cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Patchy Janus particles with tunable roughness and composition via vapor-assisted deposition of macromolecules

Here, we present a technique for the fabrication of patchy Janus particles utilizing a vapor-assisted macromolecular deposition technique, termed Matrix Assisted Pulsed Laser Evaporation (MAPLE). Using this technique, both inorganic and organic precursor particles, immobilized on a surface, are functionalized on one hemisphere with nanodroplets of a desired polymer, thus forming particles with a patchy Janus morphology and textured surface topology. This fabrication method is flexible with respect to the chemical identity of the precursor particle and the selection of the deposited polymer. By tuning MAPLE deposition parameters, e.g., target composition or deposition time, the Janus anisotropy and roughness (i.e., patchiness) can be tuned, thus enabling greater control over the particles' behavior for applications as nanoparticle surfactants for stabilization of emulsions and foams.
Repression: A Reexamination of the Concept as Applied to Folktales

Psychoanalytic anthropologists assume that folktales often reflect unconscious beliefs and attitudes of listeners, who can tolerate anxiety-provoking images and messages (perhaps wish fulfillments) because these have been projected at a safe distance into the characters in the story. Here I argue that our theory for how such a process occurs is inadequate in terms of contemporary psychoanalytic theory. We need to reexamine a number of questions for which we may have assumed we already have answers, including the nature of repression and how it is accomplished; who or what "hears" an unconscious idea that has been collectively repressed when it is expressed in a folktale; and whether Freud's structural model of id-ego-superego can provide an adequate theoretical framework for understanding how unconscious ideas find their way into "expressive culture." I examine these questions in light of a folktale collected among Brazilian peasants. I conclude by questioning the central importance of the ego in repression, and propose a concept of a whole, or supraordinate, self to describe the actual agency in charge of repression.
On the 1-block H ∞ control problem for a class of MIMO distributed systems

In this paper we study the (1-block) H∞ optimal sensitivity minimization problem for a class of MIMO distributed plants. The optimal performance, μ, can be computed from a finite set of linear equations. We give an explicit determinantal formula for μ. The results presented here are extensions and simplifications of the previous work on the H∞ control in the skew Toeplitz theory framework, [3], [7], [10], [18], [19], [20], etc. These simplifications reduce the complexity of the algorithms for solving H∞ optimal control problems for distributed plants.
One-sided nonparametric tolerance limits

It is well known that a single order statistic can sometimes be used as a one-sided nonparametric tolerance limit. Unfortunately, there are often minimum sample sizes below which these single-order-statistic limits do not exist. Also, the number of confidence levels for exact limits is equal to the sample size, and this can lead to further conservatism for small samples. This article presents one-sided nonparametric tolerance limits, based on two or more order statistics, which do not have these limitations. These limits are an extension of the work of Hanson and Koopmans (1964) on conservative one-sided tolerance limits for large classes of distribution functions. The extensions include greatly improved algorithms for determining the constants required by the tolerance limits, and a generalization to more than two order statistics.
Divalent cation interactions with light-dependent K channels. Kinetics of voltage-dependent block and requirement for an open pore.

The light-dependent K conductance of hyperpolarizing Pecten photoreceptors exhibits a pronounced outward rectification that is eliminated by removal of extracellular divalent cations. The voltage-dependent block by Ca2+ and Mg2+ that underlies such nonlinearity was investigated. Both divalents reduce the photocurrent amplitude, the potency being significantly higher for Ca2+ than Mg2+ (K1/2 ≈ 16 and 61 mM, respectively, at Vm = −30 mV). Neither cation is measurably permeant. Manipulating the concentration of permeant K ions affects the blockade, suggesting that the mechanism entails occlusion of the permeation pathway. The voltage dependency of Ca2+ block is consistent with a single binding site located at an electrical distance of δ ≈ 0.6 from the outside. Resolution of light-dependent single-channel currents under physiological conditions indicates that blockade must be slow, which prompted the use of perturbation/relaxation methods to analyze its kinetics. Voltage steps during illumination produce a distinct relaxation in the photocurrent (τ = 5–20 ms) that disappears on removal of Ca2+ and Mg2+ and thus reflects enhancement or relief of blockade, depending on the polarity of the stimulus. The equilibration kinetics are significantly faster with Ca2+ than with Mg2+, suggesting that the process is dominated by the “on” rate, perhaps because of a step requiring dehydration of the blocking ion to access the binding site. Complementary strategies were adopted to investigate the interaction between blockade and channel gating: the photocurrent decay accelerates with hyperpolarization, but the effect requires extracellular divalents. Moreover, conditioning voltage steps terminated immediately before light stimulation failed to affect the photocurrent. These observations suggest that equilibration of block at different voltages requires an open pore. Inducing channels to close during a conditioning hyperpolarization resulted in a slight delay in the rising phase of a subsequent light response; this effect can be interpreted as closure of the channel with a divalent ion trapped inside.
The elastic tensor of single crystal RDX determined by Brillouin spectroscopy

The elastic tensor of 1,3,5-trinitroperhydro-1,3,5-triazine (also known as RDX, hexogen, and cyclotrimethylene trinitramine) was determined using Brillouin spectroscopy of as-grown single crystals. This study addresses inconsistencies in the literature between the elastic tensor measurements made using Brillouin spectroscopy in the GHz frequency range and the measurements using various techniques in the kHz-MHz frequency range. These Brillouin results are consistent with previous measurements made in the kHz-MHz frequency range using various techniques and are also consistent with velocity measurements at 15 GHz using picosecond acoustic interferometry. These results are in disagreement with the previously published elastic tensor determined using Brillouin spectroscopy, and there are differences of several percent amongst the consistent set of elastic tensor determinations. The origins of the disagreement and differences are discussed.
The cyanobacterium Synechococcus R‐2 (Anacystis nidulans, S. leopoliensis) PCC 7942 has a sodium‐dependent chloride transporter

Synechococcus R-2 (PCC 7942) actively accumulated Cl− in the light and dark, under control conditions (BG-11 media: pHo, 7·5; [Na+]o, 18 mol m−3; [Cl−]o, 0·508 molm−3). In BG-11 medium [Cl−], was 17·2±0·848 mol m−3 (light), electrochemical potential of Cl− (ΔμCl−i,o) =+211±2mV; [Cl−]i= 1·24±0·11 mol m−3(dark), ΔμCl−i,o=+133±4mV. Cl− fluxes, but not permeabilities, were much higher in the light: ϕCl−i,o= 4·01±5·4 nmol m−2 s−1, PCl−i,o= 47±5pm s−1 (light); ϕCl−i,o= 0·395±0·071 nmol m−2 s−1, PCl−i,o= 69±14 pm s−1 (dark). Chloride fluxes are inhibited by acid pHo (pHo 5; ϕCl−i,o= 0·14±0·04 nmol m−2 s−1); optimal at pHo 7·5 and not strongly inhibited by alkaline pHo (pHo 10; ϕCl−1i,o= 1·7±0·14 nmol m−2 s−1). A Cl−in/2H+in coporter could not account for the accumulation of Cl− alkaline pHo. Permeability of Cl− is very low, below 100pm s−1 under all conditions used, and appears to be maximal at pHo 7·5 (50–70 pm s−1) and minimal in acid pHo (20pm s−1). DCCD (dicyclohexyl-carbodiimide) inhibited ϕCl−i,o in the light about 75% and [Cl−]i fell to 2·2±0·26 (4) mol m−3. Valinomycin had no effect but monensin severely inhibited Cl− uptake ([Cl−]i= 1·02±0·32 mol m−3; ϕCl−i,o= 0·20±0·1 nmol m−2 s−1). Vanadate (200 mmol m−3) accelerated the Cl− flux (ϕCl−i,o= 5·28±0·64 nmol m−2 s−1) but slightly decreased accumulation of Cl− ([Cl−], = 13·9±1·3 mol m−3) in BG-11 medium but had no significant effect in Na+-free media. DCMU (dichlorophenyldimethylurea) did not reduce [Cl−], or ϕCl−i,o to that found in the dark ([Cl−]i= 8·41±0·76 mol m−3; ϕCl−i,o= 2·06±0·36 nmol m−2 s−1). Synechococcus also actively accumulated Cl− in Na+-free media, [Cl−]i was lower but ΔΨi,o hyperpolarized in Na+-free media and so the ΔμCl−i,o was little changed ([Cl−]i= 7·98±0·698 mol m−3; ΔμCl−i,o=+203±3 mV). Net Cl− uptake was stimulated by Na+; Li+ acted as a partial analogue for Na+. Synechococcus has a Na+ activated Cl− transporter which is probably a primary 2Cl−/ATP pump. The Cl− pump is voltage sensitive. ΔμCl−i,o is directly proportional to ΔΨi,o(P»0·01%): ΔμCl−i,o= -1·487 (±0·102) ×ΔΨi,o, r= -0·983, n= 31. The ΔμCl−i,o increased (more positive) as the Δμi,o became more negative. The ΔμCl−i,o has no known function, but might provide a driving force for the uptake of micronutrients.
Time dependent scattering properties of slow decaying liquid foams

Abstract An experimental procedure is described to explore the physical characteristics of foam structures using a diagnostics tool based on elliptically polarized light scattering (EPLS) concept. The experimental system was constrained in cylindrical geometry and used to test a slow decaying, stable foam. Measurements were taken over a period of 30 h to utilize the scaling behavior of foam over long time scales. The normalized Mueller matrix elements were obtained for backscattering angles in the range of 120–150°. Additionally, Monte Carlo simulations were conducted and compared to the experiments. Experimental results suggest that backscattering signals, as quantified with the matrix elements ( S 11 , S 12 , and S 33 ), are sensitive to foam age and show a dynamic range especially at angles between 120° and 135°. The Monte Carlo simulations display a qualitative agreement with the angular profiles obtained from experiments. The age dependence of the properties of shaving foam in terms of the liquid fraction, bubble size, and polydispersity is used to understand the correlation with the measured profiles of S 11 , S 12 , and S 33 .
Correction of Excitation Profile in Zero Echo Time (ZTE) Imaging Using Quadratic Phase-Modulated RF Pulse Excitation and Iterative Reconstruction

Zero-echo Time (ZTE) imaging is a promising technique for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of short-T2 tissue nuclei in tissues. A problem inherent to the method currently hindering its translation to the clinic is the presence of a spatial encoding gradient during excitation, which causes the hard pulse to become spatially selective, resulting in blurring and shadow artifacts in the image. While shortening radio-frequency (RF) pulse duration alleviates this problem the resulting elevated RF peak power and specific absorption rate (SAR) in practice impede such a solution. In this work, an approach is described to correct the artifacts by applying quadratic phase-modulated RF excitation and iteratively solving an inverse problem formulated from the signal model of ZTE imaging. A simple pulse sequence is also developed to measure the excitation profile of the RF pulse. Results from simulations, phantom and in vivo studies, demonstrate the effectiveness of the method in correcting image artifacts caused by inhomogeneous excitation. The proposed method may contribute toward establishing ZTE MRI as a routine 3D pulse sequence for imaging protons and other nuclei with quasi solid-state behavior on clinical scanners.
Review essay: Population aging and retirement issues in the next millennium

A demographic phenomenon that occurred between the end of World War II and the start of the Vietnam War has taken the center stage of strategic planning and has become a high priority item in the p...
Bias-Elimination in Fish Population Models with Stochastic Variation in Survival of the Young

Abstract The addition of random variation in survival to a single prereproductive age class in a Leslie matrix population model can alter population growth in the modeled system. Methods are presented to characterize the stochastic variation in survival and to determine a correction factor that, when included in the model, will eliminate the propensity for the modeled population to systematically deviate from the initial conditions. This ability is important for applications of fish population models that seek to evaluate probability distributions of population trends that are associated with stochastic variations in survival, and to forecast the effects of changes in fishing mortality rates in fluctuating environments. Received October 2, 1981 Accepted May 10, 1984
Frequency dependence of crustal Q β in stable and tectonically active regions

Fundamental-mode Rayleigh wave attenuation data for stable and tectonically active regions of North America, South America, and India are inverted to obtain several frequency-independent and frequency-dependentQβ models. Because of trade-offs between the effect of depth distribution and frequency-dependence ofQβ on surface wave attenuation there are many diverse models which will satisfy the fundamental-mode data. Higher-mode data, such as 1-Hz Lg can, however, constrain the range of possible models, at least in the upper crust. By using synthetic Lg seismograms to compute expected Lg attenuation coefficients for various models we obtained frequency-dependentQβ models for three stable and three tectonically active regions, after making assumptions concerning the nature of the variation ofQβ with frequency.
Access to linguistic resources: Key variable in second language learning

Until recently, sociolinguistic approaches to the study of second language learning focused on the role of language variation and linguistic interaction in the learning process. In the past few years, several scholars argued for the broadening of the scope of sociolinguistic inquiry in SLA. In accordance with this call and with recent developments in the field of sociolinguistics, the present paper examines the issue that remains ignored in mainstream SLA -access to linguistic resources of the second language. It is argued that the L2 learners' and users' linguistic, racial, ethnic, gender, cultural and social identities mediate access to linguistic resources and interactional opportunities in the L2.
The method of space-time conservation element and solution element-applications to one-dimensional and two-dimensional time-marching flow problems

A nontraditional numerical method for solving conservation laws is being developed. The new method is designed from a physicist's perspective, i.e., its development is based more on physics than numerics. Even though it uses only the simplest approximation techniques, a 2D time-marching Euler solver developed recently using the new method is capable of generating nearly perfect solutions for a 2D shock reflection problem used by Helen Yee and others. Moreover, a recent application of this solver to computational aeroacoustics (CAA) problems reveals that: (1) accuracy of its results is comparable to that of a 6th order compact difference scheme even though nominally the current solver is only of 2nd-order accuracy; (2) generally, the non-reflecting boundary condition can be implemented in a simple way without involving characteristic variables; and (3) most importantly, the current solver is capable of handling both continuous and discontinuous flows very well and thus provides a unique numerical tool for solving those flow problems where the interactions between sound waves and shocks are important, such as the noise field around a supersonic over- or under-expansion jet.
Reaction of trans-dichlorobis(ethylenediamine)nickel(III) in aqueous hydrochloric acid

Abstract Both EPR and electronic absorbance spectroscopy have been used to follow the disappearance of [NiIII(en)2Cl2]+ in aqueous HCI solutions. The rate of Ni(III) reduction is influenced by both the H+ and Cl− concentrations, although the rate is not linear with respect to the concentration of either species. A mechanism is proposed in which the first step in the reaction is the proton-induced chelate ring opening which is followed by the reduction of Ni(III) by chloride ions. In the presence of H2SO4 the coordinated Cl− ions are rapidly replaced by HSO4− ions and the resulting complex is much more stable, even in a 6 N acid solution.
The Impact of State Intervention on "Underperforming" Schools in Massachusetts: Implications for Policy and Practice

Since passage of the federal No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) in 2002, state departments of education across the U.S. have been busy creating or modifying school accountability systems to meet NCLB guidelines. Ultimately, NCLB seeks to have all public school students proficient in English/Language Arts and mathematics by 2014. To identify schools in danger of not meeting this goal, states must establish student performance benchmarks and identify schools not making adequate yearly progress (AYP). Those consistently failing to make AYP can be ordered into "radical restructuring," which may include having the state intervene in running the school (U. S. Department of Education, 2002). Given these NCLB provisions and the growing number of schools not meeting AYP, the number of state interventions in low-performing schools will certainly increase. Accordingly, this article explores two questions about state-led interventions. First, how have teachers and administrators in underperforming schools in Massachusetts perceived state intervention? In addition, based on their perceptions, what might be done to make the process more effective? At three schools that experienced interventions from the Massachusetts Department of Education, a qualitative study explored the process of state intervention. A survey to principals in 22 of the 23 schools deemed underperforming by the state between 2000 and 2004 supplemented the in-depth qualitative work. Drawing on these mixed methods data sources, this article offers a series of proposals aimed at informing future state interventions in Massachusetts and elsewhere.
Behavior of Rapidly Sheared Bubble Suspensions

An experiment to be carried out aboard the International Space Station is described. A suspension consisting of millimeter-sized bubbles in water containing some dissolved salt, which prevents bubbles from coalescing, will be sheared in a Couette cylindrical cell. Rotation of the outer cylinder will produce centrifugal force which will tend to accumulate the bubbles near the inner wall. The shearing will enhance collisions among bubbles creating thereby bubble phase pressure that will resist the tendency of the bubbles to accumulate near the inner wall. The bubble volume fraction and velocity profiles will be measured and compared with the theoretical predictions. Ground-based research on measurement of bubble phase properties and flow in vertical channel are described.
Understanding Careers: The Metaphors of Working Lives

The article reviews the textbook “Understanding Careers: The Metaphors of Working Lives,” by Kerr Inkson.
Low sensitivity of dorsal spinocerebellar neurons to limb movement speed

This paper reports the effect of limb movement speed on dorsal spinocerebellar tract (DSCT) activity recorded while the cat hindlimb was passively moved through two types of foot trajectories (figure eight and step cycle) at different speeds. While nearly all the DSCT neurons sampled (151/159; 94.5%) were significantly modulated by the direction of foot movement in these trajectories, they were only modestly influenced by movement speed. We quantified the speed effect and also accounted for intrinsic cell variability by computing a variability index (VI) between pairs of responses to trajectories made either at the same or at different speeds. The distribution of same-speed VIs across cells indicated a mean variability of about 10% over a trajectory cycle, whereas the two-speed distributions indicated a mean change of about 25% for a two- to fourfold change in movement speed. We also examined the relative contribution of movement speed to the activity of each DSCT cell by means of a multivariate regression model that also included as predictors the position, movement direction, and interactions between movement and position. We found that 28 of 103 (27.2%) neurons were not sensitive to movement speed. The rest were modulated in varying degrees by changes in speed, and the speed modulation depended on limb position for most of them (54/75). Overall, DSCT speed sensitivity resembles the 0.3-power relationship used to describe the velocity sensitivity of muscle spindles for large muscle stretches. We examined this by recording muscle spindle activity during these passive foot trajectories and found that their speed sensitivity was within the range observed for the DSCT and explained by the 0.3-power law. In total, movement speed accounted for about 15% of the variance in DSCT activity across cells, while the directional component of movement accounted for about 45%. The results suggest a separate processing of sensory information about the two components of movement velocity: namely, its direction and magnitude.
Protein–Protein Contacts that Activate and Repress Prokaryotic Transcription

Recently the structures of two of the DNA-binding domains of RNAP, the α-CTD (7xJeon, Y.H, Negishi, T, Shirakawa, M, Yamazaki, T, Fujita, N, Ishihama, A, and Kyogoku, Y. Science. 1995; 270: 1495–1497Crossref | PubMedSee all References, 6xGaal, T, Ross, W, Blatter, E.E, Tang, H, Jia, X, Krishnan, V.V, Assa-Munt, N, Ebright, R.H, and Gourse, R.L. Genes Dev. 1996; 10: 16–26Crossref | PubMedSee all References), and a portion of σ70 containing the −10 region recognition motif (Malhotra et al. 1996xMalhotra, A, Severinova, E, and Darst, S.A. Cell. 1996; 87: 127–136Abstract | Full Text | Full Text PDF | PubMed | Scopus (239)See all ReferencesMalhotra et al. 1996), have been determined. Such advances in the understanding of RNAP structure should facilitate elucidation of the more complex activation and repression mechanisms.In the case of σ70, this structural information in conjunction with the finding that σ plays an important role in directing and stabilizing promoter melting is likely to shed light on the mechanism of action of at least some activators that mediate their effects through σ. Since −10 region recognition involves base-specific contacts between the σ subunit and the melted nontemplate strand (Roberts and Roberts 1996xRoberts, C.W and Roberts, J.W. Cell. 1996; 86: 495–501Abstract | Full Text | Full Text PDF | PubMed | Scopus (107)See all ReferencesRoberts and Roberts 1996), it is possible that regulators that interact with σ may, in some cases, stabilize a conformation that favors the formation of these contacts, rather than merely stabilizing the binding of the −35 region recognition domain. Unfortunately, there is as of yet no high resolution structural information about the portion of σ that binds the promoter −35 region, the apparent target of a number of activators that bind in the immediate vicinity of the −35 box. Whether or not the effects of such activator–σ interactions can be transmitted through the structure of σ to the −10 region recognition motif remains to be learned.As the structural analysis of RNAP proceeds, it will be particularly informative to study complexes containing a DNA-bound regulator together with a relevant portion of RNAP. Finally, structural information about the catalytic subunits of RNAP are likely to enhance our understanding of how some activators that contact these subunits work.
Discontinuous jump in transverse magnetization of the flux lattice in YBa2Cu3O7 crystals observed by torque magnetometry

Abstract We have measured the torque in YBa2Cu3O7 crystals when the applied field is rotated at angle to the c-axis in the superconducting state. Below a characteristic field Hm we observe a novel discontinuity in the transverse magnetization when exceeds 90°. We interpret this jump as a giant reconfiguration of the flux lattice in response to the field rotation.
Specific interaction of spermine with cibacron blue F3GA

Abstract The polyamines, spermine, spermidine, and putrescine, have been shown to bind to Cibacron blue F3GA generating a difference spectrum with a maximum at 685 nm and a minimum at 585 nm, which is characteristic of ionic interactions between the dye and the polyamines. The difference spectral signal vanishes when the charges on the amino groups of the polyamines are neutralized. The magnitude of perturbation of the dye spectrum by the polyamines and, by inference, the capacity to bind to the dye, decrease in the order spermine > spermidine > putrescine. For spermine, the spectral signal of the dye-spermine complex is dependent on the charge state of an aminium group with a p K a = 8.2.
Towards personalized medicine in mycobacterial diseases; from bench to bedside

Objective Mycobacterial disease is still an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. Personalized medicine is a rapidly advancing field of medicine. It uses all available omics in order to make accurate decisions about prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease. Personalized medicine may be helpful to design more efficient strategies for prevention of mycobacterial diseases and for offering better treatment options. Methods A literature search was conducted using search keywords “personalized medicine”, “individualized”, “nontuberculous mycobacteria”, “mycobacterium tuberculosis”, “tuberculosis”, “genetic susceptibility”, “genomics”, “side effects”, “treatment”, “prevention” and “diagnosis” from studies that have been published by July 2014. PubMed, Cinahl, Scopus, Embase and the Cochrane Library were searched. Results The advances in personalized medicine for diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of mycobacterial diseases were addressed. A need assessment for individuating the mycobacterial diseases was performed. Finally, the proposed approach to personalized medicine in mycobacterial diseases was discussed. Conclusions Moving toward personalized medicine in mycobacterial diseases has already started, but needs further works to make it applicable for patient care. It will help us to improve diagnostic and treatment strategies and possibly to deliver a better quality of healthcare to patients.
Current epidemiology of multidrug‐resistant gram‐negative bacilli in the United States.

Gram‐negative bacilli are an important cause of infection in healthcare and community settings. Antimicrobial resistance, including resistance to multiple antimicrobial classes, is an ongoing problem among gram‐negative bacilli. This synopsis reviews the incidence of multidrug resistance among gram‐negative bacilli in the United States and describes emerging issues in their epidemiology.
Aid, Exports, and Growth: A Time-Series Perspective on the Dutch Disease Hypothesis

We use a heterogeneous panel VAR model identified through factor analysis to study the dynamic response of exports, imports, and per capita GDP growth to a “global” aid shock. We find that a global aid shock can affect exports, imports, and growth either positively or negatively. As a result, the relation between aid and growth is mixed, consistent with the ambiguous results in the existing literature. For most countries in the sample, when aid reduces exports and imports, it also reduces growth; and, when aid increases exports and imports, it also increases growth. This evidence is consistent with a DD hypothesis, but also shows that aid-receiving countries are not “doomed” to catch DD.
Infection and upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines in human brain vascular pericytes by human cytomegalovirus.

Congenital human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infections can result in CNS abnormalities in newborn babies including vision loss, mental retardation, motor deficits, seizures, and hearing loss. Brain pericytes play an essential role in the development and function of the blood–brain barrier yet their unique role in HCMV dissemination and neuropathlogy has not been reported. Primary human brain vascular pericytes were exposed to a primary clinical isolate of HCMV designated ‘SBCMV’. Infectivity was analyzed by microscopy, immunofluorescence, Western blot, and qRT-PCR. Microarrays were performed to identify proinflammatory cytokines upregulated after SBCMV exposure, and the results validated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) methodology. In situ cytokine expression of pericytes after exposure to HCMV was examined by ELISA and in vivo evidence of HCMV infection of brain pericytes was shown by dual-labeled immunohistochemistry. HCMV-infected human brain vascular pericytes as evidenced by several markers. Using a clinical isolate of HCMV (SBCMV), microscopy of infected pericytes showed virion production and typical cytomegalic cytopathology. This finding was confirmed by the expression of major immediate early and late virion proteins and by the presence of HCMV mRNA. Brain pericytes were fully permissive for CMV lytic replication after 72 to 96 hours in culture compared to human astrocytes or human brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMVEC). However, temporal transcriptional expression of pp65 virion protein after SBCMV infection was lower than that seen with the HCMV Towne laboratory strain. Using RT-PCR and dual-labeled immunofluorescence, proinflammatory cytokines CXCL8/IL-8, CXCL11/ITAC, and CCL5/Rantes were upregulated in SBCMV-infected cells, as were tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Pericytes exposed to SBCMV elicited higher levels of IL-6 compared to both mock-infected as well as heat-killed virus controls. A 6.6-fold induction of IL-6 and no induction TNF-alpha was observed in SBCMV-infected cell supernatants at 24 hours postinfection. Using archival brain tissue from a patient coinfected with HCMV and HIV, we also found evidence of HCMV infection of pericytes using dual-label immunohistochemistry, as monitored by NG2 proteoglycan staining. HCMV lytic infection of primary human brain pericytes suggests that pericytes contribute to both virus dissemination in the CNS as well as neuroinflammation.
RidA Proteins Prevent Metabolic Damage Inflicted by PLP-Dependent Dehydratases in All Domains of Life

ABSTRACT Pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP) is a coenzyme synthesized by all forms of life. Relevant to the work reported here is the mechanism of the PLP-dependent threonine/serine dehydratases, which generate reactive enamine/imine intermediates that are converted to keto acids by members of the RidA family of enzymes. The RidA protein of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium LT2 is the founding member of this broadly conserved family of proteins (formerly known as YjgF/YER057c/UK114). RidA proteins were recently shown to be enamine deaminases. Here we demonstrate the damaging potential of enamines in the absence of RidA proteins. Notably, S. enterica strains lacking RidA have decreased activity of the PLP-dependent transaminase B enzyme IlvE, an enzyme involved in branched-chain amino acid biosynthesis. We reconstituted the threonine/serine dehydratase (IlvA)-dependent inhibition of IlvE in vitro, show that the in vitro system reflects the mechanism of RidA function in vivo, and show that IlvE inhibition is prevented by RidA proteins from all domains of life. We conclude that 2-aminoacrylate (2AA) inhibition represents a new type of metabolic damage, and this finding provides an important physiological context for the role of the ubiquitous RidA family of enamine deaminases in preventing damage by 2AA. IMPORTANCE External stresses that disrupt metabolic components can perturb cellular functions and affect growth. A similar consequence is expected if endogenously generated metabolites are reactive and persist in the cellular environment. Here we show that the metabolic intermediate 2-aminoacrylate (2AA) causes significant cellular damage if allowed to accumulate aberrantly. Furthermore, we show that the widely conserved protein RidA prevents this accumulation by facilitating conversion of 2AA to a stable metabolite. This work demonstrates that the reactive metabolite 2AA, previously considered innocuous in the cell due to a short half-life in aqueous solution, can survive in the cellular environment long enough to cause damage. This work provides insights into the roles and persistence of reactive metabolites in vivo and shows that the RidA family of proteins is able to prevent damage caused by a reactive intermediate that is created as a consequence of PLP-dependent chemistry.
Effects of Food Processing on Blueberry Antiproliferation and Antioxidant Activity

Cultivated highbush (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) and wild lowbush (Vaccinium angustifolium Ait.) blueberries are excellent sources of phytochemicals that are believed to have significant biological activity. The objective of this study was to determine whether incorporation of blueberries into food products affects their phenolic content or antioxidant and antiproliferation activity. Several blueberry fruit-containing products including fresh, individually quick frozen (IQF), freeze-dried, spray-dried, heat-dried, cooked, juice concentrate, pie filling, and jam were fractionated to remove sugars and isolate groups of phytochemicals based on solubility. The fractions were analyzed for total phenolics and assayed for ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) antioxidant activity, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, and hepa-1c1c7 antiproliferative activities. For both cultivated and wild berries, fresh and IQF berries had the highest total phenols, antioxidant activity, and antiproliferation activity. Whole freeze-dried wild blueberries also retained significant antiproliferative activity in 2 fractions eluted with acetone (fraction 4, 4% of control cell growth at 20 (μg/mL) and 50% aqueous acetone (fraction 5, 69% of control cell growth at 20 (μg/mL) and ranked close to the activities recorded for fresh (30% of control cell growth at 20 (μg/mL for fraction 5) and IQF whole fruit (27% of control cell growth at 20 (μg/mL for fraction 5). Products that were heat-processed retained most of the antioxidant activity and total phenolics found in unprocessed whole fruit. However, the heat-treated products lacked or had diminished antiproliferation activity, suggesting that although products may be high in phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity, some forms of bioactivity may be compromised by harsh processing methods.
Inline Coupling of WRF–HYSPLIT: Model Development and Evaluation Using Tracer Experiments

AbstractThe Hybrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory model (HYSPLIT), a Lagrangian dispersion model, has been coupled (inline) to the the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model meteorological model in such a way that the HYSPLIT calculation is run as part of the WRF-ARW prediction calculation. This inline version of HYSPLIT takes advantage of the higher temporal frequency of WRF-ARW variables relative to what would be available for the offline approach. Furthermore, the dispersion calculation uses the same vertical coordinate system as WRF-ARW, resulting in a more consistent depiction of the state of the atmosphere and the dispersion simulation. Both inline and the offline HYSPLIT simulations were conducted for two tracer experiments at quite different model spatial resolutions: the Cross Appalachian Tracer Experiment (CAPTEX) in regional scale (at 9-km grid spacing) and the Atmospheric Studies in Complex Terrain (ASCOT) in finescale (at 333.3-m grid spacing). A comparison of the mode...
CD80 cytoplasmic domain controls localization of CD28, CTLA-4, and protein kinase Ctheta in the immunological synapse.

The binding of costimulatory ligand CD80 to CD28 or CTLA-4 on T cells plays an important role in the regulation of the T cell response. We have examined the role of the cytoplasmic domain of CD80 in murine T cell costimulation and its organization in the immunological synapse (IS). Removal of CD80 cytoplasmic tail decreased its effectiveness in costimulating T cell proliferative response and early IL-2 production in response to agonist MHC-peptide complexes. Immunofluorescent study showed a decreased tailless CD80 accumulation in the IS of naive T cells. The two forms of CD80 accumulated differently at the IS; the tailless CD80 was colocalized with the TCR whereas the full-length CD80 was segregated from the TCR. In addition, we showed that CD80, CD28, and protein kinase Cθ colocalized in the presence or absence of the CD80 cytoplasmic tail. Thus, the cytoplasmic tail of CD80 regulates its spatial localization at the IS and that of its receptors and T cell signaling molecules such as protein kinase Cθ, and thereby facilitates full T cell activation.
Lines in the Sand: The Role of Motivated Categorization in the Pursuit of Self-Control Goals

This research explores goal-related categorization processes as part of a three-phase model encompassing both antecedents (goal selection) and consequences (purchase likelihood). In each phase, we identify conditions under which self-control goals (indulgence or restriction goals) and trait self-control may either correspond or conflict. Three experiments demonstrate that when no trait-goal conflict occurs, categorization patterns and purchase intentions are consistent with self-control tendencies. However, when conflicts exist between trait self-control and goals, individuals engage in motivated categorization or revert to behaviors consistent with trait self-control. Interestingly, results suggest that either conflict resolution mechanism may undermine the likelihood of goal attainment.
Modified PARMILA code for new accelerating structures

The PARMILA code was originally developed as a numerical tool to design and simulate the beam performance of the drift-tube linac (DTL). We have extended PARMILA to the design of both the coupled-cavity linac (CCL) and the coupled-cavity drift-tube linac (CCDTL). We describe the new design and simulation features associated with these linac structures and improvements to the code that facilitate a seamless linac design process.
Individual Differences in Cognitive Flexibility Predict Performance in Vigilance Tasks

‘Real-world’ vigilance tasks are difficult to perform because they require sustained and divided attention. The present study investigated whether individual differences in a person’s cognitive fle...
Further Results on Adaptive Robust Periodic Regulation

In this paper, we extend previous results for the linear output regulation problem with parameter-dependent periodic exosystems to higher relative degree minimum-phase plant models. By means of a dynamic extension and a global change of coordinates, the original system can be put in an error system such that an adaptive periodic internal model approach can be adopted. Moreover, the overall system can be put in a suitable form for which robust backstepping design is applicable. Persistence of excitation is not required for the applicability of the method. Simulation results illustrate the proposed methodology.
Nutrient Budgets and Management Actions in the Patuxent River Estuary, Maryland

Multi-year nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) budgets were developed for the Patuxent River estuary, a seasonally stratified and moderately eutrophic tributary of Chesapeake Bay. Major inputs (point, diffuse, septic, and direct atmospheric) were measured for 13 years during which, large reductions in P and then lesser reductions in N-loading occurred due to wastewater treatment plant improvements. Internal nutrient losses (denitrification and long-term burial of particulate N and P) were measured in tidal marshes and sub-tidal sediments throughout the estuary as were nutrient storage in the water column, sediments, and biota. Nutrient transport between the oligohaline and mesohaline zones and between the Patuxent and Chesapeake Bay was estimated using a salt and water balance model. Several major nutrient recycling terms were directly and indirectly evaluated and compared to new N and P inputs on seasonal and annual time-scales. Major findings included: (1) average terrestrial and atmospheric inputs of N and P were very close to the sum of internal losses plus export, suggesting that dominant processes are captured in these budgets; (2) both N and P export were a small fraction (13% and 28%, respectively) of inputs, about half of that expected for N based on water residence times, and almost all exported N and P were in organic forms; (3) the tidal marsh-oligohaline estuary, which by area com- prised ~27% of the full estuarine system, removed about 46% and 74% of total annual upland N and P inputs, respectively; (4) recycled N and P were much larger sources of inorganic nutrients than new inputs during warm seasons and were similar in magnitude even during cold seasons; (5) there was clear evidence that major estuarine processes responded rapidly to inter-annual nutrient input variations; (6) historical nutrient input data and nutrient budget data from drought periods indicated that diffuse nutrient sources were dominant and that N loads need to be reduced by about 50% to restore water quality conditions to pre-eutrophic levels.
Ethical integrity in managing drug shortages.

Consider the hypothetical case of two patients at a hospital who both need a drug that has just become in short supply. The pharmacy has enough for only one patient. Patient A’s physician is pressuring the pharmacy to make the product available to his “VIP patient.” One pharmacist in the
Determination of fetal acidemia at birth from a remote umbilical arterial blood gas analysis

Objective : Sampling of the umbilical artery for determination of acid-base status is performed within 60 minutes of birth, but this is not feasible in all hospitals on a 24-hour basis. A desirable alternative would be to perform the arterial cord blood gas analysis hours after the sample was obtained at delivery with reliable identification of whether the newborn was acidotic. Study Design : After 19 deliveries multiple umbilical arterial blood samples were withdrawn into five preheparinized syringes, and these were analyzed at 0.5, 15, 30, 45, and 60 hours after delivery. On the basis of observed changes in pH and base deficit over 60 hours, two separate regression equations were generated. These two equations permit calculation of the original pH and base deficit if the following are known: (1) the time interval from delivery to blood gas analysis and (2) the values of the remote pH and remote base deficit. The regression models were validated among 23 subsequent deliveries to assess how accurately they identified newborn acid-base status at birth. Results : The original pH and base deficit can be calculated with two separate equations from linear regression models if two variables are known: the results of the remote umbilical arterial blood gas analysis and time interval from delivery to analysis. Of 23 newborns during the validation phase of the study, 16 were not acidotic, one had respiratory acidosis, and six had metabolic acidosis. The second umbilical arterial blood gas analysis was performed at a mean (± SD) interval of 53.8 ± 41.5 hours (range 7.5 to 138 hours). The remote gas analysis inaccurately identified 68.7% (11/16) of nonacidotic newborns as being acidotic at birth. However, insertion of these data into these equations produced results with none of the newborns predicted to have normal acid-base when they were acidotic at birth or predicted to be acidotic when the cord pH was normal. Conclusions : Use of these mathematic models allows the clinician to perform an umbilical arterial blood pH analysis ≤ 60 hours after delivery yet with accurate estimation of true acid-base status at birth.
Nonprofits and Civic Engagement

There are approximately 1 million nonprofits large enough to register with the federal government. Add churches, foundations, and nonprofits too small to register and the number is more than twice that. For every new business that forms, more than two new nonprofits start up. The potential of nonprofits to engage their clients and members in community affairs and public policymaking is, in theory, enormous. Yet, perversely, nonprofits are regulated by the federal government in such a way so as to discourage the involvement of their followers in the public policymaking process. For example, grassroots campaigns designed to mobilize members or clients to communicate with legislators runs up against restrictions in the law on public charities and, consequently, are utilized by nonprofits only infrequently. This is a problem not simply because we social scientists think civic engagement is a good thing and being a couch potato is a bad thing, but because these regulatory standards sharply skew public participation. While middle and upper class individuals have many organizations that engage them and mobilize them, nonprofits are the only organizations that work on behalf of the poor, those without health insurance, immigrants, the disabled, and most other marginalized constituencies. Put more bluntly, federal law works against the participation of the most disadvantaged in society.
Nonprofit Management as a Semi-Profession:

A central question is pursued in this paper: What knowledge can sociology offer to assess the professionalization of nonprofit management? The question is answered from fieldwork done by the authors. Using criteria developed by scholars like Flexner, Greenwood, and other current researchers, the authors argue that nonprofit management has become an identifiable profession, but its professional status and prestige remain that of a semi-profession. Participant observation of one university-based program is utilized to explore the professional status of nonprofit management.
Relaciones sociales y sensación de conexidad. Usos de cibercafés, telecentros y bibliotecas en Colombia

Of all the benefits public access computers (PAC) offer users, one stands apart: stronger personal connections with friends and family. A closer look at the results of a qualitative study among users of libraries, telecenters, and cybercafes in Colombia, South America, shows that social media and personal relationships can also have an important community and sociopolitical dimension. By fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness to community and to a larger world, PAC usage often leads to feelings of empowerment and development of social capital, two intangible factors that are critical for community development. This study used a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys and interviews in five regions of the country, to uncover the benefits of PAC for underserved communities. Its findings contribute new insight about the impact of information and communication technologies (ICT) on community development and social inclusion.
Short to Medium Range Time Series Prediction of Solar Irradiance Using an Echo State Network

An Echo State Network (ESN) can make multi-step predictions since it can process temporal information without the training difficulties encountered by conventional recurrent neural networks. An ESN is applied in this paper to make multi- step predictions of solar irradiance, 30 minutes to 270 minutes into the future. The ESN is trained and tested using two performance metrics (correlation coefficient and mean squared error) on meteorological and solar data recorded at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory Solar Radiation Research Laboratory in Golden, Colorado. When feedback of target outputs is utilized, an improvement is seen for the first performance metric, while no significant change is seen for the second performance metric. Additionally, accuracy is observed to diminish significantly as the time horizon for the predictions increases.