cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SARS-CoV-2 and its beta variant of concern infect human conjunctival epithelial cells and induce differential antiviral innate immune response.

Abstract Purpose SARS-CoV-2 RNA has been detected in ocular tissues, but their susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection is unclear. Here, we tested whether SARS-CoV-2 can infect human conjunctival epithelial cells (hCECs) and induce innate immune response. Methods Conjunctival tissue from COVID-19 donors was used to detect SARS-CoV-2 spike and envelope proteins. Primary hCECs isolated from cadaver eyes were infected with the parental SARS-CoV-2 and its beta variant of concern (VOC). Viral genome copy number, and expression of viral entry receptors, TLRs, interferons, and innate immune response genes were determined by qPCR. Viral entry receptors were examined in hCECs and tissue sections by immunostaining. Spike protein was detected in the cell culture supernatant by dot blot. Results Spike and envelope proteins were found in conjunctiva from COVID-19 patients. SARS-CoV-2 infected hCECs showed high viral copy numbers at 24–72h post-infection; spike protein levels were the highest at 24hpi. Viral entry receptors ACE2, TMPRSS2, CD147, Axl, and NRP1 were detected in conjunctival tissue and hCECs. SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced receptor gene expression peaked at early time points post-infection, but gene expression of most TLRs peaked at 48 or 72hpi. SARS-CoV-2 infected hCECs showed higher expression of genes regulating antiviral response, RIG-I, interferons (α, β, & λ), ISG15 & OAS2, cytokines (IL6, IL1β, TNFα), and chemokines (CXCL10, CCL5). Compared to the parental strain, beta VOC induced increased viral copy number and innate response in hCECs. Conclusions Conjunctival epithelial cells are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Beta VOC is more infectious than the parental strain and evokes a higher antiviral and inflammatory response.
Indistinguishability Prevents Scheduler Side Channels in Real-Time Systems

Scheduler side-channels can leak critical information in real-time systems, thus posing serious threats to many safety-critical applications. The main culprit is the inherent determinism in the runtime timing behavior of such systems, e.g., the (expected) periodic behavior of critical tasks. In this paper, we introduce the notion of "schedule indistinguishability/", inspired by work in differential privacy, that introduces diversity into the schedules of such systems while offering analyzable security guarantees. We achieve this by adding a sufficiently large (controlled) noise to the task schedules in order to break their deterministic execution patterns. An "epsilon-Scheduler" then implements schedule indistinguishability in real-time Linux. We evaluate our system using two real applications: (a) an autonomous rover running on a real hardware platform (Raspberry Pi) and (b) a video streaming application that sends data across large geographic distances. Our results show that the epsilon-Scheduler offers better protection against scheduler side-channel attacks in real-time systems while still maintaining good performance and quality-of-service(QoS) requirements.
The Role of Intention in Intentional Action

A great deal of attention has been paid in recent years to the functional roles of intentions in intentional action. In this paper we sketch and defend a position on this issue while attacking a provocative alternative. Our position has its roots in a cybernetic theory of purposive behavior and is only part of the larger task of understanding all goal-directed behavior. Indeed, a unified model of goal-directed behavior, with appropriate modifications for different types of systems, is a long-range ambition. Section I details a control model of intention in intentional action.
Morphometric, geographic, and territorial characterization of brain arterial trees

SUMMARY Morphometric information of the brain vascularization is valuable for a variety of clinical and scientific applications. In particular, this information is important when creating arterial tree models for imposing boundary conditions in numerical simulations of the brain hemodynamics. The purpose of this work is to provide quantitative descriptions of arterial branches, bifurcation patterns, shape, and geographical distribution of the arborization of the main cerebral arteries as well as estimations of the corresponding vascular territories. For this purpose, subject-specific digital reconstructions of the brain vascular network created from 3T magnetic resonance angiography images of healthy volunteers are used to derive population-averaged morphometric characteristics of the cerebral arterial trees. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SCFFBXL19 E3 ligase regulates CBP ubiquitination and degradation and reduces lung injury (406.1)

Rationale: CREB-binding protein (CBP), a versatile acetyltransferase, plays a critical role in the pathology of Acute Lung Injury (ALI) via regulation of proinflammatory gene expression. However, molecular regulation of CBP at the level of protein stability has not been well studied. Three enzyme complexes (E1, E2, and E3) are involved in linking ubiquitin chains onto target proteins. F-box protein is a substrate-recognition component within the SCF E3 ligase complex. Here, we investigate the role of F-box protein, FBXL19, in the regulation of CBP ubiquitination and degradation. Methods and Results: We found that FBXL19-V5 over-expression reduced both endogenous and over-expressed CBP in mouse lung epithelial cells (MLE12). Further, over-expression of FBXL19 induced CBP ubiquitination, which was reduced in FBXL19 knock-down cells. Co-immunoprecipitation and co-immunostaining studies showed that FBXL19 is associated with CBP. To investigate the role of FBXL19 in CBP-mediated histone acetylation and proinfl...
Decomposition and Mineralization

Decomposition is the process of metabolic degradation of organic matter (e.g., plant residues, animal tissues and microbial material) into simple organic and inorganic compounds. Decomposition is essentially a process of breakdown of the organic matter carbon skeleton with consequent liberation of energy. Three major processes are generally involved in terrestrial decomposition: leaching, fragmentation and chemical alteration. Decomposition and subsequent mineralization are indispensable for sustaining life on Earth, as they are the only processes enabling massive recycling of chemical elements in the biosphere. Mineralization is the conversion of nutrients and other substances from an organically bound form to a water-soluble inorganic form. Decomposition and mineralization are closely related processes: mineralization is often considered as a subset of decomposition, while decomposition does not always lead to mineralization. Decomposition is generally associated with the carbon cycle whereas mineralization contributes to nutrient cycling.
Examining strategies for implementing best practices in home healthcare.

: Home healthcare agencies frequently strive to improve quality of care through the use of guidelines to promote best practices. A significant challenge is implementing new practices once they have been identified. Drawing on literature and interviews, this article reviews the effectiveness and feasibility of strategies used to disseminate evidence and how these interact with characteristics of the desired change and characteristics of the organization seeking to implement the change. Based on this review, suggestions are made about how agencies can promote the implementation of guidelines and how the use of best practices can be supported throughout the industry.
Hamiltonian paths in Cayley digraphs of finitely-generated infinite Abelian groups

Abstract We show every finitely-generated, infinite abelian group (i.e. Z n x G where G is a finite abelian group) has a minimal generating set for which the Cayley digraph has a two-way infinite hamiltonian path, and if n ⩾2, then this Cayley digraph also has a one-way infinite hamiltonian path. We show further that in the case of Z n (n⩾2) , the Cayley digraph is 2-ply hamiltonian.
The coupling of epidermal growth factor receptor down regulation by 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 to the hormone-induced cell cycle arrest at the G1-S checkpoint in ovarian cancer cells

1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, 1,25(OH)2D3, regulates gene expression through the vitamin D receptor. The present studies identify the epidermal growth factor receptor, EGFR, as a target gene suppressed by 1,25(OH)2D3 in human ovarian cancer cells. The suppression was detected at both mRNA and protein levels in vitamin D-sensitive human ovarian cancer cells. A novel vitamin D response element was identified in intron 1 of the EGFR genome, a known hotspot for its transcriptional regulation. Chromatin immunoprecipitations and reporter gene analyses showed that the intronic DNA element bound to vitamin D receptor and a co-repressor and was functional in mediating transcriptional suppression of EGFR promoter by 1,25(OH)2D3 under stable transfection conditions. Consistent with the EGFR down regulation, 1,25(OH)2D3 suppressed activation of the external signal regulated kinase by epidermal growth factors. Over expression of an active EGFR in vitamin D sensitive ovarian cancer cells caused resistance to 1,25(OH)2D3-induced growth suppression and diminished the hormonal regulation of cyclin D1, cyclin E, Skp2 and p27, a group of cell cycle regulators that mediate 1,25(OH)2D3-induced cell cycle arrest at G1-S checkpoint. Taken together, our studies demonstrate that 1,25(OH)2D3 suppresses the response of human ovarian cancer cells to mitogenic growth factors and couple the suppression to the cell cycle arrest at G1-S checkpoint by the hormone.
Scalability of classical terramechanics models for lightweight vehicle applications incorporating stochastic modeling and uncertainty propagation

Abstract This paper investigates the validity of commonly used terramechanics models for lightweight vehicle applications while accounting for experimental variability. This is accomplished by cascading uncertainty up to the point of wheel performance. Vehicle-terrain interaction is extremely complex, and thus models and simulation methods for vehicle mobility prediction are largely based on empirical data. Analytical methods are compared to experimental measurements of key operational parameters such as drawbar force, torque, and sinkage. Models of operational parameters ultimately depend on a small set of empirically determined soil parameters, each with an inherent uncertainty due to test variability. The soil parameters associated with normal loads are determined by fitting the dimensionless form of Bekker’s equation to the pressure-sinkage test data. Similarly, the soil parameters associated with shear loads are determined by fitting Janosi-Hanamoto’s equation to the direct shear test data. An uncertainty model is used to propagate the soil parameter variability through to the wheel performance based on Wong and Reece. This commonly used analytical model is shown to be inaccurate as the envelope of model uncertainty does not lie within the experimental measures, suggesting that model improvements are required to accurately predict the performance of lightweight vehicles on deformable terrain.
The Puf RNA-binding proteins FBF-1 and FBF-2 inhibit the expression of synaptonemal complex proteins in germline stem cells

FBF-1 and FBF-2 (collectively FBF) are two nearly identical Puf-domain RNA-binding proteins that regulate the switch from mitosis to meiosis in the C. elegans germline. In germline stem cells, FBF prevents premature meiotic entry by inhibiting the expression of meiotic regulators, such as the RNA-binding protein GLD-1. Here, we demonstrate that FBF also directly inhibits the expression of structural components of meiotic chromosomes. HIM-3, HTP-1, HTP-2, SYP-2 and SYP-3 are components of the synaptonemal complex (SC) that forms between homologous chromosomes during meiotic prophase. In wild-type germlines, the five SC proteins are expressed shortly before meiotic entry. This pattern depends on FBF binding sites in the 3′ UTRs of the SC mRNAs. In the absence of FBF or the FBF binding sites, SC proteins are expressed precociously in germline stem cells and their precursors. SC proteins aggregate and SC formation fails at meiotic entry. Precocious SC protein expression is observed even when meiotic entry is delayed in fbf mutants by reducing GLD-1. We propose that parallel regulation by FBF ensures that in wild-type gonads, meiotic entry is coordinated with just-in-time synthesis of synaptonemal proteins.
Microincrementation: Facultative and obligatory precipitation of otolith crystal

Abstract 1. 1. A trevally Caranx georgianus reared under varying temperature conditions showed anabolic and catabolic phases in its metabolism. 2. 2. A moire fringe technique was used to measure volume changes in the fish. 3. 3. Microincrement widths in the otolith of the trevally showed short-term changes in phase with temperature, length, and volume changes especially in the anabolic phase of metabolism. 4. 4. Average microincrement width was resistant to variation in the fish metabolism indicating obligatory microincrementation. 5. 5. Check rings occurred in parts of the otolith corresponding to metabolic conditions that are usually associated with low pH values.
The nature of inactivating lesions produced by platinum (II) complexes in phage λ DNA

Abstract Lambda DNA loses transfectivity and acquires interstrand cross-links after treatment with either trans-Pt(II) or cis-Pt(II). With trans-Pt(II) there is close to an equivalence between the fraction of λ DNA cross-linked and the fraction inactivated. In contrast, with cis-Pt(II) there are approx. 5 inactivating lesions for each λ DNA interstrand cross-link. These results suggested that trans-Pt(II) does not introduce intrastrand inactivating lesions into λ DNA while cis-Pt(II) does so. To verify this conclusion, the cross-linked and uncross-linked fractions of λ DNA treated with trans-Pt(II) or cis-Pt(II) were separated on alkaline sucrose gradients. After trans-Pt(II) treatment, the uncross-linked fraction of λ DNA was transfective when renaturated. However after cis-Pt(II) treatment the uncross-linked fraction of λ DNA was not transfective when renatured. Thiourea treatment restored transfectivity to all inactivated fractions, showing that these lesions are reversible. We conclude that trans-Pt(II) inactivates λ DNA primarily by introducing interstrand cross-links but that cis-Pt(II), although it also introduces interstrand cross-links, inactivates λ DNA primarily by introducing intrastrand lesions.
Flame spread over fuel beds: solid-phase energy considerations

This paper reports on an analytical and experimental investigation of flame spread over the surface of a solid-fuel bed in an oxygen-inert environment. It is postulated that the processes controlling the flame-spreading phenomenon occur in a very small “ignition region” at the leading edge of the spreading flame adjacent to the surface, and attention is focused on this small region. The solid-phase energy equation is uncoupled from the gas-phase conservation equations and solved separately, retaining as a boundary condition the heat flux into the surface from the adjacent gas phase. The resulting solutions, in the form of simple algebraic equations, show clearly the different relationships between the physically important parameters associated with flame propagation over: (1) a “thick” fuel bed (thermal wave penetration into the solid beneath the ignition region much less than the fuel-bed depth), and (2) a “thin” fuel bed (subsurface temperature gradients negligible). The “critical thickness” criterion for separating the regions of thin and thick fuel-bed flame-spreading characteristics evolves as a naturally occurring parameter of the problem. The main dependence of heat flux on environmental parameters is obtained from consideration of the gas-phase conservation equations in a quiescent environment. By combining the results from the gas-phase and solid-phase analyses, simple algebraic relationships are obtained between flame-spreading velocity and parameters of theoretical and practical interest. Experimentally, using the techniques described in Ref. 1, the dependence of flame-spreading velocity on pressure level, oxidant mole fraction, diluent gas, initial temperature and fuel-bed depth is determined for polymeric and cellulosic materials. In addition, the influence of forced convective motion of the environment on flame spreading velocity is investigated experimentally. The analytical results provide excellent correlation for all data obtained in a quiescent environment, with the exception of the influence of initial temperature. Data obtained by other investigators are shown to be correlated as well. It is concluded that the role played by the solid phase in the over-all flame-spreading mechanism is generally understood, but the gas-phase processes require further definition.
Ion aurora and its seasonal variations

[1] Recent studies have shown that intense discrete aurora, auroral kilometric radiation, upflowing ion beams, and downward directed electric fields are more intense in the winter hemisphere than in the summer. This is particularly true of the dusk to midnight sector where intense electron aurora are most common. Here we use one solar cycle of DMSP satellite particle data to investigate the seasonality of the ion aurora. The ion aurora proves to be approximately equal in the summer and winter hemispheres in the dusk-midnight sector (with the summer hemisphere favored by 0 to 4%). However, in the MLT hours from midnight to dawn, the ion precipitating energy flux is 15–40% higher in winter than in summer. The absolute magnitude of the ion effect is smaller than was found for discrete electron aurora (which show a threefold difference between winter and summer). The seasonal behavior of the ions may reflect the observation that diverging electric fields, which accelerate ions downward, are found mainly postmidnight, and are stronger in the winter. The relative weakness of the seasonal effects in ions may reflect their high average energy (many tens of keV), which is substantially larger than typical of electric potentials found in the auroral circuit. Ions in the dusk to midnight sector are most intense equatorward of the region of discrete aurora, and are thus probably not much affected by the seasonality of the field-aligned electric fields which exist there (and which are of the sense to retard ion precipitation). Interestingly, ion average energies are higher in the winter hemisphere than in the summer hemisphere at all local times, regardless of whether or not energy fluxes are enhanced. The above results apply to the actual range of ion energies measured by the DMSP electrostatic analyzers (32 eV to 30 keV). A sample extrapolation to 100 keV energy, assuming the spectra are Maxwellian, showed the same overall pattern. The percentage by which the winter hemisphere was favored over the summer for precipitating ion energy flux was moderately larger when using extrapolation, and a larger difference was still seen postmidnight than premidnight.
Surface stress effects on the critical film thickness for epitaxy

An analysis of the critical thickness dependence on misfit for epitaxy is presented including effects due to surface stresses. It is shown that these surface stress effects, which have not been included in previous theories of epitaxy, can have a major influence on the critical thickness, especially for relatively large misfits. A simple model incorporating effects due to compressive surface stresses is given which, compared to previous theories, predicts significantly larger (smaller) critical thicknesses when the stress‐free lattice parameter of the film is greater (less) than the lattice parameter of the substrate.
Improved constraints on non-Newtonian forces at 10 microns

Several recent theories suggest that light moduli or particles in ``large'' extra dimensions could mediate macroscopic forces exceeding gravitational strength at length scales below a millimeter. Such new forces can be parameterized as a Yukawa-type correction to the Newtonian potential of strength $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ relative to gravity and range $\ensuremath{\lambda}$. To extend the search for such new physics we have improved our apparatus utilizing cryogenic micro-cantilevers capable of measuring attonewton forces, which now includes a switchable magnetic force for calibration. Our most recent experimental constraints on Yukawa-type deviations from Newtonian gravity are more than 3 times as stringent as our previously published results and represent the best bound in the range of $5--15\text{ }\text{ }\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{m}$, with a 95% confidence exclusion of forces with $|\ensuremath{\alpha}|g14,000$ at $\ensuremath{\lambda}=10\text{ }\text{ }\ensuremath{\mu}\mathrm{m}$.
A major histocompatibility complex-linked locus in the rat critically influences resistance to diethylnitrosamine carcinogenesis.

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-linked deletions in the rat are associated with defects in growth and development and increased susceptibility to chemical carcinogens. The present study maps a locus critical for determining susceptibility to diethylnitrosamine (DEN) carcinogenesis by using two groups of MHC-recombinant rats congenic for the MHC and its linked region. Resistance to DEN segregates with a locus (rcc+) that maps between RT1.E and ft, and its homozygous loss markedly increases susceptibility to DEN. Non-MHC genes do not significantly influence the susceptibility of these strains to DEN. The existence of the rcc locus adds support to our hypothesis that some genes in the MHC-linked region play a major role in both normal and abnormal growth.
Shoreline Armoring Impacts and Beach Restoration Effectiveness Vary with Elevation

Abstract Removal of shoreline armoring can potentially restore lost biological functions to intertidal beaches and increase connectivity between aquatic and terrestrial realms. Conceptual models are needed, as ecologists, managers, and engineers are all concerned with finding ways to restore natural aspects to shoreline features that are stable and resilient in the face of global climate change and sea level rise. We identify the main effects of armoring on shoreline biota, examine the ecological response of a restored site where a seawall was removed, and use this to form a conceptual basis for the importance of elevation on armoring effects and restoration potential. Restoration completed in February 2005 at Seahurst Park (Puget Sound, Washington, United States) included seawall removal and creation of a beach. We monitored the site over seven years before and after restoration and compared invertebrate assemblages to a reference beach, spanning four elevations. We present a conceptual model illustratin...
Examining hyperspectral unmixing error reduction due to stepwise unmixing

Unmixing hyperspectral images inherently transfers error from the original hyperspectral image to the unmixed fraction plane image. In essence by reducing the entire information content of an image down to a handful of representative spectra a significant amount of information is lost. In an image with low spectral diversity that obeys the linear mixture model (such as a simple geologic scene), this loss is negligible. However there exist inherent problems in unmixing a hyperspectral image where the actual number of spectrally distinct items in the image exceeds the resolving ability of an unmixing algorithm given sensor noise. This process is demonstrated here with a simple statistical analysis. Stepwise unmixing, where a subset of end-members is used to unmix each pixel provides a means of mitigating this error. The simplest case of stepwise unmixing, constrained unmixing, is statistically examined here. This approach provides a significant reduction in unmixed image error with a corresponding increase in goodness of fit. Some suggestions for future algorithms are presented.
Fast Surface Diffusion of Large Disk-Shaped Nanocrystal Aggregates

The diffusion of planar aggregates of passivated CdSe nanocrystals on a graphite surface is investigated using AFM. These monolayer disks contain 80−100 identical 4 nm nanocrystals, with a total molecular weight of 4 × 107 amu, and yet diffuse rapidly on a graphite surface at 50−100 °C without dissociation. The distribution function of displacements of the disks supports the collective slip-diffusion mechanism proposed recently for single nanocrystals. The diffusion is observed to be sublinear with time, which is attributed to continuing loss of capping organic molecules from nanocrystals.
Pipelined OR-parallelism architecture for parallel execution of Prolog

This paper describes a parallel architecture to implement PROLOG. The architecture considered here takes advantage of the OR-parallelism inherent in the language. In usual OR-parallelism architecture, multiprocessors are used to work on a relation of the database at the same time. In the pipeline OR-parallelism, a relation of the database is processed by only one of the multiprocessors at one time. As soon as a solution is found, the resolution goes forward and works on the goal down the goal tree. A hardware model is derived based on the concept and simulation studies were carried out for different numbers of processor configurations. It has been found that from the results of the simulation optimum processor configurations can be derived to meet the cost performance requirements.
Working environment and respiratory health: A case study of western coal miners

A case study of 102 surface and underground coal miners in the western United States randomly selected from a telephone survey of two mining communities was conducted, examining their perceptions of working conditions and health both before and after the Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969. Miners working since 1970 reported lower amounts of dust breathed in, increased dust‐mask use, and better mine ventilation. Respiratory illnesses, including coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP), were most often reported by those who worked largely prior to the Act; respiratory symptoms, such as persistent cough and shortness of breath, were reported by miners who worked primarily after the act. Miners’ perceptions of the federal black‐lung compensation process and concerns about diesel equipment are presented. These data are further discussed within the environmental‐justice and risk‐perception frameworks. Recommendations are suggested regarding regulations and public policy.
An Effective Minimum Concentration of Un‐ionized Ammonia Nitrogen for Controlling Prymnesium parvum

Abstract The minimum concentration of un-ionized ammonia nitrogen needed to kill the alga Prymnesium parvum in 24–48 h was determined from ammonium sulfate treatments. Five treatments [0, 3, 5, 10, and 15 mg (NH4)2SO4/L] were tested at pH 8 and pH 9 and temperatures of 15, 20, and 25°C to generate various concentrations of total and un-ionized ammonia nitrogen; their effectiveness in killing the alga was then monitored for 48 h. There was a strong relationship between treatment success and the level of ammonium sulfate or un-ionized ammonia nitrogen. The ammonium sulfate treatments that killed the alga did so within the first 24 h, and their effectiveness at 48 h was not significantly different from that at 24 h. At pH 9, ammonium sulfate concentrations above 5 mg/L eradicated the alga approximately 90% of the time, compared with 33% for the other treatments. In terms of un-ionized ammonia nitrogen, 0.055 mg/L was similar to the control in failing to kill the alga; however, 0.17 mg/L eradicated the alga 8...
A second‐order factor analysis of critical TQM factors

The quality management literature prescribes various critical quality improvement strategies. However, there have been few empirical studies that tested for the synergy or the relationships among these critical quality constructs. This study develops a second‐order factor model to test whether a set of critical quality management factors load on an overall construct that may be termed “Total quality management”. Using survey data collected from 173 manufacturing and service firms, the LISREL VII computer program is used to estimate and validate the proposed model. The results provide an initial empirical evidence of the importance of implementing the quality management strategies holistically rather than piecemeal.
Stokes slip flow through square and triangular arrays of circular cylinders

Slow viscous flow through square and equilateral triangular arrays of circular cylinders are solved by eigenfunction expansions and collocation. The boundary conditions on the cylinders, which admit partial slip, are satisfied exactly. Permeability for various slip and solid fractions, including the touching case, are determined. Partial slip, which arises in diverse physical problems, has substantial effect on both flow and permeability.
Stereochemistry of α,α′-difluorosuccinic acids

Abstract Treatment of both dimethyl (−)-D-tartrate (IVa) and dimethyl (+)-L- tartrate (Va) with sulfur tetrafluoride gave dimethyl meso-α,α′-difluorosuccinate (Ia). The same reagent converted dimethyl meso-tartrate (IlIa) to a racemic mixture of dimethyl D- and L-α,α′-difluorosuccinate (IIa). This outcome resulting from the replacement of hydroxyl by fluorine with inversion of configuration at one and retention of configuration at the other chiral carbon atom can be rationalized by assuming the formation of a cyclic intermediate. This is opened by a subsequent S N 2 reaction with fluoride ion followed by a four-center displacement of sulfuroxy group by fluorine. The respective configurations of the dimethyl α,α′-difluorosuccinates Ia and IIa were established by 1 H and 19 F NMR using an optically active chemical shift reagent and confirmed by converting the esters to the corresponding acids and these in turn to the cis- and trans-α,α′-difluorosuccinic anhydrides, respectively.
Seismic structure of 15 Ma oceanic crust formed at an ultrafast spreading East Pacific Rise: Evidence for kilometer‐scale fracturing from dipping reflectors

[1] A grid of seismic reflection data from 15 Ma Cocos Plate offers an unprecedented view of the structure of mature oceanic crust formed at an ultrafast spreading (∼200 mm/yr, full rate) East Pacific Rise (EPR). The data contain an unexpected quantity of bright reflectors throughout the crust, generally <5 km in length. Significant reflection dip angles (∼10–30°) are seen only on the isochron profiles, and several reflectors have a confirmed isochron dip orientation. Certain upper crustal reflectors (UCRs) appear to form a single network with isochron dip. The most prominent example (apparent reflection coefficient ∼0.2) projects toward a ∼70 m disruption in the igneous seafloor, and waveform analysis demonstrates that the reflector is likely the product of a low-velocity zone on the order of tens of meters thick. Our observations suggest that the isochron-dipping UCRs represent small-slip, kilometer-scale faults/fractures, and none are primarily related to the seismic 2/3 boundary or to the sheeted dike/gabbro transition. Lower crustal reflectors (LCRs) have no preferred orientation or regular pattern on the 30 km scale of this survey. Certain LCRs may be similar to the UCRs in origin, while others may originate from near-axis ductile flow, lithologic banding, off-axis magmatism, or some combination thereof. Overall, reflectors in this area are abundant and complex, consistent with previous off-axis studies, but at odds with observations of young crust (<5 Ma) near the EPR. This dichotomy may be resolved by a delay in reflector formation, through some combination of postaccretionary tectonics, magmatism and hydrothermal alteration.
High-gain side-firing helical antennas for ultrahigh-frequency television broadcasting

IN designing any high-frequency device which is to have relatively uniform characteristics over a band of frequencies, one of the prime considerations for easing the severity of design compromises is to choose a basic configuration inherently suited to maintaining the reactive energies of the system low compared with the energy flow per cycle through the device. Such a smooth flow through the system can be approached by maintaining the impedances throughout the system resistive over the desired performance frequency band. This in turn dictates the avoidance of resonant components since such resonant elements tend to introduce high reactance slopes into the system impedances requiring careful compensation in the design. The case of the uniform transmission line with distributed constants properly arranged so as to minimize reflections is perhaps the ideal example of such a system.
Role of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in identifying pancreatic abscess masquerading as pancreatic neoplasia

Role of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) in identifying pancreatic abscess masquerading as pancreatic neoplasia
Behavior of confined telechelic chains under shear

Using Monte Carlo simulations, we investigate the rheological behavior of end-functionalized chains confined between two surfaces. The linear chains contain a reactive group (“sticker”) at each end and thus, have a telechelic architecture. We vary the functionality, f, of these stickers from 0 to 3 and calculate the shear stress for different shear rates. For f>1, the chains form a transient network that effectively blocks the stretching of the chains under shear. As a consequence, the shear stress plateaus to a constant value at high shear rates. These findings are in agreement with recent experimental studies on a comparable system. For f>1, we also find that the limiting shear stress decreases with increasing values of f.
Closed From Open Strings in Witten's Theory

Abstract We explore the suggestion that Witten's field theory of the open bosonic string may contain closed strings without explicit closed string fields. Three issues are resolved: (i) How does one make Witten's theory answer questions about closed string scattering? (ii) Where is the general coordinate invariance which must be associated with a consistent theory of interacting, spin-two particles? (iii) How does one excite non-trivial closed string backgrounds?
Vertically aligned nanocomposite La0.8Sr0.2MnO3−δ/Zr0.92Y0.08O1.96 thin films as electrode/electrolyte interfacial layer for solid oxide reversible fuel cells

Abstract A thin layer with a vertically aligned nanocomposite (VAN) structure of La 0.8 Sr 0.2 MnO 3− δ (LSM) and Zr 0.92 Y 0.08 O 1.96 (YSZ) between the oxygen electrode and the electrolyte has been fabricated by a pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique for solid oxide reversible fuel cells (SORFCs). The high quality epitaxial growth of VAN structured LSM/YSZ has been achieved on single crystal SrTiO 3 substrate at high-deposition temperatures. The symmetric cells with the VAN interlayer are found to have a lower area specific resistance compared to that without the interlayer. The enhancement in performance has been demonstrated by increased oxygen electrode catalytic properties and porous oxygen electrode microstructure. The cell with the VAN interlayer shows an open circuit voltage (OCV) of 1.00 V at 650 °C and maximum power densities of 0.22, 0.32, 0.43 and 0.55 W cm −2 at 650, 700, 750 and 800 °C, respectively. Compared with the cell without an interlayer, the cells with the interlayer have ∼2 times of the overall maximum power density at the measured temperature range, demonstrating that the VAN interlayer significantly enhances the oxygen electrode performance.
Reducing the Effects of Intracellular Accumulation of Thermolabile Collagen II Mutants By Increasing Their Thermostability in Cell Culture Conditions

Mutations in collagen II are associated with spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, a group of heritable diseases whose common features include aberrations of skeletal growth. The mechanisms through which mutations in collagen II affect the cartilaginous tissues are complex and include both intracellular and extracellular processes. One of those mechanisms involves cellular stress caused by excessive accumulation of misfolded collagen II mutants. We investigated whether stabilizing the structure of thermolabile R789C and R992C collagen II mutants would improve their secretion from cells, thereby reducing cellular stress and apoptosis. Employing glycerol and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), chemicals that increase the thermostability of collagen triple helices, we demonstrated that those compounds function as chaperones and stabilize the R789C and R992C mutants, accelerate their secretion, and improve cell survival. Our study provides a scientific basis for considering misfolded triple helices of collagen mutants a target for reducing the deleterious effects caused by their excessive intracellular accumulation.
Eukaryotic initiation factor 6, an evolutionarily conserved regulator of ribosome biogenesis and protein translation

We recently identified Receptor for Activated C Kinase 1 (RACK1) as one of the molecular links between abscisic acid (ABA) signaling and its regulation on protein translation. Moreover, we identified Eukaryotic Initiation Factor 6 (eIF6) as an interacting partner of RACK1. Because the interaction between RACK1 and eIF6 in mammalian cells is known to regulate the ribosome assembly step of protein translation initiation, it was hypothesized that the same process of protein translation in Arabidopsis is also regulated by RACK1 and eIF6. In this article, we analyzed the amino acid sequences of eIF6 in different species from different lineages and discovered some intriguing differences in protein phosphorylation sites that may contribute to its action in ribosome assembly and biogenesis. In addition, we discovered that, distinct from non-plant organisms in which eIF6 is encoded by a single gene, all sequenced plant genomes contain two or more copies of eIF6 genes. While one copy of plant eIF6 is expressed ubiq...
The role of Internet-based registries in tandem with genetic screening for the study of drug-induced arrhythmias

Abstract Background: A pilot registry has been created to collect data on patients with QT-interval prolongation and torsades de pointes. Objective: The goals of this paper were to review the types of data collected in the registry and list some of the drugs that have been associated with this syndrome. Conclusions: The international registry is providing information that will assist in the identification of risk factors for rare forms of drug toxicity.
On unit task linear-nonlinear two-cluster scheduling problem

In parallel and distributed processing, tasks are ordinarily clustered and assigned to different processors or machines before they are scheduled. The assignment of tasks to processors is called clustering. The ordering of tasks for execution is called cluster scheduling. The set of tasks is typically modelled as a directed acyclic task graph (DAG). As a result of the clustering process, the set of tasks in each cluster either forms a total ordering, called linear, or it doesn't, called nonlinear, with respect to the DAG. It has been shown that two-cluster scheduling with one cluster being linear and the other nonlinear is strongly NP-hard. In this paper, we develop an exact algorithm to compute an optimal schedule for the above problem in O(e + α(n)n) time when tasks are restricted to unit tasks, where n is the number of nodes, e is the number of edges, and α(n) is similar to inverse Ack-erman function. We also show that when both clusters are nonlinear, even when tasks are restricted to unit-tasks and task graphs are restricted to those having no path of length more than three, the problem remains NP-complete in the strong sense.
Assessment of Systolic Dyssynchrony for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Is Not Clinically Useful

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an effective treatment in patients with medically refractory heart failure. Several clinical trials have shown improvement in both left ventricular (LV) function and symptoms with CRT compared with controls,1,–,4 with the 2 largest trials showing a reduction in rates of hospitalization and death.5,6 On the basis of data from these studies, most international guidelines agree on the standard indications for CRT: impaired functional status with New York Heart Association functional class III or IV, LV ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤35%, and prolonged QRS duration ≥120 ms in the setting of optimal medical therapy.7,–,9 However, not all patients experienced improvement in symptoms or LV function, and numerous studies have focused on improving the selection criteria for CRT in the hopes of excluding these “nonresponders.”1,–,4 One of the most frequently studied modalities for patient selection is echocardiographic measurement of LV systolic dyssynchrony based on the supposition that there is a threshold for mechanical dyssynchrony below which there is no therapeutic benefit. Despite these studies, we argue that current echocardiographic methods of measuring dyssynchrony should not be used to exclude patients who are otherwise candidates for CRT. Conversely, in patients with narrow QRS, echocardiographic evidence of dyssynchrony is insufficient to warrant CRT on the basis of current data. Response by Delgado and Bax on p 663 There are important unresolved issues regarding the use of mechanical dyssynchrony measurements for determining CRT eligibility in an individual patient. Let us examine the case of a 60-year-old man with ischemic cardiomyopathy, recurrent hospitalizations, and New York Heart Association functional class III despite an excellent heart failure drug regimen. He inquires about additional therapy to help improve his symptoms and keep him out of the …
Micro-Structure Models of Diffusion in Fissured Media*

Abstract Two diffusion models are developed which recognize the local geometry of the individual cells or storage sites and the exchange of flux on the micro-scale of these cells. The Cauchy problems for these model systems are shown to be resolved by holomorphic semigroups, and various classical models are obtained as limits of these disributed micro-structure models.
Thoracoscopy for Trauma

Thoracoscopy has numerous applications for both diagnosis and treatment in thoracic trauma. It is excellent for the diagnosis of diaphragmatic injuries, mediastinal evaluation, and the assessment of persistent air-leak. It offers therapeutic intervention for diaphragmatic lacerations, thoracic bleeding in stable patients, evacuation of residual hemothorax, air-leaks, and the prevention and treatment of empyema. Judiciously applied, it is a powerful tool in the armamentarium of the trauma surgeon.
Succinylation of hapten-protein conjugates facilitates coupling to erythrocytes by water soluble carbodiimide: Preparation of stable and sensitive target cells for use in hemolytic assays☆

Abstract A facile method is described for the preparation of haptenated sheep red blood cells (SRBC) for use as targets in hemolytic spot and plaque assays for the detection of antihapten antibody. The method involves the use of the water soluble 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethyl-aminopropyl)carbodiimide (EDCI) as a reagent to couple hapten-succinyl-rabbit serum albumin conjugates to SRBC. The presence of the succinyl groups on such conjugates is shown to increase the efficacy of the resulting target cells, presumably by acting as a substrate for the EDCI and thus increasing the extent of coupling to SRBC.
Dislocation decorrelation and relationship to deformation microtwins during creep of a γ′ precipitate strengthened Ni-based superalloy

Abstract The evolution of microtwins during high temperature creep deformation in a γ′ strengthened Ni-based superalloy has been investigated through a combination of creep testing, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), theoretical modeling, and computer simulation. Experimentally, microtwin nucleation sources were identified and their evolution was tracked by characterizing the deformation substructure at different stages of creep deformation. Deformation is highly localized around stress concentrators such as carbides, borides and serrated grain boundaries, which act as sources of a /2〈1 1 0〉 matrix-type dislocations. Due to fine channels between the γ′ particles, coupled with a low γ matrix stacking fault energy, the a /2〈1 1 0〉 matrix dislocations dissociate into a /6〈1 1 2〉 Shockley partials, which were commonly observed to be decorrelated from one another, creating extended intrinsic stacking faults in the γ matrix. Microtwins are common and form via Shockley partial dislocations, cooperatively shearing both the γ and γ′ phases on adjacent {1 1 1} glide planes. The TEM observations lead directly to an analysis of dislocation–precipitate interactions. The important processes of dislocation dissociation and decorrelation were modeled in detail through phase field simulations and theoretical analyses based on Orowan looping, providing a comprehensive insight into the microstructural features and applied stress conditions that favor the microtwinning deformation mode in γ′ strengthened Ni-based superalloys.
What IS Wrong with Foundationalism is that it Cannot Solve the Epistemic Regress Problem

There are many things that could be wrong with foundationalism. For example, some have claimed that a so-called basic belief cannot be both 1) a reason for non-basic beliefs and 2) such that it cannot be provided with at least prima facie justification.1 If something is a reason, they say, then that something has to be a proposition (or sufficiently proposition-like) and if it is a proposition (or sufficiently proposition-like), then it is the kind of thing that requires a reason in order to be even prima facie justified.2 Another reason that some give for rejecting normative foundationalism is that it leads directly to skepticism.3 There is no way, they claim, to move from so-called basic propositions (typically given as first person introspective reports) to “external world” propositions by employing normatively acceptable principles of reasoning.4 Still others have thought that the invention of a nonrea-soned reason was as ad hoc as the invention of an unmoved mover.5
Simulation and Dissimulation in the Folie Tristan d’Oxford

Historians of medieval medicine have argued persuasively for a semiotic understanding of diagnosis, in which externally visible symptoms are understood to signify internally inaccessible humoral imbalances. Successful treatment is predicated on the correct identification and description of a stable symptom-referent pair. Illness can thus be understood as inherently performative: the infirm body performs its illness in representing externally what is present internally. Simulation—the performance of symptoms divorced from their referents—threatens to destabilize the efficacy of medical semiotics, especially in regards to mental illness, due to its inherent interiority. In a complex system of simulation and dissimulation, the twelfth century constellation of Tristan romances exploits to great effect this notion of performative truth. Nowhere is this more significant or problematic than in the Folie Tristan d’Oxford, where Tristan, lovesick for Yseult, masquerades as a madman in order to gain access to his uncle’s court and thus his beloved. Given the proximity of lovesickness to madness, the distance required to produce irony and distinguish between the original and the simulated states is reduced to zero, resulting ultimately in their conflation. Despite this, it is this very act of embodying the madman that allows Tristan’s malady to be cured.