cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A syntactic method for image segmentation and object recognition

Abstract In this paper, image segmentation and object recognition using syntactic methods are investigated. The segmentation process is embedded in the parsing algorithm. The approach can be described by a syntax-directed relaxation process. Previous error-correcting parsing algorithms, however, have not tackled the segmentation problem satisfactorily. Experimental results using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images are given.
The appearance, disappearance and reappearance of plasmalogens in evolution.

Abstract Plasmalogens, 1-O-alk-1′-enyl 2-acyl glycerol phospholipids and glycolipids, seem to have evolved first in anaerobic bacteria, but they did not persist when facultative and aerobic species appeared after the concentration of oxygen increased in the early earth’s history. Later, when aerobic animal cells appeared with their mitochondria and other intracellular organelles, plasmalogen biosynthesis requiring molecular oxygen, reappeared. The possible reasons for the disappearance and reappearance of plasmalogens in the evolution of life on earth are discussed. The sensitivity of plasmalogens to reactive oxygen species may have caused their disappearance when respiration first evolved. Special features of plasmalogen structure and the resulting lipid packing may account for their reappearance.
Many-body scattering processes in a one-dimensional boson system

The one-dimensional many-body problem described by the nonrelativistic vertical-bar phi vertical-bar/sup 4/ theory of a complex scalar boson field (also known as the delta-function model) is studied. By induction, it is shown that the set of nth-order perturbation theory graphs for the N-particle in-state wave function can be combined and reduced to an equivalent set of factorized graphs in which the particle lines are numbered according to their ordering in momentum space at time t = -infinity. By carrying out loop integrations, each factorized graph is reduced to one of a finite number of skeleton graphs multiplied by a dressing function. The dressing functions are related to the multiparticle phase shifts which appear in Bethe's form of the N-body wave function. The skeleton graphs are shown to be associated with the ordering of particles in configuration space which characterizes Bethe's hypothesis. The analogy of a classical system of billiard balls is found to be helpful in interpreting the form of Bethe's hypothesis and the physical significance of the skeleton graphs. The use of factorized graphs in the scattering theory of statistical mechanics is demonstrated by a graphical calculation of the second virial coefficient. (AIP)
Presilicon modeling: challenges in the late CMOS era

IEEE Micro editor in chief Pradip Bose writes that in a future of "integrated microarchitectures," high-end, server-class microprocessor chips will begin to look like system-on-chip designs with multiple processor cores, special-purpose accelerators invoked on demand, and a scalable on-chip interconnection network, among other on-chip heterogeneous elements. The resulting presilicon modeling challenges in the setting of this late CMOS design era are quite mind-boggling.
The Role of Heritable and Dietary Factors in the Sexual Signal of a Hispaniolan Anolis Lizard, Anolis distichus

The diversity of sexual signals is astounding, and divergence in these traits is believed to be associated with the early stages of speciation. An increasing number of studies also suggest a role for natural selection in driving signal divergence for effective transmission in heterogeneous environments. Both speciation and adaptive divergence, however, are contingent on the sexual signal being heritable, yet this often remains assumed and untested. It is particularly critical that the heritability of carotenoid-based sexual signals is investigated because such traits may instead be phenotypically plastic indicators of an individual's quality that exhibit no or little heritable variation. We present the first study to investigate the relative contribution of genetic and environmental factors to the striking diversity of dewlap color and pattern in Anolis lizards. Using a breeding experiment with Anolis distichus populations exhibiting different dewlap phenotypes, we raise F1 offspring in a common garden experiment to assess whether dewlap color is inherited. We follow this with carotenoid supplementation to investigate the influence of dietary pigments to dewlap color variation. We find significant differences in several aspects of dewlap color and pattern to persist to the F1 generation (fathers: N = 19; F1 males: N = 50; P 0.05). These results strongly support that genetic differences underlie dewlap color variation, thereby satisfying a key requirement of natural selection. Our findings provide an important stepping-stone to understanding the evolution of an incredibly diverse signal important for sexual selection and species recognition.
The truth about twisters

Ill-informed speculation is rife that a recent glut of killer tornadoes is a sign of things to come as the world warms. Harold Brooks unpicks the evidence
A rise in nuclear calcium translocates annexins IV and V to the nuclear envelope

Following incubation of human fibroblasts with Ca2+ ionophore A23187, we found strong immunofluorescence labelling of the nuclear envelope by annexin IV antibody. Using confocal imaging of cells loaded with Fluo-3, we showed that A23187 generates an intense and sustained rise of Ca2+ in the nucleus. By contrast, stimulation without extracellular Ca2+ produces only a brief rise in nuclear Ca2+ that does not promote annexin IV translocation to the nuclear envelope, and compounds that induce only a transient increase of nuclear Ca2+ do not support translocation of annexin IV. In addition, annexin V was also translocated to the nuclear envelope by A23187, but distribution of annexins I, II, VI and VII is unaffected. In in vitro assays with isolated nuclei, annexin V was also found to bind to the nuclear envelope in a Ca2+-dependent manner. These results demonstrate that the translocation to the nuclear envelope of different types of Ca2+-regulated proteins is directly triggered by a major rise of Ca2+ in the nucleus.
Concerning electrochemical measurements of hydrogen permeation in metals

Abstract It is clearly true that the rate of development of heat in a conductor, whether an electrolyte or electrode, is a function of the (square of the) current that is passed. As mentioned earlier, however, the rate of development of heat — i.e., Joule heating — is not the same as the rate of increase of temperature in a conductor. Joule heating may, therefore, certainly occur in a permeation cell, or any electrochemical cell for that matter, but the temperature rise depends on the heat capacity of the material as well as on the rate of heat loss. We believe that in our studies the rate of temperature change and the corresponding increase in anodic current density that may be expected are not compatible with the observed transients. It is our view at this stage that the observed transients in nickel reflect transport of hydrogen predominantly by lattice diffusion in unstrained membranes and by dislocations in membranes deformed at a constant strain rate during cathodic charging. Of course, the point raised by Otsuka and Isaji cannot be dismissed in general without further study. What might perhaps prove convincing would be to examine a series of alloys, in some of which dislocation transport is considered to occur — for example, in nickel serrated yielding in hydrogen-charged single crystals indicates mobile dislocation-hydrogen interactions (26) — and others in which dislocation transport is considered less likely. It is interesting in the latter sense to cite the recent work of Berkowitz (27) in which electrolytic hydrogen permeation on straining electrodes of 4130 steel is found to decrease at the yield point in contrast to the work on nickel (1 and 3). This has been interpreted to reflect dislocation trapping of hydrogen rather than transport. Similar observations have been recently made in our laboratory on a 2 1 4 Cr-1Mo steel (28). In any case, it seems unlikely that Joule heating of the magnitude suggested (1) could account for the latter behavior. In short, we do acknowledge having certain reservations about the details of the analysis of permeation transients on straining electrodes. These have been under study in our laboratory. Joule heating was not one of these details. Our view is that while Joule heating may certainly occur when a current passes through a conductor, much of the phenomenology that we have observed on straining membranes (a grain size dependence, etc.) is best understood in terms of a hydrogen permeation process.
Development of a perturbed hard sphere equation of state for non-polar and for polar/associating fluids

Abstract A perturbed hard sphere equation of state was developed for both non-polar and polar associating fluids. First, a hard sphere equation of state, based on the Carnahan-Starling equation, with an empirical mean field attractive term was developed for non-polar fluids. The volume dependency of the attractive term was determined in order to reasonably describe volumetric properties of hydrocarbons. Hard sphere based equations of state have an almost temperature independent α(T) for spherically symmetric fluids compared to cubic equations. Thus, the α(T) expression used was the product of a term representing the slight temperature dependency for spherical fluids and a term, a function of the acentric factor, representing effects of shape for non-polar fluids. For polar fluids, a third polar factor was added to α(T) that used an effective acentric factor and a polar parameter.
Isolation of naturally occurring aluminium ligands using immobilized metal affinity chromatography for analysis by ESI-MS

Aluminium (III) is one of the most abundant metal ions found in soil. Typically, Al+3 is bound to minerals, but its bioavailability and toxicity toward vascular plants increases with increasing soil acidity. Ectomycorrhizal fungi, which live symbiotically on the roots of numerous woody plants, often confer Al+3 resistance to host plants by reducing metal availability to the plant by unknown mechanisms. A potential mechanism of detoxification is binding of the Al+3 by organic compounds that are exuded by the fungi into the surrounding soil and solution. A novel method has been developed to purify and characterize Al+3 binding ligands from Pisolithus tinctorius exudate solutions using Al+3 immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC), reversed phase chromatography, and mass spectrometry. Fungal exudates produced by P. tinctorius exhibit a strong binding capacity for Al+3, allowing their selective enrichment and collection using this IMAC method. Elution of the ligands requires the use of high pH. RP-HPLC separation and elemental analysis of the IMAC elutent indicates that the Al+3 and the exudate ligands both elute from the column but are not bound in a complex. Thus, reversed phase HPLC at pH 10 is used for separation of the ligands and Al+3 prior to MS analysis. The strongest binding IMAC fraction is analyzed by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry in positive and negative ion modes. This report provides new methods for the direct purification and analysis of naturally occurring ligands that bind hard metal ions.
Discovery and optimization of potent broad-spectrum arenavirus inhibitors derived from benzimidazole and related heterocycles

Abstract A series of potent arenavirus inhibitors sharing a benzimidazole core were previously reported by our group. SAR studies were expanded beyond the previous analysis, which involved the attached phenyl rings and methylamino linker portion, to include modifications focused on the benzimidazole core. These changes included the introduction of various substituents to the bicyclic benzimidazole ring system along with alternate core heterocycles. Many of the analogs containing alternate nitrogen-based bicyclic ring systems were found to retain antiviral potency compared to the benzimidazole series from which we derived our lead compound, ST-193. In fact, 21h, built on an imidazopyridine core, possessed a near tenfold increase in potency against Lassa virus pseudotypes compared to ST-193. As found with the benzimidazole series, broad-spectrum arenavirus activity was also observed for a number of the analogs discovered during this study.
Recursive computation of inclusion probabilities in ranked-set sampling

Abstract We derive recursive algorithms for computing first-order and second-order inclusion probabilities for ranked-set sampling from a finite population. These algorithms make it practical to compute inclusion probabilities even for relatively large sample and population sizes. As an application, we use the inclusion probabilities to examine the performance of Horvitz–Thompson estimators under different varieties of balanced ranked-set sampling. We find that it is only for balanced Level 2 sampling that the Horvitz–Thompson estimator can be relied upon to outperform the simple random sampling mean estimator.
The epidemiology of torture: a case series of 58 survivors of torture.

Abstract Introduction/context Torture is widely practiced throughout the world and, yet, the ways by which torture is perpetrated, its regional similarities and differences, is not well understood. Our goal for this cases series was to elucidate the methods of torture practiced within different countries to both add to and expand upon previous research. This knowledge is important since it can buttress efforts to assist with torture survivors’ recovery—medically, psychologically, and legally. Methods Fifty-eight survivors of torture who presented to a single interviewer over a 15-year period (1990–2005) for purposes of assisting with their claim for political asylum in the U.S. were enrolled into the study. The survivors’ legal affidavits were examined and both quantitative and qualitative data were extracted for analysis. This data included the following: (1) duration, condition, and frequency of imprisonment, (2) abductors’ affiliation and dress, (3) torture type, method, and frequency (both physical and mental), and (4) qualitative description of above items. Results Twenty-three countries were represented in the sample covering six major world regions. Women appear to be at greater risk for sexual torture than men. Sub-Saharan Africans tend to have more abuse compared to other world regions. Furthermore, the length of confinement also appears to trend towards longer duration in those survivors from Sub-Saharan African countries. Certain types of torture were almost universal in their application such as threats of death and beatings, but the manner by which survivors were beaten varied considerably, with hitting/kicking and beating with a stick/baton being the most common. There was no correlation between types of torturous acts and religion. Conclusion This case series confirms some earlier findings about regional similarities and differences in torture methodology. Study results built upon previous studies as well as uncovered new findings suggesting that more work needs to be done. Further, our results will help survivors of torture with their recovery both through improved patient care outcomes and by impacting upon the way asylum cases are adjudicated.
Model-driven hypermedia access to weather information

A framework is presented for hypermedia access to weather information originating from gridded data sets. The information is presented on different media (map, text, graph, table, image), depending on what aspect is emphasized. The user navigates by selecting an element that is already displayed, and a new product is generated that provides additional details about the selected element. The contents of a product is represented by a description, which is an organized chunk of assertions. Each assertion provides a single weather characteristic to a given region and time period. Three knowledge bases (weather, territory, and time models) define the objects participating in the assertions and drive the generation.
Networked model predictive control of spatially distributed processes

This work focuses on networked model predictive control (MPC) of spatially distributed processes modeled by parabolic partial differential equations (PDEs) with sensor measurements that are transmitted to the controller over a resource-constrained communication medium. The objective of our work is to enforce the desired stability properties with minimal sensor-controller information exchange. To this end, a Lyapunov-based MPC is designed on the basis of a Lyapunov-based analytical bounded controller which is used to characterize the stability region of the predictive controller and also provide a feasible initial guess to the optimization problem in the predictive controller formulation. Unlike conventional Lyapunov-based MPC formulations, the sensors do not have to transmit the measurements at a fixed rate; instead an adaptive communication strategy is applied to switch on or off the communication over the network. The key idea is to monitor the model estimation error at each sampling time and suspend communication for periods when the prescribed stability conditions obtained based on the forecasted evolution of the Lyapunov function are satisfied. When the model estimation error grows and fails to satisfy the stability conditions, which indicates the possible loss of stability in the future, the sensors are prompted to send their measurements and the model estimation error is reset to zero in order to ensure closed-loop stability. Finally, the implementation of the results is illustrated using a representative diffusion-reaction process example.
Hypothermic-induced electrocerebral silence, prolonged circulatory arrest, and cerebral protection during cardiovascular surgery.

Abstract Certain cardiovascular operations require cardiopulmonary bypass and prolonged circulatory arrest to provide an adequate operative field. Profound hypothermia is induced to protect brain function during these periods without cerebral perfusion. Because peripheral body temperatures may not be valid indicators of brain temperature, we conducted this study to establish an alternative, more reliable, method of determining the appropriate level of hypothermia. We measured peripheral body temperatures from 3 sites (rectum, nasopharynx, and esophagus) at the onset of hypothermic-induced electrocerebral silence (ECS) in the intraoperative electroencephalogram (EEG) of 56 adults undergoing cardiovascular procedures. The EEG in most patients showed a characteristic progression of changes from its normal resting state during cooling. Gradual depression and slowing of background rhythms was followed by generalized, periodic, slow-wave transients, prolongation of the intervals between the transients, and then the onset of ECS. In cases in which the slow-wave transients did not appear, the initial depression and slowing of background activity gradually progressed to ECS. No consistent relationship was found between peripheral body temperatures at various sites and the onset of ECS. Using EEG-guided hypothermia, there was low morbidity and mortality. These data suggest that ECS is a safe and reliable guide for determining the appropriate level of hypothernia during cardiovascular procedures.
Multifactorial Comparison of Modified and Conventional Perfusion Strategies in A Porcine Model of Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Background Utilization of thromboresistant circuits in cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery has been controversial. However, due to the advantages associated with these types of circuits, we sought to evaluate the efficacy of use of low-dose heparin in conjunction with thromboresistant surfaces, closed perfusion system, elimination of blood-gas interface, maintenance of hematocrit to >25%, and systemic normothermia, with respect to the conventional strategy of non-thromboresistant open circuits with high-dose heparin, during 3 h of CPB in an animal model. Methods Using an open-chest swine model, animals were placed on CPB for 3 h with additional monitoring for 1 h post-CPB. Pigs were randomized into either a heparin-bonded circuit (HBC) group (n = 10) or a non-HBC (NHB) group (n = 10). Hemodynamic, hematologic, and biochemical parameters and multiphoton microscopy were used to compare the two groups. Results Pigs in the HBC group showed a 38.4% reduction in post-CPB blood loss in comparison with the NHB group (P = 0.0007). Additionally, compared with the HBC group, the NHB group exhibited a 32.7% post-CPB reduction in platelets (P Conclusion Utilization of modified perfusion strategy employing low-dose heparin and closed thromboresistant circuits is successful in ameliorating the potential adverse hematologic and pro-inflammatory elements induced with open perfusion system of non-thromboresistant circuits most commonly used in cardiac surgery.
Steady spiraling motion of gliding robotic fish

A gliding robotic fish is developed for promising applications in aquatic environment monitoring. The design concept combines the strengths of both underwater gliders and robotic fish, featuring long operation duration and high maneuverability. This paper presents both analytical and experimental results for the three-dimension spiraling motion, an essential working pattern of the gliding fish for detecting pollution in a water column. A dynamic model of the gliding robotic fish with actuated tail is established. Then the steady-state spiraling equations are derived and solved recursively using Newton's method. The gliding fish prototype is tested in experiments. Both model prediction and experimental results show that the spiraling motion has very low energy consumption, and the gliding fish can achieve high maneuverability with a turning radius less than 1 m, 2.5% of the reported turning radius of a typical underwater glider.
Cytoskeletal dynamics in fission yeast: A review of models for polarization and division

We review modeling studies concerning cytoskeletal activity of fission yeast. Recent models vary in length and time scales, describing a range of phenomena from cellular morphogenesis to polymer assembly. The components of cytoskeleton act in concert to mediate cell‐scale events and interactions such as polarization. The mathematical models reduce these events and interactions to their essential ingredients, describing the cytoskeleton by its bulk properties. On a smaller scale, models describe cytoskeletal subcomponents and how bulk properties emerge.
NONSURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF INFECTION-RELATED RENAL CALCULI

Struvite calculi can be a debilitating affliction for which the cure is mainly surgical. If left untreated, infection-related calculi can cause failure to thrive, anemia, chronic renal insufficiency, renal failure and death. There has been much research aimed at non-surgical intervention and prevention of these calculi especially in this "non-invasive" era. The historic and current non-surgical treatment modalities of struvite calculi are discussed.
Petawatt laser system

We recently demonstrated the production of over a petawatt of peak power in the Nova/Petawatt Laser Facility, generating > 600 J in approximately 440 fs. The Petawatt Laser Project was initiated to develop the capability to test the fast ignitor concept for inertial confinement fusion, and to provide a unique capability in high energy density physics. The laser was designed to produce near kJ pulses with a pulse duration adjustable between 0.5 and 20 ps. At the shortest pulse lengths, this laser is expected to surpass 1021 W/cm2 when focused later this year. Currently, this system is limited to 600 J pulses in a 46.3- cm beam. Expansion of the beam to 58 cm, with the installation of 94-cm gratings, will enable 1 kJ operation. Target experiments with petawatt pulses will be possible either integrated with Nova in the 10 beam target chamber or as a stand alone system in an independent, dedicated chamber. Focusing the beam onto a target will be accomplished using an on axis parabolic mirror. The design of a novel targeting system enabling the production of ultrahigh contrast pulses and an easily variable effective focal length is also described.
Due process before discipline: What public employers need to provide

This paper examines content and procedural due process requirements that must be met before an employee is disciplined by a public sector employer. The paper begins by analzying the circumstances and significance of the United States Supreme Court's historicLoudermill decision in 1985. Three key issues in predetermination hearing; are treated: (1) the procedural requirements to be met in a predetermination hearing; (2) the scope ofLoudermill; (3) the due process requirements of a predetermination hearing.
Initial knowledge and attitudes as predictors of intervention effects: the individual management plan.

Abstract This paper addresses questions concerning the effects of patient education strategies to increase adherence to antihypertensive medical regimens. It endeavors to fill gaps in our knowledge about intervention effects that may link research findings with health care applications. Data from a community intervention study of 432 hypertensives are used to address two broad questions relating research on patient education to health care practice: Do interventions have different effects on individuals who differ with respect to initial attitudes or knowledge, and to what extent do interventions produce changes in the factors thought to mediate their effects on behavior? This investigation tests a client-oriented approach to the delivery of interventions, the Individual Management Plan (IMP). The IMP approach is based on the hypothesis that interventions will be differentially effective for individuals with varying levels of initial attitudes and knowledge thought to mediate the effects of the interventions on behavior. Aalysis of variance, correlational analyses, and analysis of covariance models are used to test various aspects of this hypothesis. Analyses are performed for adherence to medication regimens, dietary sodium restrictions and weightloss recommendations. The results of the analyses offer only minimal support for the IMP hypothesis. The state of the art and constraining factors in the study are examined to guide future applications of the IMP approach.
Interactive Programs for a Multilingual Environment

Teaching in an environment in which more than one language is spoken is becoming increasingly common. Instructional software must be prepared to meet the needs of teachers in bilingual and multi-lingual environments. Many software developers have taken the approach of preparing multiple versions of their materials. One version is completed for each spoken language in which the material is presented. Because instruction with computer technology can be interactive, creating a new version for each language is not necessary. Instead, one can create an instructional program which is able to change the language of the on-screen presentation with a simple keystroke. By structuring the computer program to allow for this type of multi-lingual interaction additional languages can be added easily. We have experimented with two approaches. Each has advantages and disadvantages, but both offer easy changing of the on-screen language of presentation by the user.
Hypervariability in the envelope genes of subgroup J avian leukosis viruses obtained from different farms in the United States.

Avian leukosis virus, subgroup J (ALV-J), has a wide host range, preferentially infecting meat-type birds, and produces a high incidence of myelocytomatosis and nephromas. Using the published sequences from HPRS-103 (ALV-J isolated in 1989 in Great Britain), we designed a set of PCR primers that amplified proviral DNA from nine U.S. field samples. The primers were specific for ALV-J, not amplifying DNA from uninfected cells or cells infected with ALV subgroups A-E. These primers expanded a 2.4-kb fragment that encompasses gp85, gp37, the E element, and most of the 3' LTR. We also developed a set of PCR primers that amplified a 2.1-kb fragment from ALV-J-infected cells and a 1.6-kb fragment from uninfected ev- chicken embryo fibroblasts (Line 0). Upon cloning and DNA sequencing, we determined that the 2.1- and 1.6-kb fragments contained ALV-J gp85- and gp37-like sequences. Comparison of the amino acid sequences demonstrated that the Line 0 sequences were 97.5% identical with the gp85 and gp37 of HPRS-103 and somewhat less identical with the other nine U.S. isolates. This suggests that the envelope genes of ALV-J may have arisen as a result of a recombination event between exogenous ALV and Line 0-like sequences in the chicken. Phylogenetic analysis also showed that the U.S. field isolates were closely related to one another and more distantly related to the European HPRS-103. The pattern of mutations in the U.S. field isolates suggests that the U.S. strains are slowly drifting away from their progenitor Line 0-like sequences. The development of effective vaccines and diagnostic tests is likely to become more problematic as the viruses continue to mutate.
Phospholipid Vesicle Targeting Using Synthetic Glycolipid and Other Determinants

The interactions of carbohydrate-modified phospholipid vesicles with various isolated cell types in vitro have been studied to establish a better basis for understanding the mechanisms for recognition and transport of such modified vesicles in vivo. The physical basis for the use of perturbed angular correlation spectroscopy for the measurement of phospholipid vesicle integrity, and the kinetics of uptake of modified phospholipid vesicles by mouse peritoneal macrophage are first reviewed. The effects of variation of the chemical structure of the determinant and other factors indicate that the rate of uptake of cationic vesicles by mouse peritoneal macrophage is directly related to the distance that an amine group can be extended beyond the vesicle surface, and not, for example, to the stereochemistry of the carbohydrate determinant. The uptake mechanism appears to involve generalized phagocytosis and not a receptor-mediated mechanism, or an opsonization process that is not stereospecific.
Behavioral and central visual correlates of inherited retinal degeneration in the domestic chicken (Gallus domesticus)

A developmental, posthatch loss of cutaneous and ocular melanocytes in the mutant DAM (delayed amelanotic) chicken is accompanied by severe retinal degeneration. Using a food-location task, increased ocular pigment loss was associated with increased latency of response, both developmentally in young DAMS, and among adults with differing degrees of amelanosis. Analysis of optic nerve fiber composition in normals and DAMs showed a reduction in the small diameter optic axon population in severely amelanotic DAMs. With increasing severity of ocular amelanosis among animals, reduction in the density of anterogradely transported horseradish peroxidase (HRP) reaction product was seen first in retinorecipient thalamic nuclei, subsequently in the optic tectum, and ultimately in the accessory optic nucleus. An inverse relationship was also observed between the density of HRP reaction product occurring in retinal terminal fields and density of HRP label seen in the optic tracts of the same animal. No changes in either the volume or extent of central visual nuclei were apparent in partially sighted and blind DAMs.
Background ozone and anthropogenic ozone enhancement at niwot ridge, Colorado

The mixing ratios for ozone and NOx (NO + NO2) have been measured at a rural site in the United States. From the seasonal and diurnal trends in the ozone mixing ratio over a wide range of NOx levels, we have drawn certain conclusions concerning the ozone level expected at this site in the absence of local photochemical production of ozone associated with NOx from anthropogenic sources. In the summer (June 1 to September 1), the daily photochemical production of ozone is found to increase in a linear fashion with increasing NOx mixing ratio. For NOx mixing ratios less than 1 part per billion by volume (ppbv), the daily increase is found to be (17 ± 3)[NOx]. In contrast, the winter data (December 1 to March 1) indicate no significant increase in the afternoon ozone level, suggesting that the photochemical production of ozone during the day in winter approximately balances the chemical titration of ozone by NO and other pollutants in the air. The extrapolated intercept corresponding to [NOx] = 0 taken from the summer afternoon data is 13% less than that observed from the summer morning data, suggesting a daytime removal mechanism for O3 in summer that is attributed to the effects of both chemistry and surface deposition. No significant difference is observed in the intercepts inferred from the morning and afternoon data taken during the winter.
Inhibition of histone deacetylase enhances the anti-proliferative action of antiestrogens on breast cancer cells and blocks tamoxifen-induced proliferation of uterine cells

Here we report a novel potential therapeutic strategy using histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors to enhance the action of hormonal therapy agents in estrogen receptor alpha (ERα)-positive breast cancer. HDAC inhibitors [trichostatin A (TSA), suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) and valproic acid (VPA)], inhibited proliferation of MCF-7 breast cancer cells and, in combination with tamoxifen inhibited proliferation better than with either agent alone. VPA, an anti-convulsant drug with HDAC inhibitory activity, enhanced tamoxifen action at doses within the concentration range used for anti-convulsive therapy. VPA cooperated with tamoxifen in a variety of ERα-positive cell lines and was also effective when combined with other antiestrogens, and with aromatase inhibition. VPA enhanced antiestrogen action by promoting cell death via apoptosis without affecting cell cycling. Some of this action may be due to VPA’s ability to induce the pro-apoptotic gene Bik, which is also induced by antiestrogens. Remarkably, VPA blocked the undesirable pro-proliferative action of tamoxifen on uterine endometrial cells. Our in vitro results suggest that VPA and other HDAC inhibitors have the potential to enhance hormonal therapy for ERα-positive breast cancer and simultaneously reverse the adverse effects of antiestrogens in the uterus.
The mixed initial-boundary value problem for the equations of nonlinear one-dimensional viscoelasticity

It has been proved (Lax [I], MacCamy-Mizel [2]) that the equations of one-dimensional nonlinear elasticity do not admit, in general, smooth solutions in the large. It is expected though, that if the stress depends on the history of motion in an appropriate fashion, then smooth solutions exist. The simplest model of a solid with history dependence is provided by one-dimensional viscoelasticity, where the stress a is a function of the deformation gradient u, and its time derivative zi, . Greenberg, MacCamy and Mizel [3] have considered the semilinear case, cr(uZ , zi.) = ~J(zL~) + ti, where 93 is a strictly increasing function. They prove the existence of a unique solution which is asymptotically stable. In this paper we consider the traction boundary value problem in the general case where O(U, , ti,) may be nonlinear in both u, , zi, . The form of the dependence of CT(U~ , 2%) on ti, is restricted by the requirement that the viscosity be bounded away from zero. On the contrary, the dependence on U, is essentially unrestricted apart from certain requirements of boundedness. It turns out that the viscoelastic part dominates the elastic part and secures the existence of a unique solution in the large. This solution is smooth enough so that all derivatives entering the equation of motion are Holder continuous. The tools of the proof are certain “energy” estimates combined with known a priori bounds from the theory of parabolic equations, and the Leray-Schauder fixed point theorem. In the final part of the paper, we investigate the asymptotic stability of the solution. The mechanism which provokes the decay of the solution is induced by the viscosity. On the other hand, the number and the nature of all possible static configurations depend entirely on the elastic part of
Critical miscibility limits in blends of aliphatic polyamides containing an aromatic polyamide

Abstract An investigation of the phase behaviour of the aromatic polyamide, nylon 3Me6T, in a specially prepared series of aliphatic copolyamides, (CH2)nNHCO, has allowed for an unambiguous determination of the critical miscibility limits in these blends. The appearance of critical solution behaviour, in the form of an LCST, in a copolymer of caprolactam and laurolactam has identified the upper bound for the volume fraction of methylene units of the latter to correlate perfectly with a value estimated previously to be x = 0.85. A similar evaluation of blends containing copolymers of 2-pyrrolidinone and caprolactam has determined the lower bound to be x = 0.76, which is significantly greater than the estimated value. These observations, when treated within the framework of a mean field binary interaction model, allow for greater precision in projecting the phase behaviour of polyamide blends. The results are also used to corroborate previous findings which describe the phase behaviour of an aromatic polyamide, nylon 6IcoT, in a similar series of aliphatic polyamides.
In VSMCs, Beta-1 Integrin but not Syndecan-4 Gene Expression is Dependent on Matrix Stiffness

Mechanotransduction is the process by which cells sense and convert mechanical stimuli into biochemical signals, and has been implicated in the development of certain pathologies. During atherosclerosis, the vessel wall experiences progressive stiffening, particularly at the site of developing plaques, and vascular smooth muscle cells are intimately involved in the development and maintenance of these plaques. In vitro, VSMCs have also been shown to be mechanosensing: cell spreading area, migration speed, and expression of characteristic cytoskeletal components is mediated by substrate stiffness. It is likely, then, that changes in arterial mechanics during atherosclerosis contribute to the pathological behavior of VSMCs, but our understanding of this process remains inadequate.The beta-1 integrin subunit has been implicated in mechanosensing, but its uniqueness as a mechanotransducer has not been established. Syndecan-4 acts in synergy with the alpha5beta1 integrin, though its role in mechanotransduction is unknown.We hypothesized that beta-1, but not syndecan-4, gene expression is regulated by substrate stiffness. We used polyacrylamide gels functionalized with fibronectin which mimic the mechanical properties of healthy (∼30kPa) and diseased (∼80kPa) arterial walls. Primary rat VSMCs were grown to 60% confluence on 18kPa, 35kPa, and 80kPa gels with uniform FN surface content, and collected for quantitative PCR analysis. Gene expression of beta-1 increased 1.5x with each increment in stiffness, while syndecan-4 levels were not affected. These results suggest that beta-1 integrin gene expression is sensitive to substrate mechanics, while syndecan-4 expression is not.Because cell-cell contacts are also capable of mechanotransduction, we also looked at the effects of cell density on beta-1 integrin expression. Preliminary results suggest that increasing cell density eliminates the substrate-mediated increase in beta-1 expression, which suggests that VSMCs integrate mechanical stimuli from various sources to achieve physical homeostasis.
Assessing the Impact of Gasoline Sales-Below-Cost Laws on Retail Price and Market Structure: Implications for Consumer Welfare

The effectiveness of gasoline-specific sales-below-cost (SBC) laws designed to limit firms' predatory behavior is yet to be determined. To provide policy makers with conceptual and empirical insights into this issue, the authors propose and empirically test a simultaneous equations model grounded in the structure–conduct–performance framework that assesses the direct and indirect impacts that SBC laws have on market structure (number of sellers) and on the wholesale and retail prices of gasoline. Unlike other SBC studies, which are more cross-sectional in nature and focus on a limited number of areas, the authors use monthly gasoline wholesale and retail prices from 1983 to 2010 for all 50 states. This approach is advantageous because it includes the opportunity to assess the long-term impact of SBC laws and transitional effects as states enact or repeal SBC legislation. The results suggest that SBC laws reduce retail prices directly and indirectly by increasing the number of sellers, thus improving custo...
Filamentous bacterial viruses. IX. Protein synthesis inhibitors and DNA replication.

Summary DNA synthesis in filamentous virus-infected bacteria is stopped rapidly by withdrawal of required amino acids but not by addition of 180 μg/ml chloramphenicol. Initiation of DNA replication is not under control of the stringent response. DNA synthesis in chloramphenicol-treated bacteria is correlated with residual synthesis of a protein (probably the major viral coat protein) that is made in 180 μg/ml chloramphenicol but not in the absence of essential amino acids.
Impact of CMS measurements on PDFs

Recently 2 analyses have been published by the CMS collaboration that study the effect of a specific CMS measurement on PDFs. A review of these studies is given here.The first analysis consists of a double differential inclusive jet cross-section measurement, performed on 4.7 fb−1 of data at √s = 7 TeV. Using the HERAFITTER code, the effect of adding this measurement in the PDF fit procedure together with DIS data from HERA-I is studied. The CMS data is able to significantly reduce the uncertainties on the gluon PDF, especially for gluons with large momenta relative to the proton (x > 0:01). A moderate reduction in the uncertainty of the u and d valence quark PDFs is also observed for x > 0:01. The quark PDFs are more directly probed by gauge boson production. Therefore the second analysis studies the effect of W-boson production measurements on PFDs. This consists of a W-boson charge asymmetry measurement and a study of W-boson production in association with a c-(anti-)quark, both performed on 5.0 fb−1 of data at √s = 7 TeV. A clear reduction in the uncertainty on the u and d valence quark PDFs is seen for x < 0:1. Furthermore the W-boson + c-quark production measurements allow for the determination of an independent s quark PDF, which is not possible on DIS data alone.
Heterogeneity of apolipoprotein A-I turnover in subjects with reduced concentrations of plasma high density lipoprotein cholesterol

Reduced plasma levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) and apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) are both indicators of increased risk of developing coronary artery disease. We have used autologous 125-I-HDL to determine the rates of production (PR) and fractional catabolism (FCR) of apoA-I, the major, structural apolipoprotein in HDL, in three groups of men that included the following: four normal subjects (triglyceride [TG] = 61.0 +/- 5.0 mg/dL, HDLC = 51.5 +/- 7.0 mg/dL), four subjects with both hypertriglyceridemia and reduced HDLC (TG = 360.3 +/- 111.1 mg/dL, HDLC = 23.8 +/- 6.1 mg/dL), and seven subjects with only reduced HDLC (TG = 103.7 +/- 49.5 mg/dL, HDLC = 25.6 +/- 6.1 mg/dL). In the group with both the high TG and low HDL, apoA-I PR was significantly greater than the apoA-I PR in the normal group (14.2 +/- 2.3 v 10.6 +/- 1.9 mg/kg.d, P less than .05). ApoA-I FCR was also significantly greater in the former group v normals (0.38 +/- 0.08 v 0.21 +/- 0.04 d-1, P less than .02). In contrast, the group of subjects with only low HDLC had a significantly lower apoA-I PR v the normal subjects (7.1 +/- 2.0 v 10.6 +/- 1.9 mg/kg.d; P less than .05). ApoA-I FCR was variable in the group with isolated low HDLC, but the mean FCR was not different from normal (0.26 +/- 0.09 v 0.21 +/- 0.04 d-1).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Using Florida Keys Reference Sites As a Standard for Restoration of Forest Structure in Everglades Tree Islands

In south Florida, tropical hardwood forests (hammocks) occur in Everglades tree islands and as more extensive forests in coastal settings in the nearby Florida Keys. Keys hammocks have been less disturbed by humans, and many qualify as “old-growth,” while Everglades hammocks have received much heavier use. With improvement of tree island condition an important element in Everglades restoration efforts, we examined stand structure in 23 Keys hammocks and 69 Everglades tree islands. Based on Stand Density Index and tree diameter distributions, many Everglades hammocks were characterized by low stocking and under-representation in the smaller size classes. In contrast, most Keys forests had the dense canopies and open understories usually associated with old-growth hardwood hammocks. Subject to the same caveats that apply to off-site references elsewhere, structural information from mature Keys hammocks can be helpful in planning and implementing forest restoration in Everglades tree islands. In many of these islands, such restoration might involve supplementing tree stocking by planting native trees to produce more complete site utilization and a more open understory.
Commentary: Early father–infant interaction and externalizing behaviors – a response to Ramchandani et al. (2013)

Many researchers have attempted to uncover the precise contribution of fathers to childrearing in relation to both young and older children's development during the past five decades (Lamb, 1975), including during the infancy period (Parke & O'Leary. S, 1975). However, few have been able to isolate precise mechanisms by which specific types of paternal childrearing practices may be linked to specific types of prosocial and problem behavior. The current paper by Ramchandani et al. (2013) breaks new ground in identifying a precise dimension of paternal parenting during early infancy--engagement--and linking it to maternal reports of infant externalizing problem behavior. Importantly, this association was found after accounting for the influence of several child, paternal, and maternal characteristics, including observed maternal sensitivity. Specifically, the authors found that fathers observed to be less engaging with their 3-month olds were reported by mothers to show fewer disruptive problems 9 months later.
Push-through direct injection NMR: an optimized automation method applied to metabolomics†

There is a pressing need to increase the throughput of NMR analysis in fields such as metabolomics and drug discovery. Direct injection (DI) NMR automation is recognized to have the potential to meet this need due to its suitability for integration with the 96-well plate format. However, DI NMR has not been widely used as a result of some insurmountable technical problems; namely: carryover contamination, sample diffusion (causing reduction of spectral sensitivity), and line broadening caused by entrapped air bubbles. Several variants of DI NMR, such as flow injection analysis (FIA) and microflow NMR, have been proposed to address one or more of these issues, but not all of them. The push-through direct injection technique reported here overcomes all of these problems. The method recovers samples after NMR analysis, uses a “brush-wash” routine to eliminate carryover, includes a procedure to push wash solvent out of the flow cell via the outlet to prevent sample diffusion, and employs an injection valve to avoid air bubbles. Herein, we demonstrate the robustness, efficiency, and lack of carryover characteristics of this new method, which is ideally suited for relatively high throughput analysis of the complex biological tissue extracts used in metabolomics, as well as many other sample types. While simple in concept and setup, this new method provides a substantial improvement over current approaches.