cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
First-principles study of the valence band offset between silicon and hafnia

First-principles density-functional calculations are used to examine the interface structures for crystalline hafnia strained to fit epitaxially on Si(001). The valence band offset has been calculated for several model heterojunctions. The results are compared to experiments and previous calculations. Interface structure and $\mathrm{Hf}{\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ band tails are found to be important for band offset formation.
Lions and tigers and bears: investigating cues for expressive creature motion

A digital creature's performance can be thought of as a combination of specifically defined motion and form; a combination that allows the viewer to comprehend the creature's action and intent. Computer graphics offers a variety of methods for defining motion including key-frame animation, data-driven action, rule-based and physically-based motion. However, all of these methods can be complex and time-consuming to implement. Essentially, most computer animation methods force the animator to think about motion at a low-level of abstraction. To create animation tools that simplify the process of creating expressive motion, we need to allow animators to work at a high-level of abstraction. We need determine the minimal elements of form and motion that visually communicate a maximal amount of information about an actor's identity or intentions. By attaching small reflective objects to joint pivot locations and recording at high contrast [Johansson 1973] developed a method for isolating motion from form as a collection of particles, now commonly known as a Point-Light Display (PLD). Manipulating this minimized visual information can even affect the perceived gender of PLD walkers. Cutting [1978] found that exaggerating the movement of points representing the hips and shoulders can bias gender recognition. The goal of our study was to investigate whether viewers use similar visual information to recognize expressive characteristics in animal motion PLDs as when viewing full representations and discover how it might be possible to use that visual information to influence the viewer's perception.
Two- and three-hydrocarbon phase streamline-based compositional simulation of gas injections

Abstract Up to three three-hydrocarbon phases can develop during gas flooding of oil reservoirs at relatively low temperatures. Very few reservoir simulators and none of the published streamline simulators can handle three-hydrocarbon phases. In this work, we have developed a four-phase (including water) compositional streamline module that works with an existing finite-difference simulator to study gas injections. Gravity effects are added using an operator splitting technique. TVD schemes are implemented to construct the numerical solution along streamlines for reducing the impact of numerical dispersion. Two- and three-hydrocarbon phase simulations of gas injections in quarter five-spot models have been demonstrated using this simulator. Breakthrough recovery efficiency increases with the viscous-to-gravity ratio in the range of 1–100. Gas injection simulation of the reservoir oil indicates that three-hydrocarbon phases exist only near the gas–oil displacement front. The gas phase is present in a few grid blocks while the second liquid phase is present in many grid blocks, under the conditions studied.
Protocol for verifying expertise in locating fibromyalgia tender points

Objective. To develop a protocol for determining when an individual is adequately trained to locate the tender points relative to fibromyalgia in an exam. Methods. The error distance for each tender point was established by polling individuals with experience in conducting tender point exams. Bayesian statistical methods were employed to form a protocol for determining an individual's proficiency in locating the tender points. A predictive distribution was utilized to find the probability of remaining trained at locating tender points. Also, the probability of classifying at least 11 tender points as tender (mild) under different “locating” criteria and different number of points that are truly tender was computed. Results. Critical values indicating the number of tender points needed in the qualification process for various standards of reliability—80%, 85%, and 90%—are presented. To be certified after 3 subjects have been examined in the 80%, 85%, and 90% criteria, one has to correctly identify 48, 50, and 52, respectively, out of the 54 possible tender points. Conclusion. We believe that at least 3 subjects should be examined before certification is granted using any of the 3 criteria—80%, 85%, and 90%. In our example, when using the 85% criterion, the qualification process required 7 subjects to certify an individual.
Effect of Adrenocorticotropin and Cortisol on Luteinizing Hormone Surge and Estrous Behavior of Cows

In six cows, twice daily administration of 100 IU corticotropin for 3.5 days during the follicular phase delayed the preovulatory luteinizing hormone surge and onset of behavioral estrus. Corticotropin increased progesterone and decreased estradiol and basal luteinizing hormone concentrations of blood. Following corticotropin withdrawal, a shortened period of behavioral estrus (50% of control) was accompanied by an apparent luteinizing hormone surge and ovulation. To ascertain if these effects were caused by the elevated corticosteroid concentrations induced by corticotropin, we infused intravenously four heifers with cortisol sodium succinate. During this infusion, luteinizing hormone surge and estrous behavior were inhibited; however, estradiol and basal luteinizing hormone concentrations were not affected. Furthermore, there was no luteinizing hormone surge, ovulation, or behavioral estrus after cessation of cortisol treatment. These results are consistent with a role for corticosteroids in mediating inhibitory effects on reproduction produced by corticotropin administration.
Evaluation of rat ultrasonic vocalizations as predictors of the conditioned aversive effects of drugs

Rationale: Since cues that predict aversive outcomes can elicit both avoidance and 20 kHz ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) in adult rats, 20 kHz USVs may also index the conditioned aversive effects of drugs. Objective: We evaluated whether exposure to compartments associated with drugs with aversive effects would selectively increase 20 but not 50 kHz USVs in rats. Method: Rats were injected with naloxone (NAL) or lithium chloride (LiCl) and placed in one compartment or with saline (VEH) and placed in another compartment for three 50-min conditioning sessions. 20 kHz USVs, 50 kHz USVs, and time spent in each chamber were recorded during subsequent 15-min testing sessions during which rats had access to both compartments (expt 1) or were confined to the drug- or VEH-paired compartment (expt 2). Results: In expt 1, animals conditioned either with NAL (0.3 and 3.0 mg/kg) or LiCl (10 and 30 mg/kg) emitted increased 20 kHz USVs in the drug-paired compartment, relative to VEH-conditioned controls. Conditioning with high doses of both drugs also increased conditioned place aversion and decreased emission of 50 kHz USVs. In expt 2, restriction of animals to the compartment paired with high doses of NAL and LiCl also increased emission of 20 kHz USVs and decreased 50 kHz USVs, relative to VEH-conditioned controls. Conclusions: In rats, cues associated with drugs with aversive effects increase 20 kHz USVs and decrease 50 kHz USVs, suggesting that USVs may provide a useful model for predicting the conditioned aversive effects of drugs.
Abstract 3002: ID3 expression and oxidative DNA damage are associated with growth of benign and malignant vascular lesions

Higher levels of Id3 expression have been reported in tumor-infiltrating blood vessels from various tumors, but the exact role of Id3 in vascular lesion formation is poorly understood. This study aims at identifying the status of Id3 expression and distribution in benign vascular lesions and attempts to correlate this information with the progression of vascular lesion. In this study we investigated the expression pattern of Id3 in malignant, benign, and normal human vascular tissue specimens. Expression analysis of Id3 was carried out using immunohistochemical analysis in 48 sporadic samples of a heterogeneous group of benign and malignant vascular tissue. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed that many of the malignant vascular lesions exhibited strong Id3 expression that correlated positively with increased 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) a marker of oxidative DNA damage. In contrast, in normal human vascular tissue, Id3 expression and 8-OHdG was low. In malignant vascular tissue, Id3 protein displayed a stronger nuclear localization when compared to the cytoplasm. Id3 expression levels in benign vascular lesions while still expressing Id3 were to a lesser extent when compared to malignant vascular tissue. To our knowledge, this is the first study to compare benign and malignant vascular lesions to assess the role of Id3 and 8-OHdG. Our data reveals Id3 expression and oxidative DNA damage to be highly associated in malignant cells and to a lesser extent in their benign counterparts, indicating that the growth of vascular lesions may require oxidative stress signaling converging on Id3. The results also support the involvement of Id3 in tumor angiogenesis a process that critically influences the malignant behavior of cancer cells. Citation Format: Quentin H. Felty, Jayanta K. Das. ID3 expression and oxidative DNA damage are associated with growth of benign and malignant vascular lesions. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 3002. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-3002
PirB Restricts Ocular-Dominance Plasticity in Visual Cortex

Experience can alter synaptic connectivity throughout life, but the degree of plasticity present at each age is regulated by mechanisms that remain largely unknown. Here, we demonstrate that Paired-immunoglobulin-like receptor B (PirB), a major histocompatibility complex class I (MHCI) receptor, is expressed in subsets of neurons throughout the brain. Neuronal PirB protein is associated with synapses and forms complexes with the phosphatases Shp-1 and Shp-2. Soluble PirB fusion protein binds to cortical neurons in an MHCI-dependent manner. In mutant mice lacking functional PirB, cortical ocular-dominance plasticity is more robust at all ages. Thus, an MHCI receptor is expressed in central nervous system neurons and functions to limit the extent of experience-dependent plasticity in the visual cortex throughout life. PirB is also expressed in many other regions of the central nervous system, suggesting that it may function broadly to stabilize neural circuits.
Wavelength modulation spectra of GaAs and silicon

Abstract Wavelength modulation spectra of GaAs and Si are presented at 5°K in the range 2.8–6.0 eV. The empirical pseudopotential method (including spin-orbit contributions for GaAs) is used to calculate the electronic band structure and the logarithmic derivative of the reflectivity R ′(ω)/ R (ω). A comparison shows good agreement between experiment and theory. The electronic transitions causing the reflectivity peaks are identified.
Global Research Trends on Early-Life Feeding Practices and Early Childhood Caries: A Systematic Review

Objective. To describe the epidemiologic literature related to early-life feeding practices and early childhood caries (ECC) with regard to publication attributes and trends in these attributes over time. Methods. Systematic literature review including electronic and manual searches (in BIOSIS, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, LILACS, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and WHOLIS), covering the years 1990–2013. Attributes of publications meeting a priori inclusion criteria were abstracted and organized by global region and trends over time. Attributes included country of origin and study design of included publications and age and caries prevalence of the populations studied. Results. 244 publications drawn from 196 independent study populations were included. The number of publications and the countries represented increased over time, although some world regions remained underrepresented. Most publications were cross-sectional (75%); while this percentage remained fairly constant over time, the percentage of studies to account for confounding factors increased. Publications varied with respect to the caries experience and age range of children included in each study. Conclusions. Publication productivity regarding feeding practices and ECC research has grown, but this growth has not been evenly distributed globally. Individual publication attributes (i.e., methods and context) can differ significantly and should be considered when interpreting and synthesizing the literature.
Clinical studies of angiogenesis inhibitors: The university of texas md anderson center trial of human endostatin

Most solid-tumor malignancies remain incurable. Novel agents that target and counteract biologic mechanisms are now being developed. It is hoped that these drugs will allow for more effective, less toxic cancer treatments and long-term maintenance approaches. One important class of agents functions by an anti-angiogenic mechanism, targeting the blood vessel supply of the tumor and inhibiting tumor growth. Several principles are common to these new agents. First, because many of these agents are growth-inhibiting molecules that work exclusively against the tumor vasculature, single agents will have little effect on tumor size in advanced disease. Second, because these agents are relatively non-toxic, they are unlikely to induce the side effects associated with chemotherapy. Because endothelial cells seldom divide in a human host, anti-angiogenic compounds are expected to produce little toxicity. Third, most of these agents work synergistically with chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. Ironically, combining these relatively non-toxic agents with chemotherapy often produces the toxicities usually associated with anticancer regimens. Anti-angiogenic agents might ultimately be studied in minimal disease. Clinical studies must demonstrate that these agents affect tumor vasculature, and phase I trials should include built-in surrogate endpoints. This article defines the general principles of anti-angiogenic drug action and explains how these principles have been used to design a phase I trial of human endostatin.
Effect of splenectomy on the induction of high degrees of tolerance to skin allografts in rats

Abstract The effect of splenectomy on the induction of neonatal tolerance to histocompatibility antigens was studied. Newborn BN ( Ag-B 3 Ag-B 3 ) rats were splenectomized or sham splenectomized prior to transfer of a tolerance-inducing inoculum of Lewis/BN ( Ag-B 1 Ag-B 3 ) bone marrow cells. Twenty-two percent of the splenectomized animals were found to be highly tolerant of subsequent Lewis skin allografts, compared to 53.8% of the shamsplenectomized group. In addition seven of eight incompletely splenectomized animals were found to be highly tolerant. The relevance of these data to currently postulated mechanisms of classical neonatal tolerance induction is discussed.
Social anxiety disorder: Recent findings in the areas of epidemiology, etiology, and treatment

Social anxiety disorder is a common and chronic disorder that leads to substantial psychosocial impairment. The disorder occurs early in childhood, and is frequently comorbid with a variety of other psychiatric diagnoses like depression, other anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and eating disorders. Given these serious implications of social anxiety disorder, early effective treatment is extremely important. Pharmacotherapy, with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, and cognitive behavioral therapy are the first choice of treatments for social anxiety disorder. This paper reviews recent findings on the epidemiology, etiology, and treatment for social anxiety disorder, and highlights areas where future research should be directed.
Crystal growth and characterization of vanadium doped YAlO3, LaGaO3 and CaYAlO4 crystals

V4+ doped YAIO3, LaGaO3, and CaYAlC4 crystals (3d1 ion in octahedral coordination) have been grown and characterized as potential broad-band laser materials. The effect of charge compensation on spectroscopic properties of the materials studied is discussed.
“In vivo” microscopic study of the response of the hepatic microvascular system to carbon tetrachloride poisoning

Abstract The initial effect of carbon tetrachloride poisoning on the microvascular system and parenchyma of the rat liver was studied using an in vivo microscopic method. The results suggest that the initial lesion is in the microvascular compartment; this reaction institutes an inflammatory response characterized by adhesion of white blood cells to the endothelium of sinusoids and central venules, and subsequent diapedesis of white blood cells. Carbon tetrachloride later induces alterations in the parenchyma resulting in fatty changes, hydropic degeneration, and necrosis in a stepwise manner. The combined events, microvascular and parenchymal, produce marked alterations of hepatic blood flow thus promoting anoxia and pathologic lesions.
Effect of mercury on corrosion of η′ CuSn phase in dental amalgams

Abstract Objectives. The η′ CuSn phase is the most corrosion-susceptible major component of the microstructure in high-copper dental amalgams, even though metallurgically prepared specimens of the phase are corrosion-resistant. The purpose of this study was to determine if mercury is the cause of the degradation. Methods. Specimens of metallurgically prepared η′ CuSn phase were tested in synthetic saliva using electrochemical methods. Mercury was adsorbed on the surface by exposure to mercury vapor, and the changes in the corrosion potential and anodic polarization characteristics were determined. Galvanic currents between η′ specimens and a high-copper dental amalgam were measured for both Hg-free and Hg-contaminated η′ electrodes. Results. The Hg-free η′ phase showed a wide region of passivity. Exposure to mercury made the η′ phase electrochemically more active, and current peaks appeared on the polarization curves. The Hg-free η′ electrode was a cathode to a high-copper dental amalgam. The Hg-contaminated η′ electrode started also as a cathode, but became an anode after a period of exposure. Significance. It was concluded that mercury destabilizes the protective passive film on the η′ phase, making the phase more susceptible to corrosion in the oral environment. The results of the galvanic current measurements seem to indicate that the galvanic interaction between η′ and the other phases facilitates the mercury-related degradation.
VR visualization of large fluid-flow data sets

In this paper we describe the efforts being carried out by the Laboratory of Computational Physics, the Scientific Visualization Laboratory and the Virtual Reality Laboratory of the Naval Research Laboratory towards visualization of large data sets. We have concentrated on fluid flow hydrodynamics data sets. We describe the fully threaded tree structure developed at NRL to tackle the problem of massive parallel calculations using local mesh refinement methods. This structure was implemented with the IBM Data Explorer environment, allowing a multiresolution visualization system that inherits the properties of the tree structure in a natural way. We also describe the visualization of these data sets in a virtual environment.
Effect of the polymer matrices on the dielectric behavior of a percolative high-k polymer composite for embedded capacitor applications

High dielectric constant (high-k) polymer composites are of great interest for embedded capacitor applications. Previously, we demonstrated that epoxy—aluminum composites are promising for embedded capacitor applications, because they have a high dielectric constant and a low dielectric loss due to the core—shell structure of the self-passivated aluminum particles. In this work, to further understand the dielectric behavior of aluminum composites, lower-loss polymers such as silicone, polyimide, polynorbornene, and benzocyclobutene were explored as matrices for the aluminum composites. It is found that the polymer matrices can significantly change the dielectric properties of the aluminum composites. A polymer matrix with a lower dielectric constant generally results in a lower dielectric constant of its aluminum composites. In this regard, polymer—aluminum composites have a similar dielectric characteristic as polymer—ceramic composites. Thermomechanical properties of aluminum composites were characterized by a thermomechanical analyzer.
COOP: A SELF-ASSESSMENT BASED APPROACH TO COOPERATING EXPERT SYSTEMS

Conventional Expert System Shells do not help in developing AI programs for large applications like automated factories, which require multi-disciplinary knowledge and which are geographically distributed. To support these applications, a shell must provide tools for a knowledge-based system to (i) reason about the need for cooperation, (ii) understand global knowledge to locate relevant expert systems and (iii) select appropriate cooperation plans. Contemporary approaches like Blackboard [1], Contract-net [2] and Distributed problem solving [3] help in exploring alternative cooperation plans without any reasoning about the need for cooperation and understanding of global knowledge. Coop [4] support cooperation models to characterize three essential decisions in the cooperation process. It provides a computational method to decide if an expert system needs to consult with other expert systems. We provide techniques select appropriate cooperation plans.
In-office transnasal esophagoscope-guided botulinum toxin injection of the lower esophageal sphincter.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Thin caliber transnasal esophagoscopes allow for a rapidly expanding array of office-based esophageal procedures, including botulinum toxin injections, in unsedated patients. RECENT FINDINGS: While botulinum toxin has been used in the esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter for many years, there is no current description of performing this procedure in an unsedated patient using transnasal esophagoscopy. Indications include achalasia, hypertensive lower esophageal sphincter, distal esophageal spasm, nutcracker esophagus and obstructing muscular rings. There is a paucity of data in the literature pertaining to spastic esophageal motility disorders and muscular rings. Randomized controlled trials of achalasia treatments suggest that botulinum toxin injections should be reserved for patients who are poor surgical candidates and/or have failed pneumatic dilation. SUMMARY: In-office transnasal esophagoscopy-guided lower esophageal sphincter botulinum toxin injection has not been described in the literature. Indications include esophageal spasm, muscular rings and achalasia, with recent data suggesting that botulinum toxin should not be an initial therapy for most patients with achalasia.
Utilizing synoptic climatological methods to assess the impacts of climate change on future tornado-favorable environments

Previous research into the impacts of climate change on severe mid-latitude weather has been limited by the spatial resolution of many important variables in global climate model output. By utilizing synoptic climatological methods, however, this research takes an entirely different approach. Using a six-step process that includes principal components analysis, cluster analysis, and discriminant function analysis, this study first creates a continental-scale map pattern classification at three levels of the atmosphere, from geopotential height and temperature fields. These patterns are then associated to historic F2 and stronger United States’ tornado days using binary logistic regression. Using output data from two GCMs, spanning five different model emissions scenarios, this synoptic climatology of tornadoes is then utilized in order to project the changes in the frequency and seasonality of tornadic environments due to a changing climate. Results indicate that F2 and stronger US tornado days will increase anywhere from 3.8 to 12.7% by the 2090s. The majority of this increase is likely to be manifested in the earlier part of the tornado season. In addition to the shift in seasonality, a broadening of the peak tornado season is also noticed under some scenarios. Geographically, portions of the Northern and Central Plains, the High Plains, the Lower Great Lakes, the Mid-Atlantic States, and the Southeast are projected to experience an increase in tornado days under some future scenarios. The Upper Great Lakes states and the Southern Plains are projected to experience a decrease in tornado days.
Syntheses and properties of trimethylaminophenoxy-substituted Zn((II))-phthalocyanines.

The syntheses, photophysical properties and in vitro biological behavior of a series of nine Zn(II)-phthalocyanines (ZnPcs) bearing one to eight positively-charged trimethylaminophenoxy groups are reported. All ZnPcs are highly soluble in polar organic solvents, and show fluorescence and singlet oxygen quantum yields in the ranges 0.11–0.21 and 0.16–0.47, respectively. The cytotoxicity of the ZnPcs depends on both the number of charges and their site of substitution (α vs. β) on the Pc isoindole units; the most promising for PDT application are the α-substituted di-cationic ZnPcs 6a and 17a.
Characterization of reactive nitrogen species in allergic asthma

Abstract Objective To investigate the molecular mechanism of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) in the pathogenesis of asthma and examine the use of fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FE NO ) measurements in close conjunction with standard clinical assessments of asthma. Data Sources Through PubMed, Google Scholar, and Medline databases, a broad medical literature review was performed in the following areas of asthma pathobiology and management: allergic asthma, RNS, nitric oxide (NO), airway inflammation, and FE NO . Study Selections Studies were selected based on the physiologic and pathophysiologic roles of RNS in relation to allergic asthma. Current evaluations on clinical applications of FE NO in asthma treatment also were selected. Results At the onset of an asthma attack, an enhanced production of NO strongly correlates with increase inducible NO synthase (NOS) activity, whereas endothelial NOS and neuronal NOS regulate primarily normal metabolic functions in the central and peripheral airways. During allergic inflammatory responses, NO and superoxide form peroxynitrite, which has deleterious effects in the respiratory tract. RNS directly accentuates airway inflammation and cytotoxicity through nitrosative stress. Moreover, the use of FE NO to monitor eosinophilic-mediated airway inflammation is a potentially valuable assessment that supplements standard procedures to monitor the progression of asthma. Conclusion This review examines recent evidence implicating the molecular mechanisms of NO and NO-derived RNS in the pathobiology of asthma and suggests that monitoring FE NO may markedly contribute to asthma diagnosis.
Ecdysone levels and distribution of acid phosphatase, acidic glycosidases, and cytochrome c oxidase during the third-instar stage of Stomoxys calcitrans (L.)☆

Abstract The activities, subcellular distributions, and relative specific activities (RSA) are reported for seven acidic glycosidases, acid phosphatase, and cytochrome c oxidase in third-instar larvae of Stomoxys calcitrans (L.). At ca. 120 hr post oviposition, the RSA of five of the glycosidases and acid phosphatase began to increase in the mitochondrial-lysosomal fraction. A peak of 20-hydroxyecdysone occurred at ca. 120 hr post oviposition; which was followed by a gradual increase until the white prepupal stage was reached. No ecdysone was found, an indication of its rapid metabolism to 20-hydroxyecdysone.
Microbiota signalling through MyD88 is necessary for a systemic neutrophilic inflammatory response

In the present study, we have found that intestinal flora strongly influence peritoneal neutrophilic inflammatory responses to diverse stimuli, including pathogen-derived particles like zymosan and sterile irritant particles like crystals. When germ-free and flora-deficient (antibiotic-treated) mice are challenged with zymosan intraperitoneally, neutrophils are markedly impaired in their ability to extravasate from blood into the peritoneum. In contrast, in these animals, neutrophils can extravasate in response to an intraperitoneal injection of the chemokine, macrophage inflammatory protein 2. Neutrophil recruitment upon inflammatory challenge requires stimulation by microbiota through a myeloid differentiation primary response gene (88) (MyD88) -dependent pathway. MyD88 signalling is crucial during the development of the immune system but depending upon the ligand it may be dispensable at the time of the actual inflammatory challenge. Furthermore, pre-treatment of flora-deficient mice with a purified MyD88-pathway agonist is sufficient to restore neutrophil migration. In summary, this study provides insight into the role of gut microbiota in influencing acute inflammation at sites outside the gastrointestinal tract.
System development effectiveness: an agency theory perspective

Abstract Agency theory can be used to explain the effectiveness of system development methods. As the cost of computing decreases and end user computing technology becomes feasible, end-user departments are developing their own application systems. Agency theory suggests that end-users will desire greater autonomy over their computing in order to avoid the agency costs that arise in traditional MIS development. This study provides empirical support for the proposition that user development allows end-user departments to minimize the agency costs resulting from the work of the MIS department. Data were collected from 162 users of 59 different applications in 30 organizations. The results indicate that user development is more effective than MIS development. Among user-developed application systems, departmental applications are more effective than corporate applications.
Synthesis and proteasome inhibition of glycyrrhetinic acid derivatives.

Abstract This study discovered that glycyrrhetinic acid inhibited the human 20S proteasome at 22.3 μM. Esterification of the C-3 hydroxyl group on glycyrrhetinic acid with various carboxylic acid reagents yielded a series of analogs with marked improved potency. Among the derivatives, glycyrrhetinic acid 3- O -isophthalate ( 17 ) was the most potent compound with IC 50 of 0.22 μM, which was approximately 100-fold more potent than glycyrrhetinic acid.
Distortion-invariant pattern recognition using synthetic discriminant function-based shifted phase-encoded joint transform correlator

A novel pattern recognition technique is proposed that employs shifted phase-encoded fringe-adjusted joint transform correlation (SPFJTC) for efficient real-time application and synthetic discriminant function for invariance to distortions. The proposed technique produces a single delta-like correlation for a potential target in the input scene, and performs successfully even in a noisy environment. The simple architecture of the proposed technique can be implemented easily on optoelectronics for very high-speed operation. Computer simulation results verify the efficient performance of the technique under different variations of the input scene and the environment.
Actuation fatigue life prediction of shape memory alloys under the constant-stress loading condition

The efficiency of the critical plane model of Smith, Watson, and Topper is demonstrated for the actuation lifetime prediction of shape memory alloys undergoing thermal cycling while under constant tensile stress. The model can be in principle extended to more complex actuation loading paths and predict the critical plane for failure in structural components. It is moreover important to note the correlation of the model to the actuation energy density for the data used for its experimental verification.
Capsular Warning Syndrome Caused By Middle Cerebral Artery Stenosis

The capsular warning syndrome is a term used to describe recurrent stereotyped lacunar transient ischemic attacks (TIAs). This syndrome is associated with a high risk of developing a completed stroke. The presumed mechanism for this syndrome is angiopathy of a lenticulostriate artery. We describe the case of a 33-year-old man who presented with the capsular warning syndrome who was successfully treated with angioplasty. The patient's capsular warning syndrome manifested as recurrent episodes of transient left hemiparesis. Symptoms recurred one to three times daily despite treatment with antithrombotics. Cerebral angiography demonstrated stenosis of the right middle cerebral artery (MCA) with decreased flow to a dominant lenticulostriate artery. Angioplasty of the right middle cerebral artery increased flow to the lenticulostriate artery and the TIAs resolved following the procedure. In select cases intracranial angioplasty, may be an effective treatment for patients with capsular warning syndrome.
Perception of the Etiology of Illness: Causal Attributions in a Heart Patient Population:

This study examined perceived causes of myocardial infarction in a patient population of 345 men previously free from significant medical problems. Investigation of their perceptions following the life-threatening illness crisis indicated that stress and tension factors were the causes most commonly cited. Possible social and psychological correlates are analyzed using an attribution theory framework, and their implications are discussed.
XPS spectra and crystalline potentials in alkaline-earth chalcogenides and hydrides

The results of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies of alkaline earth hydrides are reported to provide information about the nature of the distribution of electron density in the hydrides relative to the elements. The binding energies of both Ca and Sr compounds were found to decrease with increasing atomic number of the element, and the differences follow the same trend as do the electronegativities of the elements. Although the calculated charges might be subject to question, because of the method used to obtain the site potential; the conclusion that CaH/sub 2/ is a strongly ionic solid is clearly indicatd by the data. (BLM)
Growth Factor-Activated Stem Cell Circuits and Stromal Signals Cooperatively Accelerate Non-Integrated iPSC Reprogramming of Human Myeloid Progenitors

Nonviral conversion of skin or blood cells into clinically useful human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) occurs in only rare fractions (∼0.001%–0.5%) of donor cells transfected with non-integrating reprogramming factors. Pluripotency induction of developmentally immature stem-progenitors is generally more efficient than differentiated somatic cell targets. However, the nature of augmented progenitor reprogramming remains obscure, and its potential has not been fully explored for improving the extremely slow pace of non-integrated reprogramming. Here, we report highly optimized four-factor reprogramming of lineage-committed cord blood (CB) myeloid progenitors with bulk efficiencies of ∼50% in purified episome-expressing cells. Lineage-committed CD33+CD45+CD34− myeloid cells and not primitive hematopoietic stem-progenitors were the main targets of a rapid and nearly complete non-integrated reprogramming. The efficient conversion of mature myeloid populations into NANOG+TRA-1-81+ hiPSC was mediated by synergies between hematopoietic growth factor (GF), stromal activation signals, and episomal Yamanaka factor expression. Using a modular bioinformatics approach, we demonstrated that efficient myeloid reprogramming correlated not to increased proliferation or endogenous Core factor expressions, but to poised expression of GF-activated transcriptional circuits that commonly regulate plasticity in both hematopoietic progenitors and embryonic stem cells (ESC). Factor-driven conversion of myeloid progenitors to a high-fidelity pluripotent state was further accelerated by soluble and contact-dependent stromal signals that included an implied and unexpected role for Toll receptor-NFκB signaling. These data provide a paradigm for understanding the augmented reprogramming capacity of somatic progenitors, and reveal that efficient induced pluripotency in other cell types may also require extrinsic activation of a molecular framework that commonly regulates self-renewal and differentiation in both hematopoietic progenitors and ESC.
An RNA-export mediator with an essential nuclear export signal

The Rev protein of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) mediates the translocation of viral messenger RNAs from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. In yeast, Rev can mediate the nuclear export of Rev response-element-containing RNAs. The export of Rev itself proceeds through the nuclear pore complex and requires a nuclear export signal (NES) and interaction with a cellular cofactor, the protein Rip1. Endogenous RNA export mediators that interact with Rip1 and harbour NESs are thought to exist but have yet to be identified. Here we report the characterization of a new and essential yeast protein, Gle1, which contains an NES and has a relative molecular mass of 62,000. Mutation of the NES in Gle1 prevents export of polyadenylated RNA from the nucleus. Gle1 interacts with Rip1 and the nucleoporin Nup100 and is localized predominantly at nuclear pore complexes. These properties indicate that Gle1 is an RNA-export factor and that Rev may mediate viral RNA export by mimicking the function of Gle1.
The remarkable nucleophilic substitutions of anthraquinones using podands as nucleophiles and leaving groups

Abstract Nucleophilic aromatic substitution reactions between saturated alcohols and 1-chloroanthraquinones are generally poor but high yields are obtained when polyethylene glycol monomethyl ethers are used as nucleophiles or when an alcohol is the nucleophiles and the podand is the leaving group.
BioStaR: A Bio-inspired Stable Routing for Cognitive Radio Networks

Techniques derived from biological systems explore a new dimension of research in Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs). In this paper, we address the stability issue of CRN routing, being motivated by the adaptive ‘Attractor-Selector’ model. Our work includes designing a routing protocolnamed Bio-inspired Stable Routing (BioStaR) that increases route stability by maximizing the Spectrum Opportunity (SOP)and also minimizes the channel switching delay and signaling overhead. To the best of our knowledge, this is by far the first bio-inspired CRN routing that takes into account the above mentioned factors. Our simulation results show that this protocol accounts for both higher stability of route and less signaling overhead in spectrum-agile CRN environments.
Calcium transport, ATPase activity and lipid composition in sarcoplasmic reticulum isolated from isogenic lines of normal and dystrophic chickens.

Abstract Two new lines of chickens with near identical genotypes (greater than 90% isogeneity), one demonstrating avian dystrophy, were used for isolation of sarcopalsmic reticulum vesicles. Vesicles from line 433 (dystrophic) displayed reduced Ca 2+ -ATPase activity, phosphoenzyme formation and steady-state calcium transport capabilities in comparison with vesicles from line 03 (normal). Lipid analyses show that dystrophic vesicles have greater amounts of cholesterol and lesser amounts of phosphatidylcholine. The results support the use of isogenic chickens in further studies of avian dystrophy. However, the results also suggest that current sarcoplasmic reticulum vesicle purification procedures dependent on differential calcium accumulation may not fully achieve the intended purpose.
The organizational validity of management information systems

Organizational validity refers to the “fit” between an information system and its organizational context of use. This paper applies the concept to MIS and extends it beyond earlier formulations. The conditions fostering invalid systems and two processes by which organizational validity is achieved, integration and negotiation, are discussed. Finally, the desirability of increasing validity as a strategy of improving system effectiveness is assessed.
Methanol Exposure among School Workers during Spirit Duplicator Use

Abstract Spirit duplicators are commonly used by teachers and teaching assistants for school copying needs. Duplicating fluids often contain very high methanol concentrations. Given the lack of sufficient ventilation typically found in schools, spirit duplicator use can be a significant source of indoor air pollution. Because of the toxicity of methanol, it is of value to assess the extent of exposure among school workers. Breathing zone samples during duplicator operation were collected at five schools using a Miran 1A gas analyzer. The probability that teachers and teaching assistants would receive exposures in excess of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 15-minute short-term exposure limit (STEL) of 250 ppm was calculated. Questionnaires establishing duration of duplicator use were distributed among all sampled schools. The exposure distribution among teachers was approximately lognormal, with a mean of 404 ppm and a standard deviation of 296 ppm. Exposures among teaching assistan...
Dioxin Inhibits Zebrafish Epicardium and Proepicardium Development

Embryonic exposure to the environmental contaminant and aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD, dioxin), disrupts cardiac development and function in fish, birds, and mammals. In zebrafish, the temporal window of sensitivity to the cardiotoxic effects of TCDD coincides with epicardium formation. We hypothesized that this TCDD-induced heart failure results from disruption of epicardial development. To determine whether embryonic TCDD exposure inhibits epicardium and proepicardium (PE) development in zebrafish, we used histology and fluorescence immunocytochemistry to examine the epicardium formation in fish exposed to TCDD. TCDD exposure prevented epicardium formation. Using live imaging and in situ hybridization, we found that TCDD exposure blocked the formation of the PE cluster. In situ hybridization experiments showed that TCDD exposure also prevented the expression of the PE marker tcf21 at the site where the PE normally forms. TCDD also inhibited expansion of the epicardial layer across the developing heart: Exposure after PE formation was completed prevented further expansion of the epicardium. However, TCDD exposure did not affect epicardial cells already present. Because TCDD blocks epicardium formation, but is not directly toxic to the epicardium once complete, we propose that inhibition of epicardium formation can account for the window of sensitivity to TCDD cardiotoxicity in developing zebrafish. Epicardium development is crucial to heart development. Loss of this layer during development may account for most if not all of the TCDD-induced cardiotoxicity in zebrafish.
Response: lifestyle not weight should be the primary target

We are glad to see such a wide range of esteemed scholars engage complex questions surrounding the relationship between body mass and health. We are also pleased to see so many points of agreement between our respondents and ourselves. First, everyone is in agreement with the parameters of global weight change, as defined in detail by Flegal 1 —the average person has gained about one pound per year. Opinions vary sharply over the likely consequences of this creeping ‘epidemic’. Second, as many acknowledge, the debate surrounding weight and health is often contentious and confusing because of economic and cultural factors that affect it at every turn. For instance, Kim and Popkin 2 applaud our efforts in drawing attention to ‘some of the complexities in overweight/obesity and health relationships and [the] covert financial interests involved in obesity research and related promotion activities’. Similarly, Lobstein 3 recognizes the need to acknowledge the current diversity of opinion on this subject. The powerful cultural and ideological factors that drive the current world wide obsession with thinness and fatness are eloquently discussed by Orbach. 4 Her response illustrates the painful consequences— especially for women and girls—of modern tendencies to demonize certain foods and larger bodies. In regard to the relationship between weight and health, we note Flegal 1 agrees that ‘to date it is not clear what the major health effects of the trends in obesity and overweight have been’, given continually improving life expectancy and declining rates of many conditions such as heart disease. Similarly, Blair and LaMonte 5 caution against the ‘uncritical acceptance of many of any claim about the health hazards of obesity’, and point out that ‘much of the extant prospective data indicate that there is little difference in risk across a very wide range of BMI values, and these associations may be different for various subgroups’. Even Rigby 6 acknowledges this general point when he argues that optimal BMI may be lower for Asians, although he fails to note that much evidence suggests optimal BMI for people of West African descent is higher than for other groups or that it is difficult to find any difference in risk estimates for all-cause mortality among many subgroups across an extremely wide range of BMI values, i.e. 18.5–35. Given the disproportionate attention being focused on obesity among racial minorities, this represents an interesting selective citation of data. We also agree that, as Kim and Popkin 2 note, there are important risks associated with weight loss methods and products, and it troubles us that obesity researchers often ignore or understate these risks. We strongly support programmes that promote health, but such programmes should actually improve health, not merely attempt to make or keep people thin. This is the core of the debate about weight and health, and our view is captured by Blair and LaMonte’s 5 statement that ‘there has been an overemphasis on weight loss as a clinical target’.‘ Consider, for example, the interpretation Kim and Popkin, 2
Standards and practices for reliable safety-related software systems

Safety and reliability are of increasing concern as mechanical systems are replaced or upgraded with computer-based software technology as we move into the 21st century. The article is the result of an evaluation of domestic and international, industry and government accepted practices and standards relating to software safety and reliability. Standards were evaluated for similarities and variance. There are three areas of interest when discussing the development of safety-related software systems. These are the quality enhancing development processes, safety analysis techniques, and measurement techniques for assessing reliability or safety. >
Graphic and numerical methods to assess navigation in hypertext

User navigation has been a central theme in both theoretical and empirical work since the earliest days of hypertext research and development. Studies exploring user navigation have, however, tended to rely on indirect navigational measures and have rarely tried to relate navigation to performance-solving problems or locating information. This paper proposes methods that lead to a more direct representation and analysis of user movement in hypertext and empirically explores the relationship of these measures to performance in a hypertext search task. Results of the study indicate that the proposed graphical and numerical methods have empirical significance and may be useful in assessing and modeling user navigation.
Still failing at fairness: how gender bias cheats girls and boys in school and what we can do about it, by David Sadker, Myra Sadker and Karen Zittleman

New York, Scribner, 2009, 373 pp., US$16.00 (paperback) ISBN: 1416552472 For anyone committed to investigating the relationships between schooling and gender equity, contemplating the research comp...