cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Stepping out of the flow: capillary extravasation in cancer metastasis

In order for cancer cells to successfully colonize a metastatic site, they must detach from the primary tumor using extracellular matrix-degrading proteases, intravasate and survive in the circulation, evade the immune response, and extravasate the vasculature to invade the target tissue parenchyma, where metastatic foci are established. Though many of the steps of metastasis are widely studied, the precise cellular interactions and molecular alterations associated with extravasation are unknown, and further study is needed to elucidate the mechanisms inherent to this process. Studies of leukocytes localized to inflamed tissue during the immune response may be used to elucidate the process of cancer extravasation, since leukocyte diapedesis through the vasculature involves critical adhesive interactions with endothelial cells, and both leukocytes and cancer cells express similar surface receptors capable of binding endothelial adhesion molecules. Thus, leukocyte extravasation during the inflammatory response has provided a model for transendothelial migration (TEM) of cancer cells. Leukocyte extravasation is characterized by a process whereby rolling mediated by cytokine-activated endothelial selectins is followed by firmer adhesions with β1 and β2 integrin subunits to an activated endothelium and subsequent diapedesis, which most likely involves activation of Rho GTPases, regulators of cytoskeletal rearrangements and motility. It is controversial whether such selectin-mediated rolling is necessary for TEM of cancer cells. However, it has been established that similar stable adhesions between tumor and endothelial cells precede cancer cell transmigration through the endothelium. Additionally, there is support for the preferential attachment of tumor cells to the endothelium and, accordingly, site-specific metastasis of cancer cells. Rho GTPases are critical to TEM of cancer cells as well, and some progress has been made in understanding the specific roles of the Rho GTPase family, though much is still unknown. As the mechanisms of cancer TEM are elucidated, new approaches to study and target metastasis may be utilized and developed.
Chemical and sensory characteristics of stored menhaden oil/ soybean oil blends

The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of increasing the consumption of dietary ω-3 fatty acids by incorporating menhaden oil into a French-type salad dressing. Menhaden/soybean oil blends of 10, 20 and 30% menhaden oil (w/w) were used to prepare an emulsified French salad dressing. The oil blends and salad dressings were stored at 22°C in the dark for 20 wk. The fatty acid profile, peroxide value, and anisidine value were determined. The salad dressings also were evaluated by a sensory panel for flavor, aroma, and aftertaste. The ω-3 fatty acids were stable over time under these storage conditions. Peroxide values rose slowly and consistently over time reaching higher values when more menhaden oil was added. Peroxide values were also higher in the oil blends which were stored with air in the headspace and not flushed with argon. Anisidine values also were higher with each addition of menhaden oil but did not change over time except for the 100% menhaden oil which was stored in air. After eight weeks the sensory panel rated the salad dressing which contained menhaden oil as lower than the ones which did not contain menhaden oil. While a significant amount of ω-3 fatty acids may be incorporated into foods by the addition of menhaden oil, the development over time of off-flavors must be controlled.
R. Po-Chia Hsia (ed.), Reform and Expansion 1500-1660

(2008). R. Po-Chia Hsia (ed.), Reform and Expansion 1500-1660. Reformation: Vol. 13, No. 1, pp. 213-216.
Gender and the relative importance of mental health satisfaction domains

Consumer-reported satisfaction data is a tool used for measuring and targeting areas for quality improvement in mental healthcare. In this study, we investigated the relationship between gender and the relative importance of mental health service satisfaction domains to overall satisfaction, in addition to gender differences in satisfaction across domains. People receiving mental health services (1765 males and 1950 females) completed questionnaires regarding their overall service satisfaction and satisfaction along six domains: Access to Services, Quality and Appropriateness, Participation in Treatment Planning, Outcome of Services, Social Connectedness, and Functioning. While all were important to overall satisfaction across genders, women reported slightly higher overall satisfaction. Linear regression analyses were used to determine the relative importance of these subscales to overall satisfaction for each gender. While the correlations between each subscale and overall satisfaction were significant for both, gender was found to moderate the relationship between some subscales and overall satisfaction. Although predictive of overall service satisfaction across the sample, we found Functioning, Outcome of Services, Social Connectedness, and Access to Services were relatively more important to overall satisfaction for men than women. Consistent feedback of results and improved access to services may be particularly effective for engaging both men and women in treatment.
Nutritional adaptation: Effect of dietary carbohydrate on intestinal disaccharidase activity in the infant rat

The activities of intestinal sucrase and isomaltase are not detectable in rats prior to 15–16 days of age, but corticosteroids as well as feeding heterologous protein precociously induce the activities of the α-glucosidases. We studied the ability of the intestine of infant rats to adapt to alteration in the carbohydrate content of their diets by evaluating changes in activity of disaccharidases and in histological maturation of intestinal mucosa. Ten day old rats were removed from their mothers, warmed in an incubator, and fed by constant infusion through gastrostomies. The basic diet was a soya preparation to which various sugars were added. When the diet contained 2% sucrose, diarrhea ensued for 48 hours, but subsided when intestinal sucrase and isomaltase appeared precociously. In animals fed sucrose, the activities of sucrase and isomaltase were markedly increased as compared to animals on carbohydrate free diets. (Sucrase 2.41 ± .23 vs 0.6 ± .13, isomaltase 3.43 ± .42 vs 0.78 ± 18.) Maltase activity was doubled, while lactase was unaltered. The mitotic index of crypt cells, and depth of crypts, and incorporation of 3H-thymidine into DNA were increased. In adrenalectomized rats, activities of sucrose and isomaltase were not detected nor induced by sucrose. These animals had continuous diarrhea. Steroids given to adrenalectomized rats caused appearance of the enzymes; but if cortisone and sucrose were given together, there was synergism evidenced by a marked increase in activities. In contrast to observations in adult animals, the effect of sucrose on α-glucosidases in developing animals demands the participation of the adrenal gland.
Gene-environment interactions: key to unraveling the mystery of Parkinson's disease.

Abstract Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease. The gradual, irreversible loss of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra is the signature lesion of PD. Clinical symptoms of PD become apparent when 50–60% of nigral dopamine neurons are lost. PD progresses insidiously for 5–7 years (preclinical period) and then continues to worsen even under the symptomatic treatment. To determine what triggers the disease onset and what drives the chronic, self-propelling neurodegenerative process becomes critical and urgent, since lack of such knowledge impedes the discovery of effective treatments to retard PD progression. At present, available therapeutics only temporarily relieve PD symptoms. While the identification of causative gene defects in familial PD uncovers important genetic influences in this disease, the majority of PD cases are sporadic and idiopathic. The current consensus suggests that PD develops from multiple risk factors including aging, genetic predisposition, and environmental exposure. Here, we briefly review research on the genetic and environmental causes of PD. We also summarize very recent genome-wide association studies on risk gene polymorphisms in the emergence of PD. We highlight the new converging evidence on gene–environment interplay in the development of PD with an emphasis on newly developed multiple-hit PD models involving both genetic lesions and environmental triggers.
Tracheal fluid (TF) saturated phosphatidylcholine (Sat. PC) and surfactant protein A (SP-A) in newborns with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH)† 980

We have reported recently that the amniotic fluid concentrations of the surfactant components Sat. PC and SP-A are decreased in pregnancies with fetuses diagnosed with CDH (Am J Ob Gyn 173:1401, 1995). In addition, it has been suggested that surfactant therapy may be beneficial in the treatment of CDH. However, there is limited data on actual measurements of surfactant components in TF from infants with CDH. The aim of our study was to determine the concentrations of Sat. PC using thin-layer chromatography after osmium tetroxide treatment, and of SP-A by an ELISA method using a rabbit anti-human SP-A polyclonal antibody, in TF obtained during the first day after birth from intubated neonates with CDH (n= 10, mean GA 37.2 weeks, range 29-40 weeks). Also, we made similar determinations in TF samples from preterm infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS, n= 10, mean GA 28.4 weeks, range 26-32 weeks) and term neonates intubated for meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS, n=11, mean GA 40.5 weeks, range 37-43 weeks). All cases of CDH occurred on the left side and 6 of them died. Results are shown in the Table as mean ± SEM (* p < 0.05 by Kruskal-Wallis). As we reported previously (Am J Resp Crit Care Med 150:1672, 1994), all infants with RDS had low concentrations of SP-A in TF, compared with none of the neonates with CDH or MAS. Levels of Sat. PC in TF were quite variable and did not differ between groups. The concentrations fo SP-A and Sat. PC were not different in neonates with CDH that survived or died. These data show that deficiency of surfactant components in TF from neonates with CDH is uncommon and does not correlate with outcome.
Underpotential Co-deposition of Au-Cu alloys: switching the underpotentially deposited element by selective complexation.

Underpotential deposition and monolayer replacement processes are widely used for the synthesis of core/shell catalysts and heterointerfaces. Conventionally, only the more noble metal can be underpotentially deposited on or replace the less noble metal, limiting the number of accessible material configurations. We show here that the reverse process is possible, using the Au–Cu pair as a model system. By tuning the redox potentials of the two components via use of strong, selective metal ion complexes, Au–Cu alloys could be synthesized at will by (i) conventional underpotential co-deposition, whereby Cu is reduced at underpotential in parallel with the overpotential deposition of Au, or (ii) the reverse process, where Au is reduced at underpotential, while Cu is deposited at overpotential. Selective complexation also draws the redox potential of Au and Cu closer, resulting in co-deposition under activation control for the noble metal and precise alloy composition control by the applied potential, enabling ...
Electrochemical Sensors for the Detection of Lead and Other Toxic Heavy Metals: The Next Generation of Personal Exposure Biomonitors

To support the development and implementation of biological monitoring programs, we need quantitative technologies for measuring xenobiotic exposure. Microanalytical based sensors that work with complex biomatrices such as blood, urine, or saliva are being developed and validated and will improve our ability to make definitive associations between chemical exposures and disease. Among toxic metals, lead continues to be one of the most problematic. Despite considerable efforts to identify and eliminate Pb exposure sources, this metal remains a significant health concern, particularly for young children. Ongoing research focuses on the development of portable metal analyzers that have many advantages over current available technologies, thus potentially representing the next generation of toxic metal analyzers. In this article, we highlight the development and validation of two classes of metal analyzers for the voltammetric detection of Pb, including: a) an analyzer based on flow injection analysis and anodic stripping voltammetry at a mercury-film electrode, and b) Hg-free metal analyzers employing adsorptive stripping voltammetry and novel nanostructure materials that include the self-assembled monolayers on mesoporous supports and carbon nanotubes. These sensors have been optimized to detect Pb in urine, blood, and saliva as accurately as the state-of-the-art inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry with high reproducibility, and sensitivity allows. These improved and portable analytical sensor platforms will facilitate our ability to conduct biological monitoring programs to understand the relationship between chemical exposure assessment and disease outcomes.
Socioeconomic and demographic disparities in treatment for carcinomas of the colon and rectum

BACKGROUND The current study examined the relationship between socioeconomic and demographic factors and type of treatment for carcinomas of the colon and rectum. The National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute recommend surgery followed by adjuvant chemo- and/or radiotherapy for Stage III colon and Stages II and III rectal carcinomas. METHODS The authors linked Washington State's cancer registry and hospital discharge records and U.S. census data to assess socioeconomic and demographic factors related to treatment, controlling for clinical factors. RESULTS Compared to colon carcinoma patients under age 65 years, patients aged 75–84 years and 85 years or older were at higher risk for a treatment plan of surgery without adjuvant therapy (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.3–4.7; OR = 14.1, CI = 6.3–31.4, respectively). Risk of no adjuvant therapy was more than doubled for patients in zip codes in the lowest quartile of per capita income compared to the top three quartiles (OR = 2.3, CI = 1.5–3.4) and for those with Medicare compared to private insurance (OR = 2.2, CI = 1.3–3.8). Older patients with rectal carcinoma were also at higher risk of a treatment plan that did not include adjuvant therapy. CONCLUSIONS The current findings suggest disparities in the provision of recommended medical procedures related to socioeconomic and demographic factors. Cancer 2002;95:39–46. © 2002 American Cancer Society. DOI 10.1002/cncr.10645
Photoperiodic regulation of body mass and fat reserves in the meadow vole

Short photoperiods reduce both body mass and food intake of male meadow voles. To help determine whether the primary effect of short day lengths is on regulation of some component of body mass or on the control of food consumption, voles housed in a long photoperiod were provided rations equivalent to those consumed by animals in short day lengths. Animals were transferred to a short photoperiod and after either 3 or 6 weeks of food restriction were fed ad lib. Both groups of voles overate after termination of food restriction and achieved seasonally appropriate body masses that were influenced by the duration of short photoperiod treatment. We conclude that short photoperiods gradually alter the regulated level of one or more components of body mass. We tested and failed to support the hypothesis that the subcutaneous fat depot is selectively spared during seasonal weight loss and thereby increases surface insulation. Thus, the proportion of adipose tissue reduction did not differ significantly among the epididymal, retroperitoneal, and inguinal-subcutaneous fat depots of voles housed in short day lengths.
Applications Of Probabilistic Information Theory To Relational Databases

This paper notes the impact of data structures on digital image processors and gives an initial discussion of applications of probabilistic information theory to image relational databases.
Main patterns and individual differences in baboon skull split-lines and theories of causes of split-line orientation in bone.

Split-line patterns are reported in skulls of five adult male baboons. While variations in pattern occur in all parts of the skull, these variations are relatively minor in the following regions: supraorbital, lateral orbital, medial orbital, nasal bones, zygomatico-alveolar crest, nasal opening, alveolar process of maxilla and mandible. Wide differences in pattern occur in these regions: infraorbital, zygomatic bone, body of maxilla, and frontal bone posterior to the supraorbital area. The major variability in split-line orientation indicates that oversimplified interpretations of the patterns in terms of (1) conformity to gross structure, or (2) direction of bone growth, are untenable. The variations do not contradict a functional interpretation in which mechanical forces and skull form interact to different degrees in different individuals, however. Skulls of a variety of primates are useful for functional analysis, because they have similar structural plans, but the differences are well outside the normal range of variation for a single species.
Discipline: An Attitude, Not an Outcome

(1981). Discipline: An Attitude, Not an Outcome. The Educational Forum: Vol. 45, No. 2, pp. 161-167.
Superdiffusion in optically controlled active media

Researchers optically control an active medium. Strong light-matter interaction causes superdiffusion that is controllable by the input optical power. The idea may be applied to exploring nonequilibrium thermodynamics of soft-matter or enable new possibilities for the coherent control of strongly coupled, complex systems.
Protocols constructed around the nursing process. 1: Asthma.

Abstract The author provides a nursing process style protocol for dealing with acute attacks of bronchial asthma in adult patients. Diagnoses, laboratory work, tests, treatment plans, including interventions for nurses, nurse practitioners, and physicians, are outlined. In addition, possible complications of bronchial asthma are listed and suggestions for patient education are offered.
FEL Amplifier Performance In The Compton Regime

The Kroll-Morton-Rosenbluth equations of motion for electrons in a linearly polarized, tapered wiggler are utilized to describe gain in free-electron laser amplifiers. The three-dimensional amplifier model includes the effects of density variation in the electron beam, off-axis variations in the wiggler magnetic field, and betatron oscillations. The input electromagnetic field is injected and subsequently propagated within the wiggler by computing the Fresnel-Kirchhoff diffraction integral using the Gardner-Fresnel-Kirchhoff algorithm. The injected optical beam used in evaluating amplifier performance is initially a Gaussian which in general may be astigmatic. The importance of the above effects on extraction effi-ciency is computed both with rigorous three-dimensional electromagnetic wave propagation and a Gaussian treatment of the field.© (1984) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Inhibition of apoptosis in cultured porcine granulosa cells by inhibitors of caspase and serine protease activity

Protease inhibitors were used to test the hypothesis that caspases and other proteases were active during apoptosis in cultured porcine granulosa cells. Cells isolated from 3 to 6 mm follicles were cultured for 24 h in Dulbecco's modified Eagles medium: Hams F12 (1:1) containing 1% fetal bovine serum. Final inhibitor concentrations, added in 10 μL of dimethylsulfoxide, were 0, 1,5, 25 and 125 μM. Cells with compromised plasma membrane integrity, identified by uptake ethidium homodimer, increased during culture in the absence of inhibitors from 37% to 43%."Apoptotic (A0) cells, identified by DNA fluorescence flow cytometry, increased (P < 0.05) from 1.7% to 29%. The serine protease inhibitor N-tosyl-L-phenylalanine chloromethyl ketone (TPCK) at 125 μM was lethal increasing (P < 0.05) cells with compromised membranes to 92%. In response to TPCK, A0 cells decreased from 55% to 1.2%; progesterone and estradiol production were decreased by 94% and 98%, respectively. The general caspase inhibitor, benzyloxycarbonyl-valinyl-alaninyl-aspartyl fluoro methylketone, decreased (P < 0.05) A0 cells linearly from 33% to 3 % between 0 and 125 μM without significant effect on steroidogenesis or on the percentage of cells with compromised plasma membranes. Other inhibitors only had a marginal effect on apoptosis; concentrations of ≥ 1 μM decreased (P < 0.05) A0 cells from 29% to 18% to 21% and had no significant effect on membrane integrity or steroid production. We conclude that caspases are associated with apoptosis in cultured porcine granulosa cells. Death induced by TPCK was through a non-apoptotic mechanism.
Fine structure of spermiogenesis in scorpions from the family Vejovidae.

Early spermatids of Hadrurus arizonensis are spherical cells, approximately 12 μm in diameter. The nucleus becomes lanceolate, with the chromatin longitudinally arranged in 10 nm thick lamellae. The apex of the nucleus tapers to the tip of the acrosome, and a subacrosomal rod extends into the nucleus. The postnuclear cytoplasm comprises a middle piece with five helical mitochondria, forming a collar around a central flagellar tunnel. A specialization of the endoplasmic reticulum appears around the mitochondria and centriolar adjunct and follows the mitochondrial helix in mature sperm as five spongy strands. The flagellum shows an axonemal pattern with a dense core replacing central filaments and sheath. Spermiogenesis in Vejovis puritanus, Anuroctonus phaeodactylus, and Uroctonus mordax differs from that of Hadrurus in the lack of central flagellar elements, the presence of a central cavity in the mitochondria, and variations in the number of mitochondria.
Human cleavage signal-1 protein; cDNA cloning, transcription and immunological analysis.

Abstract The cleavage signal-1 protein (CS-1), a doublet antigen comprised of approx. 14-kDa and 18-kDa proteins has been shown to be present on the surface of sperm of various mammalian species including humans. Polyclonal antibodies to CS-1 inhibit the early cleavage of fertilized eggs without apparently affecting sperm penetration and pronuclear formation. We report here the cloning of the human CS-1 cDNA and its expression in vitro to obtain the recombinant protein (reCS-1) molecule. The CS-1 cDNA clone was isolated by immunological screening of a human testis λgt11 cDNA library with monospecific polyclonal antibody against CS-1. The cDNA is 1828 bp long; the start codon assigned to the first ATG (bp 98–100) encodes a protein with 249 amino acid residues terminating at TAA (bp 845–847). The cDNA isolated has a 97-bp 5′ and a 984-bp 3′ untranslated region. The potential polyadenylation signal (5′-AATAAA) is at bp 1803–1808. An extensive computer search of the GenBank database did not indicate any extensive homology with any known sequence, indicating that CS-1 is a unique protein. The CS-1 cDNA was cloned in the transcription vector, pGEM-11Zf, to obtain high-level in vitro transcription by SP6 and T7 RNA polymerase. The transcribed CS-1 RNA was translated in a rabbit reticulocyte in vitro translation system and produced a 33-kDa reCS-1 protein, as assessed by migration in a SDS-polyacrylamide gel. The polyclonal antibody against CS-1 specifically recognized the 33-kDa reCS-1 protein on Western blots of in vitro translated proteins, suggesting the authenticity of the cDNA clone. Besides enabling us to understand the molecular basis of signal transduction pathway(s) underlying fertilization and early cleavage, reCS-1 may find applications in the development of a contraceptive vaccine, and in the diagnosis and treatment of immuno-infertility in humans.
Secondary coordination sphere interactions facilitate the insertion step in an iridium(III) CO2 reduction catalyst.

There is considerable interest in both catalysts for CO2 conversion and understanding how CO2 reacts with transition metal complexes. Here we develop a simple model for predicting the thermodynamic favorability of CO2 insertion into Ir(III) hydrides. In general this reaction is unfavorable; however, we demonstrate that with a hydrogen bond donor in the secondary coordination sphere it is possible to isolate a formate product from this reaction. Furthermore, our CO2 inserted product is one of the most active water-soluble catalysts reported to date for CO2 hydrogenation.
The Structure and Tectonic History of the Eastern Aleutian Trench

The tectonic character of the eastern Aleutian Trench and some major events in its geologic history can be estimated from nine continuous seismic reflection records. A section of pre-trench, deep oceanic sediments rests on the down-warped crust that forms the trench. Nearly horizontal undeformed strata that unconformably overlie this deep oceanic section partially fill the trench. The trench fill is thickest near present sediment sources. A Pliocene age for development of the eastern Aleutian Trench is estimated from the thickness of deep oceanic sediment that accumulated after the trench began to fill. The eastern Aleutian Trench thus appears younger than the central Aleutian Trench—a relation which helps to explain the distribution of sediment along the two trench segments. Depression of the eastern Aleutian Trench diminished or virtually ended soon after the trench began to fill. The undeformed fill provides no evidence for a large thrust fault zone at the base of the continental slope. Nor is there any evidence that oceanic sediments have disappeared beneath the continents in late Tertiary time. These observations are difficult to reconcile with the simple model of a continental margin advanced in the hypothesis of plate tectonics.
Review of studies evaluating ductal patency in the premature infant

A series of investigations has been performed to assess the timing of physiologic closure of the ductus arteriosus in premature infants with and without respiratory distress syndrome. The data from these studies emphasize the concept of physiologic ductal patency and give normative data for expected closure rates through the fourth day of life. On the basis of these data, patency on or beyond the fourth day of life is abnormal irrespective of gestational age, and prematurity, in the absence of respiratory distress syndrome, is not a risk factor for persistent patent ductus arteriosus. We also found that persistent patent ductus arteriosus in larger premature infants (≥30 weeks of gestation) with respiratory distress syndrome is relatively uncommon. Last, ductal patency was evaluated in a group of low birth weight infants with severe respiratory distress syndrome in a randomized, double-blind trial of exogenous surfactant administration. We concluded that the beneficial effects of exogenous surfactant are not associated with either a greater clinical need for indomethacin or any increased risk of delayed closure of the ductus arteriosus.
Numerical investigation of tri-pad sliders and comparison to other slider designs

The flying behavior of tri-pad sliders was investigated using a finite element based simulator, and the numerical results were compared with experimental measurements using a commercially available flying height tester. Sensitivity analysis and Monte Carlo calculations were performed to investigate the sensitivity of the tri-pad slider to design and manufacturing tolerances. A comparison of the sensitivity of the tri-pad slider design with a standard two rail slider was performed. In addition, the air bearing stiffness of the tri-pad slider was determined and compared with the air bearing stiffness of typical two rail and sub-ambient pressure sliders.
Microstructure of extruded XDTM Nb-26Ti-48Al+ (Nb, Ti) B

Titanium aluminides, {gamma}-TiAl and {alpha}{sub 2}-Ti{sub 3}Al, are of considerable interest for use in selected applications as the result of their excellent mechanical properties at elevated temperature. With a refractory metal addition, such as either Nb or Ta, these new alloys, based on a Nb-25 at.% Ti-50at%Al composition, exhibit superior oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures when compared to {gamma}-Ti-Al and {alpha}{sub 2}-Ti{sub 3}Al + {gamma}-TiAl alloys. The improvement of mechanical properties by reinforcing metals with ceramic particles to produce metal matrix composites has been demonstrated repeatedly. An exothermic process termed XD technology was recently developed where ceramic particles/whiskers, such as borides, carbides, nitrides and silicides, may be formed in-situ in molten metals. It was suggested that this process may be used to produce materials with designed microstructures and improved mechanical properties. The purpose of this paper is to report the results of a transmission electron microscopy study of the microstructures of extruded Nb-Ti-Al alloys with and without a (Nb,Ti)B whisker addition.
A nonlinear model-based control method for magnetostrictive actuators

A nonlinear model-based control method for magnetostrictive actuators is presented in this paper. Such actuators utilize the realignment of magnetic moments in response to applied magnetic fields to generate strains in the material. Strains and forces generated in this manner are significantly larger than those produced by many other smart materials but also exhibit significant nonlinearities and hysteresis. To utilize the full potential of these materials in control transducers, these inherent nonlinearities and hysteresis must be accurately characterized and incorporated in the control law. An energy-based model is employed to characterize the hysteresis in a manner amenable to structural applications. Nonlinear optimal control theory is then used to determine appropriate inputs to the system. The effectiveness of this nonlinear model-based control method is demonstrated through a numerical example.
A tele-operative RMMT system facilitating the management of cooling and energy in data centers

This paper presents a tele-operative robotic mobile measurement technique for collecting temperature data in data centers. It provides highly effective data support to the analysis of data center thermal profiles, and plays an active role in improving data center cooling and energy efficiencies. With this technique, a human operator controls the navigation of the teleoperative mobile measurement platform and triggers the data acquisition operation through a wirelessly connected console. Comparing with traditional manual operation, it largely reduces the intensity of human labor and improves the operational efficiency. The effectiveness of the proposed technique has been verified through a demonstrative data scanning in a real data center environment.
Academic original sin: Plagiarism, the Internet, and librarians

Face au plagiat, les bibliothecaires peuvent jouer un role actif dans le debat sur l'integrite et la malhonnetete academique, en s'appuyant sur la comprehension des etudiants, de leur univers technologique et de l'internet. L'A. propose un modele de culture de l'information et d'integrite academique que les bibliothecaires peuvent utiliser pour apprendre aux etudiants a distinguer leurs propres idees des idees des autres, a considerer leur travail comme une creation originale valant d'etre protegee et a citer et respecter leurs sources.
The Yeast ULP2 (SMT4) Gene Encodes a Novel Protease Specific for the Ubiquitin-Like Smt3 Protein

Yeast Smt3 and its vertebrate homolog SUMO-1 are ubiquitin-like proteins (Ubls) that are reversibly ligated to other proteins. Like SMT3, SMT4 was first isolated as a high-copy-number suppressor of a defective centromere-binding protein. We show here that SMT4 encodes an Smt3-deconjugating enzyme, Ulp2. In cells lacking Ulp2, specific Smt3-protein conjugates accumulate, and the conjugate pattern is distinct from that observed in a ulp1(ts) strain, which is defective for a distantly related Smt3-specific protease, Ulp1. The ulp2Delta mutant exhibits a pleiotropic phenotype that includes temperature-sensitive growth, abnormal cell morphology, decreased plasmid and chromosome stability, and a severe sporulation defect. The mutant is also hypersensitive to DNA-damaging agents, hydroxyurea, and benomyl. Although cell cycle checkpoint arrest in response to DNA damage, replication inhibition, or spindle defects occurs with normal kinetics, recovery from arrest is impaired. Surprisingly, either introduction of a ulp1(ts) mutation or overproduction of catalytically inactive Ulp1 can substantially overcome the ulp2Delta defects. Inactivation of Ulp2 also suppresses several ulp1(ts) defects, and the double mutant accumulates far fewer Smt3-protein conjugates than either single mutant. Our data suggest the existence of a feedback mechanism that limits Smt3-protein ligation when Smt3 deconjugation by both Ulp1 and Ulp2 is compromised, allowing a partial recovery of cell function.
Structural Models of Osteogenesis Imperfecta-associated Variants in the COL1A1 Gene

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a genetic disease in which the most common mutations result in substitutions for glycine residues in the triple helical domain of the chains of type I collagen. Currently there is no way to use sequence information to predict the clinical OI phenotype. However, structural models coupled with biophysical and machine learning methods may be able to predict sequences that, when mutated, would be associated with more severe forms of OI. To build appropriate structural models, we have applied a high throughput molecular dynamic approach. Homotrimeric peptides covering 57 positions in which mutations are associated with OI were simulated both with and without mutations. Our models revealed structural differences that occur with different substituting amino acids. When mutations were introduced, we observed a decrease in helix stability, as caused by fewer main chain backbone hydrogen bonds, and an increase in main chain root mean square deviation and specifically bound water molecules.
Ultrasound and sestamibi scan as the only preoperative imaging tests in reoperation for parathyroid adenomas

Abstract Background. In an effort to determine an efficient algorithm for the evaluation of patients with parathyroid adenomas in the reoperative setting, we explored the combination of using ultrasound scans (US) and sestamibi scintigraphy as the only preoperative imaging tests. Methods. We analyzed the outcomes of 62 consecutive patients who were treated between January 1995 and May 1999 and who were referred for persistent primary hyperparathyroidism after initial surgical exploration, at which time no abnormal parathyroid glands had been found. Although all patients underwent US, computed tomography scan, magnetic resonance imaging, and sestamibi scan, we analyzed the success of localization and reoperation using only the results of US and sestamibi scan. Results. Sixty-one patients (98%) underwent curative reoperations. The sensitivity, positive predictive value, and accuracy for US were 90%, 86%, and 84%, respectively; the corresponding values for sestamibi imaging were 78%, 94%, and 74%, respectively. In 58 of 62 cases (94%) preoperative US and/or sestamibi scan accurately identified the adenoma. In 3 patients for whom combined US and sestamibi scan were inaccurate, 1 adenoma was found by intraoperative US in the strap muscle; 1 adenoma was found by blind cervical thymectomy, and 1 adenoma was found by planned sternotomy that was based on computed tomography findings. Conclusions. This study supports an algorithm of obtaining US and sestamibi scan as the initial and perhaps only preoperative localization tests for patients with primary hyperparathyroidism after failed operation, at which time no abnormal glands had been found. (Surgery 2000;128:1103-10.)
Spatial and temporal patterns of abundance of the potato leafhopper among red maples

Summary A study was conducted in the 2001 growing season to examine the relative abundance, dispersion and distribution of the potato leafhopper (Empoasca fabae) among trees of 24 red maple (Acer rubrum) clonal selections. Yellow sticky traps hung from the trees were used to estimate the relative number of aerial potato leafhoppers among trees, starting on 1 May 2001 and stopping on 4 September 2001. More insects were collected from the east side of the plot than from the other sides in May, but no differences were significant late in the season. Few leafhoppers were collected during May, but the number of leafhoppers collected on traps rapidly increased and peaked during June. Afterwards, populations decreased and just a few individuals were trapped late in the season. Overall, significantly more leafhoppers were caught on traps hanging from trees of clone 56026 and 55410 than on trees of the other clones. Dispersion of the potato leafhopper changed from being aggregated in May, to being random in August, and also differed among the different clones. Populations tended to aggregate with increases in population numbers. Positive significant autocorrelations were detected at short distances in May, suggesting an aggregated spatial pattern early in the season. Yet, different autocorrelation patterns were detected within each block later in the season. Our results indicate that management practices could be developed to minimise pesticide use by targeting smaller areas with the highest populations at the right time of the season.
The PowerPC 601 design methodology

To produce a marketable PowerPC microprocessor on a short development schedule, an appropriate balance was needed between a fully customized methodology and a standard cell approach. We compiled a single model of each logic partition separately for logic synthesis and for simulation. Synthesis transferred the model to a gate-level implementation and applied timing correction transforms to reach the users' timing assertions. Floor-planning and wiring was assisted by an automated tool. Billions of cycles were run in testing the implementation against the PowerPC architecture specification. Behaviorals were written and built into the model to test the chip as it might appear in a system configuration. Careful adherence to this methodology led to a successful first pass of silicon, leaving the second iteration for additional customer requests. >
Analytical modal analysis of thin-film flat lenses

AbstractThe free vibrations of circular and elliptical thin-film lens are investigated. In particular, linear closed-form solutions for free vibrations of these structures were achieved and modal analysis was performed. The vibration response of the thin-film membranes were mathematically modelled using the Mathieu equation. Numerical results for various nodal diameters were computed. For the limited case, when an elliptical lens becomes circular, an excellent comparison was established with the available analytical solution. Experimental analyses were conducted to determine the effects of various parameters, such as material properties, membrane pre-strain rate, and the geometry, on natural frequency and mode shapes of these structures. The comparison verified the adequacy of linear solutions to predict the dynamic response of thin-film lenses.
Jane Addams as a Resource for Developing a Reflexively Realist Social Science Practice

The last four decades have seen a reflexive turn in the qualitative social sciences, an increased self-consciousness about the culturally contingent nature of our methods of representing human experience. This has given rise to a wave of experimentation in social science writing. Scholars have sought to develop research that does not just describe the object of study but also deliberately transforms the subject of the reader. In recent years, however, there is a growing sentiment that the obduracy of social reality seems to have been underemphasized in much of this experimentation. This article examines the inquiry methods of turn-of-the-century social theorist and settlement house founder, Jane Addams. The paper identifies themes in Addams’s approach to inquiry that was ahead of her time and relevant to this contemporary discussion. The paper argues that Addams has much to offer as an effort to develop a reflexively realist approach to social science inquiry.
Hybrid Renewable Energy System with Wind Turbine and PV Panels

Doubly fed induction generators used in wind energy applications require a source and power converter system to feed variable frequency ac voltage to its rotor. The paper presents a hybrid system in which the rotor power can be drawn either from three-phase ac mains or a photovoltaic (PV) panel-battery combination. While drawing power from ac mains, an ac-dc converter with soft switching and power factor correction is used. While supplying rotor injection power from PV panels, one of the MOSFET switches of the ac-dc converter will be used for boosting the PV panel output. The results obtained on an experimental converter are presented.
Adapting global influenza management strategies to address emerging viruses.

Death by respiratory complications from influenza infections continues to be a major global health concern. Antiviral drugs are widely available for therapy and prophylaxis, but viral mutations hav...
Hypertrophy, Fibrosis, and Sudden Cardiac Death in Response to Pathological Stimuli in Mice With Mutations in Cardiac Troponin T

Background-Transgenic mouse models expressing a missense mutation (R92Q) or a splice donor site mutation (trunc) in the cardiac troponin T (cTnT) model familial hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (FHC) in humans. Although males from these strains share the unusual property of having significantly smaller ventricles and cardiac myocytes, they differ with regard to systolic function, fibrosis, and gene expression. Little is known about how these phenotypes affect the responses to additional pathological stimuli. Methods and Results-We tested the ability of hearts of both sexes of wild-type and mutant mice to respond to defined pathological, pharmacological, hypertrophic stimuli in vivo. Hearts of mutant cTnT models of both sexes were able to undergo hypertrophy in response to at least one stimulus, but the extent differed between the 2 mutants and was sex specific. Interestingly, the trunc-mutant mouse heart was resistant to the development of fibrosis in response to pharmacological stimuli. Stimulation with 2 adrenergic agonists led to sudden cardiac death of all male but not female mutant animals, which suggests altered adrenergic responsiveness in these 2 models of FHC. Conclusions-Hypertrophic signaling is differentially affected by distinct mutations in cTnT and is sex modified. Hearts can respond with either an augmented hypertrophic and fibrotic response or a diminished hypertrophy and resistance to fibrosis. Sudden cardiac death is related to adrenergic stress and is independent of the development of fibrosis but occurred only in male mice. These results suggest that patients with certain TnT mutations may respond to certain pathological situations with a worsened phenotype.
A Finite‐Difference Model for Heat and Mass Transfer in Products with Internal Heat Generation and Transpiration

A finite-difference numerical model for heat and mass transfer in products with respiration and transpiration is presented. Besides conduction and convection, the model also accounts for evaporative cooling due to transpiration and radiation heat transfer. The model is more accurate than currently used finite-difference models and requires larger time steps.
Learning to See the Boa Constrictor Digesting the Elephant: Pre-service Teachers Construct Perspectives of Language, Literacy, and Learning through Art

In this chapter, the process of making meaning through arts learning is explored in the context of an elementary education methods course. Common theories-in-use are discussed alongside of current theory, research, and practice to facilitate new perspectives of language, literacy, learning, and art. Examples of learning experiences promoting pre-service teachers' abilities to teach art as a vis- ual language to inform, express, narrate, and persuade are provided.
Molecular Investigations and Experimental Manipulations of Microbial Mats: A View to Paleomicrobial Ecosystems

Four decades of research into the biogeochemistry of microbial mats has revealed miniature ecosystems, as complex as any on Earth, with an astounding diversity of microbial life. Microbial mats from hypersaline environments are probably the best studied (with apologies to hot spring microbial mats), as in these environments the densest, most cohesive, and extensive mats are formed. Hypersaline microbial mats have been under much attention as they serve as (a) model ecosystems with complex biogeochemistry, (b) analogs of the most ancient forms of communal life on Earth, (c) a dominant form of shallow marine life during the Precambrian, influencing oceanic and atmospheric conditions on a global scale, (d) a natural environment to explore the physiochemical limits of microbial life, and (e) a highly complex, dynamic model microbial community conducive to intense ecological interactions between microbial functional groups. Incidentally, the microbial mats from moderately hypersaline environments (e.g., 80–120%) have the additional benefit of being transportable. Few scientists studying natural ecosystems are able to excise a chunk of a self-supporting environment and transport it to the laboratory. This feature of thick microbial mats has also made these systems invaluable as experimental ecosystems, in which external environmental conditions can be modulated, and the effect on the entire microbial community and biogeochemistry studied. This chapter explores the types of experimental research that has been conducted on hypersaline microbial mats, with a particular eye toward the exploration of paleomicrobial ecosystems through such studies. These experiments have included salinity modification, sulfate depletion, addition of exogenous carbon substrates, nitrogen levels (dinitrogen fixation), and light levels. In this chapter, we explicitly consider experimental manipulations of sulfate and salinity, the effect of these manipulations on geochemical cycling and microbial community, the implication of these data for understanding Earth’s earliest laminated microbial communities, and the limitations of such studies for gazing into the Precambrian.
Predictors of Increased Carotid Intima-Media Thickness in Youth With Type 1 Diabetes: The SEARCH CVD Study.

OBJECTIVE Youth with type 1 diabetes have worse cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and higher carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) than their peers without diabetes. Whether the burden of CV risk factors over time is associated with carotid IMT at follow-up in youth with type 1 diabetes is not known. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Two hundred ninety-eight youth with type 1 diabetes (mean age 13.3 ± 2.9 years, 87.6% non-Hispanic white, 53.7% male) had two study visits 5 years apart. CV risk factors, including BMI, lipids, blood pressure, hemoglobin A1c, and smoking status, were assessed at both visits, and carotid IMT was measured at follow-up using B-mode ultrasonography. Linear regression models with an area under the curve measurement that incorporated the baseline and follow-up CV risk factors were used to evaluate the relationship with carotid IMT at follow-up. RESULTS All CV risk factors worsened significantly over time (except LDL cholesterol) ( P < 0.05). From baseline to follow-up, the number of abnormal CV risk factors also increased ( P < 0.05). Predictors of carotid IMT were older age, male sex, and higher BMI z score area under the curve (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The CV risk factor burden increases over time in youth with type 1 diabetes. BMI z score was the only modifiable CV risk factor that predicted carotid IMT. This study highlights the critical need to better understand the risk factors that influence carotid IMT early in the course of type 1 diabetes.