cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effect of Temperature on Fatigue Response of Surface-Notched [(0/ ± 45/0) s ] 3 Graphite/Epoxy Laminate

The fatigue behavior of surface-notched [(0/′45/0) s ] 3 T300/5208 graphite-epoxy specimens was studied over the temperature range from room temperature to 421°F (216°C). The specimens, after being subjected to two lifetimes of a 135 000-cycle tension-dominated flight-by-flight spectrum, were nondestructively inspected (using tetrabromoethane-enhanced X-ray radiography and C-scanning) and then tested at room temperature to determine their residual strengths. The test results show that both the extent of matrix damage and residual strengths increase with fatigue test temperature. If the fatigue-induced matrix damage region (FIMDR) is the same size or smaller than the delamination region observed prior to static failure, then the residual and static strengths are equal. If the FIMDR is larger than the delamination prior to static failure, then the residual strength is higher than the static strength. Finally, the residual strength is less than the net section strength.
Advancing our understanding of the inheritance and transmission of pectus excavatum

Pectus excavatum is the most common congenital chest wall abnormality expressed in children, yet its inheritance is poorly understood. Here we present the first comprehensive assessment of the inheritance of this disorder. After evaluating 48 pedigrees and 56 clinical traits of probands and family members, we find strong evidence of autosomal recessive, genetic control for this disorder. Additionally there is likely more than one pectus disease-associated allele, as well as a relatively large number of disease allele carriers in the human population. Some clinical traits appear important and may serve as reliable indicators for predicting the likelihood of pectus excavatum in children before severe symptoms present. Quantifying sex-ratio bias in probands demonstrates a highly significant male bias associated with pectus excavatum. When combined with pedigree data, sex-bias is indicative of sex-linked, sex-limited, and/or epigenetic control such as X-inactivation, reiterating a point made with pedigrees alone, which is that more than one mutation is likely responsible for this disorder.
Glycoprotein biosynthesis. VI. Regulation of uridine diphosphate N-acetyl-D-glucosamine metabolism in bovine thyroid gland slices.

1. 1. Bovine thyroid gland slices were incubated with 6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine (DON) and in many cases along with trace amounts of either [14C]glucosamine or [14C]fructose. DON caused a marked inhibition (approx. 95% in 4 h) of L-glutamine: D-fructose-6-P amidotransferase, the enzyme believed to be responsible for the de novo synthesis of glucosamine-6-P, and hence of UDP-N-acetylhexosamines. 2. 2. The reduction of the amidotransferase activity by DON was also demonstrated by measuring the incorporation of [14C]fructose into the hexosamine moiety of UDP-N-acethylhexosamines. This incorporation was inhibited by about 91% in 4 h incubation. 3. 3. However, in contrast to previous studies (Bates, C. J., Adams, W. R. and Handschumacher, R. E. (1966) J. Biol. Chem. 241, 1705; Bates, C. J. and Handschumacher, R. E. (1969) Adv. Enzyme Regul. 7, 183) with rat liver in vivo, where there was an 85% reduction of the level of UDP-N-acethylhexosamines by DON, this same inhibitor showed no effect on the concentration of UDP-N-acethylhexosamines in the thyroid slices. This result strongly suggested that in the thyroid, the intracellular hydrolysis of thyroglobulin appreciably contributed N-actylglucosamine to the maintenance of UDP-N-acetylhexosamines pool. 4. 4. DON was shown to have no effect on the conversion of [14C]glucosamine to UDP-N-acetylhexosamines and the subsequent utilization of the aminosugar nucleotide for thyroglobulin or glycoprotein biosynthesis. 5. 5. The feedback inhibition of the amidotransferase by UDP-N-acetylglucosamine was demonstrated in the thyroid slices by incubation with puromycin, a well-known inhibitor of protein biosynthesis, which prevented the utilization of the aminosugar nucleotide for the formation of glycoproteins.
Recognition of stonefish from underwater video

There is thousands of organisms under the water and every group of organisms have many types or species. Some are dangerous and will attack when touched and some others will attack directly without any reason. In this research, a method that can recognize a stonefish, which is the most venomous fish in the world from a video to help divers or swimmers in open water to avoid danger, is presented. When a stonefish hides, it keeps its head visible until it can attack the small fish quickly. This property is used to formulate the algorithm. The video is enhanced using Gaussian filter, Median filter, and Wiener filter. The method uses a database of images that contain the images of the head of stonefish. The features of the stonefish head is detected from the video by comparing the features of head images in the database by using a part of the Speeded Up Robust Features (SURF) method. The features in the video are compared with the features of the images of the database by using the k-Nearest Neighbor algorithm and the Histogram. The results of the comparison will decide if there is a stonefish in the video or not. Finally, if there is a stonefish in the video, the system will generate a warning signal to help the divers or swimmers to move away from it immediately.
What Is Going on Inside the Arrows? Discovering the Hidden Springs in Causal Models.

Using Gebharter’s representation, we consider aspects of the problem of discovering the structure of unmeasured submechanisms when the variables in those submechanisms have not been measured. Exploiting an early insight of Sober’s, we provide a correct algorithm for identifying latent, endogenous structure—submechanisms—for a restricted class of structures. The algorithm can be merged with other methods for discovering causal relations among unmeasured variables, and feedback relations between measured variables and unobserved causes can sometimes be learned.
Power injection of contrast media using central venous catheters: feasibility, safety, and efficacy.

OBJECTIVE. This study evaluates the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of power-injecting IV contrast media through central venous catheters for CT examinations.SUBJECTS AND METHODS. Two hundred ninety-five CT examinations were performed during an 18-month period in 225 patients with indwelling central venous catheters. Patients were randomized to power injection either through peripheral IV catheter or through central venous catheter. Feasibility was defined as the percentage of patients with contrast material injected successfully through the randomized access route. Safety was evaluated by comparing patients with complications. Efficacy was evaluated by comparing contrast enhancement of the thoracic aorta, pulmonary artery, abdominal aorta, and liver.RESULTS. Two hundred nine patients had randomization data recorded. One hundred three (94%) of 109 patients were successfully injected through their indwelling catheter compared with 42 (42%) of 100 through a peripherally placed IV catheter (p < 0.001). Aft...
Management of 3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone-induced methemoglobinemia.

The anticancer agent 3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone is a ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor. It inactivates ribonucleotide reductase by disrupting an iron-stabilized radical in ribonucleotide reductase’s small subunits, M2 and M2b (p53R2). Unfortunately, 3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone also alters iron II (Fe2+) in hemoglobin. This creates Fe3+ methemoglobin that does not deliver oxygen. Fe2+ in hemoglobin normally auto-oxidizes to inactive Fe3+ methemoglobin at a rate of nearly 3% per day and this is counterbalanced by a reductase system that normally limits methemoglobin concentrations to less than 1% of hemoglobin. This balance may be perturbed by symptomatic toxicity levels during 3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone therapy. Indications of 3-aminopyridine-2-carboxaldehyde thiosemicarbazone sequelae attributable to methemoglobinemia include resting dyspnea, headaches and altered cognition. Management of methemoglobinemia includes supplemental oxygen...
Improved dynamic response of potentiometric ammonia sensors using pure teflon membranes

Abstract Several microporous membrane parameters are investigated in an attempt to improve the dynamic response of ammonia gas-sensing electrodes. Parameters of interest include hydrophobic and support membrane porosities as well as support polymer composition. Results show that the electrode recovery process represents the major component of the total dynamic response and that, of the teflon membranes currently available, the 0.02-μm pure teflon membrane is the membrane of choice for these electrodes.
Multi-scale propagation and imaging with wave packets

Wave propagation, downward continuation, and imaging can be expressed in terms of members of a certain class of Fourier integral operators (FIOs). We present an expansion and discretization of such operators following a multi-scale approach, making use of wave packets or “curvelets”. The discretization leads to an algorithm exploiting compression of the “data”, via approximation by sums of wave packets, to which the operator is applied. We demonstrate the accuracy of our approach in a couple of basic, numerical examples.
Nonverbal sensitivity, verbal communication, and team coordination in tennis doubles

To advance the extant literature on message exchange framework, the current study represents an initial attempt to evaluate verbal communication in sport teams as it relates to (a) nonverbal communication sensitivity and (b) competitive performance. Verbal communication behaviours in a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I male tennis team were observed during doubles matches. These were subsequently related to the players' nonverbal sensitivity scores measured by the Profile of Nonverbal Sensitivity (PONS) test. To capture between-the-point communication, matches were videotaped. Verbal communication data were coded and analysed using the Data Analysis Tool software. The results indicated that relative to their losing counterparts, winning players exhibited greater levels of verbal communication and had a tendency to score higher on the nonverbal sensitivity items in the PONS. Specifically, relative to losing teams who made greater use of nontask-related statements, winning teams made frequ...
Nanoplankton species predominant in the subarctic Pacific in May and June 1978

Abstract Oceanic nanoplankton (2 to 20 μm) collected in May and June of 1978 from surface waters of the Gulf of Alaska (136 to 149°W) was examined in the scanning electron microscope. Species within the Prymnesiophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, and Cryptophyceae were numerically predominant. The most common and abundant forms were: Phaeocystis pouchetii (Hariot) Lagerth. (free-swimming stage), Minidiscus trioculatus (F.J. Taylor) Hasle, Nitzschia cylindrus (Grun.) Hasle cf., 2 Cryptomonas species, 4 choanoflagellate species, 5 new siliceous cysts, and an arcgeomonad cyst. Species within the Dinophyceae, Chrysophyceae, and Prasinophyceae were less important. Reasons are discussed for the success of the methods used for preservation and analysis of nanoplankton.
Influence of maternal preeclampsia on recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor effect in neutropenic neonates with suspected sepsis.

Abstract Aim : To evaluate the effect of recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) in preterm neonates with suspected sepsis and severe neutropenia ( 3 ), and to define the influence of maternal preeclampsia on rhG-CSF activity. Methods : Twenty neonates of normotensive mothers (NNMs) (GA 29.2±0.5 weeks and BW 1.024±81 g) and 20 born to preeclamptic mothers (NPMs) (GA 29±0.4 weeks and BW 946±55 g) were treated with rhG-CSF, 10 μg/kg per day for 3 days. Complete blood counts were obtained at day 0 (before rhG-CSF administration) and 1–4, 6, 9, 20 and 30 days later. Results : Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) increased rapidly (three-fold within 24 h), and significantly (maximum approximately 20–25 times starting values) and remained within normal range in both groups. However, in NNMs a two-phase increase occurred with an early peak on day 2 and a further peak on day 6 giving significantly higher ANC ( P −3 for NNMs and 13,880±1097 mm −3 for NPMs). Neutropenia was completely resolved within 2 days in NNMs and within 4 days in NPMs. Conclusion : Preeclampsia seemed to influence the course of the ANC in spite of rhG-CSF administration, and a higher daily-dose for NPMs with neutropenic sepsis may more rapidly resolve neutropenia by overcoming the preeclampsia-associated inhibitor of rhG-CSF through a dose-dependent mechanism.
Properties of Liposomes Containing 212Pb

Abstract The reverse phase evaporation method was used to prepare lipid bilayer membrane vesicles containing 212 Pb and other markers of high specific activity. Electron microscopy and microfiltration were used to measure the sizes of the liposomes. Isotopes were released from the liposomes during exposure to serum and this leakage was prevented by complexing of small molecules with proteins or by precipitating particulate complexes within the liposomes. The in vivo distribution of 112 Pb liposomes differed from the distribution of free 212 Pb in that the reticuloendothelial system cleared the liposomes. Liposomes with surface dinitrophenol hapten were highly immunogenic and the Immoral response to dinitrophenol was nonspecifically suppressed by 212 Pb liposomes.
Theoretical study of the large linear dichroism of herapathite

The remarkable linear dichroism of herapathite (HPT), the active component of polaroid, resisted explanation for more than 150 years because the crystal structure was not solved until very recently. The crystal structure with a formula unit of ${({\text{C}}_{20}{\text{H}}_{24}{\text{N}}_{2}{\text{O}}_{2}{\text{H}}_{2})}_{4}\ensuremath{\cdot}{\text{C}}_{2}{\text{H}}_{4}{\text{O}}_{2}\ensuremath{\cdot}3{\text{SO}}_{4}\ensuremath{\cdot}2{\text{I}}_{3}\ensuremath{\cdot}6{\text{H}}_{2}\text{O}$ in an orthorhombic cell has a slight disorder related to the positions of the six water molecules and the acetic-acid molecule. The electronic and optical properties of this complex crystal are here calculated on the basis of the newly described x-ray structure using a density-functional theory based method with local-orbital basis. The theoretical optical spectrum of HPT shows giant optical anisotropy as observed experimentally with an anisotropy factor on the order of 385 that can be ascribed to transitions between molecular levels of the $2\text{I}_{3}{}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ chains that are oriented along the crystalline $b$ axis. It is shown that the key to achieve large anisotropy is to align the iodine ions in a quasi-one-dimensional chain via confinement in a clatharate channel formed by the quinine molecules. The solvent molecules in the crystal have a minimal effect. The implications of this work on biologically relevant systems are discussed.
The Church and the Patriarchal Family: Marriage Conflicts in Sixteenth- and Seventeenth-Century New Spain

Traditional European families have long been presumed to be char acterized by parental control over their children's choices of a marriage partner; a control aided by the support of the Catholic church. This essay focuses on the role of the Catholic church in family conflicts over marriage in the Spanish New World colony of Mexico. It demonstrates that the Spanish Catholic church not only failed to support parental authority over their offspring's marriages but that it intervened decisively to prevent families from interfering in the young couple's decision to marry. The Spanish Catholic church's actions stemmed from.a strong commitment to traditional Catholic orthodox views on matrimonial freedom as well as from a cultural heritage opposing marriages for social or economic gain.
Can no competition policy be better than some competition policy

Abstract This paper examines how the market structure is likely to evolve in a situation of multi-stage oligopolistic production. The decision to merge across or within stages of production is treated as endogenous. It is shown that when firms at a particular stage of production are relatively dominant, simultaneous merger decisions are conducive to competitive vertically integrated outcomes while sequential decisions are not. The persistence of non-integrated market structures may be explained by the existence of equally dominant firms which make merger decisions sequentially. The credible threat of retaliatory merger may deter both socially desirable and undesirable forms of merger. Inferences are drawn for the design of competition policy.
The Relationship Between Client-Centered Goal-Setting and Treatment Outcomes

Shifting definitions of health and well-being, prompted by the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning (2001), have stimulated changes in traditional clinician-client relationships in rehabilitation. Among these changes, in keeping with the concept of client-centered care, is a trend toward more collaborative goal-setting and joint determination of intervention plans. Evidence suggests that supporting clients' autonomy in prioritizing personally meaningful goals leads to increased engagement in intervention, less emotional anxiety about the rehabilitation process, and improved treatment outcomes. Supporting people with aphasia in a process of collaborative goal formulation may also serve to alter treatment priorities so that they address more relevant communication challenges embedded in post-rehabilitation life.
Cold-inducible RNA-binding protein mediates neuroinflammation in cerebral ischemia.

Abstract Background Neuroinflammation is a key cascade after cerebral ischemia. Excessive production of proinflammatory mediators in ischemia exacerbates brain injury. Cold-inducible RNA-binding protein (CIRP) is a newly discovered proinflammatory mediator that can be released into the circulation during hemorrhage or septic shock. Here, we examine the involvement of CIRP in brain injury during ischemic stroke. Methods Stroke was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). In vitro hypoxia was conducted in a hypoxia chamber containing 1% oxygen. CIRP and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) levels were assessed by RT-PCR and Western blot analysis. Results CIRP is elevated along with an upregulation of TNF-α expression in mouse brain after MCAO. In CIRP-deficient mice, the brain infarct volume, induction of TNF-α, and activation of microglia are markedly reduced after MCAO. Using microglial BV2 cells, we demonstrate that hypoxia induces the expression, translocation, and release of CIRP, which is associated with an increase of TNF-α levels. Addition of recombinant murine (rm) CIRP directly induces TNF-α release from BV2 cells and such induction is inhibited by neutralizing antisera to CIRP. Moreover, rmCIRP activates the NF-κB signaling pathway in BV2 cells. The conditioned medium from BV2 cells exposed to hypoxia triggers the apoptotic cascade by increasing caspase activity and decreasing Bcl-2 expression in neural SH-SY5Y cells, which is inhibited by antisera to CIRP. Conclusion Extracellular CIRP is a detrimental factor in stimulating inflammation to cause neuronal damage in cerebral ischemia. General significance Development of an anti-CIRP therapy may benefit patients with brain ischemia.
Application of Adjoint Sensitivity Theory to an Atmospheric General Circulation Model

Abstract Sensitivity studies with climate models usually involve rerunning the model. Since climate models take so much computer time, this approach can be used to calculate sensitivities to only a few parameters. This work demonstrates the use of a much more efficient method of estimating sensitivities—the adjoint method. About a hundred first-order parameter sensitivities can be estimated with the same amount of computer time as a single integration of the model. The adjoint method is applied to the Oregon State University atmospheric general circulation model. Sensitivities estimated using the adjoint method agree within 20% to those calculated directly by rerunning. In addition, the contribution to each parameter sensitivity is broken down by the adjoint method into its temporal, physical and spatial components. The main conclusions of this work are (a) the adjoint method is feasible with the right approximations for models as large as general circulation models, and (b) the sensitivity information re...
Structure—gas chromatographic retention time models of tetra-n-alkylsilanes and tetra-n-alkylgermanes using topological indexes

Abstract Structure—gas chromatographic retention time models were developed for 26 tetra-n-alkylsilanes, 26 tetra-n-alkylgermanes, and the mixed set of silanes and germanes using topological indexes. The topological indexes used were molecular connectivity indexes, the new Kier—Hall total topological indexes, and the new Kier—Hall electrotopological state atom index, S, for the silicon and germanium atoms. For the mixed data set, a model based on 1χ, 3χc, and S gave r = 0.999 and s = 0.033. In two cases the residual was more than twice the standard error. Replacement of 1χ by TTV, the new Kier—Hall total topological index using δv values for the silicon and germanium atoms, also gave r = 0.999 and s = 0.033 but in no case was there a residual greater than twice the standard error. A two-variable model based on 0χr, which uses δr values for the metal atoms, and 4χpcv, which uses δv values for the metal atoms gave r = 0.999 and s = 0.035. The results demonstrate the adequacy of the Kier—Hall electrotopological state atom index for encoding the atomic characteristics of silicon and germanium in a mixed data set. The results show that the Kier—Hall total topological indexes can be used in place of 1χ to encode the size and skeletal branching of silanes and germanes.
Lesbian, Gay, and Transgender Individuals with Mental Illness: Narratives of the Acceptance Process

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals with mental illness encounter double stigma of mental illness and LGBT identity that can uniquely impact the process of acceptance of mental illness. Acceptance of mental illness is essential to promoting recovery and may be one of the most crucial and difficult steps in this process. Qualitative case narrative methodology was used to identify themes related to the facilitators and barriers in the acceptance process for lesbian, gay, and transgender (LGT) individuals in the present study. Three participant narratives are presented to assist practitioners in applying these findings to clinical practice. Selected case narratives represent participants with LGT identities to illustrate facilitators and barriers in the acceptance process among individuals within this group. Identified themes included identity factors at the micro level, relational factors at the meso level, and systemic factors at the macro level. Notably, identity-related facilitator...
Two algorithms for constructing a Delaunay triangulation

This paper provides a unified discussion of the Delaunay triangulation. Its geometric properties are reviewed and several applications are discussed. Two algorithms are presented for constructing the triangulation over a planar set ofN points. The first algorithm uses a divide-and-conquer approach. It runs inO(N logN) time, which is asymptotically optimal. The second algorithm is iterative and requiresO(N 2) time in the worst case. However, its average case performance is comparable to that of the first algorithm.
Pathological Perspective of Drug-Eluting Stent Thrombosis

Although very late stent thrombosis (VLST) after drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation remains a major concern, the precise mechanisms have not been clarified. An association between late acquired incomplete stent apposition (ISA) and VLST of DES has been suggested by several intravascular ultrasound studies demonstrating very high prevalence of ISA in the setting of VLST. To clarify the pathological mechanisms of VLST, we investigated vascular responses of coronary arteries of VLST cases after DES implantation.
Simultaneous group and individual centralities

Abstract A completely symmetric pair of measures of individual and group centrality is described. The centralities of groups are a function of the centralities of their members. The centralities of individuals are a function of the centralities of the groups to which they belong. It is shown that the standard approach to controlling for variations in group size is inadequate. It produces measures of centrality that are roughly proportional to the square roots of group sizes. A better way to control for variations in group size or in the numbers of individual memberships is presented. Comparisons are made with correspondence analysis.
The mycorrhizal status of Welwitschia mirabilis

This is the first report of the mycorrhizal status of Welwitschia mirabilis, a gymnosperm endemic to the Namib Desert. Like all other gymnosperms except the Pinaceae and Gnetaceae, W. mirabilis is associated with vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi. Mycorrhizal colonization of roots and the diversity and abundance of VAM species were determined at seven sites. Six sites received annual rainfall of 0–100 mm, varying widely from year to year. The seventh site experienced more predictable annual rainfall of 150–200 mm. Perennial vegetation was sparse at the six low-rainfall sites. Dry annual grasses from previous rain events were present at only three of these six sites and mean mycorrhizal colonization levels of W. mirabilis at these three sites were as high as 18%. W. mirabilis was not mycorrhizal at sites where grasses were absent. The seventh site, receiving higher rainfall, supported small trees and annual grasses in addition to W. mirabilis. Mycorrhizal colonization levels of W. mirabilis at this site were significantly higher than at the other six sites, closely paralleling those of the surrounding annual grasses. The mycorrhizal flora of W. mirabilis consisted of four Glomus species. These taxa were not unique to W. mirabilis, having been found with Stipagrostis and Cladoraphis grasses throughout the Namib and Kalahari deserts.
Government asset sales, economic nationalism, and acquirer wealth effects

Abstract We analyze acquirer wealth effects using a comprehensive sample of government asset sale announcements in 123 countries around the world in 1984–2009. Overall, we find positive abnormal returns to acquirers of state-owned assets. Returns are greater when the acquirer is domestic, when the sale occurs in a developing nation, and when the acquirer itself is not a former state-owned enterprise. Buyers of bailed-out firms experience average abnormal returns of 3.16%, compared to 0.70% for all other government sales. Our results suggest that the market favors acquirers that benefit from divesting governments driven by economic nationalism rather than sale revenue maximization.
Synthesis of the C/D/E and A/B Rings of Xestobergsterol-(A)

The A/B and the C/D/E rings of the xestobergsterol skeleton have been stereoselectively synthesized starting with testosterone and epiandrosterone, respectively. A deconjugative ketalization of the A-ring enone of testosterone provided a handle for functionalization of the B-ring. A stereoselective aldol condensation was used to incorporate the E-ring.
Protein Kinase Cϵ Activates Protein Kinase B/Akt via DNA-PK to Protect against Tumor Necrosis Factor-α-induced Cell Death

We have previously shown that protein kinase Cϵ (PKCϵ) protects breast cancer cells from tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF)-induced cell death. In the present study, we have investigated if the antiapoptotic function of PKCϵ is mediated via Akt and the mechanism by which PKCϵ regulates Akt activity. TNF caused a transient increase in Akt phosphorylation at Ser473 in MCF-7 cells. Overexpression of PKCϵ in MCF-7 cells increased TNF-induced Akt phosphorylation at Ser473 resulting in its activation. Knockdown of PKCϵ by small interfering RNA (siRNA) decreased TNF-induced Akt phosphorylation/activation and increased cell death. Introduction of constitutively active Akt protected breast cancer MCF-7 cells from TNF-mediated cell death and partially restored cell survival in PKCϵ-depleted cells. Depletion of Akt in MCF-7 cells abolished the antiapoptotic effect of PKCϵ on TNF-mediated cell death. Akt was constitutively associated with PKCϵ and DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK), and this association was increased by TNF treatment. Overexpression of PKCϵ enhanced the interaction between Akt and DNA-PK. Knockdown of DNA-PK by siRNA inhibited TNF-induced Akt phosphorylation and the antiapoptotic effect of Akt and PKCϵ. These results suggest that PKCϵ activates Akt via DNA-PK to mediate its antiapoptotic function. Furthermore, we report for the first time that DNA-PK can regulate receptor-initiated apoptosis via Akt.
Market governance failure

Abstract While there are criteria to distinguish which decisions might best be made through markets and which through governance, economists have generally neglected how the extent of markets per se affect the costs and thereby the effectiveness of governance. We provide a simple heuristic model and use assumptions typically made in economics to illustrate how expanding markets affect an externality and the transaction costs of governing the externality. We show that the extent of markets would be constrained if these governance costs were included in economic analyses.
Designs and numerical calculations for echo-enabled harmonic generation at very high harmonics

The echo-enabled harmonic generation (EEHG) scheme for driving an FEL using two seeded energy modulations at much longer wavelengths than the output wavelength is a promising concept for future seeded FELs. There are many competing requirements in the design of an EEHG beamline which need careful optimization. Furthermore, revised simulation tools and methods are necessary because of both the high harmonic numbers simulated and the complicated nature of the phase space manipulations which are intrinsic to the scheme. This paper explores the constraints on performance and the required tolerances for reaching wavelengths well below 1/100th of that of the seed lasers, and describes some of the methodology for designing such a beamline. Numerical tools, developed both for the GENESIS and GINGER FEL codes, are presented and used here for more accurate study of the scheme beyond a time-averaged model. In particular, the impact of the local structure in peak current and bunching, which is an inherent part of the...
A family of tridiagonal pairs

Abstract Let F denote a field, and let V denote a vector space of finite positive dimension over F . Let A, A∗ denote a tridiagonal pair on V of diameter d ⩾ 3. Assume the eigenvalue and dual eigenvalue sequences of A, A∗ satisfy θi = q2iθ, θ i * = q 2 d - 2 i θ * for some nonzero scalars θ, θ∗, q ∈ F , where q is not a root of unity. Assume that not all eigenvalues of A and A∗ have multiplicity one. Let M and M∗ denote the subalgebras of End(V) generated by A and A∗, respectively, and assume that V = Mv∗ + M∗v for some eigenvectors v∗ of A∗ associated with θ 0 * and v of A associated with θd. We find a nice basis for V and describe the action of A, A∗ on this basis in terms of six parameters.
Finite Volume Method for Simulation of Creep in RF MEMS Devices

Radio-frequency microelectromechanical systems (RF MEMS) are widely used in contact actuators and capacitative switches. In these devices, the membrane deforms under electrostatic actuation. With time, these devices undergo creep deformation that reduces the gap between the metallic membrane and the electrodes, and can result in self pull-in at lower applied voltages than for normal pull-in. It is important to accurately model creep in RF MEMS devices to understand their long-term behavior and to improve their reliability. In this paper, we extend a cell-centered finite volume approach previously developed to describe linear elastic solids to model visco-plastic and creep phenomena. The finite volume discretization produces a set of algebraic equations, which is solved using a biconjugate gradient stabilized (BCGSTAB) solver. Test cases are first presented verifying the accuracy of the method. Results are then presented in this paper for the long-term creep behavior of a fixed-fixed MEMS device.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Atomic and ionic fluorescence dip spectroscopy as a tool for flame and plasma diagnostics

Abstract When two pulsed dye lasers are tuned in spatial and temporal coincidence to two connected atomic transitions in a flame or plasma, the resonance fluorescence monitored from the first excited level decreases due to the depletion of the population of that level induced by the second laser excitation step. The monitoring of such a decrease (fluorescence dip) can be shown from simple theoretical considerations to be useful for diagnostic studies and for the evaluation of some fundamental parameters of the atomic transition involved in the second-excitation step. Both steady state and transient behaviour are discussed. The information content of the fluorescence dip is similar to that of the saturated fluorescence signal. However, several distinct advantages are offered by the new technique especially when the level reached by the second excitation step is close to the ionization limit of the atom.
Optical properties of Pd-Ag and Pt-Ag nanoboxes synthesized via galvanic replacement reactions.

Silver nanocubes dispersed in water were transformed into Pd−Ag or Pt−Ag nanoboxes by adding either Na2PdCl4 or Na2PtCl4. By controlling the amount of noble metal salt added, and therefore the molar ratio of Na2PdCl4 or Na2PtCl4 to Ag, we could tune the surface plasmon resonance peak of the nanostructures across the entire visible spectrum, from 440 to 730 nm. Replacement of Ag with Pd resulted in the formation of a nanobox composed of a Pd−Ag alloy single crystal, but the nanobox formed after replacement of Ag with Pt was instead composed of distinct Pt nanoparticles. DDA calculations suggest that both nanoboxes absorb light strongly, with Qabs/Qsca ≈ 5. After galvanic replacement, Pd−Ag and Pt−Ag nanostructures remain SERS active, suggesting their use as a SERS probe for studying the dependence of interfacial chemistry on composition.
Molecular evolution as a process of message refinement.

Amino acid sequences are often said to code for proteins. Taking that statement literally, we propose a methodology in which protein sequences appear as messages and as such are amenable to the techniques of signal analysis. Not only does this view of amino acid sequences as messages appear to be tenable, but the clarity of expression of these sequences seems to increase, i.e., the noisiness decreases, consonant with notions of ascendancy in the hierarchy of morphological taxonomy.
Exposure and fetal growth-associated miRNA alterations in the human placenta

Researchers have begun to examine epigenetic alterations in the placenta, making key advances in understanding the epigenetic regulatory mechanisms of the placenta that define underlying processes of human development and disease. Examining changes in microRNA (miRNA) expression associated with environmental exposures and fetal growth is providing critical insights into the biology of development, response to in utero exposure, and future disease risk assessment. This review aims to highlight previous studies describing changes in miRNA expression in the human placenta associated with in utero exposure and fetal growth and seeks to assess the future directions in this exciting field of research.
Primary Quantum Conversion Process in Photosynthesis: Electron Spin Resonance.

Photoinduced electron spin resonance signals have been observed in isolated chloroplasts and other green materials with a growth time not affected by reducing the temperature to -140 deg. This is interpreted in terms of conduction-band and trapped-electron theory.
Regulation of glycolysis in the land snail Oreohelix during estivation and artificial hypercapnia

Respiration rates, hemolymph acid-base variables, and metabolite levels were measured in the land snail Oreohelix during a brief period of estivation (4 days) and during exposure of non-estivating snails to elevated levels of ambient CO2 (34 and 58 mmHg). Respiration rate dropped during entry into estivation reflecting decreased glycolytic flux. Analyses of metabolite levels in foot muscle and digestive gland tissues demonstrated that glycolytic control during early estivation was primarily vested in pyruvate kinase. Relative to control values, the mass action ratio (MAR) of this reaction decreased by a factor of 4 in the foot muscle and by a factor of 2.7 in the digestive gland, reflecting inhibition of this enzyme in both tissues. No other glycolytic reaction appeared to be inhibited. Exposure of non-estivating snails to artificial hypercapnia resulted in extracellular acid-base conditions similar to those seen during estivation and also promoted a reduction in respiration rate. However, the points of glycolytic control were different: artificial hypercapnia resulted in inhibition of phosphofructokinase in foot muscle and hexokinase in digestive gland. Furthermore, elevated ambient CO2 had no effect on the MAR of the pyruvate kinase reaction in non-estivating snails. These results suggest that the action of extracellular acid-base variables alone cannot fully explain the down-regulation of glycolysis which occurs during estivation in this land snail.
Structure-Based Design, Synthesis, and Biochemical and Pharmacological Characterization of Novel Salvinorin A Analogues as Active State Probes of the κ-Opioid Receptor

Salvinorin A, the most potent naturally occurring hallucinogen, has attracted an increasing amount of attention since the κ-opioid receptor (KOR) was identified as its principal molecular target by us [Roth, B. L., et al. (2002) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 99, 11934−11939]. Here we report the design, synthesis, and biochemical characterization of novel, irreversible, salvinorin A-derived ligands suitable as active state probes of the KOR. On the basis of prior substituted cysteine accessibility and molecular modeling studies, C3157.38 was chosen as a potential anchoring point for covalent labeling of salvinorin A-derived ligands. Automated docking of a series of potential covalently bound ligands suggested that either a haloacetate moiety or other similar electrophilic groups could irreversibly bind with C3157.38. 22-Thiocyanatosalvinorin A (RB-64) and 22-chlorosalvinorin A (RB-48) were both found to be extraordinarily potent and selective KOR agonists in vitro and in vivo. As predicted on the basis of ...
Studies on improving moisture resistance of sulfur-infiltrated mortars

Abstract High-strength products can be made by sulfur infiltration of dried portland cement mortars or concretes. However, on exposure to moisture, strength deterioration takes place due to complex chemical reactions involving Ca(OH) 2 and sulfur. This paper presents the results of two series of tests. In the first series an attempt was made to inhibit the reaction between sulfur and Ca(OH) 2 by coating the Ca(OH) 2 with a film of insoluble calcium salts. In the second series, cements which did not contain Ca(OH) 2 in hydration products were investigated for sulfur infiltration. Both the approaches gave encourging results in improving moisture resistance of sulfur-infiltrated mortars.
Notharctine primates (Adapiformes) from the early to middle Eocene (Wasatchian–Bridgerian) of Wyoming: transitional species and the origins of Notharctus and Smilodectes

Abstract Notharctine adapiform primates are an abundant element of early (Wasatchian) and middle (Bridgerian) Eocene faunal assemblages from the western interior of North America. Early Eocene notharctine samples are dominated by Cantius with Pelycodus and Copelemur being much rarer and more restricted in their geographic distribution. Cantius is replaced in the middle Eocene by Notharctus and Smilodectes , both of which are common but less widespread, being best known from southwestern Wyoming. The origin of these two middle Eocene taxa has not been well understood, due to a lack of transitional Wasatchian–Bridgerian notharctine faunal samples or because known samples had not been adequately studied. Field work at South Pass in the Greater Green River Basin has produced a relatively large sample of earliest Bridgerian notharctines. Combining this sample with a large, but previously under-studied, sample of notharctines from the latest Wasatchian and earliest Bridgerian in the Wind River Basin has clarified the relationships among Notharctus , Smilodectes , and earlier occurring notharctines. Notharctus first appears in the latest Wasatchian (Wa7), represented by N. venticolus . Phylogenetic analysis supports a Notharctus clade that shares sister taxon status with Cantius nunienus and indicates that Notharctus arose through bifurcation of the lineage containing the last common ancestor of C. nunienus and Notharctus . The origins of Smilodectes are less clear. Phylogenetic analysis supports a clade consisting of Smilodectes and Copelemur , but the origins of both taxa are not established as yet. North American notharctines are typified by relatively low taxonomic diversity, but relatively high abundance and high dental morphological variation (disparity). These attributes are opposite to those of North American omomyids, reflecting differences in ecomorphospace between these two primate radiations.
Product stewardship in the flame retardant industry

The products of the flame retardant industry are very important to the fire safety of the consumer. As with any product, there are issues that must be addressed by the producers and users to ensure the continued safe use of the materials. While most flame retardants are quite nonreactive and of low toxicity, the presence of them in the environment could threaten their future use. The producers and users alike should have the goal of keeping them out of the air, water and land. To this end, an aggressive product stewardship program is in order. This paper will review the steps needed to have a meaningful program. This activity should include evaluating the amount of material entering the air, water and land, deciding how to reduce that amount, putting in place practices to reduce the level and reporting to our stakeholders. By working together as producers and users, we can ensure that flame retardants will continue to save lives and have a long commercial future. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Secondary Structure and Protein Deamidation

The deamidation reactions of asparagine residues in α-helical and β-turn secondary structural environments of peptides and proteins are reviewed. Both kinds of secondary structure tend to stabilize asparagine residues against deamidation, although the effects are not large. The effect of β-sheet structures on asparagine stability is unclear, although simple considerations suggest a stabilization in this environment also.
Continual systemic infusion of lidocaine provides analgesia in an animal model of neuropathic pain.

Abstract We examined whether continual constant-rate infusion of lidocaine would provide analgesia during the initial post-injury phase in the chronic constriction injury model of neuropathic pain. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into control and ligated groups and infused with saline or lidocaine (0.15, 0.33, 0.67, and 1.3 mg/kg/h) via subcutaneously implanted Alzet ® osmotic minipumps. Thermal withdrawal latencies were obtained prior (Day 0) and 3 days after loose sciatic ligation and pump implantation surgery. Ligated animals receiving lidocaine at 0.67 or 1.3 mg/kg/h exhibited no change in withdrawal latency on Day 3 after surgery, indicating that lidocaine at these doses prevented the development of thermal hyperalgesia as a sign of neuropathic pain. In contrast, ligated animals treated with saline or lidocaine at 0.15 or 0.33 mg/kg/h exhibited hyperalgesia on Day 3 after surgery, indicating that these lower doses of lidocaine failed to provide analgesia. Control animals treated with saline or any of the lidocaine doses exhibited no change in withdrawal latencies between Day 0 and Day 3. In a separate group of ligated animals, lidocaine infusion (0.67 mg/kg/h) that was started 24 h after sciatic ligation surgery reversed the already present thermal hyperalgesia. Average plasma lidocaine concentrations were 0.11, 0.36, and 0.45 μg/ml for animals receiving 0.33, 0.67 and 1.3 mg/kg/h of lidocaine, respectively. These results suggest that continual systemic infusion of lidocaine prevents or reverses the development of neuropathic pain following chronic constriction injury. These results add to the increasing body of evidence supporting the therapeutic value of preemptive and post-operative lidocaine administration for the relief of neuropathic pain.
Comparison of commercially available atomic emission and chemiluminescence detectors for sulfur-selective gas chromatographic detection

Abstract The determination of sulfur with sulfur chemiluminescence detection (SCD) and microwave-induced plasma atomic emission spectroscopic detection (AED) was compared for ten aliphatic and aromatic sulfur-containing organic compounds. Each detector was shown to be a sensitive and specific detector for sulfur present in different molecular forms. the linear dynamic range (LDR) for AED was independent of sulfur species at 105, whereas the LDR for the SCD was generally 104. The detection limit for both detectors was ca. 6–10 pg injected sulfur. Under conditions which optimized the SCD response for sulfur, the LDR for hydrocarbons using flame ionization detection (FID) (required for SCD operation) was similar to the 193-nm carbon emission line for the AED, but the sensitivities and reproducibilites with FID-SCD were poorer. The results of this study demonstrate that the selection of AED or SCD for sulfur detection is dependent on cost and whether the need is for a sulfur-only detector or a multi-element detector.
Large-basis shell-model calculations for p-shell nuclei

Results of large-basis shell-model calculations for nuclei with $A=7\ensuremath{-}11$ are presented. The effective interactions used in the study were derived microscopically from the Reid93 potential and take into account the Coulomb potential as well as the charge dependence of $T=1$ partial waves. For $A=7$, a $6\ensuremath{\Elzxh}\ensuremath{\Omega}$ model space was used, while for the rest of the studied nuclides, the calculations were performed in a $4\ensuremath{\Elzxh}\ensuremath{\Omega}$ model space. It is demonstrated that the shell model combined with microscopic effective interactions derived from modern nucleon-nucleon potentials is capable of providing good agreement with the experimental properties of the ground state as well as with those of the low-lying excited states.
Embryonic stem cell rescue of tremor and ataxia in myelin-deficient shiverer mice

Transplantation of neural precursor cells has been proposed as a possible approach for replacing missing or damaged central nervous system myelin. Neonatal and adult myelin-deficient shiverer (shi) mice, bearing a mutation of the myelin basic protein (MBP) gene, have been used extensively as hosts for testing cell engraftment, migration, and myelination, but relatively little progress has been made in reversing shi motor deficits. Here we describe a prenatal cell replacement strategy, showing that embryonic stem cells injected into shi blastocyst embryos can generate chimeric mice with strong and widespread immunoreactive MBP expression throughout the brain and a behavioral (motor) phenotype that appears essentially rescued.