cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reliability modeling of a series system with correlated or dependent component degradation processes

A system reliability model is developed and demonstrated when the individual components within the system are each subject to individual degradation processes, and for a series system, the system fails when any of the individual failure processes reaches a component-specific failure threshold. For this system model, the component degradation paths can be correlated or dependent. This is a practical and realistic consideration because for many operating systems, all components are exposed to shared environmental or operating stresses which may simultaneously influence the failure behavior of each component. In this new model, component degradation paths are mathematically represented as a linear combination of an independent component degradation contribution and a proportional common degradation contribution which influences each component. Instead of taking an integral of a joint normal probability density function to determine reliability, which is hard to obtain in this case, a mathematical model is developed conditioned on the common factor to derive the failure probability density function and the system reliability function. Maximum likelihood estimators are developed to estimate model parameters. Two realistic numerical examples to illustrate the efficiency of the proposed procedure are also presented. One example is for the critical components of a processing plant each monitored by sensor outputs, and the second example pertains to a mechanical structure subjected to cyclical loading with wear measures recorded at different critical component locations.
The renin-aldosterone axis in kidney transplant recipients and its association with allograft function and structure.

The level of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) activity in kidney transplant recipients has not been extensively studied or serially profiled. To describe this axis and to determine its association with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) change, interstitial expansion, and end-stage renal disease (ESRD), we measured plasma renin activity (PRA) and plasma aldosterone levels annually for 5 years in 153 kidney transplant recipients randomly assigned to losartan or placebo. PRA and plasma aldosterone levels were in the normal range at all times and did not vary by immunosuppression regimen. Those on losartan exhibited higher PRA but similar plasma aldosterone levels. Neither baseline nor serial PRA or plasma aldosterone levels were associated with GFR decline, proteinuria, or interstitial expansion. Losartan use (hazard ratio (HR) 0.48 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.21–1.0), insignificant) and Caucasian donor (HR 0.18 (95% CI 0.07–0.4) significant) were associated with less doubling of serum creatinine, death, or ESRD. Hypertension,
Anthropologists & Sudanese Refugees: Cultural Exchange in the Heartland

For nearly two decades, Lincoln, Nebraska has served as a refugee resettlement site for programs administered by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), a division of the Administration for Children and Families, within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Recently, anthropologists from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) have begun collaborations with (1) Nebraska HHS, (2) social service agencies, (3) resettlement programs, (4) health departments and service providers, (5) churches, (6) policy makers, and (7) Sudanese refugee community members to increase mutual understanding of US and African cultures and to highlight the relevant skills, ideologies and needs each brings to the domestic resettlement process. This paper describes some of the ongoing applied research among Sudanese refugees and emphasizes the need for, and appropriateness of, development anthropologists working within domestic resettlement programs and systems.
Expression, purification and crystallization of class C acid phosphatases from Francisella tularensis and Pasteurella multocida.

Class C nonspecific acid phosphatases are bacterial enzymes that are secreted across the cytoplasmic membrane and hydrolyze a variety of phosphomono­esters at acidic pH. These enzymes are of interest for the development of improved vaccines and clinical diagnostic methods. In one case, the category A pathogen Francisella tularensis, the class C phosphatase plays a role in bacterial fitness. Here, the cloning, expression, purification and crystallization methods for the class C acid phosphatases from F. tularensis and Pasteurella multocida are reported. Crystals of the F. tularensis enzyme diffracted to 2.0 A resolution and belonged to space group C2221, with one enzyme molecule in the asymmetric unit. Crystals of the P. multocida enzyme diffracted to 1.85 A resolution and belonged to space group C2, with three molecules in the asymmetric unit. Diffraction patterns from crystals of the P. multocida enzyme exhibited multiple interpenetrating reciprocal-space lattices, indicating epitaxial twinning. Despite this aberrance, autoindexing was robust and the data could be satisfactorily processed to 1.85 A resolution using MOSFLM and SCALA.
Management of the congenital midline nasal mass: a review

The nasal encephalocele, the glioma, and the dermoid are the most common of the congenital midline nasal masses. Due to similar embryologic development, each of these lesions may be associated with bony cranial defects and intracranial abnormalities, as well as CSF leakage and the potential for fatal meningitis if not handled properly. Properative manipulation should be avoided. Radiologic studies are instructive only if they are positive. If intracranial attachments are identified radiologically or suspected clinically, neurosurgical consultation should be obtained, and intracranial exploration and resection should be carried out as the initial procedure. Extra-cranial resection of the remaining mass may be performed immediately after intracranial resection, may be postponed, or may become unnecessary.
Bounded arithmetic and truth definition

In [l], S. Buss introduced a system of Bounded Arithmetic S: which is closely related to A: in the polynomial hierachy. One of the most important open problems on Bounded Arithmetic is whether the hierachy of Bounded Arithmetic collapses, i.e., whether Si+?+’ = Sk for some i. This is relevant to the problem whether the polynomial hierchy collapses, though the exact logical relation between these two problems is not known at this moment. Very often, a stronger system is shown to be strictly stronger than a weaker system by proving that the stronger system proves the consistency of the weaker system. For the hierachy of Bounded Arithmetic this method does not work since Wilkie and Paris proved in [2] that Si + exp does not prove the consistency of Robinson’s arithmetic Q. where exp is the axiom Vx (2” exists). (S: + exp is equivalent to S: + exp.) This phenomenon can be explained by saying that the expressing power of unbounded quantifier is too strong to be handled by Bounded Arithmetic. Therefore the ordinary notion of consistency is totally inadequate for Bounded Arithmetic. We need some more delicate notions to distinguish systems of Bounded Arithmetic. For IZ = 1,2,3,. . . , we shall introduce Si,, which is obtained from S: by adding a function x #; y = 2’“’ # lYln where ]yln is defined by ]y],=y and IYI n+l = ]]yl,,]. We shall give a truth definition of Z+’ in S:,, for every 12 and prove that a Godel sentence of S: is provable in S$’ though it is not probable in Si. From this follows the existence of a A:-formula A(a) in S: which is not probable in Sg but provable in S$‘. Since S: can be considered as the limit of S:,, when n goes to ~0, this somewhat shows the delicate nature of the problem whether Si+?+’ is equivalent to Si. In [l], S. Buss also introduced second-order systems of Bounded Arithmetic fii and fii which are related to PSPACE and EXPTIME respectively. A formula in the language of S: is said to be sharply bounded if every quantifier in it is sharply bounded. We shall also define a truth definition of the sharply bounded formulas in @. By this truth definition, we can prove some weak consistency of 3: in @ where $’ is obtained from S: by adding the function /3(i, a) and by restricting all
Renal Tubular Excretion of Riboflavin in the Chicken.

SummaryRiboflavin excretion by renal tubular cells would seem to use the transport system for organic bases. This conclusion is based on the fact that tolazoline selectively inhibits riboflavin while not impairing PAH excretion. PAH excretion was even enhanced by tolazoline presumably as a result of diversion of more blood to the portal circulation. Benemid can inhibit transport of both PAH and riboflavin.
A New Fiber-Optic-Based Multifrequency Phase-Modulation Fluorometer

A new fiber-optic-based fluorescence lifetime instrument is described which is useful for the study of complex fluorescence decay kinetics. The new instrument consists of a multifrequency phase fluorometer coupled to a fiber-optic probe. To demonstrate the power of the new instrument, we show results for the unequivocal resolution of single, double, and triple exponential decays of fluorescence. In addition, spectral coverage in the ultra-violet and visible regions is possible, and lifetimes from approximately 200 ns to 150 ps are easily determined for samples as dilute as 0.1 μM.
No guts, no glory : Courage, harassment and minority influence

To test a courage hypothesis of minority influence, participants read a jury transcript in which a four person majority argued for conviction, while a two person minority argued for acquittal. Across two studies a harassed minority was more persuasive than an un-harassed minority on both obvious and subtle measures of social influence. In certain cases, these effects occurred only when weak minority arguments were used. In-group/out-group status of the minority, manipulated in Study 2, had negligible effects on persuasion. In Study 2, comparisons to a control condition in which all participants argued for acquittal, did not verify the contention that minority influence provokes more careful processing than majority influence despite the fact that harassed minorities were more persuasive on several measures than this type of majority-control. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of bilateral EMG equalization training in the treatment of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. A case report

Summary This paper describes a single-subject experiment testing two methods of using EMG biofeedback in the treatment of TMJ dysfunction. Following a baseline period, electrodes were placed on the left and right masseter muscles, and the subject was taught general relaxation of this area using visual biofeedback. Although data supported the conclusion that the subject had indeed learned to relax, this was not associated with any change in the report of pain or dysfunction. Equalization training, the goal being to equalize the levels of EMG in the right and left masseter muscles, was then begun. Once the patient had learned to maintain equal levels of EMG, relaxation was then re-introduced. This produced substantial decreases in her reported pain, both within the session and averaged across days for the time between sessions. These treatment gains were maintained at 2-month follow-up.
Cognitive and emotional control of pain and its disruption in chronic pain

Chronic pain is one of the most prevalent health problems in our modern world, with millions of people debilitated by conditions such as back pain, headache and arthritis. To address this growing problem, many people are turning to mind-body therapies, including meditation, yoga and cognitive behavioural therapy. This article will review the neural mechanisms underlying the modulation of pain by cognitive and emotional states - important components of mind-body therapies. It will also examine the accumulating evidence that chronic pain itself alters brain circuitry, including that involved in endogenous pain control, suggesting that controlling pain becomes increasingly difficult as pain becomes chronic.
Inhibition of thrombosis and intimal thickening by in situ photopolymerization of thin hydrogel barriers

Thin hydrogel barriers formed on the inner surface of injured arteries by interfacial photopolymerization dramatically reduced thrombosis and intimal thickening in rat and rabbit models of vascular injury. This polymerization technique allowed the synthesis of a thin hydrogel barrier that conformed to the vessel wall, directly blocking contact between blood and the damaged vessel. The illumination conditions could be varied to control the thickness of the barrier from 10 microns to > 50 microns. The hydrogel was designed to degrade by nonenzymatic hydrolysis. In rats in which the carotid artery had been severely injured by crushing, treatment with the hydrogel barrier completely eliminated thrombosis (P < 0.01) and preserved long-term patency (P < 0.01). Treatment in a rabbit model of balloon injury inhibited thrombosis (P < 0.02) and reduced long-term intimal thickening by approximately 80% (P < 0.003). These results suggest that blood-borne signals acting in the early phases of healing play an important role in stimulating thickening of the intima.
Perfect reconstruction filter banks with arbitrary regularity

This paper provides a simple parametrization of perfect reconstruction filter banks with arbitrary regularity. The parametrization shows that a perfect reconstruction filter bank with regularity N can be constructed by using an overlapping discrete 2N point Chebyshev transform followed by an orthogonal 2N X 2 transform and an arbitrary perfect reconstruction filter bank.
120-Ton Storage-Battery Locomotive Performance in Chicago Terminal Freight Yards

This paper describes the design and performance of a 120-ton storage-battery-driven, locomotive which has been in switching service in the freight yards of the Chicago railroad terminals. It shows that this locomotive has many advantages for this service including absence of smoke, quietness, a high factor of availability, ease of control, and economy.
Teacher Activity Orienting Predicts Preschoolers' Academic and Self-Regulatory Skills

Research Findings: This observational study of preschoolers (N = 140) in their classrooms (N = 41) examined variation in teacher orienting (defined as explanations and demonstrations about the procedures and rationale behind activities, including center projects, to the whole group or to individual children) and associations between orienting and children's academic and self-regulation skills. Orienting to individual children rarely occurred, but significant variation between classrooms in whole-group orienting was present. Children who experienced higher amounts of whole-group orienting had higher scores on general knowledge, mathematics, emergent literacy, and self-regulation in the spring when we controlled for child- and classroom-level background variables, including children's fall pretest scores, teacher education, and experience. For expressive vocabulary, greater exposure to orienting predicted higher spring vocabulary for younger but not older preschoolers. Practice or Policy: The results indica...
Lectin binding as a probe of proliferative and differentiative phases in primary monolayer cultures of cutaneous keratinocytes.

Abstract The surface of cells in the cutaneous epidermis of the newborn rat exhibits a discrete change in lectin-binding specificity from Griffonia simplicifolia I-B4 (GS I-B4), specific for α- d -galactosyl residues, to Ulex europeus agglutinin I (UEA), specific for α- l -fucose, as the cell leaves the basal layer and differentiates. Primary monolayer cultures of rat keratinocytes maintained in low Ca 2+ medium (0.08 m M ) exhibited a characteristic unimodal pattern in the ratio of bound UEA to bound GS I-B4 (UEA/B4 ratio) over a 7-day culture period as determined by a quantitative fluorometric assay. The UEA/B4 ratio was initially low between Days 1 and 2 (0.56±0.05), steadily increased to a maximum of 0.84±0.09 between Days 2 and 4, and then gradually decreased to 0.41 ±0.07 between Days 6 and 7. Estimation of DNA synthesis showed (a) a higher [ 3 H]thymidine incorporation when the UEA/B4 ratio was low and (b) a steady but lower incorporation between Days 3 and 4, coincident with the higher UEA/B4 ratio. Autoradiographic results further showed that cells stained intensely with UEA failed to incorporate [ 3 H]thymidine into their nuclei. Electrophoresis of [ 3 H]fucose-labeled material isolated on UEA-Sepharose 4B revealed that the changes in labeling by [ 3 H]fucose, bound UEA, and the UEA/B4 ratio in the monolayer were related in part to variable expression of “96K-associated UEA-bound” radioactivity corresponding to a major class of lectin-specific cell-surface glycoproteins (GP96 fraction) identified in situ . Overall, the results suggest that (a) the increase in the UEA/B4 ratio between Days 2 and 4 reflects the progression of a proportion of the cells in the monolayer to an early spinous cell stage, the ultimate fate of which is desquamation into the medium and (b) the decrease in the UEA/B4 ratio between Days 5 and 7 reflects a consequent proliferative response to this loss of cells. This system should be useful for studying environmental influences on the homeostasis of cell proliferation and differentiation in the cutaneous epidermis.
An infrared study of NO adsorption at defect sites on Pt(111)

Abstract The interaction of NO with three vicinal Pt(111) surfaces with different defect concentrations has been studied with infrared spectroscopy. The defect concentrations were calibrated using CO adsorption which has well-characterized IR bands associated with bonding at defect sites. The adsorption of NO on these platinum surfaces gives rise to numerous IR bands in the range 1320–1820 cm −1 . Two of the NO bands correspond to molecules at defect sites. Molecules bound at defect sites with a linear Pt-N-O configuration yield an IR band in the range 1820–1840 cm −1 while a bent Pt-N-O species at a defect site has a wavenumber of 1609–1634 cm −1 . We have directly confirmed our assignment of these bands by blocking the defect sites with atomic oxygen. Other IR bands are assigned to NO at terminal (1700–1720 cm −1 ) and two-fold bridge sites (1475–1500 cm −1 ) of the (111) terraces.
Effectiveness of a dissonance-based eating disorder prevention program for ethnic groups in two randomized controlled trials.

Objective As young women from certain ethnic minority groups have reported less pursuit of the thin ideal and body dissatisfaction than European American young women we tested whether a dissonance-based prevention program designed to reduce thin-ideal internalization among women with body dissatisfaction is less effective for the former relative to the later groups. We also tested whether intervention effects are larger when participants from minority groups worked with a facilitator matched versus not matched on ethnicity.
Import substitution, export promotion and the structure of Brazil's protection

Following a brief introduction the second section of this paper analyzes Brazil's policy of import‐substituting industrialization (ISI), as it relates to a number of variables suggested by economic theory. The third part investigates the inter‐industry structure of Brazil's protection as it relates to the country's comparative advantage in manufactured goods. Finally, the concluding section takes up certain policy implications suggested by the previous analysis.
The Voltage-Gated Calcium Channel γ Subunits: A Review of the Literature

Members of the voltage-gated calcium channel γ subunit gene family (Cacng), have been rapidly discovered since the discovery of the identification of the mouse γ2 gene (Cacng2) and its association with the stargazer mutant mouse line. The fact that this mutant mouse line exists has allowed researchers to gain insights into the function of the γ2 subunit. For example, stargazer mice have elevated levels of neuropeptide Y production, very low cerebellar brain derived neurotrophic factor production, and diminished cerebellar GABAA α 6 and β 3 production. Study of this mutant mouse line has also revealed that the γ2 subunit is involved in AMPA receptor trafficking and targeting to the synaptic membrane. For the most part, the effect of the γ subunits on the electrophysiology of voltage-gated calcium channels is to downregulate calcium channel activity by causing a hyperpolarizing shift in the inactivation curve. This finding and the association of these subunits with AMPA receptor trafficking has led some researchers to question the actual role of the γ subunits. This article reviews the discovery, cellular localization, tissue distribution, and function of the eight members of the Cacng family.
An existence theorem for an integro-differential equation

In this paper we obtain an existence theorem for an integro-differential equation of the type u(s)+∫ω K(s,t) ∑α|⩽m (−1)|α| DαBα(t,ξ(u)(t)) dt=0. Hence ξ(u)(t) = {Dαu(t) : ¦ α ¦ ⩽ m} and Bα is a function of Ω × RSm in to R1. We assume that Bα satisfies “Nemytskii type” growth condition and also a monotonicity type condition. The kernel K is assumed to be such that it is in Wm,p(Ω × Ω) and is angle bounded. Our existence theorem is obtained by using the theory of monotone operators for Hammerstein operator equations.
Improved surface swimmer detection through multimodal data fusion

Waterborne intruder detection includes many new challenges not seen in land environments. One area of these challenges is the detection of surface swimmers. Swimmers, whose bodies are partially in air and partially submerged, have significantly reduced target strength (TS) for radar and sonar systems compared to intruders fully in air or fully submerged. This reduced TS results in more frequent missed detections or, if detection threshold is widened, increased nuisance alarms. Depending on sea state, a swimmer is also able to blend in with wave noise, making detection even more difficult. We present a method for improved surface swimmer detection in marine environments by fusing data from several sensor systems in both air and water domains to isolate a swimmer's signature from uncorrelated events. This system, tested in Dec 2011 in St. Petersburg FL, produced data indicating significantly improved detection over using any single system. By widening detection threshold of each sensor's detection algorithm but fusing data of each system together, more potential targets can be processed without the risk of increasing nuisance alarms. This work holds the potential to improve the security of several types of water-dependent assets, like commercial harbors, Navy or Coast Guard bases, and nuclear and other water-cooled power plans, and offshore oil platforms.
Analysis and control of particulate processes with input constraints

A general methodology is proposed for the analysis and control of spatially-homogeneous particulate processes with input constraints modeled by population balance equations. A nonlinear model reduction procedure based on the method of weighted residuals is used for the construction of finite-dimensional ordinary differential equation (ODE) systems that accurately reproduce the dominant dynamics of the particulate process. These ODE systems are used to analyze the limitations imposed by input constraints on the ability to modify the dynamics of the particulate process, leading to an explicit characterization of the set of admissible set points that can be achieved in the presence of constraints. This information, together with the derived ODE systems, is then used as the basis for the synthesis of practically-implementable nonlinear bounded output feedback controllers with well-characterized constraint-handling capabilities. The designed controllers enforce exponential stability in the closed-loop system and achieve particle-size distributions with desired characteristics in the presence of active input constraints. Precise closed-loop stability conditions are given and controller implementation issues are addressed. This method is successfully used to regulate a continuous crystallizer with constrained control action at an open-loop, unstable equilibrium point.
Raman scattering measurements of nitric oxide in ammonia/oxygen flames

Abstract Local measurements of temperature and the concentrations of nitric oxide, oxygen, and nitrogen are obtained in lean ammonia/oxygen flat flames using Raman spectroscopy. The data show that super equilibrium levels of nitric oxide are produced, and that nitric oxide destruction processes are rapidly quenched in the post flames gases.
Nitrogen Oxide/Chlorine Interactions in a Laboratory Swirl Flame Combustor

An experimental and theoretical investigation was conducted examining the effect of chlorine (CI) on nitrogen oxide (NO) emissions from a practical combustor. Experiments consisted of both parametric and detailed studies on an 82 k W rated swirl flame laboratory combustor. Theoretical efforts consisted of detailed kinetic modeling using validated kinetic mechanisms obtained from the literature. Both the experimental and theoretical work led to essentially negative results, namely, that NO/Cl interactions are unlikely to influence NO emissions under most conditions of interest. Kinetic modeling provided useful insight and was able to simulate trends revealed by the data. Additional calculations from kinetic modeling then suggested that CI might enhance staging effectiveness, under severely reducing primary stage conditions.
Test of methods for evaluating bibliographic databases: an analysis of the National Library of Medicine's handling of literatures in the medical behavioral sciences

This article reports on five separate studies designed for the National Library of Medicine (NLM) to develop and test methodologies for evaluating the products of large databases. The methodologies were tested on literatures of the medical behavioral sciences (MBS). One of these studies examined how well NLM covered MBS monographic literature using CATLINE and OCLC. Another examined MBS journal and serial literature coverage in MEDLINE and other MBS-related databases available through DIALOG. These two studies used 1010 items derived from the reference lists of sixty-one journals, and tested for gaps and overlaps in coverage in the various databases. A third study examined the quality of the indexing NLM provides to MBS literatures and developed a measure of indexing as a system component. The final two studies explored how well MEDLINE retrieved documents on topics submitted by MBS professionals and how online searchers viewed MEDLINE (and other systems and databases) in handling MBS topics. The five studies yielded both broad research outcomes and specific recommendations to NLM.
The relations of ependyma to neurons and capillaries in the hypothalamus: a Golgi-Cox study

Numerous basal processes of ependymal cells extend peripherally into every cell group and area of the hypothalamus of the four species of mammals examined: mouse, rat, rabbit and cat. With Golgi-Cox impregnation and Nissl counterstaining, ependymal cell processes appear to have a variety of forms and of intricate structural relationships with neurons and capillaries within the hypothalamus. It is proposed that hypothalamic ependymal cells and their processes function as a communication system between the cerebrospinal fluid of the third ventricle and neurons and capillaries within the hypothalamus. The role that such a system may play in the regulation of adenohypophysial function is discussed. It was also noted that in all hypothalamic cell groups, dendrites of some neurons extend to the ependymal layer. An unusual cell, resembling microglia forms, within the infundibular nucleus appears to be selectively impregnated by the Golgi-Cox technique employed. The cell is characteristic of the infundibular nucleus and, with rare exceptions, is confined to that cell group. Some of these spider-cells lie on the ependymal layer and also have endfeet extending to the ventricular surface of the ependyma.
Testicular function in transsexual men.

Although the sperm counts of 5 of 8 adult male-to-female transsexuals were low, other aspects of testicular function were normal. Plasma production rates of testosterone averaged 6.4 mg/24 hours, a value similar to the 5.7 mg/24 hours produced by heterosexual adult men. Production rates of 17β-estradiol and estrone, 55µg/24 hours and 52 µg/24 hours, were also normal. Observed abnormalities of pituitary function and pituitary response to LHRH cannot be explained by abnormal testicular steroidogenesis.
Annihilators of Orlik-Solomon Relations

The Orlik-Solomon algebra A of a matroid is isomorphic to the quotient of an exterior algebra E by a defining ideal I. We find an explicit presentation of the annihilator ideal of I or, equivalently, the E-module dual to A. As an application of that we provide a necessary, combinatorial condition for the algebra A to be quadratic. We show that this is stronger than the matroid being line-closed, thereby resolving (negatively) a conjecture by M. Falk. We also show that our condition is not sufficient for quadraticity.
Complete separation in the random and Cohen models

Abstract It is shown that in the model obtained by adding κ many random reals, where κ is a supercompact cardinal, every C ⁎ -embedded subset of a first countable space (even with character smaller than κ ) is C -embedded. It is also proved that if two ground model sets are completely separated after adding a random real then they were completely separated originally but CH implies that the Cohen poset does not have this property.
Morphogenesis of the glomerular filter: the synchronous assembly and maturation of two distinct extracellular matrices.

The morphogenesis of the glomerular filtration apparatus during pre- and postnatal development in the rodent involves the coordinated assembly of two closely apposed but morphologically different extracellular matrices, the glomerular capillary basement membrane and the mesangial matrix. The cellular origin of these matrices is known to be distinct and complex; however, the mechanisms by which these matrices are assembled during morphogenesis are not entirely understood. It has been shown that in the earliest stages of glomerular morphogenesis the nascent glomerular basement membrane exists as a four-layered structure, the product of both the visceral epithelium and capillary endothelium. During the latter stages of glomerular development, the quadrilaminar structure becomes a trilaminar basement membrane, the event thought to occur by fusion of closely apposed basement membrane layers. In subsequent stages of maturation and throughout the life of the animal, the visceral epithelial cells, which line the periphery of the glomerular capillary, are the primary source of newly synthesized basement membrane material. The mesangial matrix, which lacks the specific organization of a basement membrane, first occurs in the developing glomerulus as a diffuse matrix central to the developing glomerular capillaries. During glomerular maturation the mesangial matrix undergoes a compaction/arborization coincident with the ramification of the vascular histoarchitecture of the glomerular tuft. Recent advances in the cell biology of basement membrane now demonstrate that there is a divergence in isoforms of the molecules that comprise the glomerular capillary basement membrane and mesangial matrices during development, possibly coincidental with functional specialization during the process of glomerular maturation. Microsc. Res. Tech. 39:233–253, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Advective removal of intraparticle uranium from contaminated vadose zone sediments, Hanford, U.S.

A column study on U(VI)-contaminated vadose zone sediments from the Hanford Site, WA, was performed to investigate U(VI) release kinetics with water advection and variable geochemical conditions. The sediments were collected from an area adjacent to and below tank BX-102 that was contaminated as a result of a radioactive tank waste overfill event. The primary reservoir for U(VI) in the sediments are micrometer-size precipitates composed of nanocrystallite aggregates of a Na-U-Silicate phase, most likely Na-boltwoodite, that nucleated and grew within microfractures of the plagioclase component of sand-sized granitic clasts. Two sediment samples, with different U(VI) concentrations and intraparticle mass transfer properties, were leached with advective flows of three different solutions. The influent solutions were all calcite-saturated and in equilibrium with atmospheric CO2. One solution was prepared from DI water, the second was a synthetic groundwater (SGW) with elevated Na that mimicked groundwater at ...
Optimizing the sensitivity of enzyme systems to perturbations from equilibrium

Abstract Algebraic derivations and numerical examples illustrate how metabolite pool sizes and enzyme rate constants influence the rate at which a multireactant enzyme system, initially poised in a near-equilibrium steady state, responds to small perturbations in the concentrations of the reactants. Certain enzymes, such as those employing the ordered bi bi catalytic mechanism, become relatively insensitive to perturbations when the reactants are all present at high concentrations. Other enzymes, such as those employing the ping-pong bi bi mechanism, are most sensitive to perturbations at high reactant concentrations. The ratio of the reactant concentrations to one another significantly alters sensitivity to perturbations; equations are presented for calculation of the reactant concentrations yielding maximal sensitivity to perturbations. Natural selection could choose metabolite pool sizes and enzyme rate constants which would optimize the performance of these systems, but changing metabolic loads (naturally or experimentally imposed) constantly alter the sensitivity of these systems to perturbations, changing the relative strengths of various connections in metabolic control networks.
Effects of gas pressure on low-pressure electron-beam lithography

In electron-beam (EB) lithography, it is common practice to prepare the resist for exposure using a metal over-layer or an ion shower to eliminate the charging of the resist. Recent efforts to prototype micromechanical structures using EB lithography methods have avoided the need for resist preparation by using low-pressure EB lithography methods. While a great deal of research has centered around high-vacuum electron-beam (EB) lithography, little research has been conducted concerning the effect of gas chamber pressure on linewidth in low-pressure EB lithography. In this paper, experimental data are presented linking the gas pressure in low-pressure EB lithography with lithography line profiles. The results show that as gas pressure is varied, a compromise exists between line broadening and the charging-up effect.
The Multifaceted Roles of Autophagy In Tumors--Implications For Breast Cancer

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved lysosomal degradation process that is crucial for adaptation to stress as well as in cellular homeostasis. In cancer, our current understanding has uncovered multifaceted roles for autophagy in tumor initiation and progression. Although genetic evidence corroborates a critical role for autophagy as a tumor suppressor mechanism, autophagy can also promote the survival and fitness of advanced tumors subject to stress, which has important implications during breast cancer progression and metastasis. Here, I discuss the mechanisms and the evidence underlying these diverse roles for autophagy in cancer and speculate on specific circumstances in which autophagy can be most effectively targeted for breast cancer treatment.
Highway XVI re-visited: the road from non-discrimination to market access in GATS

The GATS (General Agreement on Trade in Services) is a highly complicated legal instrument and prone to various interpretations because of the embedded ambiguity. It should not come as a surprise that in the context of all disputes concerning services, WTO panels and the Appellate Body reached diametrically opposite conclusions on the same issues. Un-appealed panel reports, on the other hand, have not been welcome either. One of the major, if not the major, issue is the legal relationship between Arts. XVI and XVII GATS, which regulate market access. The manner in which this relationship has been interpreted inescapably leads to constructing the GATS as a move beyond negative integration. This is at odds with the intent of the founding fathers, the letter and the spirit of the GATS itself. Subjecting Art. XVI to Art. XVII GATS guarantees respect of the negative integration character of GATS. It thus avoids internationalizing issues that WTO Members want to keep in their domaine reserve. Counter-intuitively probably, it allows for more trade liberalization. Using the unfortunate US–Gambling report as an example, this report suggests an approach to understanding Art. XVI as a sub-set of Art. XVII GATS.
2009 MEMOCODE co-design contest

The 2009 MEMOCODE Co-Design Contest is the third in the series of annual design contests organized by the MEMOCODE Conference. Contestants have one month to create the best performing design solution to a posted design challenge. The contest is open to all interested participants, and the contest rules are designed to not exclude or favor any one design methodology or platform. The goal of the contest is to invite developers of tools and platforms to showcase their technology in a leveled competition and to encourage hands-on design activities in the fields of interest of the MEMOCODE Conference. Please see http://www.memocode-conference.com for current information about this contest.
Expression, activity, and pro-hypertrophic effects of PDE5A in cardiac myocytes.

Abstract Cyclic GMP-selective phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) has been traditionally thought to play a little role in cardiac myocytes, yet recent studies using selective inhibitors such as sildenafil suggest it can potently modulate acute and chronic cardiac stress responses. To date, evidence for myocyte PDE5 expression and regulation has relied on small-molecule inhibitors and anti-sera, leaving open concerns regarding non-specific immune-reactivity, and off-target drug effects. To directly address both issues, we engineered a robust PDE5-gene silencing shRNA (inserted into miRNA-155 cassette) and DsRed–PDE5 fusion protein, both coupled to a CMV promoter and incorporated into adenoviral vectors. PDE5 mRNA and protein knock-down eliminated anti-sera positivity on immunoblots and fluorescent immuno-histochemistry in neonatal and adult cardiomyocytes, and suppressed PDE5 enzyme activity. Stimulation of myocyte hypertrophy by phenylephrine was blunted by PDE5 gene silencing in a protein kinase G dependent manner, and this effect was similar to that from sildenafil with no additive response by both combined. DsRed–PDE5 fusion protein expression showed normal z-band localization in adult myocytes but was diffused in eNOS −/− myocytes; echoing reported findings with anti-sera. PDE5 overexpression increased enzyme activity and amplified natriuretic peptide gene expression from phenylephrine stimulation. These data confirm PDE5 expression, activity, and targeted inhibition by sildenafil in cardiomyocytes, as well as the role of this PDE in cardiomyocyte hypertrophy modulation.
Comparison of Abortion and Infection after Experimental Challenge of Pregnant Bison and Cattle with Brucella abortus Strain 2308

A comparative study was conducted using data from naive bison (n = 45) and cattle (n = 46) from 8 and 6 studies, respectively, in which a standardized Brucella abortus strain 2308 experimental challenge was administered during midgestation. The incidence of abortion, fetal infection, uterine or mammary infection, or infection in maternal tissues after experimental challenge was greater (P 0.05) between cattle and bison. The results of our study suggest that naive bison and cattle have similarities and differences after experimental exposure to a virulent B. abortus strain. Although our data suggest that bison may be more susceptible to infection with Brucella, some pathogenic characteristics of brucellosis were similar between bison and cattle.
Characterization of silicide precipitates in Nb–Si and Nb–Ti–Si alloys

Abstract The present paper describes the morphology, chemistry and crystallography of silicide precipitates that were observed in Nb–Si and Nb–Ti–Si solid solutions. Although the stable structure of Nb3Si is tetragonal (tP32), within the bcc Nb solid solution, fine-scale Nb3Si precipitates were observed with a metastable orthorhombic crystal structure. These precipitates were observed with an acicular morphology, and with sizes ranging from 2 nm to 1 μm in the assolidified condition. The orientation relationship between these precipitates and the Nb matrix is (100)//(100) and [010]//[010]. It is suggested that the metastable orthorhombic structure forms owing to ease of nucleation of this structure in the bcc Nb matrix. The crystallography of these precipitates is described, and these findings are compared with previous data on the Nb–Si system.
Mentoring Ethnic Minority Students for Careers in Academia The WICHE Doctoral Scholars Program

The need for academic mentoring of ethnic minority doctoral students in counseling psychology has resulted in a call for training programs to build environments that not only provide financial assistance, but also work toward enhancing qualitative aspects of training that may be important in the students’preparations for future academic careers. This article describes the Western Interstate Commission of Higher Education’s (WICHE) Doctoral Scholars Program that provides both external funding and strategies designed to encourage faculty-student mentoring. The extent to which WICHE has influenced doctoral training in the counseling psychology program at the University of Utah is described from the perspective of the WICHE director, a WICHE faculty mentor, and two WICHE doctoral scholars. The importance of the faculty mentor as a facilitative agent in the training of ethnic minority students and in helping them to prepare for careers in academia is highlighted.
Ayurvedic medicinal plants for Alzheimer's disease: a review

Alzheimer's disease is an age-associated, irreversible, progressive neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by severe memory loss, unusual behavior, personality changes, and a decline in cognitive function. No cure for Alzheimer's exists, and the drugs currently available to treat the disease have limited effectiveness. It is believed that therapeutic intervention that could postpone the onset or progression of Alzheimer's disease would dramatically reduce the number of cases in the next 50 years. Ayurvedic medicinal plants have been the single most productive source of leads for the development of drugs, and over a hundred new products are already in clinical development. Indeed, several scientific studies have described the use of various Ayurvedic medicinal plants and their constituents for treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Although the exact mechanism of their action is still not clear, phytochemical studies of the different parts of the plants have shown the presence of many valuable compounds, such as lignans, flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, triterpenes, sterols, and alkaloids, that show a wide spectrum of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-amyloidogenic, anti-cholinesterase, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant effects. This review gathers research on various medicinal plants that have shown promise in reversing the Alzheimer's disease pathology. The report summarizes information concerning the phytochemistry, biological, and cellular activities and clinical applications of these various plants in order to provide sufficient baseline information that could be used in drug discovery campaigns and development process, thereby providing new functional leads for Alzheimer's disease.
“The Case” Responds

MacKinnon responds that her theory, while not liberalism in denial or disguise, is engaged in dialogue with liberalism (as well as with other theoretical traditions).
Three Misconceptions About Age and L2 Learning

Age has often been considered a major, if not the primary, factor determining success in learning a second or foreign language. Children are generally considered capable of acquiring a new language rapidly and with little effort, whereas adults are believed to be doomed to failure. Although older learners are indeed less likely than young children to master an L2, a close examination of studies relating age to language acquisition reveals that age differences reflect differences in the situation of learning rather than in capacity to learn. They do not demonstrate any constraint on the possibility that adults can become highly proficient, even nativelike, speakers of L2s. Researchers, in other words, have often committed the same blunders as members of the general public: misinterpretation of the facts relating to speed of acquisition, misattribution of age differences in language abilities to neurobiological factors, and, most notably, a misemphasis on poor adult learners and an underemphasis on adults who master L2s to nativelike levels. By clarifying these misconceptions, we hope this article will lead to a better understanding of L2 learning and, in turn, better approaches to L2 teaching.
Persistence of black-tailed prairie-dog populations affected by plague in northern Colorado, USA.

The spatial distribution of prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) colonies in North America has changed from large, contiguous populations to small, isolated colonies in metapopulations. One factor responsible for this drastic change in prairie-dog population structure is plague (caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis). We fit stochastic patch occupancy models to 20 years of prairie-dog colony occupancy data from two discrete metapopulations (west and east) in the Pawnee National Grassland in Colorado, USA, that differ in connectivity among suitable habitat patches. We conducted model selection between two hypothesized modes of plague movement: independent of prairie-dog dispersal (colony-area) vs. plague movement consistent with prairie-dog dispersal (connectivity to extinct colonies). The best model, which fit the data well (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.94 west area; 0.79 east area), revealed that over time the proportion of extant colonies was better explained by colony size than by connectivity to extinct (plagued) colonies. The idea that prairie dogs are not likely to be the main vector that spreads Y. pestis across the landscape is supported by the observation that colony extinctions are primarily caused by plague, prairie-dog dispersal is short range, and connectivity to extinct colonies was not selected as a factor in the models. We also conducted simulations with the best model to examine long-term patterns of colony occupancy and persistence of prairie-dog metapopulations. In the case where the metapopulations persist, our model predicted that the western metapopulation would have a colony occupancy rate approximately 2.5 times higher than that of the eastern metapopulation (∼50% occupied colonies vs. 20%) in 50 years, but that the western metapopulation has ∼80% chance of extinction in 100 years while the eastern metapopulation has a less than 25% chance. Extinction probability of individual colonies depended on the frequency with which colonies of the same size class occurred in the metapopulation. Thus, the long-term persistence of prairie-dog metapopulations depended on specific details of the metapopulation.
Coumarins and chromones from Lomatium macrocarpum

Abstract Roots of Lomatium macrocarpum (Hook. & Arn.) C. & R. yielded osthol (7-methoxy-8-[3-methyl-2-butenyl]-coumarin) and a chromone, 2-methyl-5-hydroxy-6-[3-methyl-2-butenyl]-7-methoxychromone, identified spectroscopically and by synthesis. The aerial parts of the plant also contained this chromone along with sibiricin (5,7-dimethoxy-8-[3-methyl-2,3-epoxybutyl]-coumarin) and a new coumarin named macrocarpin. By spectroscopy and chemical degradation macrocarpin was shown to be 7-methoxy-8-(3-methyl-4-[2-methyl- cis -2-butenoyloxy]- cis -2-butenyl)coumarin. These products were not found in four other Lomatium species examined.