cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Propriétés d'un point-mémoire en boracite Fe3B7O 13I ferro-électrique-ferro-élastique orthorhombique

For a crystal (thickness 96 μm) of iodo iron boracite (Fe3B7O13I) entirely free of external and internal stresses (absence of self-blocking by differently oriented ferroelec. domains), the propagation velocity (v) of a 180°-domain wall at ambient temp. as a function of the elec. field (E) was given by v = v∞ exp[-δ/E], where v∞ is the limiting velocity at E = ∞, δ is the activation field, and v ≈2.2 × 10-3 cm/sec and 4.3 m/sec for E = 0.7 and 28 kV/cm, resp.; no intrinsic threshold field for ferroelec.-polarization reversal (switching) was obsd. for E ≥0.7 kV/cm. An elec.-switched domain, totally or partially surrounded by a domain of opposite polarization, spontaneously resumed its initial polarization at E = O via elastic backswitching; the stable configurations of domains having antiparallel polarization involved bands of domains that were parallel to 1 of the principal crystallog. axes and that extended over the whole width (or length) of the crystal. For a given E at -100 to +40°, v decreased with decreasing temp. For a crystal totally free of stress, no intrinsic ferroelec. fatigue was obsd. after >108 complete switching cycles. When the shearing angle (J. Kobayashi, et al., 1970) was decreased, the mechanism of switching via propagation of 1 or 2 domain walls changed to a mechanism involving nucleation of many approx. rectangular domains. Owing to domain interactions arising from the mech. and elec. proximity effects of neighboring domains, the individual memory elements of a monolithic unit cannot be arranged in a checkboard pattern and operated via cross-bar access.
The permeability of the cell-to-cell membrane channel and its regulation in mammalian cell junctions

Mammalian cell-to-cell channels show polar permselective properties discriminating against negatively charged 14 Â-wide molecules and are more restrictive than the channels of insect cell junctions. The channel permeability is modulated by conditions affecting the concentration of intracellular ionic Ca: elevation of the external Ca load (B cells), treatment of cell cultures with Ca-transporting ionophore (in the presence of external Ca, but not in its absence), treatment with a combination of cyanide and iodoacetate, or with high levels of carbon dioxide, all cause depression of channel permeability. Treatment of cell cultures with cyclic AMP or its more permeable derivative, dibutyryl cyclic AMP, produces increase in permeability. A similar channel up regulation is observed upon elevation of the endogenous level of cyclic AMP by serum deprivation or lowering of cell density.
Modification of gel architecture and TBE/TAE buffer composition to minimize heating during agarose gel electrophoresis

Agarose gel electrophoresis of DNA and RNA is routinely performed using buffers containing either Tris, acetate, and EDTA (TAE) or Tris, borate, and EDTA (TBE). Gels are run at a low, constant voltage (∼10 V/cm) to minimize current and asymmetric heating effects, which can induce band artifacts and poor resolution. In this study, alterations of gel structure and conductive media composition were analyzed to identify factors causing higher electrical currents during horizontal slab gel electrophoresis. Current was reduced when thinner gels and smaller chamber buffer volumes were used, but was not influenced by agarose concentration or the presence of ethidium bromide. Current was strongly dependent on the amount and type of EDTA used and on the concentrations of the major acid-base components of each buffer. Interestingly, resolution and the mobilities of circular versus linear plasmid DNAs were also affected by the chemical form and amount of EDTA. With appropriate modifications to gel structure and buffer constituents, electrophoresis could be performed at high voltages (20-25 V/cm), reducing run times by up to 3-fold. The most striking improvements were observed with small DNAs and RNAs (10-100 bp): high voltages and short run times produced sharper bands and higher resolution.
The effect of the functional groups of organic solutes on the suppression of crystallization in aqueous solutions

Abstract Mono- and polyfunctional solutes with 1, 2 and 3 carbon atoms were investigated for their abilities to suppress crystallization when diluted in water. The alcohol, amide, amine and carboxylic acid functions were considered. The effect of these different groups is related to their strengths in the solute/water interactions. However, the vitrification tendency is also related to a critical balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic sides of the solute molecule. This balance allows an optimization of solute/solute and solute/water interactions to limit stable hydrate or ice crystallization. Other factors such as geometry and symmetry are also important as part of the accessible surface to the solvent, as underlined by the results of other authors; these factors are not directly analyzed in this paper.
10 Ways to Improve Instructor Effectiveness in an Undergraduate Exercise Physiology Course.

The purpose of this article is to present a variety of teaching strategies in one of the most difficult courses undergraduates are required to take: exercise physiology. This course is unique because it challenges students to constantly recall and apply complex concepts to a variety of exercise modes, intensities, and conditions. Further, both the lab and lecture components can be riddled with formulas that add to the difficulty. As a means to assist those who teach exercise physiology, 10 different instructional techniques are addressed, many of which are supported by research.
Mössbauer effect study of Gadolinium Iron Garnet

The Mossbauer Effect study of polycrystalline Gadolinium Iron Garnet has been undertaken between 714K and 4.2K. The temperature dependence of the sublattice magnetization has been determined at the two iron sites and the direction of the hyperfine fields at each site is [111] over the entire temperature range. The saturation fields at the octahedral and tetrahedral sites are respectively 547 kOe and 477 kOe. The ferrimagnetic Neel temperature has been found to be 562.5K and above this temperature, the quadrupole splitting at the octahedral and tetrahedral sites are −0.43 mms−1 and ¦0.89¦mms−1 respectively.
Hybrid anion exchanger for trace phosphate removal from water and wastewater

Throughout recent decades, the wastewater treatment industry has identified the discharge of nutrients, including phosphates and nitrates, into waterways as a risk to natural environments due to the serious effects of eutrophication. For this reason, new tertiary treatment processes have abounded; these processes generally utilize physico-chemical and biological methods to remove nutrients from secondary wastewaters. The disadvantages of such methods involve larger reactor volumes, operating costs, and waste sludge production; furthermore, complete nutrient removal is unattainable due to thermodynamic and kinetic limitations. The subject study presents the development and performance of a new phosphate-selective sorbent, referred to as hybrid anion exchanger or HAIX. HAIX combines durability and mechanical strength of polymeric anion exchange resins with high sorption affinity of hydrated ferric oxide (HFO) toward phosphate. HAIX is essentially a polymeric anion exchanger within which HFO nanoparticles have been dispersed irreversibly. Laboratory studies show that HAIX selectively removes phosphate from the background of much higher concentrations of competing sulfate, chloride and bicarbonate anions due to the combined presence of Coulombic and Lewis acid-base interactions. Experimental results demonstrate that HAIX's phosphate-sulfate separation factor is over two orders of magnitude greater than that of currently available commercial ion exchange resins. Additionally, optimal HAIX performance occurs at typical secondary wastewater pH conditions i.e., around 7.5. HAIX is amenable to efficient regeneration and reuse with no noticeable loss in capacity.
The effects of cations and anions on the ionic conductivity of poly[bis(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy)phosphazene] doped with lithium and magnesium salts of trifluoromethanesulfonate and bis (trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imidate

Abstract Lithium trifluoromethanesulfonate (LiTf), lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imidate (LiTFSI), magnesium trifluoromethanesulfonate (MgTf 2 ) and magnesium bis(trifluoromethane sulfonyl)imidate (MgTFSI 2 ) were dissolved in poly[bis(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethoxy)phosphazene] (MEEP) to compare the effect on solvent-free polymer ionic conductivity of monovalent versus divalent cations, and two anions with different degrees of dissociation. The polymer electrolytes with the bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imidate anion had higher ionic conductivities even though the glass transition temperatures, which reflected polymer molecular motion, were higher than those of their counterparts with the trifluoromethanesulfonate anion. Furthermore, polymer electrolytes with magnesium salts achieved their maximum conductivity at lower salt concentrations than their counterparts with lithium salts. The temperature dependence of the ionic conductivity of the solid solutions was fitted to the Vogel–Tamman–Fulcher (VTF) equation. The pseudo-activation energy term, B , of the VTF equation showed a strong dependence on the anion present. This result suggests that the dominant mobile species is the anion, while the cation remains relatively bound to the polymer.
Re-conceptualising active living for individuals with spinal cord injury.

Adults with traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) seeking an active lifestyle face exponentially increased challenges compared to the general population. Three dimensions commonly affected are physical activity, social participation and psychological activity. Physical inactivity among persons with SCI presents limits to life expectancy, increases secondary health conditions and susceptibility to illness and diminishes capacity for participation in all life activities. Restrictions to social participation and disruptions of daily habits may compromise feelings of connectedness or social support and prevent active involvement in social activity, thus increasing the risk of social isolation. Decreased or limited psychological activity contributes to the decline of psychological and emotional functioning, leading to depression, anxiety or substance abuse. An increase in active living across all three dimensions could insulate individuals with SCI from disease, thus increasing protective factors for health and w...
Two coordination polymers created via in situ ligand synthesis involving C-N and C-C bond formation.

We report the synthesis and crystal structures of two transition metal-based coordination polymers comprising ligand molecules not included in the original reaction mixtures but instead formed in situ during hydrothermal treatment. Zinc meso-iminodisuccinate hydrate (I), Zn2(C8H7NO8)·0.57H2O, formed from zinc acetate and l-aspartic acid, and tetraaquanickel(II) 5,10-dioxo-5,10-dihydro-4,9-dioxa-pyrene-2,7-dicarboxylate (II), Ni(H2O)4(C16H4O8), formed from nickel acetate and 5-hydroxyisophthalic acid. We show that the formation of I takes place via a fumaric acid intermediate, while the formation of II requires the formation of a new C−C bond. The structure of I consists of weakly interacting sheets, while the structure of II consists of strongly hydrogen-bonded chains. Crystal data: for I, P21/n (14), a = 10.073 A, b = 9.894 A, c = 12.053 A, β = 105.605°, V = 1156.87(13) A3, Z = 4; for II, P1 (2), a = 5.011 A, b = 6.526 A, c = 12.305 A, α = 76.868°, β = 84.988°, γ = 87.619°, V = 390.3(4) A3, Z = 1.
Cation effects on the layer structure of biogenic Mn-oxides.

Biologically catalyzed Mn(II) oxidation produces biogenic Mn-oxides (BioMnOx) and may serve as one of the major formation pathways for layered Mn-oxides in soils and sediments. The structure of Mn octahedral layers in layered Mn-oxides controls its metal sequestration properties, photochemistry, oxidizing ability, and topotactic transformation to tunneled structures. This study investigates the impacts of cations (H+, Ni(II), Na+, and Ca2+) during biotic Mn(II) oxidation on the structure of Mn octahedral layers of BioMnOx using solution chemistry and synchrotron X-ray techniques. Results demonstrate that Mn octahedral layer symmetry and composition are sensitive to previous cations during BioMnOx formation. Specifically, H+ and Ni(II) enhance vacant site formation, whereas Na+ and Ca2+ favor formation of Mn(III) and its ordered distribution in Mn octahedral layers. This study emphasizes the importance of the abiotic reaction between Mn(II) and BioMnOx and dependence of the crystal structure of BioMnOx on ...
Electroactive block copolymers

Synthesis, characterization and properties of microphase separated mixed (ionic and electronic) conducting or MIEC block copolymers are reported. Poly{[ω-methoxyocta(oxyethylene) methacrylate]-block-(4-vinylpyridine)}, abbreviated as P[MG8–4VP], and poly{(3-methylthiophene)-block-[(ω-methoxyocta(oxyethylene) methacrylate]}, abbreviated as P[3MT-MG8], have been synthesized. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies indicate that the polymers form a microphase separated structure. P[3MT-MG8] can be doped with I2 and LiClO4 to generate electronic and ionic conducting microdomains, respectively. For the P[3MT-MG8] series, bulk electronic conductivity as high as 1×10−3 S cm−1 and bulk ionic conductivity as high as 6.6×10−7 S cm−1 is observed at 30°C. This work represents a new concept in the area of electroactive polymers and should impact the microelectrochemical device industry.
Systemic Disequilibrium, Foreign Policy Role, and the Power Cycle Challenges for Research Design

Confronting widespread ambiguities of theory and research design, this article establishes conditions underlying international political stability for state and system. In turn, it (1) dissects the cycle of relative power and role to elucidate the concept of general equilibrium, depicting graphically the trauma of role adjustment that accompanies critical changes in relative power; (2) compares the empirical results for transitions and critical points using the same set of data; (3) shows mathematically that inversions in the trend of slope can approximate critical intervals; and (4) demonstrates via diagrams of each state's critical change why the disequilibrated system 1885-1914 succumbed to massive world war. Empirical research on systems transformation and major war must incorporate both strategic power balancing and power-role equilibration for states in the central system in a broader concept like general equilibrium.
Structural changes of the gold-support interface during CO oxidation catalyzed by mononuclear gold complexes bonded to zeolite NaY: evidence from time-resolved X-ray absorption spectroscopy.

Mononuclear gold complexes synthesized from AuIII(CH3)2(acac) in zeolite NaY were characterized by time-resolved X-ray absorption spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy as they catalyzed CO oxidation at 298 K and 760 Torr in flow systems. Initial contact with a CO + O2 mixture led to the rapid formation of cationic gold complexes in which Au was bonded to approximately two zeolite O atoms, on average. Further contact with CO + O2 led to breaking of an Au−surface oxygen bond, giving a gold carbonyl anchored to approximately one O atom. The process was reversed in the absence of CO and O2.
Oxidation Behavior of Advanced Intermetallic Compounds

The oxidation behavior of a number of ordered high melting point intermetallic materials has been studied in flowing air in the temperature range 1000 to 1500°C. The alloys were selected for acceptable toughness and ductility at temperatures above 1000°C. Included were ruthenium aluminides, chromium silicide and compounds of iridium and ruthenium with elements such as titanium, tantalum, nickel, iron, cobalt, silicon, vanadium and rhenium. In general, alloys containing the metals iron, cobalt and nickel, and also titanium and tantalum, oxidized rapidly at 1000°C and above. Oxidation-resistant materials were those capable of forming scales of chromia/silica or alumina. Intermetallic compounds of chromium and ruthenium formed volatile oxides above 1200°C, but binary compounds of these elements with silicon and aluminum were highly oxidation resistant at lower temperatures.
TIME-RESOLVED SAXS STUDIES OF MORPHOLOGICAL-CHANGES IN COLD CRYSTALLIZED POLY(ETHYLENE-TEREPHTHALATE) DURING ANNEALING AND HEATING

Structural changes occurring during crystallization of quenched amorphous poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and subsequent cooling/heating cycles have been studied by real-time small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS), using synchrotron radiation. Initial crystallization is found to occur by insertion of new lamellae between the existing ones, while rapid continuous melting/recrystallization happens when the cold-crystallized PET samples are heated above the previous highest annealing temperature. Such melting/recrystallization results in irreversible increases in the lamellar long period, the crystal thickness and the density difference between the crystalline and amorphous regions; in contrast, at temperatures below the prior highest crystallization temperature, the structural changes are dominated by reversible effects such as thermal expansion. However, throughout the entire temperature range up to the melting point around 250 degrees C, the crystal core thickness remains quite small, less than ca. 50 Angstrom, and the linear crystallinity of lamellar stacks remains nearly constant around 0.3. Such a low crystallinity indicates the presence of thick order-disorder interfacial layers on the lamellar surface, whose thickness increases with temperature.
Dabbling Ducks Increase Nest Defense After Partial Clutch Loss

Abstract. Predation is the primary source of mortality of dabbling duck nests, so a key aspect of parental investment is defending the nest from predators. The hen's presence on the nest is widely considered to be a good measure of nest defense; an incubating female camouflages the nest and may physically deter nest predators. Parental-investment theory suggests that investment should increase with the reproductive benefits expected from the current clutch of eggs. We used nest-temperature loggers to study how the rhythms of waterfowl incubation changed after the nest was partially destroyed by a predator. Contrary to the expected-benefits hypothesis, we found that hens significantly increased their investment after partial clutch loss: they took fewer recesses from incubation per day and extended their incubation by more than 200 min after a partial depredation. We suggest that when predators pose little risk to the incubating adult, those hens unable or unwilling to abandon a nest after partial clutch l...
Clinical and Anatomic Implications of Intraventricular Conduction Blocks in Acute Myocardial Infarction

The electrocardiogram in 480 patients with acute myocardial infarction showed right bundle-branch block (RBBB) with normal QRS axis in 18 patients (3.7%), left bundle-branch block (LBBB) in 31 (8%), RBBB and left anterior hemiblock (LAH) in 23 (4.8%), RBBB and left posterior hemiblock (LPH) in four (1%), LAH alone in 20 (4%), LPH in one (0.2%), and no evidence of intraventricular conduction (I-V) disturbance in 383 (80%). Eighteen of the 97 patients with I-V block showed 1° A-V block, and seven of the 18 (39%) showed abrupt progression to high-grade A-V block, while only six of 79 (8%) without 1° A-V block showed similar progression. Cause of death in patients with I-V block was cardiac failure and/or shock in 92%; only three instances of primary asystole occurred. The incidence of complete heart block was higher in the I-V disease group (15%) than in the group without block (5%), but not significantly. Patients with LAH or RBBB and LAH usually had occlusion of the left anterior descending artery with ext...
Chromatin Structure and Dynamics in Hot Environments: Architectural Proteins and DNA Topoisomerases of Thermophilic Archaea

In all organisms of the three living domains (Bacteria, Archaea, Eucarya) chromosome-associated proteins play a key role in genome functional organization. They not only compact and shape the genome structure, but also regulate its dynamics, which is essential to allow complex genome functions. Elucidation of chromatin composition and regulation is a critical issue in biology, because of the intimate connection of chromatin with all the essential information processes (transcription, replication, recombination, and repair). Chromatin proteins include architectural proteins and DNA topoisomerases, which regulate genome structure and remodelling at two hierarchical levels. This review is focussed on architectural proteins and topoisomerases from hyperthermophilic Archaea. In these organisms, which live at high environmental temperature (>80 °C <113 °C), chromatin proteins and modulation of the DNA secondary structure are concerned with the problem of DNA stabilization against heat denaturation while maintaining its metabolic activity.
Intraspinal migration of a clavicular Steinmann pin: case report and management strategy

Spine injury resulting from migration of previously implanted appendicular skeleton fixation hardware is rare. We present a 41-year-old man who had Steinmann fixation pins placed for a left clavicular fracture 2 years prior. He presented with a burning sensation over his biceps bilaterally and numbness over the left anterior chest and abdomen following a significant blunt traumatic injury. A CT scan revealed migration of a fractured Steinmann pin entering the left C8 neural foramen, traversing anterior to the spinal cord. The patient underwent a left C7 hemilaminectomy, foraminal decompression, and first rib resection to identify the extraforaminal portion of the pin and remove it under direct vision. He recovered uneventfully. We conclude that a principle of safe surgical removal includes adequate exposure to allow for direct visualization of the pin and neural structures. We review the evaluation and management strategies of this unusual condition.
Size‐dependent disposition of nanoparticles and microparticles following subconjunctival administration

The purpose of this study was to determine the retention and ocular distribution of subconjunctivally administered nanoparticles and microparticles. Fluorescent polystyrene particles (carboxylate modified, negatively charged) of various sizes (20 nm, 200 nm and 2 microm; Fluospheres, dose 400 microg) were administered to male Sprague-Dawley rats by subconjunctival injection under anaesthesia. The disposition of the particles in the periocular and ocular tissues was studied for up to 60 days by quantifying the particle amounts using liquid extraction followed by spectrofluorimetric analysis. The effect of dose on the particle disposition was investigated with a 40-microg dose of the particles. The effect of an increase in surface hydrophobicity was evaluated for the 20 and 200 nm particles at 1 day post administration. Following periocular administration, penetration into the ocular tissues was negligible for the carboxylate-modified microparticles as well as nanoparticles. Almost the entire dose of the 200 nm and 2 microm particles was retained in the periocular tissue at 60 days post-administration. The 20 nm particles disappeared rapidly from the periocular tissue with 15 and 8% of administered dose remaining after 1 and 7 days, respectively. The 20 nm particles could not be detected in the periocular tissue at 60-days post-administration. An increase in the surface hydrophobicity did not affect the periocular retention of 200 nm particles but elevated that of the 20 nm particles, at the end of day 1. It was concluded that subconjunctivally administered 200 nm and larger particles can be almost completely retained at the site of administration for at least two months. Periocular administration of particulate systems of this size would likely be useful as sustained drug delivery systems.
Pitfalls in the interpretation of molecular diagnostic tests.

Application of the tools of molecular genetics has vastly increased the power of genetic diagnosis, but also raises significant challenges in interpretation. Molecular tests can be used for diagnosis of an affected individual or determination of carrier status. Either direct mutation analysis or linkage analysis is used in various disorders. Major pitfalls in interpretation of direct tests include mistaking polymorphisms for mutations, inaccurate prognostication based on identification of a mutation, and misinterpretation of the implications of not finding a mutation. Interpretation of linkage tests must take account of the accuracy of proband diagnosis, interpretation of family relationships, and genetic recombination. Cognizance of these issues is vital to avoidance of clinical errors and must be incorporated into genetic counseling. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Activity of Two Chlorinated Lincomycin Analogues Against Chloroquine-Resistant Falciparum Malaria in Owl Monkeys

Abstract The chloroquine-resistant Oak Knoll strain of Plasmodium falciparum, recently adapted to the owl monkey (Aotus trivirgatus), was insusceptible to chloroquine therapy. Two chlorinated lincomycin analogues tested in this host-parasite system cured blood-induced infections. Acute infections were treated orally for 7 consecutive days with either 15 or 75 mg of clindamycin hydrochloride (U-21) per kg per day, 10 or 50 mg of N-demethyl-4′-pentyl clindamycin hydrochloride (U-24) per kg per day, or 20 mg of chloroquine base per kg per day. These lincomycin analogues cleared trophozoites from the peripheral blood by the end of the 7-day treatment period. The speed of clearance of parasites was not dose-related, but curative activity appeared dependent upon the amount of drug given as well as the number of daily treatments. The efficacy of U-21 and U-24 is of particular interest since they represent major structural departures from compounds commonly used in the treatment of malaria.
MRE11 Function in Response to Topoisomerase Poisons Is Independent of its Function in Double-Strand Break Repair in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Camptothecin (CPT) and etoposide (ETP) trap topoisomerase-DNA covalent intermediates, resulting in formation of DNA damage that can be cytotoxic if unrepaired. CPT and ETP are prototypes for molecules widely used in chemotherapy of cancer, so defining the mechanisms for repair of damage induced by treatment with these compounds is of great interest. In S. cerevisiae, deficiency in MRE11, which encodes a highly conserved factor, greatly enhances sensitivity to treatment with CPT or ETP. This has been thought to reflect the importance of double-strand break (DSB) repair pathways in the response to these to agents. Here we report that an S. cerevisiae strain expressing the mre11-H59A allele, mutant at a conserved active site histidine, is sensitive to hydroxyurea and also to ionizing radiation, which induces DSBs, but not to CPT or ETP. We show that TDP1, which encodes a tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase activity able to release both 5′- and 3′-covalent topoisomerase-DNA complexes in vitro, contributes to ETP-resistance but not CPT-resistance in the mre11-H59A background. We further show that CPT- and ETP-resistance mediated by MRE11 is independent of SAE2, and thus independent of the coordinated functions of MRE11 and SAE2 in homology-directed repair and removal of Spo11 from DNA ends in meiosis. These results identify a function for MRE11 in the response to topoisomerase poisons that is distinct from its functions in DSB repair or meiotic DNA processing. They also establish that cellular proficiency in repair of DSBs may not correlate with resistance to topoisomerase poisons, a finding with potential implications for stratification of tumors with specific DNA repair deficiencies for treatment with these compounds.
Sequential effects of arobic exercise training and weight loss on risk factors for coronary disease in healthy, obese middle-aged and older men

The relative benefits of weight loss (WL) versus aerobic exercise training (AEX) on cardiac risk factors in obese individuals remain controversial. In this study, we examined the effects of the sequential interventions of 9 months of AEX followed by weight loss with continued AEX (AEX + WL) on cardiac risk factors in 21 obese (body fat, 29.5% +/- 0.8%, mean +/- SEM) middle-aged and older men. AEX increased the maximal aerobic capacity ([VO2max] in liters per minute) of these men by 14% (P < .001), with no significant change in weight. AEX did not improve blood pressure (BP) or oral glucose tolerance, and had no significant effect on lipid concentrations. During the AEX + WL intervention, the 21 men lost 8.1 +/- 0.6 kg. Despite continued training, there was no further increase in VO2max during this intervention. Compared with AEX, AEX + WL decreased glucose and insulin responses during the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) by 8% (P < .05) and 30% (P < .01), respectively. AEX + WL reduced plasma triglyceride (TG) by 17% (P < .05) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by 8% (P < .01) and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) by 11% (3.7 mg/dL, P < .01). The sequential interventions resulted in a 20% decrease in the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio. The results demonstrate that AEX + WL had a more substantial impact than AEX alone on glucose tolerance and lipoprotein concentrations. Physicians should encourage obese patients to become physically active and lose weight to improve their cardiac risk factor profile.
A Review of Hydrothermal Carbonization of Carbohydrates for Carbon Spheres Preparation

Carbon spheres have attracted a great deal of attention due to their applications as super capacitors, catalyst supports, and adsorbents. Carbon spheres can be prepared with controlled size and with oxygenated functional groups on the surface by the hydrothermal carbonization. The further processed products have a high surface area and high thermal stability. Among various methods for fabrication of carbon spheres, the hydrothermal carbonization is favored because of its mild operating conditions. In addition, hydrothermal carbonization can synthesize micro or nano scale carbon spheres environmentally friendly without employing organic solvents, surfactants, or catalysts. In this review, we present the effects of process parameters, structural characteristics of carbon spheres, possible formation mechanisms of carbon spheres, and applications in catalysis.Â Citation: Â Li, R. and Shahbazi, A. (2015). "A Review of Hydrothermal Carbonization of Carbohydrates for Carbon Spheres Preparation." Trends in Renewable Energy, 1(1), 43-56. DOI: 10.17737/tre.2015.1.1.009
Isolation and purification of a new 105 kDa protein kinase from rat liver nuclei

Abstract A protein kinase was purified from rat liver nuclei by affinity chromatography on poly( l -lysine)-agarose and protein kinase inhibitor-Sepharose 4B columns. The relative molecular weight of this protein kinase is 105000 (determined by 10% SDS-polyacrylamide slab gel electrophoresis, gel filtration on Sephadex G-200 and sedimentation velocity ultracentrifugation). Its pH optimum is between 8.0 and 9.0. It is active over a wide range of Mg2+ concentrations, and its activity is stimulated by several small acidic proteins (calmodulin, lactalbumin, parvalbumin, protein kinase inhibitor and troponin C). The enzyme phosphorylates a variety of substrates including casein, histones, protamine and the synthetic basic polypeptides, poly( l -arginine) and poly( l -lysine).
Articulation, language, rate, and fluency characteristics of stuttering and nonstuttering preschool children.

Articulation (Arizona Articulation Proficiency Scale), language (TOLD, Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test), and fluency (Fluency Interview) tests were given to 20 stuttering and 20 nonstuttering male ...
The two patterns of reactive astrocytosis in postischemic rat brain.

The distribution and time course of postischemic astrocyte hypertrophy and hyperplasia and the relationship to neuronal viability or necrosis was studied in rats subjected to 30 min of carotid and ...
Customer Value in Non‐degree Executive Education: Linking Business Schools and Business

Reviews the role of non‐degree executive education in business schools. Suggests a focus on providing value to the external customer in executive education as a proactive way to force relevancy in teaching and research within business schools. Reviews strategies and policies associated with implementing such a focus on customer value. Discusses an executive education customer value‐determination system, which operationalizes some of these themes.
Association between serum adiponectin, and pathological stage and grade in men undergoing radical prostatectomy

ABSTRACTPurpose: Adiponectin is a polypeptide hormone produced by adipocytes that has anti-angiogenic properties. Circulating adiponectin is lower in obese men. Obesity has been associated with advanced stage and a higher risk of biochemical progression following radical prostatectomy (RP) in several series. We examined whether serum adiponectin is associated with advanced disease stage at RP.Materials and Methods: Adiponectin was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in the preoperative serum of 236 men treated with RP between 1998 and 1999. The odds ratio (OR) of advanced stage (pT3a or greater) and high grade disease (pathological Gleason sum 7 or greater) associated with quartiles of adiponectin were estimated using multivariate logistic regression models.Results: Serum adiponectin weakly correlated inversely with body mass index (Spearman r = −0.22, p = 0.01). Serum adiponectin was not associated with cancer stage or grade. However, in normal weight men adiponectin was positively associated w...
Sources of the atmospheric contaminants, 2-nitrobenzanthrone and 3-nitrobenzanthrone

Abstract 2-Nitrobenzanthrone (2NB) was synthesized by reaction of N2O5 in CCl4 at room temperature and used to determine that the hydroxyl-radical- and nitrate-radical-initiated reactions of gas-phase benzanthrone (Bz) produced 2NB rather than 3-nitrobenzanthrone (3NB), the powerful bacterial mutagen first identified by investigators using bioassay-directed fractionation of diesel emission particle extracts. Analysis of a diesel particle standard reference material (SRM 1975) showed the major NB in the sample to be 3NB. In contrast with the diesel SRM, an archived ambient sample with high levels of 2-nitrofluoranthene (2NF) and 2-nitropyrene, which demonstrated that the air mass sampled had undergone significant atmospheric reaction, contained mainly 2NB and much less 3NB. The 2NF/2NB ratio in the ambient sample was estimated to be ∼35, consistent with the expected lower gas-phase Bz concentration relative to the gas-phase fluoranthene concentration in ambient air. This work reiterates the need for isomer-specific identification of nitrated polycyclic aromatic compounds (nitro-PAC) when assessing the relative contributions of atmospheric formation reactions versus direct emissions to the nitro-PAC present in ambient air samples.
Isolation, partial characterization, and biological properties of polysaccharides from crude papain

Two polysaccharides have been isolated from crude papain by precipitation of papain with ammonium sulfate, further precipitation of other proteins with trichloroacetic acid, and chromatography of the supernatant on DEAE-cellulose. The first polysaccharide to be eluted, designated PP-I, contained D-glucuronic acid, D-glucose, D-galactose, L-arabinose, and L-rhamnose, in the approximate molar ratios of 4:1:12:10:4. The other (PP-II), eluted at a higher salt-concentration, contained the same sugars (with about one-third less glucose and more uronic acid) in the approximate molar ratios of 13:1:40:26:12. Reduction of the uronic acid groups of PP-II produced a polysaccharide (PP-II-R) containing the same sugars in the approximate molar ratios of 2:11:37:28:12. Hydrolysis of a mixture of the two polysaccharides yielded an aldobiouronic acid, D-glucosyluronic acid-D-galactose. Neither polysaccharide preparation contained protein. These polysaccharides dramatically affected aggregation and alignment of normal human fibroblasts but had no effect on a mouse embryo fibroblast aneuploid cell-line that does not exhibit contact inhibition of growth or movement. In aggregating cells, these polysaccharides caused the cells to behave as contact-inhibited cells, that is, cell division and nuclear area were decreased.
Electron microscopic study of ring-shaped, bivalent hapten, bivalent antidansyl monoclonal antibody complexes with identical variable domains but IgG1, IgG2a and IgG2b constant domains.

Abstract We have studied by electron microscopy a fascinating series of antidansyl monoclonal antibodies developed by Dangl et al . ( Cytometry 2 , 395–401, 1982) which have the same variable domain but different constant domains. Three of the four subclasses of mouse IgG were represented, IgGl, IgG2a and IgG2b. Previously, Oi et al . ( Nature 307 , 136–140, 1984) had examined the flexibilities of these antibodies by time-resolved fluorescence depolarization and found that IgG1 was least flexible, IgG2a was intermediate and IgG2b was the most flexible. In this communication we examine the conformations of circular complexes formed between these antibodies and a bivalent hapten, bis -dansyl cadaverine. The circular complexes were predominately composed of two antibodies linked into a ring by two bivalent haptens, and are referred to as dimers, since only the antibody molecules are seen with the electron microscope. A few trimers and an occasional tetramer were also present in these preparations. For the least flexible IgG1, almost all (> 99%) of the circular dimers were “open-hinge” complexes with a hinge angle between the Fab arms of 100–120°. For the intermediate IgG2a, most of the dimers were “open-hinge” complexes, but a larger percentage, 4 to 5%, had closed hinges with a hinge angle approaching 0°. For the most flexible IgG2b, over 40% of the dimers were “closed-hinge” complexes. A model is proposed to explain these differences based upon orientation of the hapten in the combining site and differences in hinge structure.
Nonabsorptive binary optical programmable logic array

Abstract A nonabsorptive binary optical programmable logic array (OPLA) is proposed. Based on a switchable multiple-pass optical cavity, a new OPLA is detailed. Several other OPLA variations are also described.
On Grainless Footprint Semantics for Shared-memory Programs

We develop an improved grainless denotational semantics for shared-memory parallel programs, building on ideas from earlier trace-based models with local states and footprints S. Brookes. A Grainless Semantics for Parallel Programs with Shared Mutable State. Proc. 21st Conference on Mathematical Foundations of Programming Semantics (MFPS XXI). Birmingham, 17-21 May, 2005. The key new idea is a more refined approach to race detection, leading to a model with better abstraction properties. Rather than treat a race condition as a "global" catastrophe S. Brookes. A Semantics for Concurrent Separation Logic. Invited paper, CONCUR 2004, Philippa Gardner and Nobuko Yoshida (Eds.), Springer LNCS 3170, London, August/September 2004, pp. 16-34; S. Brookes. A Grainless Semantics for Parallel Programs with Shared Mutable State. Proc. 21st Conference on Mathematical Foundations of Programming Semantics (MFPS XXI). Birmingham, 17-21 May, 2005, we track information about variables whose value may be tainted by a race, and retain accurate information about unaffected variables. As in the prior work, we abstract away from state changes that occur in between synchronization points, in a manner consistent with Dijkstra's Principle E. W. Dijkstra. Cooperating sequential processes. In: Programming Languages, F. Genuys (editor), pp. 43-112. Academic Press, 1968. We obtain a model in which only synchronization operations (for locking and unlocking binary semaphores) are deemed to be atomic, which matches the usual implementation of these constructs in an abstract manner. Apart from this, no other atomicity assumptions are made, so our model is truly grainless. Our semantics supports compositional program analysis based on "sequential" reasoning for sequential code fragments, even when this code occurs in parallel contexts, and yields a simple semantic characterization of race-free code. The semantics validates the static constraints on "critical variables" imposed in concurrent programming methodology C.A.R. Hoare. Towards a Theory of Parallel Programming. In Operating Systems Techniques, C.A.R. Hoare and R.H. Perrott, editors, pp. 61-71, Academic Press, 1972; S. Owicki and D. Gries. Verifying properties of parallel programs: An axiomatic approach, Comm. ACM. 19(5):279-285, May 1976 and serves as a foundation for reasoning about safe partial correctness, as in concurrent separation logic P.W. O'Hearn. Resources, Concurrency, and Local Reasoning. Invited paper, CONCUR 2004, Philippa Gardner and Nobuko Yoshida (Eds.), Springer LNCS 3170, London, August/September 2004, pp. 49-67. The new treatment of race detection allows for more refined analysis of racy programs. By framing our ideas and concepts in a general manner we hope that our results may be applied in a wider setting.
The moments of the forward recurrence times of an alternating renewal process

Abstract Expressions for the moments of the forward recurrence times of an alternating renewal process are presented. The alternating phase-type renewal process is considered in detail.
Issues in Carcinogenicity Testing: Dose Selection

Dose selection in testing chemicals for possible carcinogenicity in rodents continues to be an area of scientific debate. In this paper the definition of "maximum tolerated dose" (MTD) is considered, and the advantages and disadvantages of using MTDs are given. There is no universally accepted definition of an MTD, and as a result, objections to utilizing high doses in carcinogenicity testing may reflect differing definitions of an MTD rather than basic disagreements in dose selection philosophy. Data from 52 National Toxicology Program (NTP) carcinogenicity studies indicate that while dose selection has caused difficulties in certain studies using the gavage route of chemical administration, there is little evidence that this has been a problem in NTP studies using the dietary (feed) route of exposure. These data also indicate that more than two-thirds of the carcinogenic effects detected in feeding studies would have been missed had the high dose been reduced from the estimated MTD to 1/2 MTD. The inherent insensitivity of laboratory animal studies for detecting weak-to-moderate carcinogenic responses also argues against reducing the highest dose level. The addition of a third, lower-dosed group provides for a margin of safety against the possibility of over-estimating the MTD. Primary emphasis should be given to improving procedures for estimating the MTD, particularly for gavage studies. Efforts should also be increased to obtain pharmacokinetic and metabolism data for the test chemical that might be factored into the dose selection and study evaluation processes.
All Small Nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) of the [U4/U6.U5] Tri-snRNP Localize to Nucleoli; Identification of the Nucleolar Localization Element of U6 snRNA

Previously, we showed that spliceosomal U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) transiently passes through the nucleolus. Herein, we report that all individual snRNAs of the [U4/U6.U5] tri-snRNP localize to nucleoli, demonstrated by fluorescence microscopy of nucleolar preparations after injection of fluorescein-labeled snRNA into Xenopus oocyte nuclei. Nucleolar localization of U6 is independent from [U4/U6] snRNP formation since sites of direct interaction of U6 snRNA with U4 snRNA are not nucleolar localization elements. Among all regions in U6, the only one required for nucleolar localization is its 3′ end, which associates with the La protein and subsequently during maturation of U6 is bound by Lsm proteins. This 3′-nucleolar localization element of U6 is both essential and sufficient for nucleolar localization and also required for localization to Cajal bodies. Conversion of the 3′ hydroxyl of U6 snRNA to a 3′ phosphate prevents association with the La protein but does not affect U6 localization to nucleoli or Cajal bodies.
Does a low level of expression of HLA molecules engender autoimmunity

The immune system can summon a variety of defenses against invaders from the outside. Among these deterrents are three types of killer lymphocytes that attack and lyse cellular targets. One type co...
Layout-aware I/O Scheduling for terabits data movement

Many science facilities, such as the Department of Energy's Leadership Computing Facilities and experimental facilities including the Spallation Neutron Source, Stanford Linear Accelerator Center, and Advanced Photon Source, produce massive amounts of experimental and simulation data. These data are often shared among the facilities and with collaborating institutions. Moving large datasets over the wide-area network (WAN) is a major problem inhibiting collaboration. Next-generation, terabit-networks will help alleviate the problem, however, the parallel storage systems on the endsystem hosts at these institutions can become a bottleneck for terabit data movement. The parallel storage system (PFS) is shared by simulation systems, experimental systems, analysis and visualization clusters, in addition to wide-area data movers. These competing uses often induce temporary, but significant, I/O load imbalances on the storage system, which impact the performance of all the users. The problem is a serious concern because some resources are more expensive (e.g. super computers) or have time-critical deadlines (e.g. experimental data from a light source), but parallel file systems handle all requests fairly even if some storage servers are under heavy load. This paper investigates the problem of competing workloads accessing the parallel file system and how the performance of wide-area data movement can be improved in these environments. First, we study the I/O load imbalance problems using actual I/O performance data collected from the Spider storage system at the Oak Ridge Leadership Computing Facility. Second, we present I/O optimization solutions with layout-awareness on end-system hosts for bulk data movement. With our evaluation, we show that our I/O optimization techniques can avoid the I/O congested disk groups, improving storage I/O times on parallel storage systems for terabit data movement.
Multiple systems: A new approach to cognitive theory

Abstract Cognitive processes turn out to be both more innate and more culturally based than we used to think. On the one hand, ecological and interpersonal perception are innately prepared, available in infancy; on the other, mental development depends critically on social support. Taken together with the emerging multiple/modular structure of the brain, these discoveries demand a new kind of cognitive theory: an ecologically grounded, developmental account of distinct systems in interaction. Three such systems, primarily perceptual in function, are described here: (1) direct perception/action establishes an immediate non-representational sense of self and environment that grounds all other cognition; (2) interpersonal perception/reactivity produces species-specific patterns of social interaction; (3) recognition/representation identifies and classifies what is perceived. These systems are distinguished by neurological as well as psychological criteria: the neuroanatomical “where/what” distinction, for ex...
Synthetic biology: Construction of a yeast chromosome

One aim of synthetic biology is to generate complex synthetic organisms. Now, a stage in this process has been achieved in yeast cells — an entire yeast chromosome has been converted to a synthetic sequence in a stepwise manner.
Geodesic Curves on Patched Polynomial Surfaces

A method is described for tracing geodesic curves across patched surfaces. Two techniques are discussed for constructing the curves - an initial value problem and a boundary value problem. Arc lengths are computed, as well as the enclosed area of an arbitrary region on the surface.