cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Total Synthesis of the Neotropical Poison-Frog Alkaloid (−)-205B

A stereocontrolled total synthesis of the neotropical poison-frog alkaloid (−)-205B (1) has been achieved, employing a dithiane three-component linchpin coupling, a one-pot sequential construction of the embedded indolizidine ring, and ring-closing metathesis (RCM) to arrive at the novel 8b-azaacenaphthylene ring system comprising the alkaloid. The synthesis proceeded with a longest linear sequence of 19 steps, affording (−)-1 in 5.6% overall yield.
Adsorption Modeling of Polydimethylsiloxane on Silica:. Using Hexamethyldisiloxane as a Model Probe

Surface interactions play a most important part in the reinforcement of silicone elastomers, owing to the adsorption of the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) chain on the filler surface. The impact of the silylation of surface silanol groups on the surface structure and activity is of high technical interest. Hexamethyldisiloxane is an appropriate volatile probe to model the adsorption interactions of the PDMS polymer. In this study we investigated the static-volumetric gas adsorption of hexamethyldisiloxane on hydrophilic and silylated fumed silica, modified by dimethylsiloxy and trimethylsiloxy groups. The degree of silylation was controlled by the silanol content of the silica surface. Adsorption isotherms are discussed in terms of the adsorption energy and the heterogeneity of the active sites of adsorption.
Fractional Order Coulomb Friction Compensation: Convergence Analysis and Experimental Validation on a Fractional Horsepower Dynamometer

A new fractional order adaptive scheme is proposed for the Coulomb friction compensation in a servo control system. This adaptive compensator is designed such that it can estimate the unknown Coulomb friction coefficient; therefore, the zero convergence of the error system will be guaranteed. The design procedure of the proposed control scheme is very simple and its application is easy. Also, the friction in the servo control system is compensated by a good tracking performance. The comparison shows that the fractional order compensator has less tracking error and better response. A fractional horsepower dynamometer was developed as a general purpose hardware-in-the-loop real-time simulation platform to emulate Coulomb friction as a mechanical nonlinearity. The simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the proposed controller has a satisfactory performance and diminishes friction characteristics.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Composite/fundamental Higgs mesons (I). Dynamical speculations

Abstract We argue that a suitable technicolor model with a non-trivial ultraviolet fixed point may be equivalent to an asymptotically free effective technicolor (eTC) model with the same global symmetries. The eTC model may contain scalar mesons with the quantum numbers of the technifermion mass operators which can be interpreted as the Higgs mesons.
Rapid purification of β-glucuronidase from human liver by immunoaffinity chromatography employing specific murine monoclonal IgG binding to tresyl-activated agarose☆

Abstract We have developed a simple, rapid method for purification of β-glucuronidase from human liver in order to facilitate the study of its biochemical structure and pathophysiologic roles in both cholelithiasis and carcinogenesis. The procedure includes the following steps: (1) liver homogenization, (2) 25–45% saturated ammonium sulfate fractionation, (3) heat denaturation, and (4) immunoaffinity chromatography employing murine anti-human β-glucuronidase monoclonal IgG binding to tresyl-activated agarose. β-Glucuronidase constitutes 1.3 mg per 100 g of wet liver tissue. The enzyme can be purified with a 10% overall yield and overall purification of 5000-fold in a 2-day cycle on a fairly large scale by the method described. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis indicated minor contaminants in the final product which could be further purified by protein blotting.
A Nonlinear Functional Differential Equation in Banach Space with Applications to Materials with Fading Memory.

Abstract : The report studies a nonlinear functional differential equation in Banach space. This equation is an abstract form of the equations of motion for nonlinear materials with fading memory. Its basic structure is hyperbolic in character so that global smooth solutions should not be expected in general. Memory effects, however, may induce a dissipative mechanism which, although very subtle, is effective so long as the solution is small. The report shows that if the memory is dissipative in an appropriate sense, then the history value problem associated with our equation has a unique global smooth solution provided the initial history and forcing are suitably smooth and small. The proof combines a fixed point argument to establish local existence with a chain of global a priori 'energy-type' estimates. The abstract results are then applied to establish global existence of smooth solutions to certain history value problems associated with the motion of nonlinear materials with fading memory, under assumptions which are realistic within the framework of continuum mechanics.
Regulation of cell survival by HUNK mediates breast cancer resistance to HER2 inhibitors

Breast cancer patients who are HER2-positive receive targeted inhibitors to HER2, including trastuzumab and lapatinib. While patients benefit from the use of HER2 inhibitors, many fail therapy and almost all patients become resistant to treatment, indicating a critical need to prevent treatment failure. Several recent studies indicate that activation of autophagy contributes to trastuzumab and lapatinib resistance and demonstrate that impairing autophagy in breast cancer cells is therapeutically beneficial. Moreover, autophagy is mechanistically linked through signaling crosstalk to apoptotic pathways, where activation of one process impacts the other. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms that control these processes may uncover novel areas of therapeutic intervention to combat or prevent resistance in breast cancer. We previously characterized the protein kinase HUNK as a breast cancer-promoting factor in HER2/neu-induced mammary tumor models, in which HUNK supported the survival of HER2/neu-positive tumor cells, likely through the regulation of apoptosis. Because significant crosstalk exists between apoptotic and autophagy proteins, we now examine if HUNK is also able to regulate cell survival through modulation of autophagy using HER2 inhibitor sensitive and resistant breast cancer models. Furthermore, we investigate whether inhibiting HUNK impairs in vivo tumor growth that is initiated by HER2 inhibitor-resistant breast cancer cells. Our findings indicate that therapeutically targeting HUNK is a potential strategy for overcoming resistance and that resistant breast cancer cells maintain HUNK expression to drive tumorigenesis, an observation that is consistent with a pro-survival role for this kinase.
He Focal Plane Cyrstal Spectrometer for the HEAO-B Satellite

The very low flux from even the brightest (non-solar) X-ray source has discouraged the use of instruments with high spectral resolution because of their inevitably low sensitivity. Mission B of the High Energy Astronomy Observatory will provide the first opportunity for moderate and high resolution spectral studies of celestial X-ray sources with high sensitivity. The Focal Plane Crystal Spectrometer (FPCS) described here is the instrument with the highest spectral resolution. It is designed to allow detailed spectral studies of both point and extended celestial sources in the energy range 0.2-3.3 keV with resolutions of 50 to 1000.
Assessing blood pressure accuracy of an aneroid sphygmomanometer in a national survey environment.

Background The "gold standard" employed for obtaining blood pressure (BP) for all the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) has been the mercury sphygmomanometer (HgS). Because of environmental concerns, there is a need to explore an alternative to HgS. Methods We compared the accuracy of the Welch Allyn 767 wall aneroid sphygmomanometer (AnS) to the HgS in children and adults and by BP cuff sizes. Each participant had three BP measurements per device recorded sequentially. The order of the devices and observer were random. A total of 727 individuals participating in the NHANES participated in the study. Results The mean AnS readings were not statistically significantly different from those of the HgS with the exception of systolic BP (SBP) in aged 8-17 years (mean difference 1.10, s.d. 4.87). There were no statistically significantly different by BP cuff sizes. Agreement for the prevalence of hypertension (BP ≥140 systolic or diastolic ≥90 mm Hg) was above chance (κ = 0. 81; sensitivity = 81%; specificity = 98%) with AnS readings underestimating by 1.66% (18.33 vs. 20%, P > 0.05) compared to the HgS reading. Conclusions With the exception of SBP in ages 8-17 years, the AnS device readings were not significantly different from HgS readings by age or BP cuff sizes selection. Agreement for hypertension classification is good. An accurate and well-calibrated AnS could therefore provide an acceptable alternative to the use of a HgS in surveys, although with appropriate caution given the 81% sensitivity with regard to hypertension thresholds that was observed.
Statistical inference about the shape parameter of the exponential power distribution

After being proposed by Smith & Bain (1975), the exponential power distribution has been discussed by many authors. This paper proposes a simple exact statistical test for the shape parameter of an exponential power distribution, as well as an exact confidence interval for the same parameter. Necessary critical values of the test are given. The method provided in this paper can be used for type II censored data. Comparing this method to the existing approaches, this method requires less calculation or less tables, and is easier to use in practice.
Fenvalerate wash‐off from cotton plants by rainfall

Information on rainfall wash-off of foliar-applied pesticides is needed in developing mathematical models to predict the transport of pesticides to soil and in run-off from croplands. Fenvalerate [(RS)-α-cyano-3-phen-oxybenzyl (RS)-2-(4-chlorophenyl)-3-methylbutyrate] is used extensively for cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) insect control in the southern United States during July, August and September, which are months of high-intensity thunderstorms. Fenvalerate was washed from mature cotton plants by the use of a multiple-intensity rainfall simulator. Fenvalerate concentration in wash-off from plants was independent of rain intensity. When 25 mm of rain was applied at 7, 13, 26 and 51 mm h-1 just2 h after fenvalerate was applied at 0.224 kg ha-1, 38 (±10)% of the fenvalerate load on the plants was washed off. Fenvalerate concentrations in storm wash-off decreased with wash-off volume as hyperbolic functions. Rainfall amount affected the wash-off of fenvalerate from cotton to a greater extent than did rainfall intensity. This information greatly simplifies modelling the movement of fenvalerate from plant canopy to soil during natural storms.
Child Labor in Agriculture: Some New Developments to an Ancient Problem

Advocates for working children worldwide strive to eradicate the employment that minimizes a child's opportunities for education, good health and future potential. In agriculture, some promising developments in corporate social responsibility may generate partial solutions to child labor problems that have persisted for generations across world regions where food, fiber and fuel are produced. The purpose of this paper is to review these promising developments and propose recommendations in the context of a future of continued agricultural globalization and industrialization.
IRBIT: It Is Everywhere

IRBIT (IP3Rs binding protein released with IP3) is a protein originally identified by the Mikoshiba group as an inhibitor of IP3 receptors function. Subsequently it was found to have multiple functions and regulate the activity of diverse proteins, including regulation of HCO3− transporters to coordinate epithelial HCO3− secretion and to determine localization of the Fip1 subunit of the CPSF complex to regulate mRNA processing. This review highlights the remarkably divers functions of IRBIT that are likely only a fraction of all the potential functions of this protein.
Mapping fuels at the wildland-urban interface using colour ortho-images and LiDAR data

Fuel type mapping of the wildland-urban interface (WUI) in support of fire spread simulation modelling should include both natural and urban features. The objective of this study was to evaluate the utility of (1) Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) structural data, (2) ortho-image data and (3) a combination of both as input to an object-based classification approach for mapping fuels within two WUI areas in San Diego, California. A separability analysis was utilized to determine the surface topographical and spectral layers most influential for discriminating WUI fuels. An accuracy assessment revealed that the combination of LiDAR and ortho-image data inputs substantially increased classification accuracy by 20–30% and achieved overall accuracies > 80%. Results from the study provide knowledge on how reliable fuel types within the WUI can be mapped using high-resolution LiDAR and ortho-image data while presenting new insights into fuel type mapping.
In-Vehicle Networks: Attacks, Vulnerabilities, and Proposed Solutions

Vehicles made within the past years have gradually become more and more complex. As a result, the embedded computer systems that monitor and control these systems have also grown in size and complexity. Unfortunately, the technology that protects them from external attackers has not improved at a similar rate. In this paper we discuss the vulnerabilities of modern in-vehicle networks, focusing on the Controller Area Network (CAN) communications protocol as a primary attack vector. We discuss the vulnerabilities of CAN, the types of attacks that can be used against it, and some of the solutions that have been proposed to overcome these attacks.
Robotic locomotion of three generations of a family tree of dynamical systems. Part II: Impulsive control of gait patterns

The objective of this paper is to develop a simple active control scheme for the systems presented in a companion paper (Part I). These are the single mass, the baton, and the three-mass (one revolute joint, two links) systems. The three systems can generate a rich set of passive gaits such as hopping, tapping, and walking each including various gait modes. Yet, we have shown that none of these gait patterns are asymptotically stable except the passive walking. Our control objective is to generate asymptotically stable gait patterns by emulating contact based conditions of passive gaits via impulsive control for the three generations of the family. We consider an impulsive actuator located at all the point masses to actively emulate the contact based rules of passive gait patterns that we introduced in Part I. Consequently, a nonlinear impulsive controller is designed for the hybrid dynamics of our systems that can actively generate the passive gaits on arbitrary ground slope angles. Furthermore, the role of continuous control in the closed loop dynamics of the three-mass system is investigated. We show a combination of continuous and impulsive control can maintain a nonscuffing bipedal walking on arbitrary ground slope angles. Our results show that the controlled systems successfully generate active gaits without significant degradation in the energetic efficiencies of the equivalent passive systems.
RADON and DIRPOWER: projection software for 2-D Fourier power spectra

Abstract Two-dimensional (2-D) Fourier analysis provides a method for spatial analysis of rock fabrics in thin section. RADON and DIRPOWER are analytical aids designed to create projections of 2-D real-valued functions, including 2-D Fourier power spectra. RADON is used to create parallel projections, projecting the power spectrum towards a line oriented at any angle relative to the spectrum. It provides an “edge-on” view of the power spectrum. DIRPOWER is used to create a Mean Directional Power Spectrum (MDPS), a circular projection used to assess the direction and degree of orientation within rock fabrics.
Fat Preferences and Fat Consumption of 3- to 5-year-old Children are Related to Parental Adiposity

Abstract Objective To examine differences in preferences for high-fat foods, dietary fat intake, anthropometric measurements, and parental body mass index (BMI) among 3- to 5-year-old children. Design Children's fat intake was measured using 30-hour weighed food intake data from a standard menu. Children's fat preferences were assessed using a subset of foods from the standard menu. We obtained parents' BMI scores and children's anthropometric measurements including weight-for-stature, triceps, and subscapular skinfolds. Subjects Participants were children 3 to 5 years of age (n=18, 10 girls and 8 boys; mean [±standard deviation] age=52±1.9 months) who were without food allergies, food sensitivities, or chronic illness, and the childrens' parents (18 mothers and 16 fathers). Statistical analyses performed Correlational analyses and maximum likelihood contingency tables were used to examine children's fat preferences and fat intake, children's anthropometric measurements, and BMI scores of parents. Results Although all children were offered the same daily menu, children's dietary fat intakes ranged from 25% to 42%. Children indicating strong preferences for high-fat foods had high total fat intakes ( r =.54, P 2 =3.96, df =1, P r =.61; P r =.75, P 2 =10.68, df =1, P r =.67, P 2 =5.28, df =1, P Conclusions Offering children a nutritionally adequate diet is necessary but may not be sufficient to ensure dietary quality; children's food preferences are influential determinants of macronutrient intake. The association of children's fat preferences and intake with parental adiposity suggests that dietary influences may mediate familial patterns of adiposity. J Am Diet Assoc. 1995; 95:759-764.
Scaling laws and the prediction of bifurcations in systems modeling pattern formation

Abstract When the typical pattern size is used as a bifurcation parameter, partial differential equations modeling pattern formation possess a scaling law. We exploit this scaling law in the prediction of the complex bifurcation structure typically observed in such systems. The Kuramoto-Sivashinsky equation with periodic boundary conditions is used as an illustrative example.
Separation and identification of F2-isoprostane regioisomers and diastereomers by novel liquid chromatographic/mass spectrometric methods.

Isoprostanes are isomers of prostaglandins that are generated from free radical-initiated autoxidation of arachidonic acid. Quantification of F2-isoprostanes is regarded as the “gold standard” to assess oxidative stress in various human diseases. There are 32 possible racemic isoprostane isomers that exist as four sets of regioisomers. Each regioisomer is composed of eight diastereomers. We report liquid chromatographic/mass spectrometric methods to separate and identify F2-isoprostane stereoisomers. These methods have been applied to the analysis of F2-isoprostanes derived from tissues of rats exposed to an oxidative stress and are useful to assess the relative formation of various regioisomers and stereoisomers generated in vitro and in vivo. The delineation of the more abundant isomers formed will allow for studies to examine the biological relevance of selected compounds in vivo.
The effects of chronic morphine on the generalization of buprenorphine stimulus control: An assessment of kappa antagonist activity

Rats trained to discriminate the mixed mu agonist/kappa antagonist buprenorphine from its vehicle generalize buprenorphine control to morphine. Buprenorphine, however, does not generalize to MR2266. The generalization to morphine suggests that buprenorphine's mu agonist properties mediated in part its discriminative control. The failure to generalize to MR2266, a compound reported to block kappa-mediated effects, however, suggests that its kappa antagonist activity was not involved in its discriminative effects. The ability of buprenorphine's mu (but not kappa) activity to establish stimulus control may be a function of the overshadowing of the kappa properties of buprenorphine by its concurrent mu activity. To test this possibility, in the present experiment rats were chronically exposed to morphine prior to buprenorphine discrimination training. This procedure has been reported to result in tolerance to buprenorphine's mu agonist effects and a more pronounced display of its kappa antagonist properties. The rats were then tested for the generalization of buprenorphine control to morphine, MR2266, and pentobarbital. As expected, buprenorphine failed to generalize to the nonopioid pentobarbital. Although subjects were tolerant to morphine (as evidenced by reductions in morphine-induced behavioral effects and a rightward shift in the doses of morphine substituting for buprenorphine), buprenorphine still failed to generalize to MR2266. The failure of buprenorphine to generalize to MR2266 under conditions that should have allowed for the development of stimulus control by buprenorphine's kappa antagonist activity was discussed in terms of the general inability of kappa antagonist activity to support discrimination learning.
Effects of psychosocial and individual factors on physiological risk factors for upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders while typing

Psychosocial factors are hypothesized to contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) development, although previous research has been largely epidemiological or has focused primarily on the shoulders, back and neck. The objective of this study was to quantify the effects of mental workload and time pressure on perceived workload and physiological responses of the distal upper extremity. A total of 18 typists completed nine 5-min typing sessions representing three levels of time pressure and mental workload. Levels were manipulated by adjusting typing speed and by requiring participants to perform arithmetic tasks while typing. Outcomes were measured in muscle activation levels, wrist postures and movements, key strike force and subjective assessments of workload. In general, increased time pressure increased muscle activation, key strike force and wrist deviations; and increased mental workload increased key strike force. Mental workload and time pressure mediated physical risk factors during typing to increase WMSD risk for the distal upper extremity.
Effects of dielectric thickness on optical behavior and tunability of one-dimensional Ag/SiO₂ multilayered metamaterials.

We fabricated one-dimensional periodic multilayered metamaterial structures consisting of Ag and SiO2 alternating layers. Optical responses, such as transmission and absorption, are consistent well within finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulations. Angle dependent real and imaginary dielectric permittivity reflection spectra demonstrate their operational capability in the visible wavelength region. This multilayer metamaterial can be converted into a photonic crystal by manipulating the thickness of SiO2 and we demonstrate that proper filling of SiO2/Ag layers the operating wavelength can be tuned to higher wavelength region. However, absolute value of transmission reduces with increasing number of multilayer pairs due to metal absorption.
Study of the characteristics of the MPEG2 4:2:2 profile-application of MPEG2 in studio environment

We describe the MPEG2 4:2:2 Profile and present a study of its characteristics. The MPEG2 4:2:2 Profile provides a conformance point that addresses, among other applications, the needs of the professional studio and post-production environment, and that provides interoperability. The requirements of such an environment for compressed digital video together with a functional description of the 4:2:2 Profile are given. The 4:2:2 Profile provides a flexible compression solution that allows editability, supports a wide range of bit rates, and provides good to excellent quality in both an intra and interstudio environment. Our experiments show that the 4:2:2 Profile is very robust in a multigeneration environment, provides an efficient coding solution for transmission and storage, and provides transparency or near transparency in chroma keying operations. In addition, it compares favorably with existing digital compression standards, such as Motion-JPEG, and is superior to widely used analog technology.
Spontaneous Regression of Cardiomyopathy in a Patient with the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

Cardiac involvement is common in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and, when symptomatic, it portends a poor prognosis. We present a case of marked spontaneous regression of cardiomyopathy in a patient with AIDS. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of spontaneous recovery of ventricular function in an AIDS patient. (Chest 1991; 99:770–72)
Lyme disease: a multisystem infection that affects the nervous system.

Purpose of review This article will enable the reader to diagnose and treat nervous system Lyme disease appropriately. Recent findings Appropriately applied serologic testing has high positive and negative predictive values in nervous system Lyme disease. Oral antibiotics can be curative in most cases. Summary Infection with the tick-transmitted spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi causes Lyme disease, a disorder that involves the nervous system in about 15% of patients. Common manifestations include lymphocytic meningitis, cranial neuritis (particularly cranial nerve VII), painful radiculitis, other forms of mononeuropathy multiplex, and rarely CNS parenchymal involvement. Diagnosis is supported primarily by demonstration of anti-B. burgdorferi antibodies in serum. CSF examination can be informative in problematic cases with parenchymal CNS infection or to identify meningitis. However, oral antibiotics are probably effective in patients with meningitis and other forms of involvement, with the likely exception of parenchymal CNS infection.
Effects of cyclic nucleotides on the conformational states of the α core of the cyclic amp receptor protein

Abstract The α core gragment produced by limited proteolysis contains the cyclic AMP binding domain and the two buried sulfhydryl groups of the cyclic AMP receptor protein. The buried sulfhydryl groups of the α core react with 5,5′-dithio-bis(2-nitro-benzoic acid) after denaturation by 3 M urea or digestion with subtilisin. The rate of sulfhydryl modification in the presence of 3 M urea or subtilisin is markedly decreased in the presence of cyclic nucleotides which are proposed to tighten the conformation of the α core. Incubation of the α core in 3 M urea or dithionitrobenzoic acid does not affect cyclic AMP binding while dithionitrobenzoic acid plus 3 M urea inhibits cyclic AMP binding suggesting a role for the buried sulfhydryls in cyclic AMP binding or their proximity to the cyclic AMP binding domain of the α core. The data are consistent with a ligand-induced conformational change in the α region of the native cyclic AMP receptor protein that is required for DNA binding.
Angular momentum polarization in molecular collisions : Classical and quantum theory for measurements using resonance fluorescence

Inelastic or reactive collisions typically produce an anisotropic distribution of rotational angular momentum. An explicit and general treatment is given for the intensity and polarization of resonance fluorescence from molecules produced in such processes. Both classical and quantum results are expressed in terms of bipolar harmonics and state multipoles formed from linear combinations of density matrix elements. The treatment provides an inversion procedure for determining moments of the rotational angular momentum distribution ; twelve independent moments can be obtained. The combinations of angular momentum operators involved are even in eight of these moments and odd in four, with respect to reflection in a plane containing the initial and final relative velocity vectors. Measurements of the even moments require linearly polarized excitation and fluorescence, whereas measurements of the odd moments require circularly polarized excitation. The requisite experimental geometry and other practical aspect...
Combinatorial Therapy with Acetylation and Methylation Modifiers Attenuates Lung Vascular Hyperpermeability in Endotoxemia-Induced Mouse Inflammatory Lung Injury

Impairment of tissue fluid homeostasis and migration of inflammatory cells across the vascular endothelial barrier are crucial factors in the pathogenesis of acute lung injury (ALI). The goal for treatment of ALI is to target pathways that lead to profound dysregulation of the lung endothelial barrier. Although studies have shown that chemical epigenetic modifiers can limit lung inflammation in experimental ALI models, studies to date have not examined efficacy of a combination of DNA methyl transferase inhibitor 5-Aza 2-deoxycytidine and histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A (herein referred to as Aza+TSA) after endotoxemia-induced mouse lung injury. We tested the hypothesis that treatment with Aza+TSA after lipopolysaccharide induction of ALI through epigenetic modification of lung endothelial cells prevents inflammatory lung injury. Combinatorial treatment with Aza+TSA mitigated the increased endothelial permeability response after lipopolysaccharide challenge. In addition, we observed reduced lung inflammation and lung injury. Aza+TSA also significantly reduced mortality in the ALI model. The protection was ascribed to inhibition of the eNOS-Cav1-MLC2 signaling pathway and enhanced acetylation of histone markers on the vascular endothelial-cadherin promoter. In summary, these data show for the first time the efficacy of combinatorial Aza+TSA therapy in preventing ALI in lipopolysaccharide-induced endotoxemia and raise the possibility of an essential role of DNA methyl transferase and histone deacetylase in the mechanism of ALI.
The Influence of Intimacy Rituals and Biological Sex on Relational Quality and Intimacy Among Dating Couples

Do intimacy rituals affect perceptions of relational intimacy and relational quality? This study examined the effect of self-reported use of intimacy rituals and biological sex on perceived relational intimacy and perceived relational quality. Perceived use of intimacy rituals was positively related to perceived relational quality. However, perceived use of intimacy rituals did not influence perceived relational intimacy. In addition, women perceived significantly higher levels of relational intimacy, as well as significantly more relational quality, than did men.
Use of annulus washer after debridement: A new mitral valve replacement technique for patients with severe mitral annular calcification

Extreme calcification of the mitral annulus (MAC) is a formidable challenge during mitral valve surgery, with the risk of serious and potentially fatal complications such as stroke, atrioventricular disruption, ventricular rup- ture, valve dehiscence, and periprosthetic leakage. 1 A vari- ety of surgical techniques have been developed that vary from avoiding or minimizing any decalcification 2 to exten- sive radical removal of the calcium bar followed by recon- struction of the atrioventricular annulus. 3-5 We describe our experience with an intermediate approach that involves limited debridement of the calcified annulus, allowing implantation of a good-sized prosthesis using a felt washer, sandwiched between the annulus and prosthesis, as a support. aortic calcification), and normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass were used in all patients. The mitral valve is approached transeptally. First the severity of the dis- ease and valvular dysfunction is reevaluated to finalize the surgical plan. This includes sizing the valve opening and estimating the debridement necessary to implant a good-sized valve. Exposure is optimized with a low threshold to extend the atrial septal incision to the dome of the left atrium and add a proximal aortotomy. The anterior leaflet is preserved and transposed posteriorly to support the annulus, and when doable, the posterior leaflet is released and also salvaged for support. Debridement is performed carefully piece by piece by rongeur, often using a dual ap- proach from the left atrium and aortic root. Great care is taken to avoid transmural defects in the atrioventricular groove or deep defects in the pos- terior wall muscle. Size and shape of the mitral opening are repeatedly reevaluated until it is deemed possible to place sutures and implant a pros- thesis of good size. In some cases this requires extensive debridement. The valve sutures are placed through or around the residual calcium and annu- lus, with pledgets on the ventricular side (Figure 1, A). Working through the aortotomy often allows better placement of valve sutures in the region of the central fibrous body. A 1- to 1.5-cm wide (1/2 inch) PTFE felt washer is inserted in between the annulus and sewing ring of the prosthesis from trigone to trigone posteriorly (Figure 1, B). The valve and the washer are tied down. The washer is then sutured to the atrial wall with a second suture line using running No. 4-0 polypropylene (Figure 1, C). Generous irrigation is performed repeatedly to clear the heart of loose pieces of calcium.
Cohomology of biquotients

Biquotients are non-homogeneous quotient spaces of Lie groups. Using the Serre spectral sequence and the method of Borel, we compute the cohomology algebra of these spaces in cases where the Lie group cohomology is not too complicated. Among these are the biquotients which are known to carry a metric of positive curvature.
Dimensions of Behavior in Children with Speech and Language Disorders.

The behavioral symptoms of a population of children with speech and language disorders (with a mean age of approximately 6 years) were studied with a teacher and a parent questionnaire. A factor analysis produced similar factors for both questionnaires: Hyperactivity-Conduct, Affect, and Language. An Asocial factor was also found with the teacher questionnaire. The factors of this study were in good agreement with the general factors of “Aggression” and “Withdrawal” found in other quantitative studies. Mean factor score profiles were reported for this unique population of children.
The endorsement of myths about marriage as a function of gender, age, religious denomination, and educational level

This research note describes four student myths about the importance of taking a marital and family communication course. Second, the assessment of student beliefs about marriage were examined using Larson's (1988) Marriage Quiz. Results revealed individual differences in endorsing myths as a function of gender, age, religious denomination, and previous exposure to courses in interpersonal communication. The findings indicate that courses in marital communication can debunk selected stereotypes about marriage.
Electrostatic screening of charge and dipole interactions with the helix backbone

Electrostatic interactions in proteins are potentially quite strong, but these interactions are mitigated by the screening effects of water, ions, and nearby protein atoms. The early work of Kirkwood and Westheimer on small organic molecules showed that the extent of the screening may depend on whether charged or dipolar groups are involved. The dielectric and ionic screening of the interactions between the dipolar backbone amide groups of monomeric alpha helices and either (i) solvent-exposed charges or (ii) solvent-exposed dipoles at the amino terminus was measured. The dielectric screening effects are an order of magnitude greater for the backbone-charge interactions than for the backbone-dipole interactions, and the ionic strength dependence is substantially different in the two cases. These results suggest that interactions that involve the dipolar groups of proteins may be relatively more important for stability and function than is generally thought.
Application of GOSSYM to analysis of the effects of weather on cotton yields

Abstract Cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.) yields have declined since 1964 despite improvements in technology and introductions of higher-yielding cultivars. Cotton scientists have been unable to identify exact causes for the yield decline. As part of the effort to examine possible causes for the cotton yield decline, the cotton crop simulation model, GOSSYM, was used to analyze long term effects of weather on cotton yield trends. Weather, soil, and cultural input data recorded at five locations for over 20 years were acquired for this study. Simulations were completed for crops grown at the cotton breeders' variety trial locations at Florence, SC; Stoneville, MS; College Station, TX; Phoenix, AZ; and Fresno, CA. The weather factors were analyzed for each of the five locations to determine if there was a significant trend which could account for the yield decline. The results of the simulation analysis showed that, although weather varied greatly among years and caused large yearly fluctuation in yield, the weather effect on lint yield trends was neutral across the entire US cotton belt. Observed and simulated yields using weather variables agreed reasonably for each of the locations studied, and any discrepancies between observed and simulated yields appeared to be caused by other factors.
Effect of minerals on the incidence of leg abnormalities in growing broliler chicks

Abstract Experiments were conducted to determine the effect of the mineral content of the diet on the incidence of varus deformation and dyschondroplasia in broiler chicks grown to 3 weeks of age. Blood samples were analyzed for pH, pCO 2 , bicarbonate and base excess. Experiment 1 had a 2×3 factoral arrangement of treatments with. 25 or .50% available phosphorus and .60, .90 or 1.20% calcium. Experiment 2 employed a 2×2×2 factoral treatment arrangement with .40 or .80% available phosphorus, .60 or 1.20% calcium and 0 or .36% added magnesium. In Experiment 1, increasing the phosphorus content of the diet decreased (P
EFFECT OF INTENSITY AND WAVELENGTH OF FLUORESCENT LIGHT ON CHROMOSOME DAMAGE IN CULTURED MOUSE CELLS

—A single 3- to 20-hr exposure of line NCTC 9266 mouse cells to cool-white fluorescent light (4.6 W/m2) produces chromatid breaks and exchanges. The effective wavelength is in the visible range and coincides with the mercury emission peak at 405 nm. Increasing light intensity from 4.6 W to 15.3 W/m2 for 20 h causes a concomitant increase both in production of chromosome damage and formation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the serum-free medium. Cells washed free of medium and illuminated in saline for 3 h show chromosome damage to the same extent as cells illuminated in culture medium. Addition of catalase during the exposure period of 3 h eliminates the light-induced damage. We conclude that the light-induced chromatid breaks and exchanges result from H2O2 production within the cell and that exogenous catalase can enter the cell and prevent the damage.
SPECIFIC INHIBITION OF ANTIBODY FORMATION BY PASSIVELY ADMINISTERED 19S AND 7S ANTIBODY.

Intravenously administered 7S antibody is more effective than 19S antibody in inhibiting the formation of antibody to bacteriophage ϕX174. Since considerable amounts of 7S antibody are needed for inhibition, serum antibody formation may act as a "feedback" mechanism to prevent hyperimmunization.
Antioxidants, programmed cell death, and cancer

Understanding the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in apoptosis opens new approaches for controlling cancer growth, and suggests that patients with cancer may not always want to ingest extra antioxidants. Many epidemiological studies suggest that increased intake of fruits and vegetables, and of other foods that contain antioxidants can protect against the DNA damage that can initiate carcinogenesis. However, recent data indicates that cells use reactive oxygen species as part of the signaling process responsible for activating an important mechanism for eliminating cancer cells, programmed cell death (also called apoptosis). Many anti-cancer agents depend on this form of cell death for their efficacy. In this review we present an overview of the role of ROS in carcinogenesis and in apoptosis, and we raise questions about the proper dietary recommendations for individuals with cancer.
The origins of Andean irrigation

BETWEEN AD 530 and the early 1500s, the people of the Andes built complex systems of irrigation, aqueducts and raised fields in the tropical mountains of present-day Bolivia, Ecuador and Peru. Their accomplishments supplied crops and the economic and symbolic bases of power for some of the world's most notable early civilizations, including the Empires of the Tiwanaku (∼AD 100–1000) and Inka (∼AD 1400–1532), as well as smaller chiefdoms1–6. But there has been no direct evidence of extensive irrigation, the most common water control, before about AD 1000. Here we demonstrate, by studies of sedimentology and geomorphology near Tarata village in the Bolivian Andes, that an extensive and integrated system of flood water and canal irrigation was in use at about AD 719 and that it functioned as early as 3,500 years before present (BP). A modern-day equivalent continued in use until 1993. The findings at Tarata give a detailed example of early irrigation that would have enabled the development of water control by Andean civilizations in highland settlements above 2,000 m.
A general light trapping theory for grating structures

We use a rigorous electromagnetic approach to analyze the fundamental limit of light-trapping enhancement in grating structures. This limit can exceed the bulk limit of 4n2, but has significant angular dependency. We explicitly show that 2D gratings provide more enhancement than 1D gratings. We also show the effects of the grating profile's symmetry on the absorption enhancement limit. Our findings provide general guidance for the design of grating structures for light-trapping solar.
Intertemporal substitution and λ-constant comparative statics

Abstract This paper characterizes intertemporal substitution along intertemporal consumption profiles. A precise definition of the intertemporal elasticity of substitution is presented and compared to intertemporal analogs of the Hicks-Allen and direct elasticities of substitution, and the marginal-utility-of-wealth or λ-) constant own-price elasticity of demand. In a model with perfect foresight, I establish that λ-constant comparative statics accurately characterizes intertemporal substitution if and only if lifetime utility is intertemporally additive. I also demonstrate the usefulness of λ-constant comparative statics in characterizing intertemporal substitution in models without time separability or perfect foresight.
Learning letter names and sounds: effects of instruction, letter type, and phonological processing skill.

Abstract Preschool-age children ( N = 58) were randomly assigned to receive instruction in letter names and sounds, letter sounds only, or numbers (control). Multilevel modeling was used to examine letter name and sound learning as a function of instructional condition and characteristics of both letters and children. Specifically, learning was examined in light of letter name structure, whether letter names included cues to their respective sounds, and children’s phonological processing skills. Consistent with past research, children receiving letter name and sound instruction were most likely to learn the sounds of letters whose names included cues to their sounds regardless of phonological processing skills. Only children with higher phonological skills showed a similar effect in the control condition. Practical implications are discussed.
Evaluation of a K-8 LEGO robotics program

In this paper we describe the evaluation results from an annual LEGO robotics competition for students in elementary and middle schools held at Lubbock, Texas, that aims at increasing interest in science, technology, engineering, and math. In a before-after questionnaire we collected information on participants' attitudes toward the scientific method of investigation, robotics in general and LEGO robotics in particular, and problem solving in groups. We also collected demographic data of the participants to see in how far our program is able to attract females, minorities, and socio-economically disadvantaged students.
Performance and implementation aspects of higher order head-of-line blocking switch boxes

Nonuniform traffic can degrade the overall performance of multistage interconnection networks substantially. This performance degradation was traced back to higher order head-of-line blocking (higher order HOL-blocking) effects within the network in the literature. This paper further elaborates on higher order HOL-blocking networks, on their performance under nonuniform traffic patterns, and on methods on how to efficiently implement switch boxes to construct higher order HOL-blocking networks. An analytical upper bound of the achievable network bandwidth under nonuniform traffic patterns is derived and compared to simulation results. Furthermore, it is discussed how central memory buffered switch boxes can be efficiently changed into higher order HOL-blocking switch boxes through only minor changes in the switch box control path. With those switch boxes, high network performance under nonuniform traffic patterns can be achieved with regular hardware effort.
Smart Phone: Predicting the Next Call

Prediction of incoming calls can be useful in many applications such as social networks, (personal, business) calendar and avoiding voice spam. Predicting incoming calls using just the context is a challenging task. We believe that this is a new area of research in context-aware ambient intelligence. In this paper, we propose a call prediction scheme and investigate prediction based on callers’ behavior and history. We present Holt-Winters method to predict calls from frequent and periodic callers. The Holt-Winters method shows high accuracy. Prediction and efficient scheduling of calls can improve the security, productivity and ultimately the quality of life.
Encouraging participatory musicianship among university students

This study examined the musical lives of 86 high ability non-music students in their first semester of study at an American university. The primary data collection occurred over 3 months as participants completed an individualized performance project outside of class. Results indicate that participants drew heavily on their past musical experiences in order to complete the project. They sought support from new peers, created personalized strategies, and harnessed their self-identity as achievers to become ultimately successful. Participants articulated their desire to seek approval from friends and family members as a way to resolve past experiences. For many, the project served to re-engage them with experiences of music-making, and present possibilities for future involvement. The results prompt a discussion of whether lifelong musical participation may depend on a different type of musical identity development than traditionally offered in schools.