cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Simulation of wear of tape head contours

A procedure whereby head wear can be numerically simulated is described. Wear is assumed to be proportional to a material constant times the contact pressure. Based on this assumption, the change in head contour due to wear is calculated in incremental steps starting from any initial contour. Simulation data are compared to an experimental measurement of head contour change due to wear. It is noted that the simulation of mechanical wear allows the evaluation of head geometries for their performance after wear. Wear of composites can be modeled with the simulation as well as preferential wear of thin-film head elements. Additionally, the model gives insight into the final lapping process for head manufacture. >
Effect of Water Content on the Electrical Conductivity of Sodium Trisilicate Glasses

The effect of variations in water content on the direct-current electrical conductivity of Na2O · 3SiO2 glass was measured. Increasing the water content of this glass from 10 to 500 wt ppm of H2O results in an increase in the resistivity of a factor of 2 to 3. The increase in resistivity is accompanied by an increase in the activation energy for conduction. Increasing resistivity with increasing water content is attributed to decreasing molar volume. Under identical annealing conditions, “wetter” glasses relax to a smaller molar volume (greater density) because of the presence of a larger number of “terminal” hydroxyl species that allow structural relaxation to continue to lower temperatures.
The Neurobiological Basis of Anxiety and Fear: Circuits, Mechanisms, and Neurochemical Interactions (Part II)

There have been tremendous advances in our knowledge of the neurobiological basis of human anxiety and fear. This review seeks to highlight how specific neuronal circuits, neural mechanisms, and neuromod ulators may play a critical role in anxiety and fear states. It focuses on several brain structures, including the amygdala, locus coeruleus, hippocampus, and various cortical regions and the functional interactions among brain noradrenergic (NE), corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), and the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis (HPA). Particular attention is directed toward results that can lead to a better understanding of the constellation of the symptoms associated with two of the more severe anxiety disorders, panic disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the persistence of traumatic memories, and the effects of stress, particularly early life adverse experiences, on brain function and clinical outcome. NEUROSCIENTIST 4: 35-44, 1998
The role of ultrastructural pathology in the diagnosis of epithelial and unusual renal tumors.

The electron microscopic and immunohistochemical features of epithelial and unusual renal tumors are reviewed. Ultra-structural and immunohistochemical features of diagnostic value are highlighted. An attempt is made to address histoge-nesis/differentiation issues that would help in understanding morphologic findings, with an emphasis placed on the role that ultrastructural evaluation has played in demonstrating these.
Anomalous emission from some derivatives of azulene

Abstract The emission from 1-trifluoroacetylazulene, 1-nitroazulene, and 1-azuloic acid has been shown to originate from a high energy singlet state, and is thus classified as anomalous.
Arginine Nutrition in Neonatal Pigs

The concentration of arginine (an essential amino acid for neonates) in sow's milk is remarkably low, and thus endogenous synthesis of arginine plays a crucial role in maintaining arginine homeostasis in milk-fed piglets. Paradoxically, intestinal synthesis of citrulline from glutamine/glutamate and proline (the endogenous source of arginine) declines markedly in 7- to 21-d-old suckling pigs, compared with 1- to 3-d-old pigs. Therefore, plasma concentrations of arginine and its immediate precursors (ornithine and citrulline) decrease progressively by 20-41%, whereas plasma ammonia levels increase progressively by 18-46%, between d 3 and 14 of life. Dietary supplementation of 0.2 and 0.4% arginine to 7- to 21-d-old pigs (artificially reared on a milk feeding system) dose dependently enhances the plasma arginine concentration (30 and 61%), reduces the plasma ammonia level (20 and 35%), and increases weight gain (28 and 66%). These compelling metabolic and growth data demonstrate unequivocally that arginine is insufficient for supporting the maximal growth in milk-fed young pigs and that this arginine deficiency represents a major obstacle to realizing the growth potential in piglets. A low concentration of mitochondrial N-acetylglutamate (an activator of both pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthase and carbamoylphosphate synthase-I) is responsible for the striking decline in the intestinal synthesis of citrulline and arginine during the suckling period. Accordingly, oral administration of N-carbamoylglutamate [a metabolically stable analogue of N-acetylglutamate; 2 x 50 mg/(kg body wt . d)] enhances plasma arginine level (68%) and weight gain (61%) of 4- to 14-d-old sow-reared pigs. Thus, the metabolic activation of intestinal citrulline and arginine synthesis provides a novel, effective means to increase endogenous arginine provision and therefore piglet growth (a major goal of animal agriculture). Our findings not only generate new fundamental knowledge about amino acid utilization by neonatal pigs, but they also have important practical implications for improving the efficiency of pork production.
Amine-Containing Molecules and the Induction of an Expanded Lysosomal Volume Phenotype: A Structure–Activity Relationship Study

ABSTRACT Many weakly basic amine-containing compounds have a strong propensity to become highly concentrated in lysosomes by virtue of an ion-trapping-type mechanism; the substrates for this are referred to as lysosomotropic. We have previously shown that many lysosomotropic drugs can produce a significant expansion in the apparent volume of lysosomes, which can ultimately result in an intracellular distribution-based drug–drug interaction. In this study, we have systematically evaluated the physicochemical and structural features of weakly basic molecules that correlate with their ability to induce an expanded lysosomal volume phenotype (ELVP) in cultured human fibroblasts. By quantitatively evaluating the cellular accumulation of Lysotracker Red, a fluorescent lysosomotropic probe, the volume of the lysosomal compartment was determined. We specifically explored the influence that lysosomotropism, molecular size, and amphiphilicity had on a molecule's ability to induce an ELVP. The capacity of these molecules to intercalation into biological membranes was also evaluated using a red blood cell hemolysis assay. The present results suggest that a molecule's potency in eliciting an ELVP is influenced by lysosomotropism, amphiphilicity, and its ability to intercalate into biological membranes. Despite being highly lysosomotropic, low-molecular-weight, nonaromatic amines failed to cause an ELVP at all concentrations evaluated. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.
The Hormonogenic Sites of Turtle Thyroglobulin and Their Homology with Those of Mammals

Thyroglobulin (Tg) from turtles previously injected with 125I was reduced, alkylated, and digested with trypsin. We purified the resultant peptides on HPLC columns, determined their amino acid sequences and the locations of [125I]T4 and [125I]T3 residues, and compared them with established sequences from humans, cows, rabbits, rats, and guinea pigs. We found five major T4 peptides, three of which were homologous with the major hormonogenic sites A, B, and D of mammalian Tg. Site A, the highly conserved major T4 site in mammals, had substitutions in three residues near the T4 residue and had much less of Tg's newly synthesized T4 than is found in mammalian Tg (25% in turtle us. 44% in rabbit). Site B contained correspondingly more of Tg's new T4 (42% us. 24% in rabbit). Turtle Tg contained little [125I]T3, and we did not find site C (Ser-T3/ T4-Ser, the major T3 site in guinea pig and rabbit) in turtles, but did find Val-T4, a possible homolog. Site D was quantitatively less important than in mammals. The ...
Ficus seed shadows in a Bornean rain forest.

Due to their copious seed production and numerous dispersers, rain forest fig trees have been assumed to produce extensive and dense seed shadows. To test this idea, patterns of seed dispersal of two species of large hemiepiphytic fig tree were measured in a Bornean rain forest. The sample included four Ficus stupenda and three F. subtecta trees with crop sizes ranging from 2,000 to 40,000 figs (400,000 to 13,000,000 seeds). Seed rain out to a distance of 60 m from each study tree was quantified using arrays of seed traps deployed in the understory. These trees showed a strongly leptokurtic pattern of dispersal, as expected, but all individuals had measurable seed rain at 60 m, ranging from 0.2 to 5.0 seeds/m2. A regression of In-transformed seed rain density against distance gave a significant fit to all seven trees' dispersal patterns, indicating that the data could be fitted to the negative exponential distribution most commonly fitted to seed shadows. However, for six of seven trees, an improved fit was obtained for regressions in which distance was also In-transformed. This transformation corresponds to an inverse power distribution, indicating that for vertebrate-dispersed Ficus seeds, the tail of the seed rain distribution does not drop off as rapidly as in the exponential distribution typically associated with wind dispersed seed shadows. Over 50% of the seed crop was estimated to fall below each fig tree's crown. Up to 22% of the seed crop was dispersed beyond the crown edge, but within 60 m of the tree. Estimates of the maximum numbers of seeds which could have been transported beyond 60 m were 45% for the two largest crops of figs, but were under 24% for the trees with smaller crops. Seed traps positioned where they had an upper canopy layer above them were associated with higher probabilities of being hit by seeds, suggesting that vertebrate dispersal agents are likely to perch or travel through forest layers at the same level as the fig crown and could concentrate seeds in such areas to some degree. The probability of a safe site at 60 m from the fig tree being hit by seeds is calculated to be on the order of 0.01 per fruiting episode. Fig trees do not appear to saturate safe sites with seeds despite their large seed crops. If we in addition consider the rarity of quality establishment sites and post-dispersal factors reducing successful seedling establishment, hemiepiphytic fig trees appear to face severe obstacles to seedling recruitment.
Optical absorption of rare-earth-doped BeF2 glasses

BeF 2 glasses are potentially useful materials for light transmission in the near infrared region of the spectrum. While the intrinsic attenuation of BeF 2 is thought to be much lower than silica, the optimum wavelength will be further in the infrared, near 2.1 μ . In this spectral region impurities other than transition metals may be important—rare earths, for example. The data required to estimate the contributions to attenuation are normally not available; hence it is the purpose of the present work to provide that information. Using a binary BeF 2 /ThF 4 glass, the optical absorption spectra of a number of rare earths are measured. The experimental procedures, optical spectra, and absorption strength are described.
A lifecycle model for online learning management: 21 critical metrics for the 21st century

Online learning environments (OLEs) are difficult to manage. They depend on many interconnecting networks and systems that all must function effectively, all the time. In this article, the authors present a model that depicts 21 metrics that managers can use to measure and monitor the online systems in order to assure continued effective current operations, network operations, and future operations. These metrics were developed over 17 years of operation in an OLE at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) in Fort Lauderdale, FL. The metrics, as used in this article, are concerned with the process of measuring and specifying expectations for performance.
The characterization of technetium organohydrazide chelate complexes. The synthesis of a technetium phenylimido complex. The X-ray crystal structure of [TcO(SC6H2Pri3)2(PhNNCON2HPh)]

Abstract The reaction of the neutral technetium(V) oxo tris(thiolate) complex [TcO(SAr) 3 (C 5 H 5 N)] with (phenylazo)formic acid 2-phenylhydrazide in methanol gives the oxo technetium(V) bis(thiolato) complex [TcO(SAr) 2 (PhN 2 CONNHPh)] ( 2 ). The FAB-MS(+) of 2 shows the protonated parent ion and the organohydrazide ligand fragmenting such that the technetium-phenylimido species [TcO(SAr)(NPh)] + is generated. The X-ray crystal structure of 2 shows a distorted square pyramidal coordination geometry and the nitrogen-bound proton on the terminal exocyclic nitrogen of the singly deprotonated, chelated organohydrazide ligand. Crystal data for C 43 H 56 N 4 O 2 S 2 Tc: triclinic space group P 1 , a = 13.3613(8), b = 14.02768(6), c = 13.0857(6) A, α = 113.949(4), β = 100.265(4), γ = 76.019(4)°, V = 2166.0(4) A 3 to give Z = 2. Structure solution and refinement based on 7786 reflections converged at R = 0.040, R w = 0.045. The reaction of the cationic technetium(V) oxo complex (Bu 4 N)[TcOCl 4 ] with (phenylazo)formic acid 2-phenylhydrazide and 1,5-diphenylcarbazide yields the phenylimido complex [TcCl(NPh)PhN 2 CON 2 HPh) 2 ] ( 1 ) which incorporates a phenylimido unit. The infrared spectrum of this species shows a strong band at 1204 cm −1 which has been assigned to v (TcN). The fast atom bombardment mass spectrometric analysis shows the protonated parent ion and a fragmentation profile containing both bis(phenylimido) and tris(phenylimido) technetium species generated through the decomposition of the chelated organohydrazide ligands.
Structure-property relations in a metastable β Ti alloy containing Si

The hardness response, tensile behavior, and phase transformations occurring in a quenched and aged metastable β phase Ti-30 at. pct V-l at. pct Si alloy have been inves-tigated. Upon aging at 570°C, as-quenched samples show a broad hardness peak which is associated with the formation of rod-like, hexagonal (Ti,V)xSiy transition phase precipi-tates. The equilibrium silicide is observed upon aging at 570°C in the form of faceted, tetragonal particles. A loss of tensile ductility and a transition to intergranular fracture occurs after extended aging at 570°C and is related to Si segregation to the grain bound-aries. Comparing the behavior of Ti-30V to that of Ti-30V-lSi shows that the presence of Si strongly retards α-phase formation. However, a substantial age hardening re-sponse still occurs upon aging at 450°C, especially after prior cold work (the yield strength increases from 635 to 982 MPa). This hardening response is combined with a retention of a ductile, transgranular fracture even after extended aging at 450°C. Aging first at 570°C followed by aging at 450°C results in an increase in the volume fraction of α-phase formed but a subsequent decrease in ductility and hardness response upon aging at 450°C. These results are discussed in terms of the structure/property relationships which result from the influence of Si on the formation of, a) (Ti.V)xSiy precipitates, b) the equilibrium silicide, and c) the α-phase.
Dynamics of Polar Nanoregions in Relaxors

We propose a general framework for the description and understanding of the polarization dynamics in relaxors. This framework is based on the two time-scale motion of off-center ions within polar nanoregions and the increasing restrictions placed on this motion with decreasing temperature. Four general stages are identified.
Development of the PCRV steam generator cavity closure for the GCFR

Abstract One phase of the program to develop a prestressed concrete reactor vessel for the gas-cooled fast reactor consists of the design, analysis and testing of models of the steam generator cavity and central core cavity closure . The analytical and experimental results for a 1 15 - scale model of the steam generator cavity closure plug will be presented. This test which is designed to measure pressure response and ultimate capacity of the plug will be followed by tests of 1 4 - scale models to provide design verification of the combined plug, seal and toggle-type hold-down system response.
Risks, risk taking, and societal decisions

Abstract Risk assessment is an important tool to help evaluate the appropriate course for social decisions. But this methodology does not appear to have played a significant role in such decisions. Moreover, public decisions often appear to be at wide variance with what course risk assessment would counsel. In this paper risk is defined, the nature of risk taking is examined, and risk assessment issues in terms of societal decisions are identified. Eight such issues are listed as technical challenges for risk assessors to take into consideration if their analyses are to be more successful in influencing public policy. Finally, the paper suggests two operative guidelines to improve the effectiveness of risk assessment influence on social decisions. One is to recognize that risk assessment is only one input, albeit an important one, to such decisions. The other is to strive for simplicity without loss of completeness or exactness.
Finite sample performance of density estimators under moving average dependence

Abstract We study the finite sample performance of kernel density estimators through exact mean integrated squared error formulas when the data belong to an infinite order moving average process. It is demonstrated that dependence can have a significant influence, even in situations where the asymptotic performance is unaffected.
Insect Transmission of Xylella fastidiosa to Pecan

Pecan bacterial leaf scorch (PBLS), caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, can cause economically significant crop loss to some pecan (Carya illinoinensis) cultivars in the southeastern United States. X. fastidiosa is typically vectored by spittlebugs (Cercopidae) and leafhoppers (Cicadellidae). Because no vector species had been reported for pecan, an attempt was made to identify potential vectors that are capable of acquiring the bacterium from infected pecan trees and transmitting to pecan. Several spittlebug and leafhopper species collected from various sources, including sorghum and pecan, were tested as potential vectors of the pathogen from pecan to pecan. When tested in groups, the pecan spittlebug, Clastoptera achatina; the Johnson-grass sharpshooter, Homalodisca insolita; and the glassy-winged sharpshooter (GWSS), Homalodisca vitripennis, had transmission rates to pecan of 11.4, 19.3, and 4%, respectively, following a pathogen acquisition period on infected pecan terminals. The pecan spittlebug is common in pecan orchards in the southeastern United States, and the GWSS was observed on young vigorous pecan shoots. Limited testing with the diamond-backed spittlebug, Lepyronia quadrangularis, and the lateral-lined sharpshooter, Cuerna costalis, suggested that these could be occasional vectors of X. fastidiosa to pecan. There is a need for studies on the identification and population dynamics of Cicadellidae that inhabit pecan orchards to determine if management of vectors is needed in commercial pecan production to reduce the spread of PBLS.
Can Technology Even Things Up for Community Banks

Community banks are the smallest of the commercial banks in the United States. They have been bracing to cope with the impact of interstate banking, with the distinct possibility of large banks encroaching on their hitherto protected market territories. The challenge for these banks has been one of survival in an environment dominated by “mega” banks and non‐bank financial firms able to provide the customers with an array of services at lower cost. In this environment, information technology plays a prominent role. The main purpose of our research was to find out how community banks perceive competitive threats from larger banks, how they have attained a threshold level of technology, and what they consider to be their strengths in competing with the larger rivals.
Nitric Oxide Increases Tumor Necrosis Factor Production in Differentiated U937 Cells by Decreasing Cyclic AMP

Nitric oxide (NO) increases tumor necrosis factor (TNF) synthesis in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells by a cGMP-independent mechanism. NO has been shown to inhibit adenylate cyclase in cell membranes. Since cAMP down-regulates TNF transcription, we examined the possibility that NO enhances TNF synthesis by decreasing cAMP. U937 cells were induced to differentiate using phorbol myristate acetate (100 nM for 48 h) and then were incubated for 24 h with sodium nitroprusside (SNP) or S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP). These NO donors increased TNF production (7.0- and 15.6-fold, respectively, at 500 microM) in a dose-dependent manner (p = 0.002). However, SNP and SNAP did not elevate cGMP levels in U937 cell cultures, and the cGMP analog, 8-bromo-cGMP, had no effect on TNF production. In contrast, SNP (p = 0.001) and SNAP (p = 0.009) decreased intracellular cAMP levels by up to 51.5% over 24 h and, in the presence of a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, blunted isoproterenol-stimulated increases in cAMP by 21.8% (p = 0.004) and 27.6% (p = 0.008), respectively. H89, an inhibitor of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, dose dependently increased TNF production in phorbol myristate acetate-differentiated U937 cells in the absence (6.5-fold at 30 microM; p = 0.035), but not in the presence (p = 0.77) of SNAP. Conversely, the cAMP analog dibutyryl cAMP (Bt2cAMP) blocked SNAP-induced TNF production (p = 0.001). SNP and SNAP (500 microM) increased relative TNF mRNA levels by 57.5% (p = 0.045) and 66.2% (p = 0.001), respectively. This effect was prevented by Bt2cAMP. These results indicate that NO up-regulates TNF production by decreasing intracellular cAMP.
Anisotropic Nature of Thermal Transport in Nanoscale Materials

In this work, an equilibrium technique is developed to study the thermal transport in nanomaterials. By directly tracking the relaxation behavior of energy carriers, the developed technique is able to determine the effect of boundary scattering on thermal transport. Since no temperature differential across the material is required to determine its thermal conductivity, the developed technique is applicable to nanomaterials of different shapes and capable of capturing the anisotropic nature of the thermal transport inside. Applying this technique, the thermal transport in several typical nanomaterials—nanofilms, square and round nanowires, and spherical and cubic nanoparticles are studied in detail. A strong anisotropic nature of thermal transport in nanomaterials is observed. For nanofilms and nanowires, the thermal conductivity in the restricted directions (thickness and radial) is smaller than that in the unrestricted direction. This anisotropic nature is more obvious and important when the characteristic size of nanomaterials becomes comparable to or smaller than the mean free path of energy carriers. Our results comparison shows that with the same characteristic size, the shape of the cross section of nanowires has appreciable effect on the thermal transport in the axial direction. For spherical and cubic nanoparticles, little difference is observed between their thermal conductivities.Copyright © 2005 by ASME
Fetal phenotypes and neonatal and early childhood outcomes in twins.

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluate factors associated with, and postnatal consequences of, altered patterns of fetal growth in twins. Study design Fetal growth was measured at 28 weeks' gestation on 218 twins, including head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length, and characterized as > or ≤10th %ile; children were followed up until the age of three years. Logistic regression was used to generate odds ratios of perinatal factors associated with reduced fetal growth. Results Maternal height Conclusion These data identify short maternal height, smoking, monochorionicity, fetal reduction, and inadequate weight gain before 20 weeks as risk factors associated with reduced twin fetal growth by 28 weeks' gestation and significant residual reductions in height and weight through 3 years of age.
Broiler chicken litter application timing effect on Coastal bermudagrass in southeastern U.S.

Presently, more than 85% of the broiler chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) litter (BCL) is being applied to pasture lands year-round. This practice results in nutrient losses and potentially unfavorable environmental impacts particularly during the wet winter months. A field plot experiment was initiated in 2001 on a Ruston silt loam in Mize, MS to identify the proper BCL application timing that enhances BCL nutrient uptake by crops while minimizing undesirable nutrient buildup in soil. Seven treatments (BCL application timings) were employed on previously established “Coastal” hybrid bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] plots. For each treatment, the quantity of broiler chicken litter (a mixture of chicken manure plus bedding materials) needed for each plot was calculated based on the BCL total N content to provide 400 kg N ha−1 for top bermudagrass yield (18 Mg ha−1) and applied either as a single, two-way split, or three-way split at different dates as follow: May; May/June; April/May/June; May/June/July; June/July/August; July/August/September; and August/September/October. Bermudagrass was harvested 5 times each year for dry matter (DM) and nutrient uptake determination. Significant differences in DM yield were observed in each year among application timings. The greatest DM yield was 18.6 Mg ha−1 for the single application in May and lowest at 15.0 Mg ha−1 for Aug/Sep/Oct application dates in 2001 and followed by the same trend in 2002. The N and P uptake by bermudagrass ranged from 270 to 381, and 53 to 63 kg ha−1 respectively, in 2001. Similar trend, but lower values for nutrient uptake were observed in 2002. Significant differences were observed among BCL application timings in regard to soil residual of total carbon (TC), total nitogen (TN), Mehlich 3 extracted P (M3-P), NO3–N, Cu, and Fe elements at the end of the study. In general, summer and early fall BCL applications resulted in greater buildup of most of these elements. Based on the results of this study, there is a wide window (May–July) for BCL application timing on bermudagrass considering the criteria of producing high yield and low soil residual nutrient. However, the best BCL application timing should be in spring (late April–June) when minimum temperatures exceed those required (24–27°C) for bermudagrass growth.
Executing an SECD machine using logic programming

Students usually find formal methods of describing programming languages very difficult because of the cryptic notation, the complexity of the techniques, and the size of the specifications. The SECD abstract machine provides a small but clear description of the operational semantics of the lambda calculus. By implementing the SECD machine in Prolog, we give students a tool for testing specifications and for experimenting with alternate language semantics in an interactive setting.
Protein Free Energy Landscapes Remodeled by Ligand Binding

Glucose/galactose binding protein (GGBP) functions in two different larger systems of proteins used by enteric bacteria for molecular recognition and signaling. Here we report on the thermodynamics of conformational equilibrium distributions of GGBP. Three fluorescence components appear at zero glucose concentration and systematically transition to three components at high glucose concentration. Fluorescence anisotropy correlations, fluorescent lifetimes, thermodynamics, computational structure minimization, and literature work were used to assign the three components as open, closed, and twisted conformations of the protein. The existence of three states at all glucose concentrations indicates that the protein continuously fluctuates about its conformational state space via thermally driven state transitions; glucose biases the populations by reorganizing the free energy profile. These results and their implications are discussed in terms of the two types of specific and nonspecific interactions GGBP has with cytoplasmic membrane proteins.
Shaping public perceptions of immigrants on welfare: the role of editorial pages of major US newspapers

Focuses on editorial coverage in terms of two elements, volumes and themes. Uncovers themes from editorial articles in order to document who speaks and constructs such ideas. Uses contact analysis attempts to reveal hidden messages within the texts. Suggests that the findings demonstrate the influence of the press in terms of policy decision‐making and provides implications for public policy.
High-throughput, cell-free, liposome-based approach for assessing in vitro activity of lipid kinases.

pip 4K ii β and α) in 2 commonly used homogeneous technologies. They have validated these assays through compound testing in both traditional T lc and radioactive filterplate approaches as well as binding validation using isothermic calorimetry. a directed library representing known kinase pharmacophores was screened against type ii β phosphatidylinositol-phosphate kinase ( pip K) to identify small-molecule inhibitors. This assay system can be applied to other types and isoforms of pip Ks as well as a variety of other lipid kinase targets. (Journal of Biomolecular Screening XXXX:xx-xx)
Italian Presidents and their Accordion: Pre-1992 and Post-1994

Apparently ill-defined in the Constitution, the role and powers of the President of the Italian Republic have too often been considered just ceremonial. Using the metaphor of the accordion, this article offers a comparison between the pre-1992 and the post-1993 periods. In the first one, when Italian parties were entrenched and strong they could prevent the Presidents from autonomously playing all their powers, and did so quite successfully. In the second period, following the major crisis derived from the Clean Hands investigation and the reform of the electoral system, Italian parties have seen their political strength significantly curtailed. As a consequence, the accordion of the three Presidents from 1993 up to now has been played using their full panoply of powers: appointment of the Prime Ministers, dissolution of Parliament, authorisation of governmental bills and enactment of the laws. This article documents the most important instances in which the Presidents have resorted to their constitutional powers against the ill-founded and extra-constitutional protests of centre-right and centre-left Prime Ministers and party leaders. Notwithstanding the differences in their political personality, it is a distinct possibility that future Italian Presidents will continue playing their accordion to its great extent and in full accordance with the Italian Constitution.
Learning through Technology In the Millennium Laboratory

For almost two months, the author observed a technology-based high school class during the spring semester of 2008. This class used computers almost exclusively for projects and assignments. The goal was to observe the type of influence (if any) technology-use might have on the studentspsila learning and their classroom environment. Throughout this observational period, the most striking occurrence was how the technology-use interacted with the students, their teacher, the classroom environment and the curriculum to create a classroom climate and social context that fostered real world learning. More specifically, through the use of technology in the context of their classroom, these students were able to develop strategic thinking, as well as participate in several activities that could prepare them for membership in a professional community of practice. The technology made all the difference in the learning experienced by these students.
Genetic Ablation of the CDP/Cux Protein C Terminus Results in Hair Cycle Defects and Reduced Male Fertility

Murine CDP/Cux, a homologue of the Drosophila Cut homeoprotein, modulates the promoter activity of cell cycle-related and cell-type-specific genes. CDP/Cux interacts with histone gene promoters as the DNA binding subunit of a large nuclear complex (HiNF-D). CDP/Cux is a ubiquitous protein containing four conserved DNA binding domains: three Cut repeats and a homeodomain. In this study, we analyzed genetically targeted mice (Cutl1(tm2Ejn), referred to as Delta C) that express a mutant CDP/Cux protein with a deletion of the C terminus, including the homeodomain. In comparison to the wild-type protein, indirect immunofluorescence showed that the mutant protein exhibited significantly reduced nuclear localization. Consistent with these data, DNA binding activity of HiNF-D was lost in nuclear extracts derived from mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) or adult tissues of homozygous mutant (Delta C(-/-)) mice, indicating the functional loss of CDP/Cux protein in the nucleus. No significant difference in growth characteristics or total histone H4 mRNA levels was observed between wild-type and Delta C(-/-) MEFs in culture. However, specific histone genes (H4.1 and H1) containing CDP/Cux binding sites have reduced expression levels in homozygous mutant MEFs. Stringent control of growth and differentiation appears to be compromised in vivo. Homozygous mutant mice have stunted growth (20 to 50% weight reduction), a high postnatal death rate of 60 to 70%, sparse abnormal coat hair, and severely reduced fertility. The deregulated hair cycle and severely diminished fertility in Cutl1(tm2Ejn/tm2Ejn) mice suggest that CDP/Cux is required for the developmental control of dermal and reproductive functions.
Achieving coordination in random access networks without explicit message passing

We propose a class of medium access control (MAC) protocols that utilize users' own transmission decisions and feedback information from the past slots. We consider an idealized slotted Aloha system and formulate the problem of a protocol designer who cares about the total throughput, the short-term fairness, and the complexity of protocols. A solution to the protocol designer's problem is provided with two users, and an approximate solution with three or more users. We use numerical methods to obtain optimal protocols that solve the protocol designer's problem, compare the total throughput of optimal protocols with that of other protocols proposed in the literature, and analyze a trade-off between throughput and fairness. The results show that by utilizing information obtained in the previous slot, users can achieve some degree of coordination without explicit message passing, which leads to high total throughput.
Detecting Edges in Noisy Multimedia Environments

This paper examines the process of detecting edges using partial derivatives of Boolean functions in noisy multimedia environments. Applicable to binary and multi-bit (grayscale) data, this novel approach examines the binary representation of the original data to reconstruct edge locations within the scene. Competitive with traditional detectors in noise-free situations, the strength is its ability to detect edges in corrupted signals with no need for pre-filtering. Evaluation is performed on several synthetic and natural 2D images corrupted with impulse noise.
A novel orphan receptor specific for a subset of thyroid hormone-responsive elements and its interaction with the retinoid/thyroid hormone receptor subfamily.

Abstract The steroid/hormone nuclear receptor superfamily comprises several subfamilies of receptors that interact with overlapping DNA sequences and/or related ligands. The thyroid/retinoid hormone receptor subfamily has recently attracted much interest because of the complex network of its receptor interactions. The retinoid X receptors (RXRs), for instance, play a very central role in this subfamily, forming heterodimers with several receptors. Here we describe a novel member of this subfamily that interacts with RXR. Using a v-erbA probe, we obtained a cDNA which encodes a novel 445-amino-acid protein, RLD-1, that contains the characteristic domains of nuclear receptors. Northern (RNA) blot analysis showed that in mature rats, the receptor is highly expressed in spleen, pituitary, lung, liver, and fat. In addition, weaker expression is observed in several other tissues. Amino acid sequence alignment and DNA-binding data revealed that the DNA-binding domain of the new receptor is related to that of the thyroid/retinoid subgroup of nuclear receptors. RLD-1 preferentially binds as a heterodimer with RXR to a direct repeat of the half-site sequence 5'-G/AGGTCA-3', separated by four nucleotides (DR-4). Surprisingly, this binding is dependent to a high degree on the nature of the spacing nucleotides. None of the known nuclear receptor ligands activated RLD-1. In contrast, a DR-4-dependent constitutive transcriptional activation of a chloramphenicol acetyltransferase reporter gene by the RLD-1/RXR alpha heterodimer was observed. Our data suggest a highly specific role for this novel receptor within the network of gene regulation by the thyroid/retinoid receptor subfamily.
A 3 V 10.7 Gb/s differential laser diode driver with active back-termination output stage

A 3 V 10.7 Gb/s differential laser diode driver fabricated on a 0.35 /spl mu/m SiGe bipolar process is presented. A feedback-amplifier output stage provides both differential and common-mode active back termination of the output transmission lines with 80 mA maximum modulation current. Rise and fall times of 28 ps are achieved, and typical power dissipation is 0.67 W for I/sub mod/=40 mA.
The impact of variation at the KIR gene cluster on human disease.

Leukocyte behavior is controlled by a balance of inhibitory and stimulatory signals generated on ligand binding to a complex set of receptors located on the cell surface. The killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) genes encode one such family of receptors expressed by natural killer (NK) cells, key components of the innate immune system that participate in early responses against infected or transformed cells through production of cytokines and direct cytotoxicity. KIRs are also expressed on a subset of T cells, where they contribute to the intensity of acquired immune responses. Recognition of self HLA class I ligands by inhibitory KIR allows NK cells to identify normal cells, preventing an NK cell-mediated response against healthy autologous cells. Activation of NK cells through stimulatory receptors is directed toward cells with altered expression of class I, a situation characteristic of some virally infected cells and tumor cells. The “missing self” model for NK cell activation was proposed to explain killing of cells that express little or no class I, while cells expressing normal levels of class I are spared. Studies performed over the last several years have revealed extensive diversity at the KIR gene locus,which stems from both its polygenic (variable numbers of genes depending on KIR haplotype) and multiallelic polymorphism. Given the role of KIR in both arms of the immune response, their specificity for HLA class I allotypes, and their extensive genomic diversity, it is reasonable to imagine that KIR gene variation affects resistance and susceptibility to the pathogenesis of numerous diseases. Consequently, the evolution of KIR locus diversity within and across populations may be a function of disease morbidity and mortality. Here we review a growing body of evidence purporting the influence of KIR polymorphism in human disease.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Relationship Between the Use of Health Care Services and Functional Disability: The Health and Retirement Study (1992–2004)

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine racial/ethnic differences in the relationship between functional disability and the use of health care services in a nationally representative sample of older adults by using the Andersen behavioral model of health services utilization. Design and Methods: The study used 12 years of longitudinal data from the Health and Retirement Study (1992–2004), a nationally representative sample of communitydwelling adults older than 50 in 1992 (N = 8,947). Nonlinear multilevel models used self-reported health care service utilization (physician visits and hospital admissions) to predict racial/ethnic differences in disability (activities of daily living and mobility limitations). The models also evaluated the roles of other predisposing (age and gender), health need (medical conditions and self-rated health), and enabling factors (health insurance, education, income, and wealth). Results: Blacks and Latinos utilizing physician visits and hospital admissions were associated with significantly more activity of daily living disability than Whites (p , .001). Blacks utilizing physician visits (p , .001) and hospital admissions (p , .05) and Latinos utilizing hospital admissions (p , .05) were associated with more mobility disability than Whites. Other predisposing, health need, and enabling factors did not account for these racial/ethnic differences. Implications: Nationally, health care use for Blacks and Latinos was associated with more disabilities than for Whites after we accounted for predisposing, health need, and enabling factors. The findings suggest that improving health care quality for all Americans may supersede equal access to health care for reducing ethnic and racial disparities in functional health.
AlGaN/GaN High-Electron-Mobility Transistors Fabricated Through a Au-Free Technology

This letter reports undoped AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) fabricated with a Si-CMOS-compatible technology based on Ti/Al/W ohmic and Schottky contacts. The use of ohmic recess is key to reduce the contact resistance of this Au-free metallization below 0.5 Ω·mm. Comparison of HEMTs fabricated on the same wafer with and without ohmic recess shows that the recess provides a tenfold reduction in contact resistance, resulting in a fivefold lower forward voltage drop at IDS = 100 mA/mm. The reported Au-free AlGaN/GaN HEMT fabrication technology provides similar performance (i.e., contact resistance, leakage current, and breakdown voltage) than state-of-the-art Au-based AlGaN/GaN HEMTs and can be used in standard Si fabs without the risk of contamination.
Integrated hydropyrolysis and hydroconversion (IH2) for the direct production of gasoline and diesel fuels or blending components from biomass, part 1: Proof of principle testing

Cellulosic biomass can be directly converted to hydrocarbon transportation fuels through the use of hydropyrolysis or integrated hydropyrolysis plus hydroconversion (IH2). Hydropyrolysis performed in a fast fluidized bed under 14–35 bar of hydrogen pressure with an effective deoxygenation catalyst directly produces a fungible hydrocarbon product with less than 1 total acid number which can either be directly fed to a refinery or polished in an integrated hydroconversion reactor to produce gasoline and diesel with less than 1% oxygen. Experimental data from a 0.45 kg/h semi-continuous IH2 pilot plant is presented. Economics and life cycle analysis data will be presented later in this series, and will show that by employing IH2 technology, biomass can be converted to gasoline and diesel fuels at delivered costs of less and in some cases significantly less than $1.80/gallon with greater than 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Larger (2.08 kg/h) long-term continuous pilot-scale testing of the IH2 process will commence in the near future. As a biomass-to-fuels conversion technology, IH2 has the potential to substantially reduce US dependence on foreign oil, thereby reducing the price of transportation fuels and significantly lowering worldwide greenhouse gas emissions. © American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Toward routine billion‐variable optimization using genetic algorithms

The push for better understanding and design of complex systems requires the solution of challenging optimization problems with large numbers of decision variables. This note presents principled results demonstrating the scalable solution of a difficult test function on instances over a billion variables using a parallel implementation of a genetic algorithm (GA). The problem addressed is a noisy, blind problem over a vector of binary decision variables. Noise is added equaling a tenth of the deterministic objective function variance of the problem, thereby making it difficult for simple hillclimbers to find the optimal solution. The genetic algorithm used—the compact GA—is able to find the optimum in the presence of noise quickly, reliably, and accurately, and the solution scalability follows known convergence theories. These results on noisy problem together with other results on problems involving varying modularity, hierarchy, and overlap foreshadow routine solution of billion-variable problems across the landscape of complexity science. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 12: 27–29, 2007
Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II-Independent Generation of Neutralizing Antibodies against T-Cell-Dependent Borrelia burgdorferi Antigens Presented by Dendritic Cells: Regulation by NK and γδ T Cells

We previously showed that adoptive transfer of Borrelia burgdorferi-pulsed dendritic cells (DCs) into syngeneic mice protects animals from challenge with tick-transmitted spirochetes. Here, we demonstrate that the protective immune response is antibody (Ab) dependent and does not require the presence of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules on DCs. Mice sensitized with B. burgdorferi-pulsed MHC class II-deficient (MHC class II−/−) DCs mounted a humoral response against protective antigens, including B. burgdorferi outer surface protein A (OspA) and OspC. B-cell help for the generation of neutralizing anti-OspC immunoglobulin G Abs could be provided by γδ T cells. In contrast, anti-OspA Ab production required the presence of αβ T cells, although this pathway could be independent of MHC class II molecules on antigen-presenting cells. Moreover, depletion of NK cells prior to transfer of antigen-pulsed MHC class II−/− DCs resulted in significant increases in the levels of neutralizing Abs induced by DCs. Altogether, these data suggest that the initial interactions between DCs and innate immune cells, such as γδ and NK cells, can influence the generation of a protective humoral response against B. burgdorferi antigens.
The adolescent growth spurt in children with cystic fibrosis

The adolescent spurt in 230 children with cystic fibrosis (CF) treated at the Cleveland CF centre in northeastern Ohio was compared to that found in normal children from the Fels Longitudinal Growth Study in southwestern Ohio. The Preece-Baines Model 1 (PB1) growth equation was applied to longitudinal height data from both samples to describe a large number of data points for each child in terms of a few biologically meaningful parameters, such as age, height, and velocity at the take-off and peak of the adolescent growth spurt. The growth spurt is delayed by an average of 0.8 years and is about 1 cm/year slower at its peak in CF patients compared to the normal controls. This delay should be considered when comparing clinical growth measurements of adolescent CF patients with normal standards. Peak velocity is lower than expected, even for late-maturing normal children, and height at take-off, peak velocity, and adulthood is significantly reduced, especially in boys. These findings are consistent with the clinical impression that the growth spurt is delayed and attenuated in CF patients, particularly those with poor pulmonary function. Girls homozygous for the delta F508 mutation have significantly more growth retardation than those with other CF mutations.