cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Seasonal rhythms of net primary production and particulate organic carbon flux to depth describe the efficiency of biological pump in the global ocean

[1] We investigate the functioning of the ocean’s biological pump by analyzing the vertical transfer efficiency of particulate organic carbon (POC). Data evaluated include globally distributed time series of sediment trap POC flux, and remotely sensed estimates of net primary production (NPP) and sea surface temperature (SST). Mathematical techniques are developed to compare these temporally discordant time series using NPP and POC flux climatologies. The seasonal variation of NPP is mapped and shows regional- and basin-scale biogeographic patterns reflecting solar, climatic, and oceanographic controls. Patterns of flux are similar, with more high-frequency variability and a subtropical-subpolar pattern of maximum flux delayed by about 5 days per degree latitude increase, coherent across multiple sediment trap time series. Seasonal production-to-flux analyses indicate during intervals of bloom production, the sinking fraction of NPP is typically half that of other seasons. This globally synchronous pattern may result from seasonally varying biodegradability or multiseasonal retention of POC. The relationship between NPP variability and flux variability reverses with latitude, and may reflect dominance by the large-amplitude seasonal NPP signal at higher latitudes. We construct algorithms describing labile and refractory flux components as a function of remotely sensed NPP rates, NPP variability, and SST, which predict POC flux with accuracies greater than equations typically employed by global climate models. Globally mapped predictions of POC export, flux to depth, and sedimentation are supplied. Results indicate improved ocean carbon cycle forecasts may be obtained by combining satellite-based observations and more mechanistic representations taking into account factors such as mineral ballasting and ecosystem structure.
Three-dimensional asymptotic stress field in the vicinity of the circumference of a bimaterial penny-shaped interfacial discontinuity

An eigenfunction expansion method is presented to obtain three-dimensional asymptotic stress fields in the vicinity of the circumference of a bimaterial penny-shaped interfacial discontinuity, e.g., crack, anticrack (infinitely rigid lamella), etc., located at the center, edge or corner, and subjected to the far-field torsion (mode III), extension/bending (mode I), and sliding shear/twisting (mode II) loadings. Five different discontinuity-surface boundary conditions are considered: (1) bimaterial penny-shaped interface anticrack or perfectly bonded thin rigid inclusion, (2) bimaterial penny-shaped interfacial jammed contact, (3) bimaterial penny-shaped interface crack, (4) bimaterial penny-shaped interface crack with partial axisymmetric frictionless slip, and (5) bimaterial penny-shaped interface thin rigid inclusion alongside penny-shaped crack. Solutions to these cases except (3) are hitherto unavailable in the literature. Closed-form expressions for stress intensity factors subjected to various far-field loadings are also presented. Numerical results presented include the effect of the ratio of the shear moduli of the layer materials, and also Poisson’s ratios on the computed lowest real parts of eigenvalues for the case (5). Interesting and physically meaningful conclusions are also presented, especially with regard to cases (1) and (2).
Voltage-Gated Channels Block Nicotinic Regulation of CREB Phosphorylation and Gene Expression in Neurons

Synaptic activation of the transcription factor CREB and downstream gene expression usually depend on calcium influx aided by voltage-gated calcium channels. We find that nicotinic signaling, in contrast, activates CREB and gene expression in ciliary ganglion neurons both in culture and in situ only if voltage-gated channels are silent. The nicotinic response requires calcium influx and release from internal stores and acts through CaMK and MAPK pathways to sustain activated CREB. Voltage-gated channels mobilize CaMK to activate CREB initially, but they also enable calcineurin and PP1 to terminate the activation before transcription is affected. L-type voltage-gated channels dominate the outcome and block the effects of nicotinic signaling on transcription. This demonstrates a novel aspect of activity-dependent gene regulation.
Nonlinear Free-Surface and Viscous-Internal Sloshing in 2-D Numerical Wave Tanks

This paper examines free-surface and internal-pycnocline sloshing motions in 2-D numerical wave tanks subjected to horizontal base excitation. In all of the cases studied, the rectangular tank of liquid has a width-to-depth ratio of 2. The first set of results are based on an inviscid, fully nonlinear finite difference free-surface model. The model equations are mapped from the physical domain onto a rectangular domain. Case studies at and off resonance are presented illustrating when linear theory is inadequate. The next set of results are concerned with analyzing internal waves induced by sloshing a density-stratified liquid. Nonlinear, viscous flow equations are solved. The influence of the side-wall boundary layers on sloshing motions as well as the onset of internal breaking of the primary sloshing mode are discussed. The frequencies that characterize the motion of internal waves are also reported.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Flowering induction of Guzmania by ethylene

Abstract Ethylene exposure time required to induce flowering of Guzmania lingulata Mez. ‘Anita’ was investigated by exposing plants to ethylene at 100 μl l −1 for 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, or 24 h. Plants were also exposed to ethylene-free air for the same lengths of time. Plants exposed to ethylene for 4 h did not flower, but exposure for 6 h or longer resulted in 100% flowering. Suppression of endogenous ethylene synthesis by aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) resulted in a longer exposure time of 20 h being required to obtain 100% flowering. This result suggests that endogenous ethylene production contributes substantially to floral induction. Ethylene treatment on a single young leaf induced flowering as well. Application of a protein synthesis inhibitor, cycloheximide, prevented flowering induced by ethylene, indicating that activation of ethylene responsive genes is followed by synthesis of new proteins involved in flowering.
Before "the Sacred" Became Theological: Rereading the Durkheimian Legacy

Critics have objected that the concept of the sacred as used in Eliadean phenomenology of religion is too theological and ontological to be appropriate for modern religious studies.2 They claim that the expression, "the sacred," refers either implicitly or explicitly to an a priori religious reality—to an object that is transcendent, mysterious, wholly other, unknowable, and which therefore is not ultimately an object for analysis. Thus the linchpin concept that once defined, unified, and inspired the history of religions field—that to some extent gave it a reason for existing—appears now to divide it into opposing camps. On the surface, the division seems to have something to do with those who would imply some religious privilege for "the sacred" and those who would like to abandon the term and its overtones.
Microbiologic efficacy of moxifloxacin for the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia due to Chlamydia pneumoniae

Abstract Nasopharyngeal specimens for culture of Chlamydia pneumoniae were obtained from patients participating in two pneumonia treatment studies: an open study of 400 mg moxifloxacin orally, qds for 10 days and a randomized, double-blind comparison of moxifloxacin, 400 mg orally, qds versus clarithromycin, 500 mg orally, bd, both for 10 days. C. pneumoniae was eradicated from the nasopharynx of seven of ten (70%) microbiologically evaluable patients who were treated with moxifloxacin and four of four who were treated with clarithromycin. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) of 21 isolates of C. pneumoniae from 18 patients obtained before and after therapy were performed against moxifloxacin and clarithromycin. The MIC 90 s and MBC 90 s for moxifloxacin and clarithromycin were 1 and 0.06 mg/l, respectively. The MICs and MBCs against moxifloxacin of six isolates from three persistently infected patients who were treated with the drug were the same at baseline and follow-up. The persistence of C. pneumoniae after treatment with moxifloxacin was probably not due to the emergence of resistance.
Separation of chloroplast leaf pigments by thin-layer chromatographer on cellulose sheets

Abstract Leaf pigments and saponified leaf pigments were separated by one-dimensional, two-dimensional and radial chromatography on Eastman Chromagram Cellulose sheets. Comparisons with Whatman No. 1 paper and conventional cellulose thin layers on glass plates show the Chromagram sheets to be superior in many systems. Comparative results in sandwich tanks and with columns of cellulose are also presented. The major pigments in leaves were found to be chlorophylls a and b , neoxanthin, violaxanthin, lutein and β-carotene.
Granisetron Transdermal System Improves Refractory Nausea and Vomiting in Gastroparesis

Symptoms of gastroparesis include nausea and vomiting, which can markedly diminish quality of life. Nausea and vomiting can also make treatment with oral antiemetics problematic. Our aim was to determine whether treatment-resistant nausea and vomiting in patients with gastroparesis improve after granisetron transdermal patch (GTP) therapy. In an open-label pilot study, patients with gastroparesis and symptoms of nausea and vomiting refractory to conventional treatment were treated with GTP. After 2 weeks, patients were asked to assess their therapeutic response using the Clinical Patient Grading Assessment Scale (CPGAS; +7 = completely better; 0 = no change; −7 = very considerably worse). Responders were defined as CPGAS score >0, non-responders as ≤0. Patients (n = 36) were treated with GTP. Of these 36 patients, one patient discontinued treatment due to the GTP not adhering to the skin. Of the remaining 35 patients, 18 improved, 15 remained the same, and two worsened. The average CPGAS score was +1.8 ± 0.4 (SEM) (P < 0.05 vs 0). Of the 18 patients with improvement, the average CPGAS score was +3.7 ± 0.3 (SEM), corresponding to “somewhat” to “moderately better” improvement in nausea/vomiting. Side effects occurred in nine patients: four developed constipation, three patients had skin rash, and two reported headaches. GTP was moderately effective in reducing refractory symptoms of nausea and/or vomiting from gastroparesis in 50 % of patients. Mild side effects were reported by 25 % of patients. GTP may be an effective treatment for nausea and vomiting in gastroparesis, and further study is warranted.
Applied Economics—Without Apology

To apply or not to apply economics?that is the question? Hardly. Applied economics, or at least what is operatively accepted as applied economics by journal reviewers and editors and practiced by economists in the profession, is pervasive in the top economics journals, outright dominant in journals de voted to the various variants of agricultural economics, and ubiquitous in the professional output of industry, government, and non government organization (NGO) economists, Extension faculty, and an ever-increasing ma jority of research/teaching faculty at public and private universities. A number of de partments, formerly known as Agricultural Economics Departments (or some closely re lated derivative), have adopted Applied Eco nomics as part or all of their department's name (e.g., U. of Minnesota, U. of Georgia, Cornell, Clemson, U. of Wisconsin, Virginia Tech, Texas Tech, North Dakota State U, U. of Wyoming, Utah State U, U. of Ver mont, and North Carolina A&T University). Journals abound that embed the term Ap plied Economics in their titles (e.g., Journal of Applied Economics, Journal of Agricultural and Applied Economics, Applied Economics (AEA), Applied Economics (Routledge), Ap plied Economics Letters, Applied Economic Perspectives and Policy, and Review of Applied Economics). Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Applied Economics abound (as a Google search for such programs will attest), and there are even PhD degrees being granted in Ap plied (as distinct from General) Economics. There are also now explicit rankings of Ap plied Economics departments that are distinct from rankings of General Economics depart ments and which include a number of the for
Evidence for an inhibitory product-cytochrome P-450 complex generated during benzphetamine metabolism by liver microsomes.

Abstract Spectrophotometric observations of hepatic microsomal pigments during the aerobic metabolism of dl-benzphetamine have revealed the appearance of a spectral species presumed to be associated with the generation of a product · cytochrome P-450 complex. This spectral species exhibits an absorption band maximum at 456 nm in the difference spectrum. The velocity and extent of formation of this absorption band are maximal using limiting concentrations of dl-benzphetamine in the reaction mixture and its development is suppressed in the presence of an excess of a second hydroxylatable substrate. The generation of this presumed enzyme · product complex modifies the carbon monoxide difference spectrum of reduced cytochrome P-450 and efficiently decreases the subsequent oxidation of other drug substrates. The implication of these studies to possible side effects observed during multiple drug therapy is discussed.
Transforming Growth Factor-β Stimulates Parathyroid Hormone-related Protein and Osteolytic Metastases via Smad and Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathways *

Transforming growth factor (TGF)-β promotes breast cancer metastasis to bone. To determine whether the osteolytic factor parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) is the primary mediator of the tumor response to TGF-β, mice were inoculated with MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells expressing a constitutively active TGF-β type I receptor. Treatment of the mice with a PTHrP-neutralizing antibody greatly decreased osteolytic bone metastases. There were fewer osteoclasts and significantly decreased tumor area in the antibody-treated mice. TGF-β can signal through both Smad and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase pathways. Stable transfection of wild-type Smad2, Smad3, or Smad4 increased TGF-β-stimulated PTHrP secretion, whereas dominant-negative Smad2, Smad3, or Smad4 only partially reduced TGF-β-stimulated PTHrP secretion. When the cells were treated with a variety of protein kinases inhibitors, only specific inhibitors of the p38 MAP kinase pathway significantly reduced both basal and TGF-β-stimulated PTHrP production. The combination of Smad dominant-negative blockade and p38 MAP kinase inhibition resulted in complete inhibition of TGF-β-stimulated PTHrP production. Furthermore, TGF-β treatment of MDA-MB-231 cells resulted in a rapid phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase. Thus, the p38 MAP kinase pathway appears to be a major component of Smad-independent signaling by TGF-β and may provide a new molecular target for anti-osteolytic therapy.
An unusual class of PITX2 mutations in Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Mutations in the PITX2 homeobox gene are known to contribute to Axenfeld-Rieger syndrome (ARS), an autosomal-dominant developmental disorder. Although most mutations are in the homeodomain and result in a loss of function, there is a growing subset in the C-terminal domain that has not yet been characterized. These mutations are of particular interest because the C-terminus has both inhibitory and stimulatory activities. METHODS: In this study we used a combination of in vitro DNA binding and transfection reporter assays to investigate the fundamental issue of whether C-terminal mutations result in gain or loss of function at a cellular level. RESULTS: We report a new frameshift mutation in the PITX2 allele that predicts a truncated protein lacking most of the C-terminal domain (D122FS). This newly reported mutant and another ARS C-terminal mutant (W133Stop) both have greater binding than wild-type to the bicoid element. Of interest, the mutants yielded ! 5-fold greater activation of the prolactin promoter in CHO cells, even though the truncated proteins were expressed at lower levels than the wild-type protein. The truncated proteins also had greater than wild-type activity in 2 other cell lines, including the LS8 oral epithelial line that expresses the endogenous Pitx2 gene. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that the PITX2 C-terminal domain has inhibitory activity and support the notion that ARS may also be caused by gain-of-function mutations. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 76:175‐181, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Shouldering the Burdens of Locomotion and Posture: Glenohumeral Joint Structure in Prosimians

Despite its importance in movement of the upper limb, the soft-tissue morphology of the shoulder joint complex (the acromioclavicular, coracoclavicular, and glenohumeral joints) across primates is poorly understood. This study compares soft-tissue morphology of these three shoulder joint components among broad phylogenetic, locomotor, and postural behavior ranges in prosimian primates. Two adult specimens of Galago moholi (a vertical clinger and leaper) were dissected for study, along with one adult each of Cheirogaleus medius (an arboreal quadruped), Eulemur macaco (an arboreal quadruped that also frequently engages in suspensory behavior), and Tarsius syrichta (a vertical clinger and leaper). Because of their role in glenohumeral joint movement and stabilization, the rotator cuff muscles were also dissected and weighed among the species. Results showed that muscle mass of individual components of the rotator cuff musculature may be adaptive to locomotor and postural behaviors of the taxa in this study. Two soft-tissue components of the glenohumeral joint, but not the acromioclavicular and coracoclavicular joints, were also considered adaptive. The quadrupedal species, C. medius and E. macaco, both had glenohumeral ligaments and E. macaco had a relatively deeper glenoid articular surface for the humerus because of the shape of the glenoid labrum. Additionally, this study noted a lack of a teres minor muscle in G. moholi, C. medius, and E. macaco despite previous studies describing them. A relatively robust teres minor muscle was found in T. syrichta. Even with the limited sample dissected here, these results suggest that soft-tissue joint morphology itself may be as adaptive to locomotory and postural styles as osseous morphology.
Towards a postmodern ethics: Sir Isaiah Berlin and John Caputo

It may seem to their opponents that they are trying to have their cake and eat it too. Postmodernists admit that their own paradigm must be and will be placed into question by future thinkers. But if they can anticipate an eventual reaffirmation of their paradoxical stand in an ongoing oscillating debate, then cannot it be said that they have arrived at a truth that transcends their time and place in history? And, if so, is not their fallibilist stance in fact self-referentially inconsistent? The response of postmodernists is the claim that each reaffirmation of a fallibilist epistemology and ethics throughout history is in fact sui generis. And this is the case because each reaffirmation has its own unique context within which it is made. Modernists will of course argue that these contextual differences are nonessential and irrelevant. And the debate over the problem of the One and the Many is once again launched in a new context. Thus far from running away from the paradoxical position that what they assert is both true and false, postmodernists revel in such inconsistencies. But does not such an ethical stance resemble the Sisyphean nightmare of being condemned to roll a heavy stone up a cliff only to have it keep falling back to the bottom ad infinitum? If no decision is innocent of doing some harm in the world, why should we bother to play the moral game at all? Indeed, what possible help is a postmodernist ethics when it comes to making some of the complex and crucial decisions we face today if it refuses to say anything substantial beyond the recommendations that we be cautious and balanced? And the postmodernist can only reply that we are letting our neurotic need for solid foundations frighten us. For ethics is an art not a science. There are no absolute rules. If we do not like the way the game is set up, then we are simply revealing our ultimate hubris in the face of a mystery requiring deep humility.
A Critical Analysis of Approaches to the Development of Preventive Interventions for Subcultural Groups

The ultimate success of preventive interventions relies on their ability to engage and influence the growing presence of subcultural groups. To encourage and guide the development of effective preventive intervention for subcultural groups, four approaches are described, illustrated, and critiqued with respect to their considerations of cultural fit, reach, efficacy and adoption. Those approaches are (a) the prevention research cycle, (b) cultural adaptations of evidence-based interventions, (c) investigator-initiated culturally-grounded approaches, and (d) community-initiated indigenous approaches. Special attention is given to recent advances in the specification of stages in the cultural adaptation of interventions. The paper closes with some conclusions and topics in need of greater attention.
Fichte on Faith and Autonomy

J. G. Fichte (1762–1814) articulates and defends a conception of autonomy as rational self-identification. This paper reconstructs this conception and examines various difficulties recognized by Fichte during the earliest phases of his career (1780s–1790s), with the heterogeneity of natural drives and freedom as the principal threat. Theoretically, this heterogeneity is overcome for Fichte by his deduction of the compound nature of humanity as a condition of rational agency. But, from the standpoint of the deliberating agent herself, this deduction is not sufficient. The harmony of nature and freedom is, for Fichte, a desideratum of practical rationality, and so must be addressed as such. Fichte's argument at this point is that a further perspective on oneself must be at least implicit in the moral outlook of a deliberating agent in order for this harmony to be attained on a practical level. This is because the harmony that is achieved at the deliberative level is occasional, temporary, and fundamentally ...
ARCADE - abstraction and realization of complex event scenarios using dynamic rule creation

This system capitalizes on the fact that the complex event scenarios in an industry are repetitive in nature. It abstracts these scenarios into reusable templates with configurable parameters. This is an advantage that the system brings over the existing Complex Event Processing tools. These tools provide the capability of defining complex event scenarios but not the ability to reuse them. This system defines Complex event scenario templates using a complex event processing tool. The job of a tooling expert ends here.These templates are then consumed by a client application. They can be instantiated any number of time by passing the parameters resulting into Complex event scenario instances. These parameters are specific to that complex event scenario in the industrial context and do not require knowledge of any tool. This allows a Business user to effortlessly create these instances.The system also maps these complex event scenario instances to their event sources thereby allowing dynamic subscription of these event sources. The system can be further enhanced to dynamically map the complex event scenario instances to business processes.
Role of Androgen Receptor CAG Repeat Polymorphism Length in Hypothalamic Progesterone Sensitivity in Hyperandrogenic Adolescent Girls

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by oligo/anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and in many cases, polycystic ovaries. Women with PCOS often exhibit persistently increased gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse frequency compared to normal cycling women, contributing to enhanced luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion and increased androgen production [1]. Administration of progesterone (P) decreases GnRH pulse frequency in normal women, but the GnRH pulse generator in women with PCOS is relatively insensitive to P negative feedback [2]. Treatment with the androgen-receptor antagonist flutamide restores GnRH pulse generator sensitivity to P inhibition in women with PCOS [3]. Hyperandrogenemia in adolescence can represent a forerunner of adult PCOS, though the etiology of PCOS remains unclear. As a group, adolescent girls with HA display impaired GnRH pulse generator sensitivity to progesterone inhibition (i.e., reduced P-sensitivity). However, P-sensitivity is varied in HA girls, despite comparable levels of plasma free testosterone (T) [4] . The androgen receptor (AR) gene contains a polymorphic trinucleotide (CAG) repeat sequence located in the N-terminal transactivation domain of the AR [5] , and the number of CAG repeats influences AR activity. In vitro, expression of AR alleles with shorter CAG repeat lengths is associated with increased AR activity [6]. We measured AR CAG repeat length in a subgroup of subjects previously shown to have varied GnRH pulse generator sensitivity to P-mediated slowing [4] , hypothesizing that shorter AR CAG repeat length would be associated with reduced P-sensitivity in HA girls.
ORIGINS OF ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOR: NEGATIVE REINFORCEMENT AND AFFECT DYSREGULATION OF BEHAVIOR AS SOCIALIZATION MECHANISMS IN FAMILY INTERACTION

Theoretical models specifying the contribution of two social-familial mechanisms, negative reinforcement and affect dysregulation, to the development of child antisocial behavior were tested using a sample of 57 8- to 13-year-old boys referred for treatment of conduct problems. Negative reinforcement of boys' aggressive behavior and boys' affect dysregulation were found to covary with the boys' irritability toward parents and siblings and were reliable predictors of a composite measure of child antisocial behavior, defined by out-of-home placement, arrests, and school discipline incidents 2 years later. Reinforcement of aggression and affect dysregulation during family interaction may play complementary roles in the development of antisocial behavior by fostering the use of coercive means of dealing with social conflict. The findings are discussed in terms of research strategies for identifying social mechanisms contributing to child psychopathology and of implications for modification of current family interventions targeting child antisocial behavior.
The effect of coatings on retention and permeation in SS 316L APT tritium production tubes

Abstract The accelerator production of tritium (APT) design calls for thousands of thin-walled tubes to be filled with 3He gas. The reaction of the spallation neutrons with this gas will result in the bombardment of the interior of these tubes with energetic tritons and protons. For APT to be able to meet its tritium production goals, it is necessary that the holdup of the tritium in the tube walls be minimized. To examine the tritium retention characteristics of stainless steel, one of the tube reference materials, accelerator implantation experiments were performed. In these experiments, deuterium was used in place of tritium to eliminate the problem of tritium contamination. Deuterons with energies up to 200 keV and protons with energies up to 600 keV were implanted into stainless steel (SS 316L) samples to fluences as high as 5 × 1022 D/m2 and 5 × 1022 p/m2. Thermal desorption spectroscopy showed that approximately 3% of the deuterium was retained within the sample. Approximately 0.5% of the deuterium permeated through to the back surface of the sample where a zirconium getter trapped the deuterium. The deuterium trapped in the zirconium layer was measured by nuclear reaction analysis. Eight-micron thick copper and nickel coatings were applied to the implantation side of the stainless steel substrate in an attempt to reduce the retention and permeation of the deuterium. The copper-coated stainless steel was not successful in reducing the retention and permeation, however the nickel coated stainless steel reduced both the retention and permeation substantially.
Evoked potentials and behavior. A study of responses to subcortical stimulation in the awake, unrestrained animal ☆

Abstract 1. 1. Repeatable single shock potentials can be evoked from a number of subcortical points in freely moving, awake animals. These responses present characteristics latencies, forms and polarities. 2. 2. Tetanization of the evoking sites at frequencies of 10 to 100 c/sec. leads to a number of tetanic changes both in behavior and in electrical activity. 3. 3. This tetanization leads also to posttetanic behavioral and electrical changes, usually preceded in the posttetanic period by a short period of depression. 4. 4. Both the electrical and behavioral responses to tetanic stimulation vary with changes in stimulating parameters and with time. 5. 5. The nature of electrical and behavioral responses elicited from caudate, amygdaloid and globus pallidus is similar, although differences in detail exist. 6. 6. Under Nembutal, electrical responses similar to those in the awake state occur. Behavioral responses are more difficult to detect but are occasionally seen. The electrical responses in the awake cat reported by us agree qualitatively with those seen by Gloor in the animal under Pentothal anesthesia. 7. 7. Tetanic stimulation of the caudate nucleus and the amygdaloid nucleus resulted in arousal of the lightly anesthetized or sleepy animal. The awakening phenomenon seems similar to that produced by stimulation of the reticular activating system. 8. 8. Possible mechanisms to explain these phenomena are postulated.
Modeling and Trajectory Control of a Forklift-Like Wheeled Robot

In this paper, kinematic and dynamic models are derived for a forklift-like four-wheeled mobile robot, and then, based on the models, a new trajectory control scheme is designed and evaluated for the robot. The dynamic model, exhibiting non-minimum-phase characteristics, is derived by applying Lagrange’s equations and then the control law is design by using Lyapunov stability theorem and the loop shaping method. The proposed control scheme consists of a trajectory generator, a motion control law, and a steering control law. First, a real-time trajectory generator is designed based on the nonholonomic kinematic constraints of the robot, in which the reference driving speed and time rate of heading angle are computed in real time for a given desired trajectory of the robot. The proposed trajectory generator guarantees a local asymptotic stability. Next, motion and steering control laws are designed based on the dynamic model of the robot. The motion and steering control laws are used to control the robot speed and steering angle. The proposed control guarantees asymptotic stability of the trajectory control while keeping all internal signals bounded. Finally, the validity of the proposed control scheme is shown by realistic computer simulations with one sampling-time delay in the control loop.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Contrast and duration of exposure differentially affect vernier and stereoscopic acuity.

Although stereoacuity and vernier acuity both yield comparable thresholds well below the eye’s resolution limit, the neural circuits for these two classes of visual responses do not process the signals in an identical manner. It had previously been demonstrated that hyperacuity is more resistant to image blur than stereoacuity and that the zones within which two targets must be placed to achieve the lowest thresholds differ quite radically. Two further differences are reported here: reduced contrast affects stereoacuity more severely than hyperacuity, as also does shortening of exposure into a range of tens of milliseconds, even when the Bunsen−Roscoe−Bloch law has been factored out.
The effect of exit barriers upon strategic flexibility

The conceptual construct, exit barriers, is expanded using both statistical findings and the results of field studies. The immobility of resources, it is suggested, can be overcome by helping marginal competitors to exit from potentially volatile businesses. The implementation of such tactics can be adapted to the firm's own strategic commitment and to the nature of the business in question, although it is expected that firms which might consider purchasing the physical and intangible assets of competitors in order to help them to scale high exit barriers, must themselves perceive the business to be of sufficiently high strategic importance to do so.
RNA synthesis in penicillin spheroplasts of Escherichia coli

Abstract Penicillin spheroplasts of E. coli synthesize RNA at nearly the same rate as normal bacteria, even when the spheroplasts are no longer increasing in total mass or RNA content. This inconsistency was discovered when it was noted that a much larger fraction of nucleic acid synthesized by spheroplasts is unstable in vivo than is the case for bacteria. During a 20-min pulse of [14C]uracil, approx. 50 % of the incorporated radioactivity appears in ribosomal precursor subunits. This material decays when further RNA synthesis is prevented by the addition of actinomycin D. A small fraction (about 15 %) of the ribosomal RNA synthesized during the pulse is converted into completed ribosomes sedimenting as 70-S particles in polysomal aggregates. These ribosomes, as well as those synthesized before penicillin treatment, are stable in the presence of actinomycin. It was concluded that the normal rate of ribosomal RNA synthesis is continued in spheroplasts resulting in an overproduction of ribosomal RNA, and that ribosomal precursor ribonucleoprotein particles are formed but then degraded. This turnover of normally stable RNA suggested that intact E. coli can degrade species of RNA under various growth conditions rather than independently regulate their rates of synthesis.
Synthesis and in vitro evaluation of tetrahydroisoquinolinyl benzamides as ligands for σ receptors

Abstract 5-Bromo-N-[4-(6,7-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydro-1H-isoquinolin-2-yl)-butyl)]-2,3-dimethoxy-benzamide (1) is one of the most potent and selective σ2 receptor ligands reported to date. Previous structure-activity relationship studies of such tetrahydroisoquinolinyl benzamides have focused on the linker that connects the ring systems and the effects of benzamide ring substituents. The present study explores the effects of fusing methylene-, ethylene-, and propylenedioxy rings onto the tetrahydroisoquinoline in place of the two methoxy groups. These modifications decreased σ2 affinity by 8- to 12-fold, with no major differences noted with ring size. By contrast, the methylenedioxy analog showed a 10-fold greater σ1 affinity than 1, and progressively lower σ1 affinities were then noted with increasing ring size. We also opened the tetrahydroisoquinoline ring of 1 to study the effects of greater conformational fluidity on σ receptor binding. The σ2 affinity of the open-ring compound decreased by 1700-fold, while σ1 affinity was not changed. Thus, a constrained tetrahydroisoquinoline ring system is key to the exceptional σ2 receptor binding affinity and selectivity of this active series.
Cough syncope in a 43-year-old woman with glomus jugulare tumor

We present an unusual case of recurrent cough syncope in a 43-year-old woman, which was initially thought to be seizures. Syncopal episodes were triggered by paroxysms of cough and were characterized by unresponsiveness and myoclonic jerks in her extremities. She had a left-sided glomus jugulare tumor that extended into the posterior cranial fossa with evidence of worsening communicating hydrocephalus on brain imaging. We postulate that bouts of cough produced increased intracranial pressure both by raising intrathoracic and intraabdominal pressures as well as by transient obstruction to cerebrospinal fluid flow secondary to intermittent tonsillar herniation during cough. This resulted in diffuse decrease in cerebral blood flow causing syncope. The patient's syncopal episodes decreased in frequency once an external ventricular drain was placed followed by a ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Search for factors that can increase intracranial pressure seems warranted in patients with recurrent cough syncope.
Novel Strategies for Reversing Platinum Resistance

Platinum-based drugs continue to be the mainstay of therapy for ovarian cancer. Along with adverse effects, chemoresistance (intrinsic or acquired) has become a major limitation in the management of recurrent disease. Even though much is known about the effects of platinum drugs on cancer cells, the mechanisms underlying resistance are poorly understood. In this review, we summarize the current data on chemoresistance and discuss novel strategies to reverse resistance to platinum-based drugs. The most important targets highlighted here include Aurora kinases, PARP, ATP7B, and ERCC1. Furthermore, we discuss the implications of these novel approaches for ovarian cancer treatment.
Property institutions and business investment on American Indian reservations

Abstract We test the hypothesis that property institutions are responsible for the persistent low levels of business and economic development on American Indian reservations. American Indian lands are held in trust by the US Federal government and may not be used as collateral. We exploit the uniform and equal distribution of land between the Agua Caliente tribe and non-Indians in Palm Springs, CA in our analysis. Due to the General Allotment Act of 1887, the land was divided in a checkerboard pattern with even-numbered parcels provided to Agua Caliente government or individual tribal members and odd-numbered parcels (held in fee-simple status) were sold to non-Indians. Because of this, we overcome the usual land quality selection problem between the two types of property institutions. We find that holding local amenities and other characteristics of the parcel constant, there is no difference in the level of business investment on trust and fee simple properties. These results indicate that the inability to use American Indian land as collateral does not drive the low levels of observed business investment; other mechanisms and institutions may be the culprit.
1 2 0) and (1 2 2̄) monazite deformation twins

Abstract Unusual features of (1 2 0) and (1 2 2) deformation twins in monazite (monoclinic LaPO 4 ) are described and analyzed. These features are kinks and other irregularities in (1 2 0) twins, and V-shaped indentations on (1 2 0) and (1 2 2) twin planes. Twinning shear analysis suggests that the kinks are a type II deformation twin mode with shear direction ( η 1 ) of [2 1 0]. This complements previous analysis based on atom shuffling considerations. Shear strain compatibility requires extensive plastic deformation in the kink. The V-shaped indentations may be analogous to similar structures in b.c.c metal deformation twins. Deformation mechanisms that may be associated with these structures are discussed.
The immunological response to transplanted sympathetic ganglia.

Abstract A cellular immune reaction has been described after transplantation of foreign sensory, but not sympathetic, ganglia to the anterior chamber of the eye. Since the catecholamine histochemical technique used in the sympathetic transplantation study was inadequate to identify immune cells, a study was undertaken to determine if foreign sympathetic ganglia are antigenic. Autologous, homologous, and heterologous (guinea pig) superior cervical sympathetic ganglia were transplanted to the anterior chamber of the eyes of rats and examined 2 and 5 weeks post-operatively. Neurons were present in 2- and 5-week autologous and homologous transplants, but none was present in heterologous ganglia. The autologous transplants exhibited no cellular immune reaction, the homologous ganglia were infiltrated by lymphocytes, and the heterologous tissue was infiltrated by neutrophilic leukocytes, and lymphocytes. The results of this study contrast with those of a previous study in which no cellular immune reaction was described and in which neurons in heterologous (mouse, human fetal) sympathetic ganglia transplants were reported to survive. I conclude that foreign sympathetic like foreign sensory transplanted ganglia are antigenic in that they evoke an immune response similar to that of other foreign tissues. Long-term studies are needed, however, to determine the fate of surviving neurons of homologous transplants.
SU(2) × U(1) breaking by vacuum misalignment

Currently two scenarios exist which explain SU(2) × U(1) breaking: the Higgs mechanism, and standard hypercolor schemes. In this paper, a third scenario called “oblique hypercolor” is proposed. A hyperquark condensate is formed which, although kinematically allowed to point in an SU(2) × U(1) preserving direction, is forced by Yukawa interactions of the hyperquarks to misalign by a small angle, breaking SU(2) × U(1). The low energy spectrum involves normal fermions with correct masses, a partially composite Higgs boson, and physical charged scalars.
Applications of Engineering Mechanics in Forensic Engineering

The inclusion of examples from engineering practice in the classroom is a key to generating student interest and motivation. Ideal examples allow students to apply both concepts from course material and creative problem-solving methodology to a ‘real world’ problem. While open-ended design problems are often used as case studies in upper-level engineering courses, students in the early phases of their academic career often lack the background necessary to handle even simple design case studies with proficiency. Therefore, the practical use of design case studies is extremely limited in first two years of an engineering curriculum, and is limited to trivial exercises or closed-ended parametric optimization problems. As an alternative, case studies involving the investigation and reconstruction of accidents involving engineering systems can be employed. Such case studies allow the students to demonstrate their engineering problem-solving skills, requiring the students to propose a likely accident scenario a...
The embodiment of the categorical imperative Kafka, Foucault, Benjamin, Adorno and Levinas

Am I enjoined and moved by a sense of moral responsibility that, prior to consciousness, prior to volition, has always already informed and predisposed the very nature of my flesh? How could we account for this experience without recognizing that it is the flesh that first bears the order of the moral law? This study undertakes a hermeneutical reading of some texts in which the question of the embodiment of the categorical imperative, the responsibility enjoined by the procedural form of the moral law, is introduced. It is hoped that this reading will contribute to our understanding of the body of experience, the so-called body-subject, showing the body to be not only an object-body, not only, as in the work of Foucault, a material substratum for the application of power, but also, as Levinas thought, the primordial bearer of a certain rudimentary moral compass, at the very heart of which there lies, if only deeply encrypted, the categorical assignment of the moral law. Thus, the human body is not, as some postmodern writers contend, a totally unruly, uncivilized nature without any implicit order of its own, but is a first nature always already disposed, if only in a preliminary and rudimentary way, to bear the moral development that society requires us to undertake.
An Intelligent System for Comparing Protein Structures

An approach to protein structure comparison is presented which uses techniques of artificial intelligence (AI) to generate a mapping between two protein structures. The approach proceeds by first identifying the seed of a possible mapping, and then searching for ways to extend the seed by incorporating corresponding elements from the two proteins. Correspondence is judged using heuristic functions which assess the similarity of the structural environments of the elements. The search can be guided by separately encoded knowledge. A prototype has been implemented which is able to rapidly create mappings with a high degree of accuracy in test cases.
Physician‐Prompting Statin Therapy Intervention Improves Outcomes in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease

Study Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of a posthospital discharge intervention that prompted physicians to increase the use and effectiveness of statins (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors) in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods. Participants were 612 patients with CHD who were admitted to a coronary care unit. The control group (303 patients admitted from October 1–December 31, 1998) received no follow-up intervention. The intervention group (309 patients admitted from January 1–March 31, 1999) had follow-up letters sent or phone calls made to their primary care physicians with patient-specific recommendations concerning assessment of lipid profiles and statin therapy. Over a 2-year follow-up period, assessment of lipid profiles, use of therapy, and adverse clinical outcomes were compared between the control and intervention groups. Results. At hospital discharge, there was no significant difference in the use of statins between the groups. At each reported follow-up interval, the percentages of patients having lipid profiles measured, being treated with a statin, receiving titrated dosages of a statin, and achieving low-density lipid (LDL) cholesterol goals set by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) were significantly greater in the intervention group compared with the control group (all p<0.05). At the end of the 2-year follow-up period, nearly three-fourths (72%) of the intervention group were receiving a statin, compared with 43% of the control group. In addition, 55% of the intervention group achieved their NCEP LDL goal, compared with only 10% of the control group. Recurrent myocardial infarction, hospitalization for myocardial ischemia, coronary revascularization, and cardiovascular mortality were significantly reduced in the intervention group compared with the control group (all p<0.05). Conclusion. A relatively simple physician-prompting intervention significantly increased assessment of lipid status, frequency of statin use, achievement of LDL treatment goals, and titration of lipid drug dosages. In addition, the improved use of statins significantly reduced adverse cardiovascular outcomes. This intervention tool should be more broadly applied in patient populations eligible to receive these agents.
Rate vs. distortion trade-off for channels with state information

We consider a channel where the sender has access to channel state information and wishes to send both the pure information and a description of the channel state to the receiver. An achievable tradeoff region between pure information rate and state estimation error is proposed for a discrete memoryless channel with an arbitrary state distortion measure.