cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Vaccination with a chikungunya virus-like particle vaccine exacerbates disease in aged mice.

Introduction Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a re-emerging pathogen responsible for causing outbreaks of febrile disease accompanied with debilitating joint pain. Symptoms typically persist for two weeks, but more severe and chronic chikungunya illnesses have been reported, especially in the elderly. Currently, there are no licensed vaccines or antivirals against CHIKV available. In this study, we combined a CHIK virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine with different adjuvants to enhance immunogenicity and protection in both, adult and aged mice. Methods CHIK VLP-based vaccines were tested in 6-8-week-old (adult) and 18-24-month-old (aged) female C57BL/6J mice. Formulations contained CHIK VLP alone or adjuvants: QuilA, R848, or Imject Alum. Mice were vaccinated three times via intramuscular injections. CHIKV-specific antibody responses were characterized by IgG subclass using ELISA, and by microneutralization assays. In addition, CHIKV infections were characterized in vaccinated and non-vaccinated adult mice and compared to aged mice. Results In adult mice, CHIKV infection of the right hind foot induced significant swelling, which peaked by day 7 post-infection at approximately 170% of initial size. Viral titers peaked at 2.53 × 1010 CCID50/ml on day 2 post-infection. Mice vaccinated with CHIK VLP-based vaccines developed robust anti-CHIKV-specific IgG antibody responses that were capable of neutralizing CHIKV in vitro. CHIK VLP alone or CHIK plus QuilA administered by IM injections protected 100% of mice against CHIKV. In contrast, the antibody responses elicited by the VLP-based vaccines were attenuated in aged mice, with negligible neutralizing antibody titers detected. Unvaccinated, aged mice were resistant to CHIKV infection, while vaccination with CHIKV VLPs exacerbated disease. Conclusions Unadjuvanted CHIK VLP vaccination elicits immune responses that protect 100% of adult mice against CHIKV infection. However, an improved vaccine/adjuvant combination is still necessary to enhance the protective immunity against CHIKV in the aged.
Infectious Enthusiasm: The Story of Louis Pasteur (1936)

As Holland documents, Pasteur’s cinematic biography introduces distortions motivated by distinct commercial, hagiographic, and political considerations. This chapter explores internal records from the producers supporting conscious alterations to improve the film’s commercial potential, and shows that even knowledgeable reviewers intentionally furthered the hagiographical perspective. Holland focuses on the development of the Warner Brothers studio as an intensely political organization in the 1930s, especially noteworthy for the pride it took in spreading an anti-fascist message. The Story of Louis Pasteur is seen simultaneously as an anti-Nazi parable and as the life story of a saint; it deliberately and implicitly depicts the idealized struggle of an individual against a mass movement, and a fight between the ignorance of the mob and the enlightenment of a pure individual.
Borderline Personality Traits Are Not Correlated With Brain Structure in Two Large Samples

Abstract Background Borderline personality disorder is associated with severe psychiatric presentations and has been linked to variability in brain structure. Dimensional models of borderline personality traits (BPTs) have become influential; however, associations between BPTs and brain structure remain poorly understood. Methods We tested whether BPTs are associated with regional cortical thickness, cortical surface area, and subcortical volumes (n = 152 brain structure metrics) in data from the Duke Neurogenetics Study (n = 1299) and Human Connectome Project (n = 1099). Positive control analyses tested whether BPTs are associated with related behaviors (e.g., suicidal thoughts and behaviors, psychiatric diagnoses) and experiences (e.g., adverse childhood experiences). Results While BPTs were robustly associated with all positive control measures, they were not significantly associated with any brain structure metrics in the Duke Neurogenetics Study or Human Connectome Project, or in a meta-analysis of both samples. The strongest findings from the meta-analysis showed a positive association between BPTs and volumes of the left ventral diencephalon and thalamus (p values .1 false discovery rate–corrected). Contrasting high and low BPT decile groups (n = 552) revealed no false discovery rate–significant associations with brain structure. Conclusions We find replicable evidence that BPTs are not associated with brain structure despite being correlated with independent behavioral measures. Prior reports linking brain morphology to borderline personality disorder may be driven by factors other than traits (e.g., severe presentations, comorbid conditions, severe childhood adversity, or medication) or reflect false positives. The etiology or consequences of BPTs may not be attributable to brain structure measured via magnetic resonance imaging. Future studies of BPTs will require much larger sample sizes to detect these very small effects.
Charting YOUR Career Path: Internal Strategies

Now that goals have been identified, and information regarding career paths have been explained, the reader needs to explore some of the internal (internal motivation, risk-taking, work–life balance, etc.) strategies surrounding career advancement. This chapter will describe those critical internal strategies that can affect success in advancing their career. Strategies for exploring internal motivation, risk-taking, and work–life balance will be described. Through suggested activities throughout the chapter, the reader will build upon the goals identified in Chap. 2 and incorporate internal motivation, risk-taking, and work–life balance into their goals. Sample vignettes depicting an example of internal strategies will be included. Novice and senior nursing student assessment strategies will both be addressed in this chapter.
Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Dampen Americans’ Tipping for Food Services? Insights From Two Studies

The recent COVID-19 pandemic raises questions about consumer willingness to give tips during such times of hardship. Analyses of a Texas pizza delivery driver’s tip records and of nationwide Square...
Interobserver reliability of Feline Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (FEDESI) and Scoring Feline Allergic Dermatitis (SCORFAD) and the relationship between lesion scores and pruritus.

BACKGROUND Feline Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index (FEDESI) and Scoring Feline Allergic Dermatitis (SCORFAD) are scales used to assess lesion severity in cats with allergic dermatitis. Interobserver reliability has not been assessed for either. HYPOTHESIS AND OBJECTIVES To determine interobserver reliability for FEDESI and SCORFAD, and the relationship between lesion scores and pruritus. ANIMALS Thirty-eight cats presenting for pruritus. METHODS AND MATERIALS Each cat's lesions were scored by two observers at each visit using both FEDESI and SCORFAD (n = 117 paired observations). Spearman's rho was calculated to assess correlation between scales and between each scale and the owner-reported pruritus Visual Analog Scale (pVAS). Concordance correlation coefficients were calculated between observers for each scale, and Bland-Altman plots were used to visually represent the relationship between paired scores. RESULTS FEDESI and SCORFAD were strongly positively correlated with one another (rho = 0.84, P < 0.001). Each scale showed fair correlation with pVAS (rho = 0.42, P < 0.001; rho = 0.38, P < 0.001, respectively). There was good concordance between observers for both scales, with a correlation coefficient of 0.77 for FEDESI and 0.80 for SCORFAD [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) 95%, confidence interval (CI) 0.69-0.83; ICC 95%, CI 0.72-0.86, respectively]. Median lesion score was low (FEDESI 20; SCORFAD 4), which may improve interobserver reliability. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE There is good interobserver reliability for both FEDESI and SCORFAD. FEDESI and SCORFAD are positively correlated with one another and with pVAS. These findings support use of both scales in clinical research and assessment.
Mechanically Reconfigurable Multi-Functional Meta-Optics

We explore mechanically reconfigurable meta-optics with switchable optical functionality. 3D-printed microwave devices featuring broadband focusing, spectral demultiplexing, and polarization splitting are measured with various reconfiguration schemes, including shearing and auxetic transformations.
Interstitial Nitrides: Structure and Composition

This chapter provides a review of the structural characteristics, structure, and composition of the interstitial nitrides. The interstitial nitrides, titanium nitride in particular, are major industrial materials. Interstitial nitrides are crystalline compounds of a host metal and nitrogen where the nitrogen atom occupies specific interstitial sites in the metal structure, which is generally close packed. This places a lower limit on the size of the metal atom for the nitrogen atom to fit in the available sites of the metal structure. Interstitial nitrides are similar to interstitial carbides in structure and composition and the two groups of materials closely resemble each other. The nitrides however are not as refractory as carbides. The interstitial nitrides are susceptible to the presence of even minute amounts of impurities, particularly oxygen, which tend to distort the structure. Like the carbides, the interstitial nitrides allow nonmetal vacancies (i.e., nitrogen) in the lattice, but unlike the carbides they also tolerate metal-atom vacancies.
Elevated blood pressure among U.S. adults with diabetes, 1988-1994.

Abstract Background: Recent guidelines and clinical trial results emphasize the importance of controlling blood pressure among people with diabetes. We estimated the prevalence of elevated blood pressure among U.S. adults with diagnosed diabetes, and examined the extent to which elevated blood pressure is being treated and controlled. Methods: The Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1988–1994), a probability survey of the civilian, non-institutionalized population of the United States, consisted of an interview and physical examination, which included blood pressure measurement. Survey participants included 1507 adults (aged ≥18 years) with self-reported diabetes. Among people with self-reported diabetes, we estimated elevated blood pressure (mean blood pressure of ≥130/85 mm Hg or use of antihypertensive medication); awareness (prior diagnosis of hypertension); treatment (antihypertensive medication use); and control (mean blood pressure of Results: In the 1988–1994 period, 71% (95% confidence interval [CI]=±4.4%) of all U.S. adults with diabetes had elevated blood pressure. The prevalence of elevated blood pressure increased with age and was high among both men and women and among Mexican Americans, non-Hispanic blacks, and non-Hispanic whites. Among those with elevated blood pressure, 71% (95% CI=±4.1%) were aware and 57% (95% CI=±4.2%) were treated, but only 12% (95% CI=±3.2%) had mean blood pressure Conclusions: All people with diabetes—regardless of age, gender, and race and ethnicity—may benefit from efforts to prevent hypertension. The control of elevated blood pressure is inadequate and broad-based efforts are needed to improve blood pressure control.
The initiation of somatic embryos and adventitious roots from developing zygotic embryo explants of Cercis canadensis L. cultured in vitro

Zygotic embryo explants of Cercis canadensis L. cultured in vitro responded to 1 and 5 μM 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) or 50 μM α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) by initiating somatic embryos and adventitious roots. Somatic embryos and adventitous roots were formed from developing zygotic embryos, while fully developed embryos collected from mature seed initiated only adventitious roots. Following 2,4-D application, the number of somatic embryos decreased while adventitious roots increased with increasing developmental age of the explant. The greatest number of somatic embryos were initiated with a 5 to 20 day exposure to 5 μM 2,4-D from zygotic embryos collected between 75 and 82 days post-anthesis in 1987. Somatic embryos formed directly from epidermal and subepidermal cells, while adventitious roots developed from interior cortex cells. Normal somatic embryos were recovered after a 20 day exposure to 5 μM 2,4-D and acclimated to greenhouse conditions.
Models of Membrane Fusion

The fusion of biomembranes is an ubiquitous event in living organisms encountered in diverse situations, such as intracellular trafficking, recycling, fertilization, and infections by enveloped viruses. Even though each specific type of biological fusion is regulated by particular fusion proteins, it always involves the merger of two lipid bilayers. Even in the absence of proteins, bare lipid bilayers can be induced to undergo fusion. The question whether different types of fusion are variants of one or several universal fusion mechanisms has received much attention, but is not finally answered. At present, the most promising candidate is the stalk-pore fusion pathway, which involves several lipid-based fusion intermediates. We give an overview of common fusion types, current knowledge of corresponding fusion mechanisms, and efforts to model membrane fusion. The latter includes both phenomenological modeling and computer simulations. Keywords: DPD; EFF-1; HA; SNARE complexes; viral fusion
The Structure of Cellular Membranes

From the beginning I want to point out that I do not belong to the union so overwhelmingly represented here. I do not believe that we are justified in considering that there is only one particular type of structural organization of cellular membranes or that we know with any certainty what the actual structure is. This caution becomes rather justifiable when considering the observations of Dr. Luzzati and collaborators in pure systems of amphifiles in water, according to which several different configurations of the soap molecules occur, any particular configuration depending on concentration of the amphifile and on the temperature.
On the stoichiometry of the oxidase and monooxygenase reactions catalyzed by liver microsomal cytochrome P-450. Products of oxygen reduction.

This laboratory has recently reported that, in a reconstituted enzyme system containing alcohol-induced isozyme 3a of liver microsomal cytochrome P-450, the sum of acetaldehyde generated by the monooxygenation of ethanol and of hydrogen peroxide produced by the NADPH oxidase activity is inadequate to account for the O2 and NADPH consumed. Studies on the stoichiometry have revealed the occurrence of an additional reaction involving an overall 4-electron transfer to molecular oxygen which is presumed to yield water: O2 + 2 NADPH + 2H+—-2 H2O + 2 NADP+. The occurrence of a peroxidase reaction in which free H2O2 is reduced to water by NADPH was ruled out. When the 4-electron oxidase activity is taken into account, measurements of NADPH oxidation and O2 consumption are in accord with the amounts of products formed in the presence of various P-450 isozymes, either in the absence or presence of typical substrates, including those which undergo hydroxylation, N- or O-demethylation, or oxidation of hydroxymethyl to aldehyde groups. Of the substrates examined, some had no effect on the oxidase reaction yielding hydrogen peroxide or the 4-electron oxidase reaction, some were inhibitory, and some were stimulatory, but the same substrate did not necessarily have the same effect on the two reactions.
Some Remarks on the Herlestam-Johannesson Algorithm for Computing Logarithms over GF(2 p )

At the 1981 IEEE Symposium on Information Theory, T. Herlestam and R. Johannesson presented a heurestic method for computing logarithms over GF(2p). They reported computing logarithms over GF(23 !) with surprisingly few iterations and claimed that the running time of their algorithm was polynomial in p. If this were true, the algorithm could be used to cryptanalyze the Pohlig-Hellman cryptosystem, currently in use by Mitre Corporation for key distribution. The Mitre system operates in GF(2127). However, the algorithm was not implemented for GF(2p) for p > 31 because it would require multiple precision arithmetic. Consequently attempts to evaluate the possible threat to the Pohlig-Hellman cryptosystem have centered on modeling the algorithm so that some predictions could be made analytically about the number of iterations required to find logarithms over GF(2P) for p > 31.
The New and Old Originalism: A Discussion

These five essays, which were originally published on the Library of Law and Liberty website, explore several themes involving the new and old originalism. Steve Smith’s initial essay criticizes the new originalism and proposes an alternative that he calls “decisional originalism.” Michael Rappaport then reacts to Smith’s essay, arguing in favor of an unbiased originalism rather than the original decision. William Baude argues that the new originalism is more consistent with our current law. Stephen Sachs then defends the new originalism as respecting the rules the Framers enacted, if not always the out-comes they expected to achieve. Steve Smith concludes the exchange with a response to his critics.
Globally stable I/O robust control of flexible joints robots

The first input-output robust control design for the trajectory-following problem of a flexible-joint robot manipulator is presented. The proposed design provides a class of controllers which require only position and velocity feedback and assure global stability. The resulting stability is such that the tracking error can be made to be smaller than a design parameter arbitrarily chosen by the designer. The proposed control is robust since it guarantees tracking performance in the presence of high-order nonlinear uncertainties including unknown joint elasticity, unknown parameters, load variation, and disturbances. It is more important from a practical point of view that no measurement of acceleration, jerk, or position and velocity deformation is required. >
Measurement of Roller Compactor Induced Triaxial Soil Stresses and Strains

The measurement of soil properties via roller compactor-integrated instrumentation has gained increased attention. Employing roller-based measurement of mechanistic soil properties for quality assurance or performance prediction has significant potential benefits. To advance the development and understanding of static and vibratory roller measurement systems, the geotechnical community must better understand soil behavior during roller loading. This paper describes the development and implementation of an experimental program to measure in-situ triaxial normal stresses and strains during static and vibratory roller passes. Field tests revealed complex triaxial stress-strain behavior with near plane-strain conditions beneath the center of the drum. The observed stress response matched well with behavior predicted by Hertzian elastic contact theory. The soil stiffness dependent drum/soil contact width plays a significant role in stress distribution and depth of influence of the roller. The influence of drum vibration and static roller weight are visible in stress and strain measured during vibratory operation. The curved drum significantly influences the induced stresses and strains. The results presented here reveal that rollers induce stresses and strains to depths approaching 2 m and that the stress state imparted by the roller is more complex than that used in resilient modulus testing.
Politics in 140 Characters or Less: Campaign Communication, Network Interaction, and Political Participation on Twitter

The methods by which politicians and policy makers communicate with the public are constantly adapting to the ever-changing media environment. As part of this changing landscape, this study considers the case of Twitter. Specifically, the authors conduct a survey of political Twitter users, in order to understand their use of the medium and their political behaviors within it. Results indicate that political Twitter users are more interested in and engaged in politics in general and less trusting of the mainstream media. Moreover, the study investigates the extent to which followers of a campaign may affect its overall influence in the Twitterverse.
Atomistic calculation of oxygen diffusivity in crystalline silicon.

A theoretical calculation of the diffusivity of oxygen in crystalline silicon is presented based on constrained path energy minimization and jump rate theory using an empirical interatomic potential, which was recently developed by us for modeling the interactions between silicon and oxygen atoms. The calculations predict that an oxygen atom jumps in a (110) plane from one bond-center site to another. The saddle point configuration is farther away from the starting configuration than the midpoint along the path. The oxygen diffusivity is predicted as $D\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}=\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}0.025\mathrm{exp}(\ensuremath{-}2.43\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}\mathrm{eV}{/k}_{B}T)\phantom{\rule{0ex}{0ex}}{\mathrm{cm}}^{2}/\mathrm{sec}$ and is in excellent agreement with experiments.
Wall Clutter Mitigation Using Discrete Prolate Spheroidal Sequences for Sparse Reconstruction of Indoor Stationary Scenes

Detection and localization of stationary targets behind walls is primarily challenged by the presence of the overwhelming electromagnetic signature of the front wall in the radar returns. In this paper, we use the discrete prolate spheroidal sequences to represent spatially extended stationary targets, including exterior walls. This permits the formation of a linear block sparse model relating the range profile and observation vectors. Effective wall clutter suppression can then be performed prior to sparse signal image reconstruction. We consider stepped-frequency radar with two cases of frequency measurement distributions over antenna positions. In the first case, the same subset of frequencies is used for each antenna in physical or synthetic aperture arrays, whereas the other case allows different sets of few frequency observations to be available at different antennas. Using experimental data, we demonstrate that the proposed scheme enables sparsity-based image reconstruction techniques to effectively detect and localize behind-the-wall stationary targets from reduced measurements.
Vibration and dynamic response control of cantilevers carrying externally mounted stores

The vibrational and dynamic response control of cantilevers carrying externally mounted stores is investigated. The cantilevered structure is modeled as a thin-walled beam of arbitrary cross section and incorporates a number of nonclassical effects such as transverse shear, secondary warping, anisotropy of constituent materials, and heterogeneity of the construction. The control is carried out via a dynamic bending moment applied at the tip of the structure. A feedback control law relating the boundary moment with one of the kinematical variables characterizing the response of the beam is implemented, and its results upon the closed-loop eigenfrequencies and dynamic response are highlighted. The obtained numerical results emphasize the efficiency of this control methodology to enhance, without weight penalties, vibrational and dynamic response behavior and inhibit and even suppress the occurrence of the resonance phenomenon.
A conceptual design of a soil database for a geographical information system

Abstract Soil maps and soil descriptions can be combined with other data sets within a geographical information system, to be used for analysis and modelling. As the amount of data to be included in such a database and the number of users of the database increase, the need for a structured approach to database design arises. In this paper, we discuss the conceptual design of a geographical database of soil information. We use an Extended Entity-Relationship (EER) model to capture the semantics and constraints of the database. The EER schema is then mapped into the relational data model. We show how the Structured Query Language (SQL) can be used to formulate sample queries that may be of interest to users of such a soil database. We also illustrate uses of the EER model in graphical formulation of database queries. Because of its high level of abstraction and intuitive simplicity, the EER model constitutes a convenient tool for both database design and formulation of database queries.
Changes in alcohol-related brain networks across the first year of college: a prospective pilot study using fMRI effective connectivity mapping.

Abstract The upsurge in alcohol use that often occurs during the first year of college has been convincingly linked to a number of negative psychosocial consequences and may negatively affect brain development. In this longitudinal functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) pilot study, we examined changes in neural responses to alcohol cues across the first year of college in a normative sample of late adolescents. Participants (N = 11) were scanned three times across their first year of college (summer, first semester, second semester), while completing a go/no-go task in which images of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages were the response cues. A state-of-the-art effective connectivity mapping technique was used to capture spatiotemporal relations among brain regions of interest (ROIs) at the level of the group and the individual. Effective connections among ROIs implicated in cognitive control were greatest at the second assessment (when negative consequences of alcohol use increased), and effective connections among ROIs implicated in emotion processing were lower (and response times were slower) when participants were instructed to respond to alcohol cues compared to non-alcohol cues. These preliminary findings demonstrate the value of a prospective effective connectivity approach for understanding adolescent changes in alcohol-related neural processes.
Drying properties of metathesized soybean oil

Soybean oil was metathesized with the standard homogenous metathesis catalyst, which consisted of tungsten hexachloride (WCl6) and tetramethyl tin (Me4Sn) in chlorobenzene as solvent. The reactions were terminated at different time intervals. Soybean oil was mixed with metathesized soybean oil in the presence of cobalt-drier to evaluate drying properties. Five weight percentage (% w) of metathesized oil was found to be all that was needed to decrease the drying time of soybean oil from 312 to 182 min. Drying times for heat-polymerized soybean oil with Gardner-Holdt viscosity of Z1–Z2 and Z3–Z4 were 71 and 75 min, respectively. In both cases, 5% weight metathesized soybean oil in the blend gave the best results for reducing drying time to 67 and 69 min, respectively.
Using cost-effectiveness analysis to target cholesterol reduction.

The studies by Ganz and Prosser and their colleagues in this issue evaluate statin therapy in clinically important populations that were not studied adequately in randomized trials. These studies r...
Age-Related Changes in Valproic Acid Binding to Rat Serum Proteins in Vitro

The effect of age on the in vitro binding of valproic acid (VPA) to serum proteins was investigated in rats ranging in age from 14 days (preweaning) to 24 months (senescent). The influence of free fatty acid (FFA) and total protein (TP) concentrations on age-related changes in binding was examined. The protein binding of VPA was altered during development and aging. The VPA fraction unbound (fu) at low VPA concentrations was significantly higher in older age groups (12 and 24 months old; fu = 0.26-0.30) than in younger animals (14, 20, and 40 days old; fu = 0.16-0.18). Binding was best described by a model incorporating a saturable and a nonsaturable binding site. Binding affinity at the saturable binding site was lowest at the extremes of age. Changes in binding at either the saturable or the nonsaturable site were not predicted by changes in TP or FFA with age. Changes in nonsaturable binding were marginally associated with age (p = 0.0952). A 3-fold increase in FFA concentrations was necessary to produce a 1.5-fold increase in VPA fu. There was less than a 2-fold difference in FFA concentrations between the age groups (range 0.219-0.379 mmol/L). Thus, the difference in FFA concentrations between the age groups may not have been large enough to cause measurable differences in displacement of VPA from binding sites. Changes in protein binding may contribute to age-related changes in disposition of VPA observed in the rat. Changes in the serum concentrations of specific FFA or proteins may play a role in the altered VPA binding with age, but changes in total FFA or protein concentrations do not account for the age-related differences observed. Further investigation is required to identify the mechanism(s) responsible for age-related changes in binding of VPA to serum proteins measured in vitro.
Quantitative trait loci modulate neutrophil infiltration in the liver during LPS-induced inflammation

A crucial aspect of the inflammatory response is the recruitment of activated neutrophils (PMN) to the site of damage. Lytic enzymes and oxygen radicals released by PMN are important in clearing an infection or cellular debris, but can also produce host tissue damage. Failure to properly regulate the inflammatory response contributes to a variety of human diseases like sepsis and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome, the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in surgical intensive care units. Many aspects of human disease pathology, including hepatic PMN infiltration, can be recapitulated in mice using an endotoxic shock model. Six quantitative trait loci that predispose to high infiltration of PMN in hepatic sinusoids after high-dose endotoxin administration were provisionally identified. Two of these loci, Hpi1 and Hpi2 on mouse chromosomes 5 and 13, were mapped to the significant and highly significant level using a low-resolution genome scan on 122 intercross animals. These loci interact epistaticall...
NASTRAN and SAP IV applications on the seismic response of column-supported cooling towers

Abstract Hyperboloidal reinforced-concrete shells are modeled using orthotropic quadrilateral flat plate finite elements. The supporting columns and top ring-beam are modeled by beam finite elements. Natural frequencies and corresponding mode shapes are found for several different tower configurations. Results for fixed-base shells are in close agreement with those determined using alternate methods of analysis. A cooling tower in the 1200 MW Fossile Fuel Steam Generating Power Plant at Paradise, Kentucky (Tennessee Valley Authority) is studied. Time-history responses of 30 sec to the North-South component of the 1940 El Centre earthquake are computed by the technique of modal superposition. Only the modes with one circumferential wave are excitable by horizontal motion. Contributions of the first three such modes are found using response spectrum analysis. The effect of viscous damping is considered. Two different structural programs, NASTRAN and SAP IV, are used in different portions of the solution process. Advantages, disadvantages, and limitations in the present application are discussed.
10q23.3 loss of heterozygosity is higher in lymph node-positive (pT2-3,N+) versus lymph node-negative (pT2-3,N0) prostate cancer.

Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in the region of 10q23.3 has been associated with multiple tumors, including glioblastoma multiforme, melanoma, endometrial carcinoma, and prostate carcinoma. The tumor suppressor gene, PTEN/MMAC1, is also located in this region, and, in addition to other tumor types (eg, glioblastoma multiforme, endometrial, and melanoma), PTEN/MMAC1 mutations have been found in prostate cancer cell lines, xenografts, and hormone refractory prostate cancer tissue specimens. The aim of this study was to evaluate LOH at 10q23.3 as a marker of cancer progression in node-positive prostate cancer. Genetic alterations in the region of 10q23.3 were assessed in 23 node-positive (pT2-3, N+) and 44 node-negative prostate (pT2-3, N0) cancers with D10S532, D10S1687, D10S541, and D10S583 flanking polymorphic genetic markers; PTENCA, a genetic marker within PTEN/MMAC1, was also tested. Using DNA from paired normal and microdissected tumor samples, LOH at microsatellite loci was determined after polymerase chain reaction amplification. LOH in at least 1 marker was identified in 14% (6 of 44) of lymph node-negative and 43% (10 of 23) of lymph node-positive prostate cancers (chi-square test, P = .007). This increase in genetic alterations in node-positive prostate cancer suggests that 10q23.3 is a marker for metastatic progression.
Solar-Cycle Changes in Gong p-Mode Widths and Amplitudes 1995-1998

We search for a solar cycle variation in mode widths and amplitudes derived from 3-month GONG time series. The variation of mode width and amplitude observed in GONG data are the combined effects of fill factor, temporal variation, and measurement uncertainties. The largest variation is caused by the fill factor resulting in modes with increased width and reduced amplitude when fill is lower. We assume that the solar cycle variation is the only other systematic variation beside the temporal window function effect. We correct all currently available data sets for the fill factor and simultaneously derive the solar cycle variation. We find an increase of about 3% on average in mode width from the previous minimum to Oct. 1998 and a decrease of about 7% and 6% in mode amplitude and mode area (width x amplitude). We find no l dependence of the solar-cycle changes. As a function of frequency, these changes show a maximum between 2.7 and 3.3 mHz with about 47% higher than average values for mode width and about 29% and 36% higher ones for mode amplitude and area. We estimate the significance of these rather small changes by a pre-whitening method and find that the results are significant at or above the 99.9% level with mode area showing the highest level of significance and mode width the lowest. The variation in background amplitude is most likely not significant and is consistent with a zero change.
Extravesical Implantation of a Continent Catheterizable Channel

Purpose: Extravesical ureteral reimplantation provides results equivalent to those of the open technique with the advantage of less postoperative morbidity from a large cystotomy. Surgical series describing the technique and efficacy of extravesical implantation of continent catheterizable channel are lacking. We reviewed our results to determine the efficacy of this technique with an emphasis on continence and the need for revision.Materials and Methods: We reviewed the records of 394 patients who underwent a bladder continent catheterizable channel procedure from 1999 to 2009. Operative records describing an extravesical technique were noted. Briefly, a 3 to 6 cm incision is made in the detrusor and seromuscular flaps are created. The continent catheterizable channel is laid in the tunnel and the flaps are brought anterior to the channel and sutured to each other. Fixation of the bladder wall to the abdominal wall preserves tunnel length and minimizes the risk of angulation. The type of continent cathet...
Characterization of UMP synthase in dairy cattle heterozygous for a lethal recessive trait

UMP synthase was characterized biochemically in dairy cattle heterozygous for a deficiency of this enzyme. Both activities comprising this bifunctional enzyme are decreased, with OMP decarboxylase more affected than orotate phosphoribosyltransferase. Immunotitration of UMP synthase activity revealed the presence of the protein product of the mutant allele in the heterozygous animals. UMP synthases from normal and deficient cattle were not distinguished from one another by kinetic constants, responses to inhibitors, pH profiles, or thermal lability. It was concluded that the 50% reduction in enzyme activity in heterozygous cattle is the result of the presence of only half the normal level of catalytically active UMP synthase.
Forced annular variations in the 20th century Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report models

[1] We examine the annular mode within each hemisphere (defined here as the leading empirical orthogonal function and principal component of hemispheric sea level pressure) as simulated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report ensembles of coupled ocean-atmosphere models. The simulated annular patterns exhibit a high spatial correlation with the observed patterns during the late 20th century, though the mode represents too large a percentage of total temporal variability within each hemisphere. In response to increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases and tropospheric sulfate aerosols, the multimodel average exhibits a positive annular trend in both hemispheres, with decreasing sea level pressure (SLP) over the pole and a compensating increase in midlatitudes. In the Northern Hemisphere, the trend agrees in sign but is of smaller amplitude than that observed during recent decades. In the Southern Hemisphere, decreasing stratospheric ozone causes an additional reduction in Antarctic surface pressure during the latter half of the 20th century. While annular trends in the multimodel average are positive, individual model trends vary widely. Not all models predict a decrease in high-latitude SLP, although no model exhibits an increase. As a test of the models' annular sensitivity, the response to volcanic aerosols in the stratosphere is calculated during the winter following five major tropical eruptions. The observed response exhibits coupling between stratospheric anomalies and annular variations at the surface, similar to the coupling between these levels simulated elsewhere by models in response to increasing GHG concentration. The multimodel average is of the correct sign but significantly smaller in magnitude than the observed annular anomaly. This suggests that the models underestimate the coupling of stratospheric changes to annular variations at the surface and may not simulate the full response to increasing GHGs.
Collagen Content and Subjective Scores for Tenderness of Connective Tissue in Animals of Different Ages

SUMMARY— Collagen nitrogen in raw steaks was related to subjective scores for tenderness of connective tissue in steaks cooked to 61° from two muscles, L. dorsi and B. femoris from three groups, veal, baby beef, and mature beef, of eight animals each. A highly significant, but somewhat low correlation, −0.54, indicated that collagen in raw meat would be an index of the tenderness of connective tissue within cooked meat. Correlations within muscle groups indicated a better index in the B. femoris. The amount of collagen nitro, gen was not different between the age groups. Panel scores within B. femoris were indicative of larger amounts and tougher connective tissue in the older animals.
An analysis of phase noise and Fokker-Planck equations

Abstract A local moving orthonormal transformation has been introduced to rigorously study phase noise in stochastic differential equations (SDEs) arising from nonlinear oscillators. A general theory of phase and amplitude noise equations and its corresponding Fokker–Planck equations are derived to characterize the dynamics of phase and amplitude error. As an example, a van der Pol oscillator is considered by using the general theory.
Block copolymer nanoassemblies for photodynamic therapy and diagnosis

Light can be a powerful therapeutic and diagnostic tool. Light-sensitive molecules can be used to develop locally targeted cancer therapeutics. This approach is known as photodynamic therapy (PDT). Similarly, it is possible to diagnose diseases and track the course of treatment in vivo using ligh-sensitive molecules. This methodology is referred to as photodynamic diagnosis (PDD). Despite the potential, many PDT and PDD agents have imperfect physiochemical properties for their successful clinical application. Nanotechnology may solve these issues by improving the viability of PDT and PDD. This review summarizes the current state of PDT and PDD development, the integration of nanotechnology in the field, and the prospective future applications, demonstrating the potential of PDT and PDD for improved cancer treatment and diagnosis.
Multi-dimensional register classification using bigrams

A corpus linguistic analysis investigated register classification using frequency of bigrams in nine spoken and two written corpora. Four dimensions emerged from a factor analysis using bigram frequencies shared across corpora: (1) Scripted vs. Unscripted Discourse, (2) Deliberate vs. Unplanned Discourse, (3) Spatial vs. Non-Spatial Discourse, and (4) Directional vs. Non-Directional Discourse. These findings were replicated in a second analysis. Both analyses demonstrate the strength of bigrams for classifying spoken and written registers, especially in locating distinct collocations among spoken corpora, as well as revealing syntactic and discourse features through a data-driven approach.
A Comprehensive Dynamic End Milling Simulation Model

This paper presents a comprehensive time domain model that simulates end milling processes under general cutting conditions. Over an extensive range of axial depths of cut, the model can accurately predict regenerative forces and dynamic responses by considering varying dynamics along the cutting depth, three-dimensional forces, and cutting tool geometries. The prediction of stability limit is validated under cutting conditions of both large depths and very small radial immersions. In addition, three-dimensional surface profiles under both stable and chatter conditions are predicted and compared with measured ones. A new method to extract cutting pressure coefficients is also introduced and applied to the experimental validations.
Reproduction and Death in Invertebrates and Fishes

IN NATURE some time ago (115, 155; 1925) Dr. Bidder raised again the interesting fundamental question of the cause of normal death in aquatic animals, and stated that so far as he knew there was no evidence of any marine animals dying a natural death, except those whose life is ended by the winter or the summer. Later, the same writer, after reviewing earlier discussions (Proc. Linn. Soc., 1925, p. 17), argued that we have no reason to suppose that aquatic animals, such as plaice, carp, and sea anemones, ever die except by violence. It was stated that though both man and plaice, for example, increase by approximately geometrical progression in weight until the age of puberty, man after the age of twenty-eight declines in (significant) weight and must die; whereas plaice continue to grow indefinitely by positive increments, from which fact it is deduced that life in plaice—and similar animals—may be eternal. The renewal of interest in this subject is already producing practical results, and it is worth while discussing some other aspects of the problem.
Oxidation of benzyl alcohol and benzaldehyde with xenon trioxide

Benzyl alcohol is oxidized by xenon trioxide in acidic or neutral solution to benzaldehyde and benzoic acid. The course of the reaction was followed by gas chromatography. Thin-layer chromatography was used to identify the products of oxidation.
Cognitive Jamming Game for Dynamically Countering Ad Hoc Cognitive Radio Networks

This paper demonstrates that game theory policies can adapt in realtime to enable a cognitive radio network and a cognitive jammer to engage in a game for control of the spectrum. Learning occurs as optimized actions are selected and played out in a dynamic RF propagation environment. System specific resource parameters are optimized for both the cognitive radio network and cognitive jammer. The goals of the two systems are different, the CRN seeks to be spectrally efficient while the jammer seeks to minimize data throughput. It is quixotic to model this interaction as a zero sum game, therefore a non-zero sum game is played. Additional flexibility of the jammer is considered when compared with previous works. Estimated performance results are shown.
Improving the contingent valuation method: A psychological perspective

Abstract Results of research on the social psychology of human decision making that offer direction for improving the contingent valuation method are reviewed. The paper focuses on the findings of that literature related to (1) limitations of human information processing and judgment-making abilities, (2) the influence of elicitation stimuli and expectations, and (3) quality of decision making in the face of too much or too little stress. Within the context of this literature, specific research directions are recommended that can improve the validity and reliability of the results of contingent valuation studies. More multidisciplinary studies are encouraged.
Aminooxyacetic acid causes selective neuronal loss in layer III of the rat medial entorhinal cortex.

Abstract Aminooxyacetic acid (AOAA) was used to produce a selective lesion in the rat entorhinal cortex (EC). As assessed 7 days following the injection of AOAA ( 75 μ g 0.75 μ l ) into the EC, neuronal loss in layer III of the medial EC, particularly in its ventral portion, was consistently observed in Nissl-stained horizontal sections. This selective neurodegeneration was seen even when AOAA was injected laterally or in deeper layers. Behavioral seizures occurred between 2 and 4 h after the AOAA injection. AOAA-induced EC lesions may provide experimental models for the study of human diseases in which the EC, particularly layer III neurons, is involved.
Backbone-dependent Rotamer Library for Proteins Application to Side-chain Prediction

A backbone-dependent rotamer library for amino acid side-chains is developed and used for constructing protein side-chain conformations from the main-chain co-ordinates. The rotamer library is obtained from 132 protein chains in the Brookhaven Protein Database. A grid of 20 degrees by 20 degrees blocks for the main-chain angles phi, psi is used in the rotamer library. Significant correlations are found between side-chain dihedral angle probabilities and backbone phi, psi values. These probabilities are used to place the side-chains on the known backbone in test applications for six proteins for which high-resolution crystal structures are available. A minimization scheme is used to reorient side-chains that conflict with the backbone or other side-chains after the initial placement. The initial placement yields 59% of both chi 1 and chi 2 values in the correct position (to within 40 degrees) for thermolysin to 81% for crambin. After refinement the values range from 61% (lysozyme) to 89% (crambin). It is evident from the results that a single protein does not adequately test a prediction scheme. The computation time required by the method scales linearly with the number of side-chains. An initial prediction from the library takes only a few seconds of computer time, while the iterative refinement takes on the order of hours. The method is automated and can easily be applied to aid experimental side-chain determinations and homology modeling. The high degree of correlation between backbone and side-chain conformations may introduce a simplification in the protein folding process by reducing the available conformational space.
Fiber optic ion sensors based on phase fluorescence lifetime measurements

Fiber optic sensors for various chemical species are well known in the literature, the majority of which are based on changes in fluorescence intensity or intensity ratios due to the presence of the analyte. Recently, several workers have demonstrated analyses based on fluorescence lifetimes. Fluorescence lifetime measurements were performed through a single optical fiber using a modified phase fluorometer. Results are shown indicating that pH could be accurately measured under these conditions with commercially available indicators and instrumentation. The basis of lifetime sensing in the frequency domain is discussed, together with the origin of the very large dynamic ranges achievable with the technique: greater than 100,000-fold analyte concentration range using a single indicator without multiple equilibria.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.