cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Adipocytes under Assault: Environmental Disruption of Adipose Physiology

The burgeoning obesity epidemic has placed enormous strains on individual and societal health mandating a careful search for pathogenic factors, including the contributions made by endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). In addition to evidence that some exogenous chemicals have the capacity to modulate classical hormonal signaling axes, there is mounting evidence that several EDCs can also disrupt metabolic pathways and alter energy homeostasis. Adipose tissue appears to be a particularly important target of these metabolic disruptions. A diverse array of compounds has been shown to alter adipocyte differentiation, and several EDCs have been shown to modulate adipocyte physiology, including adipocytic insulin action and adipokine secretion. This rapidly emerging evidence demonstrating that environmental contaminants alter adipocyte function emphasizes the potential role that disruption of adipose physiology by EDCs may play in the global epidemic of metabolic disease. Further work is required to better characterize the molecular targets responsible for mediating the effects of EDCs on adipose tissue. Improved understanding of the precise signaling pathways altered by exposure to environmental contaminants will enhance our understanding of which chemicals pose a threat to metabolic health and how those compounds synergize with lifestyle factors to promote obesity and its associated complications. This knowledge may also improve our capacity to predict which synthetic compounds may alter energy homeostasis before they are released into the environment while also providing critical evidentiary support for efforts to restrict the production and use of chemicals that pose the greatest threat to human metabolic health. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Modulation of Adipose Tissue in Health and Disease.
Vitamin a status and metabolism of benzo[α]pyrene in the rat

Abstract Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were maintained on a vitamin A‐deficient diet for a period of five weeks. At the end of that time, hepatic cytochrome P450 levels in vitamin A‐deficient rats were 65% that of rats fed a complete diet. However, the hepatic rate of benzo[a]pyrene metabolism was significantly greater (2 times) in vitamin A‐deficient rats compared with those fed a complete diet. The pattern of metabolites separable by thin‐layer chromatography was similar in both groups of rats. Benzo[a]pyrene induced its own metabolism by a slightly greater amount in the vitamin‐sufficient rats, but it was not to the level of the deficient group, although the levels of cytochrome P450 were still below those of the deficient rats. In discussing lung microsomes, benzo[a]pyrene pre‐treatment of deficient rats resulted in slightly elevated levels of cytochrome P450 and a slightly greater rate of metabolism of benzo[a]pyrene compared with rats fed the complete diet.
Selones as intermediates in the preparation of extremely sterically hindered molecules

Abstract The preparation and reactions of selones, selenium analogues of ketones, are described with particular emphasis on their utility in the preparation of extremely sterically hindered molecules. Mechanistic questions related to these reactions are discussed and evidence for “active selenium” is presented. Selenophilic additions of organometallic compounds to selones are also reported.
Application of Monte-Carlo method in quantitative risk analysis for research project

Risk quantitative analysis is a pinpoint, continuous process that is an important part of risk management. It helps to develop risk response plan, monitor and control the risks efficiently. Risk quantitative analysis should quantitatively analyze the impact of risk on project objectives, and assess the probability of achieving project objectives. This paper introduces several common quantitative analysis methods, and selects the Monte-Carlo method to perform quantitative risk analysis by comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each method. Using the Monte-Carlo method to analyze the risks need to develop a mathematical model to gather data and perform repeated sampling test, so as to obtain a sufficiently accurate approximation results to forecast the project objectives. This article describes the application of this method in risk management of a real research project.
Biotransformation of drugs: quantitative structure-activity relationships for barbiturates, tertiary amines, and substituted imidazoles.

Abstract When using free energy‐related physicochemical parameters, stimulation of NADPH oxidation by barbiturates and the N ‐oxidation of tertiary amines was found to be primarily dependent upon the lipophilic character of the substrates as measured by log P , where P is the partition coefficient from either 1‐octanol‐water or corn oil‐water solvent systems. In contrast, the inhibition of epoxidation of aldrin by a series of substituted imidazoles appears to be much more dependent on electronic (σ) and steric ( E s ) effects of the inhibitors.
Interactions between the nod+ kinesin-like gene and extracentromeric sequences are required for transmission of a drosophila minichromosome

In this study, we demonstrate a role for extracentromeric sequences in chromosome inheritance. Genetic analyses indicate that transmission of the Drosophila minichromosome Dp1187 is sensitive to the dosage of nod+, a kinesin-like gene required for the meiotic transmission of achiasmate chromosomes. Minichromosome deletions displayed increased loss rates in females heterozygous for a loss-of-function allele of nod (nod/+). We have analyzed the structures of nod-sensitive deletions and conclude that multiple regions of Dp1187 interact genetically with nod+ to promote normal chromosome transmission. Most nod+ interactions are observed with regions that are not essential for centromere function. We propose that normal chromosome transmission requires forces generated outside the kinetochore, perhaps to maintain tension on kinetochore microtubules and stabilize the attachment of achiasmate chromosomes to the metaphase spindle.
Essential amino acid requirements of four species of parasitic Hymenoptera

Abstract Four species of parasitic Hymenoptera, Exeristes roborator, Brachymeria lasus, Brachymeria ovata and Pachycrepoideusvindemiae, representing three families, were all shown to have an essential requirement for the 10 amino acids, arginine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine, determined by deletion methods using chemically defined artificial media. E. roborator also had a requirement for non-essential amino acids to support larval development.
Monitoring of harmful algal blooms in the era of diminishing resources: A case study of the U.S. West Coast

Abstract Spatial and temporal decorrelation scales in phytoplankton bloom magnitudes are reviewed with the goal of informing the design of efficient and informative observing networks for monitoring of potentially harmful algal blooms (HABs) along the U.S. West Coast. Our analysis of historic MODIS Fluorescent Line Height data shows that, unlike several previous studies, seasonal timing of phytoplankton blooms off the U.S. West Coast propagates from South to North. In situ data show that temporal decorrelation scales are shortest off Northern California (∼4 days) and longest in the Southern California Bight (∼17 days). In a cross-shore direction, we find that variability in the near-shore biomass is decoupled from biomass further offshore (∼2–4 km). Our review of the cloud cover gap statistics suggests that satellite data provide reasonably inexpensive information about bloom events, particularly at seasonal to inter-annual scales, but is insufficient to capture many event-scale blooms. Absent adequate satellite data, in situ monitoring becomes essential. Existing networks of automated monitoring sites from piers and moorings off the California coast is insufficient to describe regional variability in blooms, but is likely informative of bloom magnitudes in the immediate proximity of observation stations. We suggest that a more effective network will have a combination of shore-based stations and a few (5–10) offshore moorings. Shore-based stations should be located in proximity to sensitive HAB targets. This would provide monitoring of existing conditions and guide decision-making about beach closures and aquaculture management practices. Offshore stations can serve as proxy for regional conditions and can be used to issue early warnings of potential HAB conditions developing in a specific region.
Influence of geometry and eclogitization on oceanic plateau subduction

Abstract Subduction is driven by the negative buoyancy of the slab, which depends on both the temperature and composition of the lithospheric plate. In the case of subduction of an oceanic plateau, larger thickness of the lower-density crust and harzburgite layers can locally decrease the negative buoyancy available to drive subduction. However, the ability of a plateau to have an impact on subduction depends on the total buoyancy of the slab, and therefore also depends on size of the plateau and the basalt to eclogite transition, which substantially increases the density of the crust. Using 2-D numerical finite element models of subduction, we investigate the role of eclogitization and oceanic plateau size (thickness and length) in the process of oceanic plateau subduction. Model results show that eclogitization of the crust substantially increases the chances that a plateau will be subducted because the extra buoyancy of larger plateaus is lost through the phase transition. For kinematically driven models, all plateaus are subducted regardless of the thickness or width. Extrapolation of these results to 3-D geometry shows that sufficient slab buoyancy is available to sustain subduction for narrow plateaus with slab widths 6–7 times the plateau width (depending on plateau thickness and length). In dynamically driven models, subduction of oceanic plateaus of various sizes can substantially slow subduction, and large plateaus ( > 200 km long and > 25 km thick) can lead to break-off of the slab and underplating of the plateau.
Ron receptor deficient alveolar myeloid cells exacerbate LPS-induced acute lung injury in the murine lung

Previous studies have shown that the Ron receptor tyrosine kinase is an important regulator of the acute lung inflammatory response induced by intranasal administration of bacterial LPS. Compared to wild-type mice, complete loss of the Ron receptor in all cell types in vivo was associated with increased lung damage as determined by histological analyses and several markers of lung injury including increases in pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-a. Tumor-necrosis factor-a is a multifunctional cytokine secreted by macrophages, which plays a major role in inflammation and is a central mediator of several disease states including rheumatoid arthritis and sepsis. Based on increased TNF-a production observed in the Ron-deficient mice, we hypothesized that Ron receptor function in the inflammatory cell compartment is essential for the regulating lung injury in vivo. To test this hypothesis, we generated myeloid lineage-specific Ron-deficient mice. In this study, we report that loss of Ron signaling selectively in myeloid cells results in increased lung injury following intranasal administration of LPS as measured by increases in TNF-a production, ensuing neutrophil accumulation and increased lung histopathology. These findings corroborate the role of Ron receptor tyrosine kinase as a negative regulator of inflammation and further demonstrate the in vivo significance of Ron signaling selectively in myeloid cells as a major regulator of this response in vivo. These data authenticate Ron as a potential target in innate immunity and TNF-a-mediated pathologies.
Justice Reinvestment in the United States: An Empirical Assessment of the Potential Impact of Increased Correctional Programming on Recidivism

Abstract Recent efforts in justice reinvestment in the United States have echoed the importance of using evidence-based practices. Legislative initiatives support the expansion of these practices and related programming to a broader array of correctional populations and settings. But the efforts to date are likely to have limited success altering the outcomes from the use of incarceration unless more attention is paid to the principles of effective interventions and access to efficacious treatment services. The most comprehensive survey of services, conducted in 2005–2006, found that less than 10% of offenders can participate in treatment services on a given day. Two simulation models are reported in this paper that demonstrate different impacts from increasing the number and type of programs offered within correctional and community correctional settings: expanding access and participation rates in programs can yield reductions in recidivism, adding treatment matching will accelerate the recidivism reduc...
Gel time prediction of multifunctional acrylates using a kinetics model

A kinetics model for prediction of double-bond conversion and gel time in the photopolymerization of multifunctional acrylates is presented. The system consisting of a trifunctional acrylate, trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTA), and a photoinitiator, 2,2-dimethoxy-1,2-diphenylethan-1-one (DMPA), was studied using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) measurements to monitor double-bond conversion and microrheology techniques to quantify the gel time for this system. Rate constants for the kinetics model were first estimated by fitting the model only to the FTIR double-bond conversion data, and later to both the FTIR and microrheology data. The measured gel time correlated with both the calculated initial rate of radical generation and a constant value of the predicted double-bond conversion, over a broad range of conditions. The model allows for materials formulation and exposure source intensity variables to be included in stereolithography inverse problem solutions, and could be applied to other cross-linking based photopolymerization systems.
Chromatin Immunoprecipitation and Microarray Analysis Suggest Functional Cooperation between Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus ORF57 and K-bZIP

The Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) open reading frame 57 (ORF57)-encoded protein (Mta) is a multifunctional regulator of viral gene expression. ORF57 is essential for viral replication, so elucidation of its molecular mechanisms is important for understanding KSHV infection. ORF57 has been implicated in nearly every aspect of viral gene expression, including transcription, RNA stability, splicing, export, and translation. Here we demonstrate that ORF57 interacts with the KSHV K-bZIP protein in vitro and in cell extracts from lytically reactivated infected cells. To further test the biological relevance of the interaction, we performed a chromatin immunoprecipitation and microarray (ChIP-chip) analysis using anti-ORF57 antibodies and a KSHV tiling array. The results revealed four specific areas of enrichment, including the ORF4 and K8 (K-bZIP) promoters, as well as oriLyt, all of which interact with K-bZIP. In addition, ORF57 associated with DNA corresponding to the PAN RNA transcribed region, a known posttranscriptional target of ORF57. All of the peaks were RNase insensitive, demonstrating that ORF57 association with the viral genome is unlikely to be mediated exclusively by an RNA tether. Our data demonstrate that ORF57 associates with the viral genome by using at least two modes of recruitment, and they suggest that ORF57 and K-bZIP coregulate viral gene expression during lytic infection.
Embedded Active Sensors for In-Situ Structural Health Monitoring of Thin-Wall Structures

The use of embedded piezoelectric-wafer active-sensors for in-situ structural health monitoring of thin-wall structures is presented. Experiments performed on aircraft-grade metallic specimens of various complexities exemplified the detection procedures for near-field and far-field damage. For near-field damage detection, the electro-mechanical (E/M) impedance method was used. Systematic experiments conducted on statistical samples of incrementally damaged specimens were followed by illustrative experiments on realistic aging aircraft panels. For far-field damage detection, guided ultrasonic Lamb waves were utilized in conjunction with the pulse-echo technique. Systematic experiments conducted on aircraft-grade metallic plates were used to develop the method, while experiments performed on realistic aging-aircraft panels exemplified the crack detection procedure.
A note on local GUT models in F-theory

Abstract We construct non-minimal GUT local models in the F-theory configuration. The gauge group on the bulk G S is one rank higher than the GUT gauge group. The line bundles on the curves are nontrivial to break G S down to the GUT gauge groups. We demonstrate examples of SU ( 5 ) GUT from G S = SU ( 6 ) and G S = SO ( 10 ) , the flipped SU ( 5 ) from G S = SO ( 10 ) , and the SO ( 10 ) GUT from G S = SO ( 12 ) and G S = E 6 . We obtain complete GUT matter spectra and couplings, with minimum exotic matter contents. GUT gauge group breaking to MSSM is achievable by instanton configurations.
Detection of Multiple Serovars of Chlamydia trachomatis in Genital Infections

Eight genital isolates of Chlamydia trachomatis that each contained two different serovars were identified by typing with serovar-specific monoclonal antibodies. Mixed infections were confirmed by using serovar-specific monoclonal antibodies in an indirect immunofluorescence assay. For some isolates, fluorescein/rhodamine double-label indirect immunofluorescence with mixtures of IgM and IgG monoclonal antibodies to Chlamydia provided direct visual confirmation of mixed infection. Two isolates contained serovars D and F, and two E and F; one isolate contained serovars Ba and E, one D and J, one I' and F, and one E and J. In a sample of 352 genital isolates of C. trachomatis consecutively typed by dot ELISA with monoclonal antibodies, seven (2%) demonstrated mixed serovars.
Two Testable Locational Equations for the Northern Great Basin

My review of the archaeological literature resulted in two testable equations that express a hypothesized quantitative relationship between environmental settings and prehistoric sites. Permanent water, land form, and intermittent water are general environmental settings that are most strongly associated with archaeological sites. Both testable equations are based on past projects performed by widely-spaced transects and non-probabilistic sampling methods. Testing the locational equations with rigorously controlled data is the next step in the predictive modeling strategy. Compliance and scientific limitations of my approach are also presented herein. The approach can be used by land management agencies as a planning tool, especially when combined with GIS and GPS formatted data.
Triacylglycerol accumulation and profiling in the model diatoms Thalassiosira pseudonana and Phaeodactylum tricornutum (Baccilariophyceae) during starvation

Although substantial economic barriers exist, marine diatoms such as Thalassiosira pseudonana and Phaeodactylum tricornutum hold promise as feedstock for biodiesel because of their ability to manufacture and store triacylglycerols (TAGs). The recent sequencing of these two marine diatom genomes by the United States Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute and the development of improved systems for genetic manipulation should allow a more systematic approach to understanding and maximizing TAG production. However, in order to best utilize these genomes and genetic tools, we must first gain a deeper understanding of the nutrient-mediated regulation of TAG anabolism. By determining both the yield and molecular species distribution of TAGs we will, in the future, be able to fully characterize the effects of genetic manipulation. Here, we lay the groundwork for understanding TAG production in T. pseudonana and P. tricornutum, as a function of nitrate and silicate depletion. Diatoms were starved of either nitrate or silicate, and TAGs were extracted with hexane from lyophilized samples taken at various time intervals following starvation. The timing of TAG production and the relative abundance of TAGs were estimated by fluorescence spectroscopy using Nile red and the total yield per biomass determined by gravimetric assay. TAGs were analyzed using thin layer chromatography, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry to identify the major TAG species produced during the growth curve. Under our conditions, the TAG yield from T. pseudonana is about 14–18% of total dry weight. The TAG yield from P. tricornutum is about 14% of total dry weight. Silicate-starved T. pseudonana accumulated an average of 24% more TAGs than those starved for nitrate; however, the chemotypes of the TAGs produced were generally similar regardless of the starvation condition employed.
Influence of copulation on ovulation in the cycling rat.

Female rats with a record of regular 4-day estrous cycles received different quantities of coital stimulation at specified times on the afternoon of proe3trus. The effects of copulation on numbers of ova ovulated were evaluated on the following morning of estrus between 0930 and 1055. The results show that the amount of copulation received between the hours of 1230 and 1730 failed to produce increases in the normal number of ova ovulated. If, however, intromissions were received between 1750 and 1830 on the afternoon of proestrus, there were increased numbers of ova released. It was suggested that the increases result from an additional release of LH acting on mature follicles which would not ordinarily ovulate. Those subjects responding early in the afternoon had significantly higher uterine weights than those responsive later, suggesting a relationship between high preovulatory estrogen titers and the timing of sexual behavior. The present experiment provides evidence that, if the mating stimulus is pro...
SU-FF-T-16: A Linear Programming Model and Solution for Radiation Shielding Design of Radiotherapy Treatment Vaults

Purpose: To optimize shielding material combinations and thicknesses for megavoltage radiotherapy accelerator vaults for any photon energy using linear programming by minimizing the costs of shielding materials while satisfying the constraints pertaining to regulatory doses and available space. Methods:Radiotherapy accelerator vault construction usually requires an experienced physicist to design the appropriate thicknesses of concrete, steel or lead to satisfy the regulatory limiting doses, available thicknesses for shielding and the budget allocated for the project. We have developed a model and solution using linear programming that minimizes the costs of the shielding materials while satisfying regulatory dose limits and space available for the project. The model considers primary, leakage and scatter x‐ray radiation and neutron contamination using calculation techniques as in NCRP 151. The optimization routine will insert the required tenth value layers (TVLs) of steel or lead depending on the demands and the cost of these materials. The optimization considers neutron contamination as well. We discuss a parameterized version of the model that is never infeasible and which allows the user to weight the space versus cost according user preference. Results: The results of the linear program can be easily checked for correctness using standard calculation techniques. If there is abundant space for the wall thickness, concrete only is the result of the optimization since it has the lowest cost. If the allowed wall thickness is too small for concrete only, the optimization will return combinations of concrete, steel or lead such that all constraints are satisfied and costs are minimized. Existing thicknesses of concrete, for example, are easily incorporated into the model as are special requirements for IMRT. Conclusion: The linear program returns reliable, viable and optimized shielding thicknesses of concrete, steel and lead for primary barriers as well as for leakage and scatterradiation barriers.
Characters are Coauthors Segmenting the Self, Integrating the Composing Process

Professional writers frequently use socially shared “metaphorical stories” to describe their composing. In one prominent metaphorical story, writers of fiction cast their characters as collaborators in the process of writing, in consequence providing a complicated and integrated description of their composing. For writers of fiction to ascribe independence to their characters has implications that go far beyond the “performance” concerns of authors engaged in literary discussions: Metaphorical stories are an important means by which people understand as well as communicate their composing experiences.
Constant flux crossflow filtration evaluation of surface-modified fouling-resistant membranes

The surfaces of polysulfone ultrafiltration membranes were modified with polydopamine and polydopamine-g-poly(ethylene glycol) hydrophilic coatings. Unmodified and modified membranes were challenged with a soybean oil emulsion feed at six different permeate fluxes in constant flux crossflow filtration fouling studies. The threshold flux was determined for each membrane. Above the threshold flux, modified membranes generally exhibited lower transmembrane pressures than unmodified membranes. However, below the threshold flux, modified membranes had higher transmembrane pressures than unmodified membranes, likely due to a decrease in permeance resulting from the surface modification. To account for this difference in permeance, polydopamine-g-poly(ethylene glycol) modified membranes were compared to membranes with a thicker polydopamine coating and to an unmodified membrane with a smaller pore size than that used for the surface modified membranes; in this way, all three membranes had similar pure water permeances. In this case, the unmodified membrane exhibited a much higher transmembrane pressure during fouling than the modified membranes, so when membranes of the same permeance are compared, the surface modifications improved fouling resistance. Therefore, a potential strategy to achieve fouling resistance in a membrane of a desired flux and rejection is to modify the surface of a more permeable (and perhaps lower rejection) membrane, thereby making the resulting modified membrane fouling-resistant but leaving it with the desired flux and rejection characteristics.
A microscale combustor recuperator and oil heat exchanger – design and thermofluidic characterization

Abstract A two-dimensional numerical model of an integrated microscale hydrogen–air catalytic combustor, recuperator, and oil heat exchanger is presented. Catalytic combustion occurs on the walls of the microchannel in the presence of a platinum catalyst. The performance of the combustor is documented using validated CFD simulations for variations in geometric and fluidic parameters. Varied geometric parameters include the length and location of the catalyst bed, length of the device, and the height of the combustion channel. Varied fluidic parameters include the oil inlet temperature, flow rates of oil and reactants, and the equivalence ratio of the reactants. Performance is characterized using a global efficiency, heat transfer effectiveness and hydrogen conversion. The parametric variations are captured non-dimensionally as variations in Damkohler and Peclet numbers, which are in turn used to describe the changes in hydrogen conversion and efficiency. Performance maps for hydrogen conversion and pressure drop in the combustion channel are presented based on values of the Damkohler and Peclet numbers and regions of desired operability of the combustor are identified.
Effects of sexual arousal on schizophrenics: a comparative test of hypotheses derived from ego psychology and arousal theory

Two divergent theories make differential predictions with regard to the impact of sexual stimulation on schizophrenics. Relative to normals, psychoanalytic ego psychology predicts greater sexual arousal in schizophrenics, while the arousal theories predict decreased responsiveness. Fourteen chronic nonparanoid schizophrenic outpatient males and 16 normal males participated in a 2X2 mixed factor experiment with one between factor (schizophrenics vs. normals) and one within factor (sexual vs. neutral stimuli). Dependent measures included looking time, associative sexual responses, associative response latencies, and self-report ratings. A significant interaction for looking time provided empirical support for the psychoanalytic ego psychological position, Results suggest that schizophrenics are less defensive than normals in regard to looking at sexual stimuli, theoretically because of ego deficits that adversely affect repression and other mechanisms of defense.
Lactoferrin and lysozyme deficiency in airway secretions: association with the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.

To test whether the presence of airway inflammatory markers differentiated babies with hyaline membrane disease (HMD) who recovered (n=18) from those in whom bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) developed (n=18), tracheal aspirate samples from 36 newborn infants with HMD who underwent intubation were collected during days 1 to 28 of life and analyzed for the mucosal antimicrobial proteins lactoferrin and lysozyme. For babies with HMD in whom BPD developed, lactoferrin concentrations were decreased during the first 4 days of life (7±3, 14±3, 18±3, and 18±3 μg/ml, respectively) in comparison with those in babies with HMD who recovered (23±8, 29±6, 41±9, and 81±19 μg/ml); group differences reached statistical significance on days 3 and 4 ( p
A MEMS flow cytometer with integrated out-of-plane microlens and 3-D hydro-focus unit

This paper presents a micro flow cytometry device fabricated using Ultra Violet (UV) lithography of the negative tone photo resist SU-8. A diamond-shaped sample injection nozzle, a three-dimensional hydro-focusing unit, and an optical detection unit with integrated out-of-plane microlens were fabricated using tilting lithography techniques. In addition to a 60° horizontal focusing angle, 30° slopes were designed and fabricated in the vertical direction of the hydro-focusing chamber. This unique design makes the hydro-focusing unit presented in this paper a truly three-dimensional one instead of the two-dimensional ones usually reported in literature. In the optical detection unit, a multi mode optical fiber was used to collect fluorescent or scattering light from the sample. To improve detection efficiency, out-of-plane microlens made of cured SU-8 polymer was imbedded in one of the outlet fluid channel walls. Numerical simulations were conducted to analyze the optical system and optimize the distances between optical elements to achieve best light coupling efficiency using commercial optical design software Zemax.
Synthesis of labeled (10R)-juvenile hormone III bisepoxide, and its photoaffinity analog, [12-3H]-(10R)-6,7,10,11-bisepoxyfarnesyl diazoacetate (BEFDA)

Radiolabeled optically-active JH III bisepoxide ([3H]-(10R)-JHB3) was synthesized from [12-3H] (10R)-JH III using dimethyldioxirane to give an inseparable mixture of diastereomers with the trans-6,7-epoxide syn or anti to the existing 10,11-epoxide. [3H]-(10R)-JHB3 (or the unlabeled material) was converted in three steps to the corresponding (10R)-6,7,10,11-bisepoxyfarnesyl diazoacetate (BEFDA), a photoaffinity label for JHB3 receptors and binding proteins.
The role of oxidative stress in salt-induced hypertension.

Abstract Background Impairment of endothelial function during hypertension is associated with increased production of superoxide radicals and reduced antioxidants. We investigated the involvement of oxidative stress in Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) and salt-resistant (SR) rats. Methods For a 2-week period, male rats were fed either high salt (HS; 8% sodium chloride) or low salt (LS; 0.3% sodium chloride) diets. Before and weekly on the diets, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate were measured by tail-cuff plethysmography. At the end of the experiment, plasma and tissue samples were collected for analysis of nitric oxide, prostacyclin, glutathione, and isoprostane. Results The MAP was increased in SS rats on HS diet, but not in those on a LS diet or in SR rats on either diet. Plasma levels of nitric oxide were reduced in SS rats on HS diet. Plasma prostacyclin levels in SS rats on either diet were lower than SR on LS diet. Increased dietary salt reduced plasma prostacyclin levels in SR, but not in SS rats. Plasma total 8-isoprostane was elevated in both SS and SR rats on HS diet compared with either strain on LS diet. Plasma levels of total glutathione were reduced in SS compared with SR rats, regardless of the level of dietary salt intake. The whole blood ratio of reduced-to-oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) as well as the kidney total glutathione were lower in SS rats on HS diet. Aortic superoxide production in both strains on HS diet was increased compared with the animals on LS diet. Conclusions These data suggest that HS diet may indirectly induce endothelial dysfunction through intermediate mechanisms that are associated with oxidative stress.
Oxygen Penetration Into Single Crystals of Calcium Fluoride

Oxygen penetration in calcium fluoride single crystals was determined along the [111], [110], and [112] directions by the micrographic method. The penetration depths were equal in all directions. The activation energy for the process was 46 kcal per mole. It is suggested that the penetration may be limited by the intrinsic diffusion rate of oxygen.
Stabilizing Thin Film Polymer Bilayers against Dewetting Using Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes

We have investigated the effect of the length of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) on the dewetting dynamics of thin polymer films. The results indicated that long nanotubes were much more effective than short nanotubes in stabilizing the films against dewetting. The diffusion of polymer chains in the filled matrices was measured using neutron reflectivity, and the result indicated no significant effect on the diffusion coefficient by either short or long nanotubes. We therefore proposed a model whereby the nanotubes did not interact with the individual polymer chains. On the other hand, the long nanotubes formed an effective entangled network, which prevented long-range motion of the polymer films upon dewetting. This model was supported by rheological experiments on bulk samples where the nanotubes had a strong effect on G‘ of the polymer and only a negligible effect on G‘ ‘.
Evidence for modification of the electronic density of states by zero-point lattice motion in one dimension: Luminescence and resonance Raman studies of an MX solid.

Luminescence spectra, both emission and excitation, and the excitation dependence of the resonance Raman spectra, have been measured for the quasi-one-dimensional charge-density-wave material [Pt(en${)}_{2}$][Pt(en${)}_{2}$${\mathrm{Cl}}_{2}$](${\mathrm{ClO}}_{4}$${)}_{4}$, en=1,2-diaminoethane. While the luminescence experiments show the existence of tail states at low temperature in the band gap region, the Raman measurements conclusively demonstrate that this tail does not arise from ordinary static structural disorder. These results can be explained by considering the zero-point motion of the lattice.
Cost–benefit analyses for the development of magma power

Abstract Magma power is the potential generation of electricity from shallow magma bodies in the crust of the Earth. Considerable uncertainty still surrounds the development of magma power, but most of that uncertainty may be eliminated by drilling the first deep magma well. The uncertainty presents no serious impediments to the private drilling of the well. For reasons unrelated to the uncertainty, there may be no private drilling and there may be justification for public drilling. In this paper, we present cost–benefit analyses for private and public drilling of the well. Both analyses indicate there is incentive for drilling.
The way I make you feel: How relatedness and compassionate goals promote partner’s relationship satisfaction

Research has investigated the role of three basic psychological needs as proposed by Self-Determination Theory – autonomy, competence, and relatedness – in explaining relationship satisfaction. Research has also explored how relatedness specifically increases prosocial motivations in the individual but has not focused on the role of relatedness in shaping partners’ relationship functioning over time. This research takes a dyadic perspective that proposes that relatedness fulfillment fosters compassionate goals, which in turn predict increases in partner’s satisfaction. Forty-five heterosexual dating couples were asked about their relatedness need fulfillment, compassionate goals, and relationship satisfaction. Relationship satisfaction was assessed again four weeks later. Results showed that one’s own relatedness fulfillment, but not one’s partner’s relatedness fulfillment at Time 1 uniquely predicts partner’s increased satisfaction at Time 2, and that this is mediated by one’s own higher compassionate go...
A framework for interpreting paleoclimatic variations in Eastern Beringia

Abstract Paleoclimatic variations in a particular region can be viewed as the outcome of the superimposition of the effects of a number of large-scale controls. A framework for understanding paleoclimatic variations in a region can be established by considering the long-term history of those controls jointly with climatic modeling results that illustrate how regional climates respond to changes of individual controls. The relevant controls of Late-Quaternary paleoclimatic variations in eastern Beringia include: (1) the size of the ice sheet, which influences both atmospheric circulation and temperature, (2) insolation, which influences mainly temperature and seasonality, (3) carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere, which influences temperature, and (4) feedbacks involving sea ice, sea-surface temperatures and snow cover, which reinforce the insolation effects. We review the results of a number of ‘paleoclimatic experiments’ with general circulation models to illustrate the potential response of eastern Beringia to the variations of these controls. We then present a framework for understanding paleoclimatic variations in eastern Beringia by describing the likely responses of the climate of this region to the known variations in the controls. In addition, we discuss key times during the Quaternary when particular combinations of the controls give rise to ‘natural experiments’ which lend themselves to the testing of particular hypotheses. Our understanding of the nature of climatic variations at high latitudes should increase through examination of paleoclimatic evidence that documents the response of the region at those key times.
Modeling of prograde mineral δ18O changes in metamorphic systems

A general model has been developed to calculate changes of δ18O of minerals in addition to their composition and modal abundance in metamorphic systems. A complete set of differential equations can be written to describe any chemical system in terms of the variables dP, dT, dX, dM, and dδ18O (X, M, and δ18O refer to the chemical composition, number of moles, and oxygen isotope composition of each phase respectively). This set is composed of the differentials of five subsets of equations: (1) conditions of heterogeneous equilibrium; (2) compositional stoichiometry for each mineral; (3) mass balance for each oxide component; (4) oxygen isotope partitioning between phases; (5) conservation of the oxygen isotope ratio of the system. The variance of the complete set of equations is 2, and changes of δ18O, composition, and modal abundance for each mineral can be calculated for arbitrary changes of P and T. Applications to a typical pelitic bulk composition at amphibolite and lower granulite facies conditions suggest that for systems dominated by continuous reactions such as: (a) chlorite + quartz = garnet+H2O; (b) staurolite + biotite = garnet + muscovite + H2O; or (c) garnet + muscovite = sillimanite + biotite, isopleths of mineral δ18O are nearly independent of pressure, and have a spacing of about 0.1‰ per 10–20°C. For nearly discontinuous reactions such as: (d) garnet + chlorite + muscovite = biotite + staurolite+H2O; (e) staurolite + muscovite = biotite + aluminosilicate + garnet+H2O; or (f) muscovite + quartz = sillimanite + K-feldspar+H2O, isopleths of mineral δ18O have slopes more nearly parallel to endmember reaction boundaries and δ18O of phases can have a greater temperature dependence (e.g., 0.1‰ per 2°C for reaction d). This behavior results from relatively large amounts of reaction progress for small changes of P or T. However, the calculated exhaustion of a reactant within 0.1–5°C ensures that the predicted effects of such reactions on mineral δ18O will not exceed ∼0.25‰ for typical bulk compositions. Models that allow for fractional crystallization of garnet suggest that prograde garnet zoning in pelitic assemblages will be relatively smooth until staurolite becomes unstable. At higher temperatures, garnet may develop a step of as much as 0.6‰ in its core-rim zoning as a result of combined garnet resorption during the continuous reaction garnet + muscovite = sillimanite + biotite and repartitioning of the garnet rim composition to relatively heavy δ18O. The models are insensitive to the degree to which garnet fractionally crystallizes and to the isotope fractionation factors used; only extreme changes in modal abundance or bulk composition for a given mineral assemblage can produce significant changes in the predicted trends. In the absence of infiltration, isotopic shifts resulting from net transfer reactions for minerals in typical amphibolite, eclogite, and lower granulite facies metapelites and metabasites are inferred from the models to be ∼1‰ or less for ∼150°C of heating.
Alternative Logics: a book review: SIGACT news logic column 18

A few years ago, Bill Gasarch, editor of the Book Review Column, sent me a copy of the book Alternative Logics: Do Sciences Need Them? [28], edited by Paul Weingartner, and asked if I was interested in reviewing it. The book is a collection of essays discussing whether there is a need for logics other than classical logic in various areas of science. Interestingly, I had just finished reading a copy of philosopher Susan Haack's Deviant Logic [13], concerning the philosophical foundation of alternative logics. This was fortuitous, because Haack's monograph provided a wonderful introduction to the essays collected in Weingartner's volume.
SPADES: a simulator for path delay faults in sequential circuits

A fault simulator for path delay faults in synchronous sequential circuits is described, where a test sequence is considered under different combinations of slow and fast clock cycles (clocking schemes). The features of the simulator are: (1) multiple clocking schemes used for the application of a given test sequence are considered in parallel, allowing fast fault simulation for a given sequence, to obtain the highest fault coverage achieveable by every sequence; (2) during the simulation process, it is possible to determine the clocking scheme so as to minimize the number of different clocking schemes to be used with the sequence, without compromising the fault coverage; and (3) a path representation scheme that allows efficient access to path delay faults detected by previous tests is used. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate these features and their effectiveness. >
Wild Attractors of Polymodal Negative Schwarzian Maps

We study “wild attractors” of polymodal negative Schwarzian interval maps and prove that they are {\it super persistently recurrent} (a polymodal version of persistent recurrence). We also prove that if a map has an attractor which is a cycle of intervals then at almost every point of this cycle the map has properties similar to the Markov property introduced by Martens. Thus, the lack of super persistent recurrence at a critical point $c$ can be considered as a mild topological expanding property, and this expansion prevents ω(c) from being a wild attractor (in the previous paper we have shown that it also prevents the map from being C2-stable).
Preparing Sub‐Saharan Africa for a Pioneering Role in Eco‐industrial Development

Sub-Saharan Africans cannot begin to help pioneer the future ecological economy today without first studying and working in Western universities, research institutes, and corporations any more than Asians could have helped in pioneering the future information economy three decades ago without first studying and working in such Western institutions. now faces is how to increase the living standards of humanity more broadly beyond the top 15% without increasing the peril of all of humanity, given the accelerating planetary destruction currently taking place. Third World nations that never experienced smokestack industrialization and were latecomers to digital industrialization can still succeed in achieving rising living standards in the next industrial tectonic shift, which will likely be eco-industrialization. In essence, ecoindustrialization offers a path toward obviating the moral conundrum mentioned above by allowing material living standards of the global South to rise without necessitating a fundamental change in the quality of life in the global North or producing more environmental destruction. The arguments of this column are timely since a new consciousness is evident in the minds and attitudes of Western corporate and venture capitalists: they are recognizing that the future
HOXA10 regulates endometrial GABAA π receptor expression and membrane translocation

Expression of the GABA(A) pi receptor has been described previously in the human endometrium in both luminal epithelium and stroma. Its expression is increased during decidualization in rodents and in the implantation window of human endometrium. Here we localized GABA pi subunit receptor protein in human endometrium and identified regulators of gene expression and activation. GABA(A) pi was localized to the cell surface, and expression increased during the window of embryo implantation in human endometrium. The well-differentiated human endometrial adenocarcinoma cell line Ishikawa was treated with progesterone and transfected with pcDNA-HOXA10, HOXA10 siRNA, or respective controls. GABA(A) pi receptor mRNA expression was evaluated by real-time RT-PCR. Protein expression and localization were evaluated using immunofluorescence. GABA(A) pi receptor mRNA expression was increased significantly after either progesterone treatment or HOXA10 transfection. Coadministration of progesterone along with HOXA10 transfection had no additional effect on the expression of GABA(A) pi receptor mRNA over either agent alone. Blocking HOXA10 expression with siRNA prevented progesterone-induced GABA(A) pi receptor mRNA expression. Additionally, either HOXA10 or progesterone independently caused increased translocation of the GABA receptor from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane. Translocation in response to progesterone was blocked with HOXA10 siRNA. Progesterone-induced GABA(A) pi subunit receptor expression is likely mediated indirectly through progesterone's regulation of HOXA10 expression. Modification of subtype composition and translocation of the GABA receptor ion channel likely modulate endometrial receptivity. Whereas HOXA10 typically enhances the expression of progesterone-responsive genes, here HOXA10 expression leads to production of a less progestin-responsive GABA receptor subtype, likely buffering the effects of luteal phase progesterone on GABA receptor activity.