementary structures is an important approach to modify the viscosity of polymer solutions. In this study intermolecular complexation of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) with polyacrylic acid (PAA) in an aqueous medium was studied. The study focuses on the factors affecting the complexation and rheological behavior of the HPMC/PAA system including the stoichiometric ratio of the two polymers, the molecular weight of the PAA, and the pH and ionic strength of the medium. Results showed that interpolymer complexation occurred between HPMC and PAA at low pH. It was attributed to hydrogen bonding between the COOH group of the PAA and the OH group of the HPMC. Under basic conditions (above the critical pH) the viscosity of the interpolymer complex increased accompanied by a transition from a compact interpolymer complexation structure to an extended conformation of interpolymer associates. Introduction of monovalent and multivalent salts (at > pHcritical) decreased the viscosity of the HPMC/PAA interpolymer associates and favored the formation of interpolymer complexes between the two polymers. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
LINKING BENTHIC ALGAL BIOMASS TO STREAM SUBSTRATUM TOPOGRAPHY1

The physical properties of substrata significantly influence benthic algal development. We explored the relationships among substratum surface texture and orientation with epilithic microphytobenthic biomass accumulation at the whole-substratum and micrometer scales. Unglazed clay tiles set at three orientations (horizontal, vertical, and 45� ), and six substrata of varying surface roughness were deployed in a prairie stream for 3 weeks. Substrata were analyzed for loosely attached, adnate, and total benthic algal biomass as chl a, and confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to measure substrata microtopography (i.e., roughness, microscale slope angles, and three-dimensional surface area). At the whole-substratum level, vertical substrata collected significantly (P < 0.05) less algal biomass, averaging 34% and 36% less than horizontal and 45� substrata, respectively. Benthic algal biomass was also significantly less on smoother surfaces; glass averaged 29% less biomass than stream rocks. At the microscale level, benthic algal biomass was the greatest at intermediate values, peaking at a mean roughness of approximately 17 lm, a mean microscale slope of 50� , and a projected ⁄areal surface area ratio of 2:1. The proportion of adnate algae increased with surface roughness (26% and 67% for glass and brick, respectively), suggesting that substratum type changes the efficiency of algal removal by brushing. Individual substrata and microsubstrata characteristics can have a strong effect on benthic algae development and potentially affect reach scale algal variability as mediated by geomorphology.
Low-temperature steam reforming of jet fuel in the absence and presence of sulfur over Rh and Rh–Ni catalysts for fuel cells

Abstract This work is a comparative study on low-temperature steam reforming of jet fuel over Rh and Rh–Ni loaded on CeO2-modified Al2O3 support in the absence and presence of different amounts of organic sulfur. Rh loaded on CeO2–Al2O3 support can promote reforming of sulfur-free or desulfurized jet fuel at 97% conversion to syngas and CH4. However, monometallic Rh/CeO2–Al2O3 catalyst deactivates by S poisoning. During the reforming of liquid fuel with >10 ppmw S, catalytic activity rapidly decreases when the amount of sulfur in the fuel flown over the catalyst reaches the level corresponding to a Sfuel:Rhsurf atomic ratio of 0.28–0.30 (for which the amount of surface Rh is based on H2 and CO pulse chemisorption analysis). Methane formation is even more sensitive (than conversion) to sulfur poisoning. At a Sfuel:Rhsurf ratio of 0.15, methane selectivity over the Rh/CeO2–Al2O3 catalyst begins to decline. Addition of Ni by co-impregnation into the Rh/CeO2–Al2O3 catalyst leads to much higher sulfur tolerance. Ni acts as a protective and sacrificial metal for Rh in the Rh–Ni/CeO2–Al2O3 catalyst. Ni surface saturation of sulfur was found to occur at a Sfuel:Nisurf ratio of 0.59–0.60, corresponding to a Sfuel:Rhsurf ratio of 1.1 for 2% Rh–10% Ni/CeO2–Al2O3. The bimetallic Rh–Ni/CeO2–Al2O3 catalyst allows for successful low-temperature reforming of a JP-8 jet fuel containing 22 ppm sulfur for 72 h with >95% conversion. TPR and XPS analysis reveals close Rh–Ni metal–metal interactions. The presence of Ni increases the temperature for Rh reduction in TPR, whereas Rh helps maintain Ni in a reduced state in an oxidative atmosphere.
Ground water and environmental geology

Environmental geologists have been concerned with deleterious side effects of ground-water development such as enroachment of saline water and subsidence of the land surface. New uses of the subsurface environment, including fresh-water storage in saline aquifers, permanent containment of noxious wastes, and energy storage in the form of superheated water, should be considered. There are many potentially favorable and unfavorable environmental impacts of such uses. New and important research targets are field studies of transport phenomena, osmotic effects of clays, water softening by injecting and later withdrawing water from aquifers. The natural interrelationship of the practice of environmental enhancement and man's nature as a territorial proprietor is preferable to bureaucratic actions for the same purpose.
Development of the surf clam (Spisula solidissima) following exposure of gametes, embryos, and larvae to silver

The gametes, embryos, and early larvae of the surf clamSpisula solidissima were exposed to silver at concentrations up to 65 μg/L. All experiments were conducted at 20°C and 30‰ S, and lasted up to 48 hr after fertilization. Forty-five minute exposures of eggs to 16 μg/L or more silver just prior to fertilization in non-silver seawater lead to production of abnormal larvae. Simultaneous exposures of eggs and sperm to silver concentrations up to 21 μg/L for 45 min did not prevent fertilization but did produce abnormal larvae at silver concentrations greater than 6 μg/L. Postfertilization treatments of zygotes, embryos, and larvae lead to fewer abnormalities than prefertilization or fertilization treatments of comparable exposure length and concentration. The greatest numbers of abnormalities and mortalities were observed in continuous exposures, from gametes through fertilization to 48 hr postfertilization. Variability in % normal development was greater in high than in low silver concentrations.
Type 2 Diabetes in Asians: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Effectiveness of Behavioral Intervention at Individual and Population Levels

This review summarizes the current data on diabetes risk factors, prevalence, and prevention efforts in Asia and Asian migrant populations. Studies indicate that type 2 diabetes mellitus is a large and growing threat to public health in Asian populations. Furthermore, Asian subgroups (e.g., South Asians/Asian Indians, Chinese) have unique risk factor profiles for developing diabetes, which differ from other populations and between Asian ethnic groups. Lifestyle intervention programs are effective in preventing diabetes in Asians, as with other ethnicities. The strength of these findings is lessened by the lack of systematically collected data using objective measurements. Large epidemiologic studies of diabetes prevalence and risk factor profiles and translational trials identifying sustainable and culturally acceptable lifestyle programs for Asian subgroups are needed.
A subspace approach for DOA estimation of uniform linear arrays with increased element spacing applicable to wideband transmission

In this paper, the problem of joint direction of arrival (DOA) and signal estimation is addressed with a uniform linear array (ULA) when the array has an increased element spacing (i.e., an array with crossed manifold) under wideband scenario. Similar to the temporal aliasing, spatial aliasing can occur when the array's interelement spacing exceeds lambda/2, (where lambda is the wavelength of the transmission at a certain frequency.) A subspace-based algorithm is proposed which uses the inherent spectral diversity in the wideband transmission to resolve the aliasing ambiguity in joint DOA and data signal estimation. The auxiliary constraints to ensure identifiability have been investigated and it is shown that by an appropriate choice of frequency bins, the aperture size of the antenna can be arbitrarily increased. The performance of the proposed algorithm is studied through confirmatory simulation and Monte Carlo analysis
Feeding by emerald ash borer larvae induces systemic changes in black ash foliar chemistry

The exotic wood-boring pest, emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae), has been threatening North American ash (Fraxinus spp.) resources, this being recognized since its first detection in Michigan, USA and Ontario, Canada in 2002. Ash trees are killed by larval feeding in the cambial region, which results in disruption of photosynthate and nutrient translocation. In this study, changes in volatile and non-volatile foliar phytochemicals of potted 2-yr-old black ash, Fraxinus nigra Marshall, seedlings were observed in response to EAB larval feeding in the main stem. EAB larval feeding affected levels of six compounds [hexanal, (E)-2-hexenal, (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate, (E)-β-ocimene, methyl salicylate, and (Z,E)-α-farnesene] with patterns of interaction depending upon compounds of interest and time of observation. Increased methyl salicylate emission suggests similarity in responses induced by EAB larval feeding and other phloem-feeding herbivores. Overall, EAB larval feeding suppressed (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate emission, elevated (E)-β-ocimene emission in the first 30days, but emissions leveled off thereafter, and generally increased the emission of (Z,E)-α-farnesene. Levels of carbohydrates and phenolics increased overall, while levels of proteins and most amino acids decreased in response to larval feeding. Twenty-three amino acids were consistently detected in the foliage of black ash. The three most abundant amino acids were aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glutamine, while the four least abundant were α-aminobutyric acid, β-aminoisobutyric acid, methionine, and sarcosine. Most (16) foliar free amino acids and 6 of the 9 detected essential amino acids decreased with EAB larval feeding. The ecological consequences of these dynamic phytochemical changes on herbivores harbored by ash trees and potential natural enemies of these herbivores are discussed.
Electronic Relaxation Dynamics in Coupled Metal Nanoparticles

This paper reports the results of hot-electron lifetime measurements in a series of thin films prepared by wet chemistry techniques from 12-nm colloidal Au nanoparticles. The films, which vary in thickness and domain (or aggregate) size, are studied by a combined approach of femtosecond optical spectroscopy and scanning probe microscopy. Atomic force microscope measurements are used to characterize the samples and quantify the film's growth pattern. Time-resolved laser spectroscopy measurements are used to determine hot-electron lifetimes. The dependence of the hot-electron lifetimes on the colloid film's structure is analyzed; the lifetimes range from 1 to 3 ps and decrease with greater aggregation. The lifetime is shown to vary in a predictable manner with the film's growth, and a model is presented to describe this relationship. This model allows for the prediction of hot-electron lifetimes over a broad range of film thicknesses and obtains asymptotic agreement with previous experimental results for Au...
Hartree-fock determination of the energy bands and the optical properties of lithium bromide

Abstract Using the nonrelativistic mixed basis (M.B.) method and self-consistent local orbitals for the LiBr crystal, energy bands in the Hartree-Fock approximation have been obtained. These results are similar in quantitative features to those recently obtained by one of us (A.B.K.) for the LiCl crystal. Using the polarization corrections of Fowler these bands have been modified to incorporate many body effects. The final band structure has been fitted with pseudopotential and a density of states computed for the upper valence bands and the lower conduction bands. A joint valence-conduction band density is also obtained. These results are compared to several recent experiments. In general, the experimental comparison is excellent. Suggestions for further investigations are made.
Kinetics of zinc ion incorporation in base into a centrally aprotic beta‐octabrominated cationic water‐soluble porphyrin and its monolithium complex

The kinetics of zinc incorporation from pH 12 to 13 into the centrally aprotic BrP(4)2+ form of beta-octabromo-meso-tetrakis(N-methyl-4-pyridyl)porphyrin and its monolithium complex were studied at 25.0 °C, ionic strength (I) = 0.10. The reactions were first order in porphyrin and total zinc concentrations. For BrP(4)2+, the specific rate constant was 5.1 × 105M-1s-1 for Zn(OH)2aq, 9.9 × 104M-1s-1 for ${\rm Zn}({\rm OH})^{-}_{3}$ and ${\rm Zn}({\rm OH})^{2-}_{4}$ was unreactive. The Li-BrP(4)3+ complex had a formation constant with BrP(4)2+ of 1.1 × 103M-1 from both kinetic and equilibrium measurements. In solutions containing both BrP(4)2+ and Li-BrP(4)3+, zinc incorporation proceeded only through BrP(4)2+.
Truth and consequences: using the bogus pipeline to examine sex differences in self-reported sexuality.

Men report more permissive sexual attitudes and behavior than do women. This experiment tested whether these differences might result from false accommodation to gender norms (distorted reporting c...
Recovery of photoreceptor outer segment length and analysis of membrane assembly rates in regenerating primate photoreceptor outer segments.

Purpose. Photoreceptor outer segments are in a dynamic state of membrane addition and disposal. This study was undertaken to determine how a standardized period of retinal detachment and varying periods of reattachment affect the renewal process. Methods. To investigate the effects that retinal detachment and reattachment may have on this process, the neural retina from 12 adult rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatto) was detached from the overlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) by subretinal injection of a balanced salt solution. After a standardized detachment period of 7 days, the two tissue layers were reapposed. Animals were labeled with 3 H-fucose and killed at times ranging from 3—150 days after reattachment. Results. During the 7 day detachment period, the majority of rod outer segments (ROS) and cone outer segments (COS) degenerated, but inner segments remained intact. During the first week after reattachment, a rapid increase in rod and cone outer segment length occurred in the absence of disc shedding. This was accompanied by re-establishment of a modified morphologic relationship between the apical processes of the RPE and the regenerating outer segments. ROS and COS regained approximately 40% of their control lengths after a 2 wk reattachment period. By 30 days of reattachment, ROS had regained 72% of their normal length and COS had regained approximately 48%. After 150 days of reattachment, photoreceptor outer segment mean length was not statistically different from control areas. Autoradiographic results confirmed that new disc membranes were synthesized after reattachment. The rate of ROS membrane assembly was subnormal at reattachment time points up to 30 days. Conclusions. Retinal detachment leads to a reduction in photoreceptor outer segment absolute length and membrane assembly rates. Increasing time of retinal reattachment is positively correlated with an increase in outer segment absolute length and a corresponding increase in membrane assembly rates. This recovery pattern in eyes without underlying pathology and after a relatively brief detachment interval may represent the upper limit of the recovery process. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 1993; 34:175-183.
Trust Building Among Strangers

The trust-building process is basic to social science. We investigate it in a laboratory setting using a novel multistage trust game where social gains are achieved if players trust each other in each stage. In each stage, also, players have an opportunity to appropriate these gains or be trustworthy by sharing them. Players are strangers because they do not know the identity of others and they will not play them again. Thus, there is no prospect of future interaction to induce trusting behavior, and we study the trust-building process where there is little scope for social relations and networks.Standard game theory, which assumes all players are opportunistic and untrustworthy and thus should have zero trust for others, is used to construct a null hypothesis. We test whether people are trusting or trustworthy and examine how inferring the intentions of those who trust affects trustworthiness. We also investigate the effect of stake on trust, and study the evolution of trust.Results show subjects exhibit some degree of trusting behavior, although a majority of them are not trustworthy and claim the entire social gain. Players are more reluctant to trust in later stages than in earlier ones and are more trustworthy if they are certain of the trustee's intention. Surprisingly, subjects are more trusting and trustworthy when the stake size increases. Finally, we find the subpopulation that invests in initiating the trust-building process modifies its trusting behavior based on the relative fitness of trust.
Through a Different Lens: A Survey of Linear Epistemological Assumptions Underlying HRD Models:

This article attempts to define a linear epistemology in terms of what it is rather than how it functions by situating it in context. I contend that a linear epistemology is the dominant epistemolo...
Electronic Structure and Thermodynamic Properties of ScC2

Ab initio computations using both single-reference and multireference techniques that included electron correlation effects are carried out on ScC{sub 2}. The atomization, dissociation (Sc-C{sub 2}) energies, and the enthalpy of formation for ScC{sub 2} are computed. Theoretical results are in excellent agreement with available experimental data. The experimental Gibbs energy functions (GEF) are compared with theoretically computed GEF for the ground state structure. 33 refs., 1 fig., 5 tabs.
COMPUTATIONAL PREDICTION OF CHEMICAL SHIFTS OF APO-STATE OF THE PROTEIN CALBINDIN D9K

Calbindin D9k is a small protein. It is found predominantly in tissues involved in the uptake and transport of calcium such as cells of the intestinal brush border membrane. Molecular dynamics simulation (MD) of the protein also helps to study motion and its development with time which may not be studied experimentally. Chemical shifts are also calculated from the data generated by MD using various chemical shift prediction tools such as Sparta+. Chemical shifts are most often used to predict regions of secondary structure of proteins, to aid in the refinement of complex structures, and for the characterization of conformational changes associated with partial unfolding or binding. We used AMBER 12.0 software on GPU to simulate the apo-state of the protein using water model TIP3P and the force field ff12SB and then Sparta+ was used to predict chemical shifts values for backbone atoms. These values are then studied with the values obtained from its initial structure. Scientific World, Vol. 12, No. 12, September 2014, page 5-8