cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Why the CC Stretch in HCC Is So Anharmonic.

The marked anharmonicity of the CC stretching mode in the ethynyl radical (C2H) is investigated in terms of a vibronic coupling model. It is demonstrated that the large difference between the harmonic frequency and the fundamental level (about 5-10 times that for triple-bond stretches in the related species HCCH, HCN, HNC and CN) can be attributed to the well-known vibronic interaction between the X2Σ+ and A2Π states of CCH. Although the mode has σ symmetry and it is the perturbations of π symmetry that mix the two electronic states, a combination of large intrinsic coupling strength, modest energy gap, and-most importantly-the strong tuning of the gap energy by the CC stretch mode leads to a profound vibronic influence on parts of the anharmonic force field that sample the CC stretch. Finally, calculations of the force field for the X2Σ+ state with different flavors of coupled-cluster (CC) theory provide insight and underscore an intrinsic advantage of equation-of-motion CC (EOM-CC) methods.
A Cautionary Note

In our increasingly polarized culture, taking a middle position on important issues is increasingly difficult. Few seem to appreciate individuals positioning themselves on a fence dividing two opposing camps and, interestingly, those on both sides of the fence often demand an allegiance to one or the other positions. “You can’t sit on the fence,” such moderates are told—despite their often being able to see further from that vantage point than those standing on the ground unable to see over the fence.
Correlation of EGFR expression level and the degree of radiosensitizing effect of the EGFR inhibitor erlotinib

Proc Amer Assoc Cancer Res, Volume 45, 2004 1294 Purpose: Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mediated signal transduction pathways play an important role in the cellular response to ionizing radiation. Consequently, high EGFR expression on cancer cells may contribute to radioresistance. The purpose of this pre-clinical study is to evaluate the radiosensitizing effect of erlotinib (Tarceva™, OSI-774), a small-molecule EGFR tyrosine-kinase inhibitor. Materials and methods: Three human cancer cell lines expressing different levels of EGFR were selected for this study. A431, a squamous vulvar cancer cell line, expresses a very high level of EGFR; H157, a squamous lung cancer cell line, has moderate EGFR expression; and 3) H460, a large cell variant of a lung cancer cell line, has very low EGFR expression. Each cell line was treated with erlotinib alone or in combination with radiation at different doses. Surviving fractions were analyzed using a clonogenic assay. Cell-cycle redistribution after treatment was measured using propidium iodide and flow cytometry. The percentage of apoptotic cells was measured using 7-amino-actinomycin D staining and flow cytometry. Western blot analysis and immunoprecipitation were used to analyze EGFR and EGFR phosphorylation. Result: A431 cells were the most radio-resistant of the three cell lines, and H460 cells the most radiosensitive (Table1). However, A431 cells were the most sensitive to erlotinib (IC50 = 300 nM). In combination with erlotinib (300 nM), radiation dose enhancement ratios (DER) of 1.40, 1.17 and 1.04 were observed in A431, H157 and H460 cells, respectively. Treatment with erlotinib (300 nM) for 24 h resulted in an increase in G1 arrest by 18.6% in A431 cells, 2.0% in H157 cells, and 4.8% in H460 cells. We also observed that erlotinib-induced apoptosis was augmented by radiation alone in A431 cells. Conclusion: In this study we show that high EGFR expression may contribute to the radiosensitizing effect of erlotinib, an EGFR inhibitor, when combined with radiation. The extent of erlotinib-induced radiosensitization was proportional to the degree of EGFR expression by cancer cells, as well as the extent of autophosphorylation. The determination of cell type, and measurement of EGFR expression and autophosphorylation, might help to predict response to this type of combined cancer treatment. ![Figure][1] [1]: pending:yes
Commensal flagellated A4 bacteria promote intestinal Th1/Th17 cell development but inhibit Th2 responses

Host and microbiota interact interdependently to maintain intestinal immune homeostasis. As Th1, Th17, and Tregs are present in lamina propria (LP) in the steady condition, mucosal Th2 cells are hardly detected. Some specific commensal organisms have defined effects on mucosal immune functions, e.g., SFB promotes intestinal Th17 whereas B. fragilis and certain Clostridium spp induce Tregs. However, it is still unclear if there are specific commensal organisms downregulating Th2 responses to microbiota. A4 bacteria, a commensal isolated from mouse cecum, produce CBir1 flagellin, a dominant antigen in Crohn’s disease patients and in experimental colitis. In CBir1 TCR transgenic mice, Th1, Th17 and Treg but no Th2 cells are present in intestinal LP. Upon transferred into TCRβxδ-/- mice, CBir1 Tg T cells differentiated into IFN-γ+, IL-17+, FoxP3+ cells but not IL-4+ cells in LP. When stimulated with CBir1 flagellin in vitro, CBir1 Tg CD4+ T cells were able to differentiate into Th1, Th17 and Tregs but resisted Th2 differentiation. Pretreatment of APC with A4 bacterial lysates or CBir1 flagellin, but not with control E. coli, promoted IFN-γ but inhibited IL-4 production of OTII T cells stimulated with OVA and of wild-type T cells stimulated with anti-CD3 under neutral or Th2 polarizing conditions. Collectively, our data reveal that A4 bacteria inhibit Th2 and favor Th1/Th17 responses in intestinal mucosa via production of flagellin, probably through stimulating IFN-γ production.
A Literature Survey of the Fracking Economic and Environmental Implications in the United States

Abstract This paper presents an intensive survey of literature focused on the different aspects of fracking as related to the environment, economy, energy security and sustainability and establishes an understanding of the economic benefits and negative impacts of fracking on the environmental sustainability. The paper is also suggesting the use of all of those implications in a more comprehensive framework that can identify the real cost and benefit in fracking such as the Life Cycle Costing which can use all these implications along with others that occur across all the phases of the fracking process to come up with the real value and worth of the fracking process.
An Explicit Conditioning Method for Image Reconstruction in Electrical Capacitance Tomography

Abstract A new electrical capacitance tomography (ECT) image reconstruction method, termed Sensitivity Factor Regularization (SFR), is developed. The SFR method provides an explicit formulation for solving the image reconstruction problem that performs better than other explicit methods, such as linear back-projection and Tikhonov regularization, while providing the same computational efficiency. The computational ease of the SFR method renders it an attractive option for ECT where real-time imaging is required and theoretical statistical evaluation of proposed electrode configurations may readily be performed. A statistical study is conducted using SFR image reconstructions for investigating the impact of electrode density on image quality for a symmetric ECT system characterizing a square cross-section. A larger number of smaller electrodes allows more data to be gathered for use in image reconstruction, but degrades signal-to-noise ratio in the measurements. The statistical study using SFR clearly identifies a theoretical optimum electrode density that minimizes reconstructed image error for a given level of measurement noise.
Aging and acute exercise enhance free radical generation in rat skeletal muscle.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in the mechanism of biological aging and exercise-induced oxidative damage. The present study examined the effect of an acute bout of exercise on intrac...
Association between urologist characteristics and radiation oncologist consultation for patients with locoregional prostate cancer.

Background Physicians managing patients with prostate cancer play a critical role in subsequent specialist consultations and initial treatment choice, especially in cases for which no consensus exists regarding optimal treatment strategy. The NCCN Guidelines for Prostate Cancer recommend radiation as a therapy option for patients with locoregional prostate cancer. Purpose The authors examined the association of urologist characteristics with the likelihood that patients would consult radiation oncologists. Methods A retrospective cohort of 39,934 patients aged 66 years or older who were diagnosed with locoregional prostate cancer between 2004 and 2007, and the 2405 urologists who performed the patient diagnostic biopsies were constructed using the SEER-Medicare linked database and the American Medical Association Physician Masterfile. Logistic multilevel regression analysis was used to evaluate the influence of urologists' characteristics on radiation oncologist consultation within 9 months of locoregional prostate cancer diagnosis. Results Overall, 24,549 (61.5%) patients consulted a radiation oncologist. After adjusting for patient and urologist characteristics, patients diagnosed by urologists in noninstitutional settings (eg, physician office) were significantly more likely to consult a radiation oncologist (odds ratio [OR], 1.40; 95% CI, 1.17-1.67; P=.0002) compared with those diagnosed by urologists in institutional settings with a major medical school affiliation. In addition, patients diagnosed by urologists older than 57 years were significantly more likely to consult a radiation oncologist (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.07-1.38, P=.003).
Abstract 622: S-equol, an estrogen receptor β agonist, inhibits tumor growth and progression of breast cancer

Breast cancer is the primary cause of cancer-associated mortality in women worldwide. Estrogen and the Estrogen Receptors (ER) play a significant role in breast cancer, with over two-thirds of breast cancers expressing ERα. Current endocrine therapy, such as aromatase inhibitors, target estrogen biosynthesis and anti-estrogens target ERα. However, therapeutic resistance frequently arises. In addition to the importance of ERα, ERβ has also been shown to play a critical, but opposing role in breast cancer. ERβ has been shown to inhibit the growth of ERα-positive breast cancer cells. The ratio of ERα to ERβ, in addition to the cross talk between ER9s and growth factor signaling, has been implicated in the development of therapeutic resistance. Recently, several plant-derived compounds that exhibit ERβ agonist activity have been identified. S-equol is a potent ERβ agonist and a metabolite from the soy isoflavone daidzein, and has been previously shown to alleviate menopausal symptoms in a clinical trial. Activation of ERβ, or its over expression, shifts the balance of ER9s from the oncogenic action of ERα to the tumor suppressor activity of ERβ, and therefore may be a valuable therapeutic approach in the treatment of breast cancer. In this study we sought out to determine the efficacy of the ERβ agonist, S-equol, in inhibiting the growth and progression of breast tumors using a syngeneic mouse model. We used mouse mammary tumor cells expressing endogenous ERβ, and to determine the contribution of ERβ, cells with knockdown of ERβ were generated using shRNA. ERβ mRNA and protein expression was analyzed using qRT-PCR and western blot respectively. Syngeneic tumors were established and mice were treated with either a vehicle control or S-equol. Treatment with S-equol reduces tumor volume and inhibits the progression of mouse mammary tumor cells in tumors expressing ERβ. Our mechanistic studies show that S-equol reduces the expression of ERα, and increases the expression of p53 and p27 in an ERβ dependent manner. Additionally, S-equol modulates the expression of inflammatory molecules involved in aromatase expression and promotes the differentiation of cancer stem cells. In conclusion, this study suggests that targeting ERβ may be a valuable strategy in treatment of breast cancer. Citation Format: Cathy Samayoa, Naveen K. Krishnegowda, Samaya R. Krishnan, Ratna K. Vadlamudi, Rajeshwar R. Tekmal. S-equol, an estrogen receptor β agonist, inhibits tumor growth and progression of breast cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 622. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-622
Demonstration of latency reduction in electrical interconnections using optical fanout

We present a hybrid opto-electronic system capable of improving the performance of on-chip electrical fanout architectures. Our opto-electronic system employs a layer of optical fanout and utilizes the electrical isolation between the receiving nodes. Through our proof-of-concept links, we show a 15% latency reduction for links as short as 200/spl mu/m and 50% reduction at 2mm.
Optimizing perioperative pain management.

ABSTRACT All nurses, regardless of specialty or practice setting, must provide effective measures to relieve their patients' pain. Uncontrolled pain can result in negative consequences, such as impaired cardiac functioning and neuroplastic changes in the spine and brain. This article discusses the problem of uncontrolled pain and perioperative nurses' role in relieving pain, including assessing pain and providing pharmacological and nonpharmacological relief. AORN J 76 (Nov 2002) 812–818.
The New High-Q Physics: Photonic Clocks and Back-action Cooling on a Chip

Recent demonstrations in cantilevers and microtoroids of radiation-pressure-cooling from room temperature to 10degK will be reviewed. These techniques can potentially achieve ground-state cooling of a macro-scale oscillator.
Line-by-line method of calculating emission coefficients of thermal plasmas consisting of monatomic species

Summary form only given, as follows. To accurately model a plasma's thermal characteristics reliable radiation property data is required. We have written a program which calculates these properties. This program utilizes a theoretically rigorous method for obtaining radiation property data of thermal plasmas composed of monatomic, nonhydrogenic species. A computationally expensive, line-by-line technique is utilized. Natural, van der Waals, resonance and quadratic Stark broadening mechanisms are included in determining the line half-widths. In addition to line radiation, free-bound continuum and free-free continuum for both ions and neutral particles are considered. The fundamental specific radiation property determined by the program is the optically thin emission coefficient as a function of the wavelength. From this property the wavelength dependent, optically thin absorption coefficient is easily determined. Properties that are more suitable for engineering analysis, such as the wavelength integrated, optically thin emission coefficient and the net emission coefficient are also calculated. An overview of the method of calculating the radiation properties is given. Comparisons are made to published wavelength integrated, optically thin emission coefficients for argon plasmas obtained from experimental measurements and to some published net emission coefficients for argon/copper plasmas calculated with an analytical technique different than that used here. In addition to the comparison data some additional results on the effect of copper impurities in argon are presented.
Reconstruction of steplike potentials

In this article we study some numerical methods for the determination of a potential V(x) in the one-dimensional Schrodinger equation. We assume that V(x) = 0 for x <0, and tends to a nonnegative constant as x tends to positive infinity. We suppose also that there are no bound states. The approach pursued here is a based on a transformation to an equivalent ‘time domain’ problem, namely the determination of an unknown coefficient in a wave equation. We also discuss some advantages of replacing the unknown potential by an equivalent unknown impedance.
A study of the relative efficiency of Chinese ports: A financial ratio-based data envelopment analysis approach

: This research examines the relative efficiency of 11 major Chinese ports by using an innovative adopted version of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA). DEA is a non-parametric approach to weigh the inputs/outputs and measure the relative efficiency of decision-making units. This paper adopts an output-oriented version of DEA based on financial ratios in which no inputs are utilized. The new adopted DEA model provides a rounded judgement on port efficiency taking into consideration multiple financial ratios simultaneously and combining them into a single measure of efficiency. The mathematical model is solved for every port, and the relative efficiency of each port is determined. The results of DEA show that the higher a port's efficiency ratio in relation to the corresponding ratio of another port, the higher the efficiency of this port. Finally, suggestions based on the data analysis are provided for managerial decision makers to improve the areas needed for port operating efficiency.
Differences in CSF phospholipid concentration by traumatic brain injury outcome

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. A cascade of events is initiated with TBI that leads to degradation of the membrane lipid bilayer of neurons and neuroglia. The purpose of this study was to (a) describe changes in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) phospholipid concentration over time for those who survived and those who died following TBI; and (b) determine whether there were differences in the CSF phospholipid concentration between those who survived and those who died following TBI. Thirty-nine CSF samples were obtained from 10 participants who sustained a TBI. Following extraction, phospholipids were separated and quantified by normal-phase high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detector. For those who died, the highest median concentration was on Day 1 after TBI for lysophosphatidylcholine and on Day 4 after TBI for phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylcholine, and sphingomyelin. For those who survived, the highest median concentration was on Day 1 after TBI for phosphatidylcholine, on Day 3 after TBI for phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylserine, on Day 4 after TBI for sphingomyelin, and on Day 5 after TBI for lysophosphatidylcholine. There were significant differences in the concentrations of phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylserine on Days 1-2 and of phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, and sphingomyelin on Days 3-4 after TBI between those who survived and died, with the highest concentrations in those who died. These findings provide preliminary evidence of greater disruption of central nervous system membrane phospholipids in participants who died after TBI.
Computing subgraph isomorphic queries using structural unification and minimum graph structures

Graphs and trees play a major role in many applications including social networks, internet management, science, and business. Yet, there remains a serious lack of tools for graph data management, analysis and querying. Systems that rely on non-traditional complex relationships among objects naturally invite a fresh look at data models and query languages suitable for applications that require graphs as first class citizens. In this paper, we propose a new data model for the storage and management of graph objects, and present a heuristic algorithm to efficiently compute subgraph isomorphic queries, and show that the same algorithm can be adapted to perform a wide range of graph queries. We rely upon the introduction of the idea of structural unification, a novel graph representation based on minimum structures, and an indexing mechanism for storing minimum graph structures. We experimentally show that our approach yields significant speed up over the two leading subgraph isomorphism algorithms Ullmann and VFLib.
Redundancy minimizing techniques for robust transmission in wireless networks

In this paper, we consider a wireless multiple path network in which a transmitting node would like to send a message to the receiving node with a certain probability of success. These two nodes are separated by N erasure paths, and we devise two algorithms to determine minimum redundancy and optimal symbol allocation for this setup. We discuss the case with N =3 and then extend the case to an arbitrary number of paths. One of the algorithms minimum redundancy algorithm in exponential time is shown to be optimal in several cases, but has exponential running time. The other algorithm, minimum redundancy algorithm in polynomial time, is sub-optimal but has polynomial worst-case running time. These algorithms are based off the theory of maximum-distance separable codes. We apply the MRAET algorithm on maximum-distance separable, Luby transform, and Raptor codes and compare their performance.
Bradykinin-Degrading Enzymes: Structure, Function, Distribution, and Potential Roles in Cardiovascular Pharmacology

Bradykinin is susceptible to degradation by a variety of endo- and exopeptidases. These include aminopeptidase P, meprin, endopeptidase 24.15, prolyl endopeptidase, neutral endopeptidase 24.11, angiotensin I-converting enzyme, carboxypeptidase N, carboxypeptidase M, and deamidase. These peptidases are widely distributed in various tissues and cells in the body, and their subcellular locations vary as well. Because bradykinin is inactivated (for binding the B2 receptor) when any of its peptide bonds are cleaved, all of these enzymes qualify as potential "kininases" in vivo; however, the importance of a particular enzyme as a kininase will depend on its localization, access to bradykinin, and the presence of other peptidases. In addition, these peptidases can cleave a variety of other peptide hormone substrates. Determination of the importance of a peptidase in the inactivation of bradykinin during a particular physiological response can be difficult, but specific peptidase inhibitors and kinin receptor antagonists are useful tools in investigating these questions.
Binding of ovine uterine serpin to lymphocytes

Liu W-J, Peltier MR, Hansen PJ. Binding of ovine uterine serpin to lymphocytes. AJRI 1999; 41:428-432 © Munksgaard, Copenhagen PROBLEM: The endometrium of the sheep produces a progesterone-induced member of the serpin superfamily of serine proteinase inhibitors that can inhibit lymphocyte proliferation and reduce natural killer cell activity. Present results indicate that this molecule, called ovine uterine serpin (OvUS), can bind specifically to lymphocytes. METHOD OF STUDY/RESULTS: Biotinylated OvUS bound to peripheral blood lymphocytes in a dose-dependent and saturable manner. Binding was inhibited by OvUS, but not by several other proteins, including serpin-enzyme complex (α 1 -an-titrypsin-trypsin). Heparin blocked binding when added to the binding reaction or when used to pretreat lymphocytes. Both lymphocytes and Madin-Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) cells also bound fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled OvUS. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that OvUS can interact with lymphocytes and other cells through binding to a cell surface molecule. Such binding may indicate that inhibition of lymphocyte activation by OvUS involves 1) binding of OvUS to a cell surface receptor or 2) competitive inhibition of binding between OvUS and a co-activation molecule required for lymphocyte activation.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF A MECHANICAL SYSTEM CONTAINING A LOCAL CONTINUOUS STIFFNESS NON-LINEARITY UNDER PERIODIC EXCITATION AND A STATIC LOAD

Abstract Local stiffness non-linearities under dynamic (periodic) and static (time-invariant) loads exist in many complex mechanical systems, oftentimes at the junctions of assembled components. Unlike in linear systems, a static load may significantly alter the nature of the non-linearity and dynamic response, in terms of amplitude, frequency content and stability. To examine such phenomena, a controlled laboratory experiment with a local continuous stiffness non-linearity has been designed, fabricated, instrumented and analyzed. It consists of a flexible support structure by a multi-dimensional non-linear “hardening” spring element. The non-linear elastic element is made of a very thin beam clamped between tapered ends. Multi-harmonic, amplitude-dependent, frequency-sweep-direction-dependent periodic responses to slowly swept harmonic excitation were measured by using order tracking with a dynamic signal analyzer. It was found that the static load induces the “hardening” stiffness element to behave like a “softening” spring under certain conditions. The cause of this is explained via theoretical studies of a simple single-degree-of-freedom non-linear oscillator and a more complex model of the experimental system itself. Experimental and theoretical studies of the multi-degree-of-freedom, multi-dimensional test system also showed that the local non-linearity has a broad spectral and spatial influence on the dynamic behaviour of the overall system. For instance, it alters the characteristics of several system resonances and modes.
An X-band Low Phase Noise Oscillator Employing a Four-pole Elliptic-Response Microstrip Bandpass Filter

In this paper, a low phase noise planar oscillator employing an elliptic bandpass filter as a frequency stabilization element within its feedback loop is presented. The oscillator phase noise is significantly reduced by taking advantage of the group delay peaks formed at the passband edges of an elliptic filter. An X-band oscillator using a SiGe HBT packaged transistor has been designed and tested. At the oscillation frequency of 9 GHz, the measured phase noise is -140 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset frequency. The oscillator exhibits an output power of 3.5 dBm with a figure of merit of -204.4 dBc/Hz.
Influence of Different Parameters on a Dual-Fractal Analysis for Antigen-Antibody Binding Kinetics for Biosensor Applications

Abstract The diffusion-limited binding kinetics of antigen (or antibody) in solution to antibody (or antigen) immobilized on a biosensor surface is analyzed within a fractal framework. The fit obtained by a dual-fractal analysis is compared with that obtained from a single-fractal analysis. In some cases, the dual-fractal analysis provides an improved fit when compared with a single-fractal analysis. This was indicated by the regression analysis provided by Sigmaplot (46). It is of interest to note that the state of disorder (or the fractal dimension) and the binding rate coefficient both increase as the reaction progresses on the biosensor surface. For example, for the binding of HIV-1 p24 in solution to monoclonal antibody (MAb) 18 covalently attached to a biosensor surface (49), an increase in the fractal dimension by 59% from a value of D f1 equal to 1.91 to D f2 equal to 2.95 leads to an increase in the binding rate coefficient by a factor of 15 from k 1 equal to 21.1 to k 2 equal to 339. Also, the binding of MAb 6301 and 6303 in solution to insulin growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1) covalently attached to the sensor surface is adequately described by a single-fractal analysis (48). The binding of MAb 6302 to IGFBP-1, however, requires dual fractals. This indicates a difference in the binding mechanisms of these MAbs. The different examples analyzed and presented together provide a means by which the antigen–antibody reactions may be better controlled by noting the magnitude of the changes in the fractal dimension and in the binding rate coefficient as the reaction progresses on the biosensor surface. Also, the magnitude of the changes in the binding rate coefficients ( k 1 and k 2 ) and in the fractal dimensions ( D f1 and D f2 ) as different parameters are changed for the different biosensor applications are of particular value.
Rational Structure-Based Design of PLN Mutants to Optimize Dephosphorylation and Tune Serca Function

Phospholamban (PLN) is the endogenous inhibitor of the sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA), the enzyme that regulates cardiac muscle relaxation. In its phosphorylated state (pS16-PLN, pT17-PLN, and pS16pT17-PLN), PLN does not inhibit SERCA. Dysfunctions in SERCA:PLN interactions and in the PLN phosphorylation mechanism have been implicated in cardiac disease, and targeting PLN is becoming a promising avenue for treating cardomyopathies. In this study, we seek to further improve the design therapeutic PLN mutants by optimizing their functional interactions with an endogenous regulatory phosphatase of PLN, protein phosphatase-1 (PP1). PP1 is responsible for PLN dephosphorylation and the transition from its non-inhibitory to inhibitory state. Using a combination of NMR spectroscopy and biochemical assays, correlations will be built between the structural dynamics of promising therapeutic mutants of PLN and their ability to be dephosphorylated by PP1. Additionally, several new mutants of PLN are developed with the goal they will be able to partially inhibit SERCA and also be impervious to dephosphorylation. Insights to these issues will provide better paradigms with which to design therapeutic mutants of PLN for treatment of heart failure, and also demonstrate a model by which an enzyme can be controlled through tuning the allosteric regulation of an inhibitor.
Surface tension of rosin soap solutions

The surface tension of soap solutions made from rosins and rosin acids has been measured and the surface tension of fatty acid soap solutions and fatty acidresin soap solutions have been measured and compared.
Uterine artery embolization using a transradial approach: initial experience and technique

This study investigates the feasibility of performing uterine artery embolization (UAE) via transradial access (TRA). Growing evidence demonstrates significant benefits of TRA versus standard transfemoral access during percutaneous coronary intervention, now making it the preferred approach at many centers worldwide. At a single institution from March 2013 to October 2013, 29 consecutive patients were treated by transradial UAE. Technical success rate was 100%, with no immediate major or minor complications. The radial artery was patent at 1-month follow-up evaluation in all cases. These preliminary data suggest that transradial UAE is feasible and safe.
Temporal parts of four dimensional objects

L'A. s'interroge sur le modele correct de la quatrieme dimension des objets, i.e. leur dimension temporelle, a partir notamment d'une discussion de J. Thomson "Parthood and Identity across Time" (The Journal of Philosophy 80, 1983, p. 201-220). L'A. s'efforce en particulier de construire un modele qui rende compte de la continuite et de l'identite du corps a travers le temps.
The effects of grammatical proscription on morphosyntactic change: Auxiliary variation in Franco-American French

The author explores the influence of grammatical proscription on morphosyntactic change (or lack thereof) in two Franco-American communities, based on data gathered through sociolinguistic interviews with French-English bilinguals from Southbridge, Massachusetts and Woonsocket, Rhode Island. A study of the use of passe compose shows that although a great deal of variation exists within the communities, language shift does not appear to be causing rapid linguistic change. The author also finds that, with the exception of community of residence, every social constraint considered was found to exercise a significant influence on variation. The analysis thus indicates that despite the sociolinguistic situation of language shift, the passe compose shows a high degree of resistance to grammatical simplification in both Southbridge and Woonsocket.
The quarks of object-oriented development

A two-construct taxonomy is used to define the essential elements of object orientation through analysis of existing literature.
Holey graphene frameworks for highly efficient capacitive energy storage

Carbon-based materials are promising supercapacitor electrodes, but suffer from limited energy densities. Here, the authors report a holey graphene framework with hierarchical porous structures and fully accessible surface areas, leading to high energy densities comparable to lead-acid batteries.
Nanogels for oligonucleotide delivery to the brain

Systemic delivery of oligonucleotides (ODN) to the central nervous system is needed for development of therapeutic and diagnostic modalities for treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Macromolecules injected in blood are poorly transported across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and rapidly cleared from circulation. In this work we propose a novel system for ODN delivery to the brain based on nanoscale network of cross-linked poly(ethylene glycol) and polyethylenimine ("nanogel"). The methods of synthesis of nanogel and its modification with specific targeting molecules are described. Nanogels can bind and encapsulate spontaneously negatively charged ODN, resulting in formation of stable aqueous dispersion of polyelectrolyte complex with particle sizes less than 100 nm. Using polarized monolayers of bovine brain microvessel endothelial cells as an in vitro model this study demonstrates that ODN incorporated in nanogel formulations can be effectively transported across the BBB. The transport efficacy is further increased when the surface of the nanogel is modified with transferrin or insulin. Importantly the ODN is transported across the brain microvessel cells through the transcellular pathway; after transport, ODN remains mostly incorporated in the nanogel and ODN displays little degradation compared to the free ODN. Using mouse model for biodistribution studies in vivo, this work demonstrated that as a result of incorporation into nanogel 1 h after intravenous injection the accumulation of a phosphorothioate ODN in the brain increases by over 15 fold while in liver and spleen decreases by 2-fold compared to the free ODN. Overall, this study suggests that nanogel is a promising system for delivery of ODN to the brain.
A response to DePalma and Ringer's article “Toward a theory of adaptive transfer: Expanding disciplinary discussions of ‘transfer’ in second-language writing and composition studies”

Abstract DePalma and Ringer's article proposes an eclectic, multidimensional, and multidisciplinary framework of adaptive transfer of writing. They define the new view of transfer as dynamic, idiosyncratic, cross-contextual, rhetorical, multilingual, and transformative. Using a transformative experience of eleven nurses who transition from school to work, DePalma and Ringer illustrate the elements of their framework. However, their explanation raises a number of questions, specifically the following: the scope of the framework and its relevance to diverse educational and professional settings; the relationship of adaptive transfer and language and writing socialization; the view of reshaping writing in genre studies; and the role of methodological and pedagogical choices in the adaptive transfer framework.
Electron avalanches in oxygen and in mixtures of O 2 and H 2 : Determination of the first Townsend coefficient α

We have studied current transients of pre-breakdown electron avalanches in uniform fields in pure oxygen, and in mixtures of oxygen and hydrogen. The goal of this work is to determine an effective first Townsend coefficient $\ensuremath{\alpha}$, which accounts for instantaneous ionization processes by electron impact. Following the reasoning of Price, Lucas, and Moruzzi, the mixtures were chosen to remove the primary negative ion ${\mathrm{O}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ by a rapid associative detachment reaction with ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, thus effectively making oxygen behave as a nonattaching gas. This simplifies the analysis of the transients. A simple extrapolation to zero hydrogen pressure is used to determine $\frac{\ensuremath{\alpha}}{p}$, the ratio of the ionization coefficient to pure oxygen pressure. The values of $\frac{\ensuremath{\alpha}}{p}$ thus obtained are in agreement with pulse measurements in pure oxygen and supplement the pure oxygen data at lower field-strength-to-pressure ratios (between 30 to 40 V/cm Torr) and at higher pressures (16 to 32 Torr). Because of the observed presence of a detachment reaction in the mixture, the role of associative detachment in making oxygen behave as a nonattaching gas is reexamined.
Phytochemicals and antioxidant activity of milled fractions of different wheat varieties.

The health-promoting effects of whole-grain consumption have been attributed in part to their unique phytochemical contents and profiles that complement those found in fruits and vegetables. Wheat is an important component of the human diet; however, little is known about the phytochemical profiles and total antioxidant activities of milled fractions of different wheat varieties. The objectives of this study were to investigate the distribution of phytochemicals (total phenolics, flavonoids, ferulic acid, and carotenoids) and to determine hydrophilic and lipophilic antioxidant activity in milled fractions (endosperm and bran/germ) of three different wheat varieties, two of which were grown in two environments. Grain samples of each of the wheat varieties were milled into endosperm and bran/germ fractions. Each fraction was extracted and analyzed for total phenolics, ferulic acid, flavonoids, carotenoid contents, and hydrophilic and lipophilic antioxidant activities. Total phenolic content of bran/germ fra...
Numerical computation of buoyancy-induced recirculation in curved square duct laminar flow

Abstract The influence of buoyant effects on developing heat transfer in strongly curved duct flows has been studied numerically for the special case of steady state, incompressible laminar flow of a constant physical property fluid to which the Boussinesq approximation applies. The two cases of: (a) buoyant forces aligned with, and (b) opposed to the main flow direction were investigated. The presence of several streamwise recirculation zones necessitates the solution of fully elliptic transport equations. It is found that when buoyant forces are aligned with the main flow direction in curved duct flow geometries they can significantly enhance the rate of heat transfer, especially at the inner-radius wall. By contradistinction, when buoyant forces and the main flow are opposed, three additional elongated recirculation zones which appear at the inner-radius wall are the cause for reduced heat transfer to the flow in a curved duct.
Are Ca2+-permeable kainate/AMPA receptors more abundant in immature brain?

The permeability properties of kainate/AMPA receptors are determined by subunit composition. The GluR1 and GluR3 subunits form Ca2+-permeable channels and exhibit inward rectification; heteromeric receptors containing the GluR2 subunit are Ca2+-impermeable and electrically linear. These observations raise the possibily of a developmental ‘switch’ in which turning on or off of GluR2 expression regulates the level of Ca2+ permeable kainate/AMPA receptors. We examined the ratio of GluR1 and GluR3 to GluR2 gene expression in developing and adult rat brain by in situ hybridization. A larger value of this ratio is likely to be associated with greater Ca2+ permeability. Our data suggest that in neocortex, striatum and cerebellum the number of Ca2+-permeable kainate/AMPA receptors is high at P4 and declines monotonically with age. In hippocampus, the number increases from P7 to P21, after which it declines. These findings provide evidence for a developmental ‘switch’ in which Ca2+ permeable glutamate receptors are turned off following early developmental events.
A note on the downstream variation of the lower trade-wind circulation

Mak's (1976) model for the macro-structure of the undisturbed lower trade-wind circulation is modified by taking into account the potential temperature distribution in the layer above the trade wind inversion. The downstream variations of temperature, wind and the height of the inversion base predicted by the modified model are found to agree reasonably well with those for the BOMEX region during an undisturbed period. DOI: 10.1111/j.2153-3490.1977.tb00730.x
Characterization of tetramethylrhodaminyl-phalloidin binding to cellular F-actin.

Fluorescent derivatives of phalloidin are widely used to measure filamentous actin (F-actin) levels and to stabilize F-actin. We have characterized the kinetics and affinity of binding of tetramethylrhodaminyl (TRITC)-phalloidin to rabbit skeletal muscle F-actin and to F-actin in lysates of rabbit polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). We have defined conditions where TRITC-phalloidin can be used to inhibit F-actin depolymerization and to quantify F-actin without prior fixation. By equilibrium measurements, the affinity of TRITC-phalloidin binding to rabbit skeletal muscle F-actin (pyrene labeled) or to PMN lysate F-actin was 1-4 x 10(-7) M. In both cases, the stoichiometry of binding was approximately 1:1. Kinetic measurements of TRITC-phalloidin binding to PMN lysate F-actin resulted in an association rate constant of 420 +/- 120 M-1 sec-1 and a dissociation rate constant of 8.3 +/- 0.9 x 10(-5) sec-1. The affinity calculated from the kinetic measurements (2 +/- 1 x 10(-7) M) agreed well with that obtained by equilibrium measurements. The rate with which 0.6 microM TRITC-phalloidin inhibited 0.1 microM pyrenyl F-actin depolymerization (90% inhibition in 10 sec) was much faster than the rate of binding to pyrenyl F-actin (less than 1% bound in 10 sec), suggesting that phalloidin binds to filament ends more rapidly than to the rest of the filament. We show that TRITC-phalloidin can be used to measure F-actin levels in cell lysates when G-actin is also present (i.e., in cell lysates at high concentrations) if DNase I is included to prevent phalloidin-induced polymerization.
Studies on the mechanism of photodynamic-therapy-induced tumor destruction

There exists little doubt that profound changes occur to both tumor and normal tissue microvasculature during photodynamic therapy, and that these changes are important in the process of tumor destruction. We hypothesize that singlet oxygen, produced during light activation of photosensitizer, interacts with cellular membranes and induces the release of arachidonic acid metabolites, notably thromboxane, into the intravascular environment. This leads to vasoconstriction, platelet aggregation, and hemostasis. To test this hypothesis, we have measured the release of thromboxane into serum as a function of porphyrin and light doses used in phototherapy. Sprague Dawley rats bearing chondrosarcoma in the right hind limb were injected with 0-25 mg/kg Photofrin IP'. A catheter was implanted in the carotid artery 24 h later, and the hind limb exposed to 0-135 J/cm2 630 nm light. Immediately after treatment, serum was collected and thromboxane levels were measured by radioimmunoassay. We found significant increases in systemic thromboxane concentrations following phototherapy at the highest porphyrin and light doses, compared to drug and light controls. The administration of indomethacin (10 mg/kg i.p.) prior to treatment suppressed the release of thromboxane from tumor and normal tissues and inhibited hemostasis and tumor response to phototherapy. These studies have reinforced the important role of arachidonic acid metabolites in producing vascular damage during phototherapy.
Higher order Green functions in the theory of magnetism

Abstract The calculation of higher order thermodynamic Green functions which occur in the theory of magnetism, can be simplified with the help of a modified equation of motion.
Low-cost photoelectrocatalyst based on a nanoporous oxide layer of low-carbon steel

Low-carbon steel is a commonly used structural material in a wide variety of applications. An anodic oxide layer of this inexpensive alloy has been noted to have interesting photoelectrochemical behaviour similar to that of α-Fe2O3 prepared using other expensive starting materials. An ordered nanoporous oxide layer has been grown on to the low-carbon steel surface by a simple electrochemical anodization process in different electrolytes such as ethylene glycol containing 0.05M NH4F and 3–10 vol% water and 0.5M phosphoric acid solution containing 0.05M NH4F. After anodization, the nanoporous anodic oxide layer has been transformed to α-Fe2O3 by a low-temperature annealing process. Photoelectrochemical characterization of the anodic iron oxide materials has been carried out in 1M KOH electrolyte under a solar simulated illumination using Air Mass (AM) 1.5. The ordered nanoporous oxide layer prepared in ethylene glycol-based electrolyte showed a photocurrent density of about 85 µA cm−2 at 0.4 VAg/AgCl. Whereas the anodic iron oxide prepared by anodization of the low-carbon steel in 0.5M H3PO4 + 0.05M NaF solution showed a photocurrent density of 800 µA cm−2 at 0.4 VAg/AgCl. The improved photoactivity of the phosphate-modified oxide layer could be attributed to the high charge carrier concentration, low charge transfer resistance and better ability to expend holes in the oxygen evolution reaction.
QCD at high temperature

Abstract A self-consistent high temperature expansion based on a gas of chromo-magnetic monopoles is presented for QCD. It is pointed out as well that complex baryon density domains are expected slightly above the deconfinement phase transition.
Work value development from adolescence to adulthood

Abstract This study examines three forms of development in work values, or the importance people attach to various rewards of working, including whether young people become more selective in their work values with age, whether work values become more stable with age, and whether work values become more predictive of later work outcomes with age. Drawing on multi-cohort panel data from ages 18 to 30 (the Monitoring the Future senior classes of 1976–1990), we find that the range of job features valued highly narrows with age; that interindividual differences in work values become more stable with age along seven dimensions of work values; and that with age, work values become stronger predictors of both the pay and intrinsic rewards of jobs. Despite significant social change altering the context of vocational development in adolescence and early adulthood, these developmental changes were highly similar across cohorts who were high school seniors between 1976 and 1990.
Kenneth O. May and information retrieval in mathematics

Abstract From 1966 to 1977 Kenneth O. May led a team of University of Toronto staff and students that aimed to produce the most comprehensive general reference tools to date for the history of mathematics. The major published result was the 1973 Bibliography and Research Manual of the History of Mathematics , but also in the works was a dictionary and thesaurus of mathematical terms linked to their use in the literature. These works were intended to be a basis for subject indexing the whole of mathematical literature. His conceptual design and his goal and methodology, are useful examples in information retrieval.
Freshwater Spills Information Clearinghouse

ABSTRACT The Great Lakes Commission, in concert with the Great Lakes Spill Protection Initiative (GLSPI) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Great Lakes National Program Office (GLNPO), has developed the Freshwater Spills Information Clearinghouse (FSIC) Web site (www.freshwaterspills.net.). The Web site serves as point of entry for users searching for freshwater planning and response information, research data and abstracts, education and outreach materials, emerging response and prevention technologies, pertinent geographic information system (GIS) data, and organizational links. In addition, the Web site has been proposed as the central repository for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) “small science” program. The FSIC initially was developed to address the freshwater planning, response, and research community's need to centralize data and resource information currently housed in fragmented locations. Its growth will depend on the interaction of the oil/freshwater...