cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of synthetic parathyroid hormone on hemodynamics and regional blood flows.

Abstract In pentobarbital anesthetized dogs, synthetic bovine parathyroid hormone, containing the amino terminal 34 amino acids (bPTH-(1–34)) in doses of 0.1–0.8 μg/kg i.v. caused dose-related decrease in arterial blood pressure, increase in cardiac output and prominent reduction of total peripheral resistance. Marked increase of coeliac, coronary and renal blood flows and decrease of vascular resistances in these beds occurred. Mesenteric and iliac blood flows usually decreased. Changes in mesenteric resistance were minimal while iliac resistance increased substantially. The increase of renal blood flow was still obvious 10–20 min or longer after arterial blood pressure had returned to control levels. Mesenteric and iliac vasoconstriction were attributable to reflex increase in sympathetic activity since some decrease in resistances in these beds were seen in response to bPTH-(1–34) after ganglionic blockade. Renal vasodilation was not related to a prostaglandin mechanism as similar dilation occurred after prostaglandin synthesis inhibition with indomethacin. In summary, bPTH-(1–34) has prominant effects on the circulation, and does not affect all vascular beds similarly. The exact mechanism of the vasodilating action of bPTH remains to be elucidated.
Lanthanide alkylidene and imido complexes.

In stark contrast to the transition metals, examples of imido or alkylidene complexes of the lanthanides remain scarce. A recent literature survey reveals that only nine examples of lanthanide imido complexes have been reported, and the majority of these have arisen serendipitously. Concrete examples of species containing lanthanide–carbon multiple bonds are even more sparse. Recently, some rational approaches to the synthesis of lanthanide complexes containing LnX functionalities have been detailed (X = C, N). Additionally, a DFT (Density Functional Theory) study of a samarium imido complex has provided insight into the electronic and steric factors that may be necessary to support these unusual reactive groups. This Perspective reviews the work in this field and offers some suggestions to expand this potentially useful class of compounds.
Distribution and life-cycle of Scottnema lindsayae (Nematoda) in Antarctic soils: a modeling analysis of temperature responses

A nested age within stage-structured model was developed to simulate Scottnema lindsayae population dynamics in soils of the McMurdo Dry Valleys, and used to evaluate responses of this species to a range of annual temperature regimes. Simulations predicted that many sites are unlikely to support S. lindsayae, consistent with field observations showing that many soils in the dry valleys lack nematodes. The simulated coefficient of population growth (λ) varied as a roughly linear function of cumulative annual degree-days (>0°C), providing a possible index to site suitability for S. lindsayae that could be used in conjunction with remotely sensed energy data to estimate species distributions. Low temperatures, coupled with long lifespan and slow development of this species, may make dry-valley soil systems sensitive to perturbations that disrupt population dynamics. Indeed, sensitivity analysis indicated that factors affecting adult longevity were the most important determinants of model behavior, further emphasizing the potential impacts of disturbance on local populations.
NOTODENDRODES HYALINOSPHAIRA (SP. NOV.): STRUCTURE AND AUTECOLOGY OF AN ALLOGROMIID-LIKE AGGLUTINATED FORAMINIFER

We describe Notodendrodes hyalinosphaira, a large (up to 2.7 cm long), facultatively arborescent, agglutinated foraminifer. The species occurs abundantly, and apparently exclusively, in Explorers Cove, an embayment of western McMurdo Sound, Antarctica. The primary agglutinated test is an infaunal, unilocular sphere comprised of a single layer of principally quartz sand grains. Two secondary test features may be associated with the quartz sphere: (1) a thick cover of fine detrital material and/or (2) one, or rarely two, daisy-shaped appendages extending into the water column. These secondary test features in Notodendrodes hyalinosphaira apparently reflect trophic plasticity, ranging from infaunal uptake of dissolved nutrients to suspension feeding. Particle analysis reveals distinct size-class distributions for each test component, indicating a high degree of particle selection. The cell body (sarcode), which occupies approximately half of the quartz-sphere volume, is encased by a theca possessing a single aperture. Notodendrodes hyalinosphaira belongs to unilocular agglutinated foraminifera possessing certain structural similarities with allogromiids.
Effects of short-term management stress and ACTH injections on plasma cortisol levels in cultured white sturgeon, Acipenser transmontanus

Abstract General management practices including capture, handling and transportation in fish hatcheries can induce a stress response indicated by a plasma cortisol increase in many species. However, this phenomenon is not well established in cultured white sturgeon ( Acipenser transmontanus ). We determined resting levels of cortisol and the cortisol responses to two management stressors and to exogenous adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH 1–24 ) injections in cannulated mature male white sturgeon. Mean resting cortisol level was 8.6 ng/ml and ranged over 5.8–12.8 ng/ml through a 22-h period. Water reduction and transportation+handling stressors elicited significant cortisol increases above pre-stress and post-stress levels. Exogenous ACTH 1–24 injections of 0.5 and 5.0 μM caused dose-dependent peak cortisol increases above those produced by either the water reduction or transportation+handling stressors.
Control of photosystem genes in Rhodobacter capsulatus

Two environmental factors, oxygen and high light intensity, are known to repress synthesis of the Rhodobacter capsulatus photosystem. One level of regulation is the control of light harvesting and reaction centre gene expression at the point of transcription initiation. This has recently been shown to involve transcriptional activators which exhibit sequence similarity to members of the 'two-component' class of prokaryotic regulators. An additional level of regulation involves the formation of 'superoperons' that transcriptionally link pigment biosynthesis operons with operons that code for the light harvesting and reaction centre structural genes. A final level of regulation involves the selective degradation of reaction centre mRNA transcripts which influence the stoichiometric synthesis of the light harvesting and reaction centre complexes.
Ion-beam etching for the precise manufacture of optical coatings: erratum

In our previous publication [ Poitras . Appl. Opt.42, 4037–4044 (2003)], an incorrect version of Fig. 8 was printed. The correct version of the figure is presented here.
Optimizing Pain Management Through Collaborations with Behavioral and Addiction Medicine in Primary Care

Chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) affects a high proportion of primary care patients and carries a large human and economic burden. In response to the widespread perception that pain has been under-diagnosed and undertreated, regulatory bodies have encouraged more comprehensive services addressing pain syndromes. Significant hurdles exist in treating CNCP in primary care settings including a relative lack of training, lower physician satisfaction in treating pain patients, lack of objective measures and the risks associated with opioid treatment including addiction. Additionally, interventional therapies and pharmacotherapy often do not provide complete symptomatic relief. Here, we describe a multidimensional and interdisciplinary approach to the treatment of CNCP. The utility of collaborations with behavioral and addiction medicine specialists optimizes care and advances models of patient treatment within a primary care patient-centered medical home.
Search for Superconductivity in Micrometeorites

We have developed a very sensitive, highly selective, non-destructive technique for screening inhomogeneous materials for the presence of superconductivity. This technique, based on phase sensitive detection of microwave absorption is capable of detecting 10−12 cc of a superconductor embedded in a non-superconducting, non-magnetic matrix. For the first time, we apply this technique to the search for superconductivity in extraterrestrial samples. We tested approximately 65 micrometeorites collected from the water well at the Amundsen-Scott South pole station and compared their spectra with those of eight reference materials. None of these micrometeorites contained superconducting compounds, but we saw the Verwey transition of magnetite in our microwave system. This demonstrates that we are able to detect electro-magnetic phase transitions in extraterrestrial materials at cryogenic temperatures.
The impact of CO2 on shallow groundwater chemistry: observations at a natural analog site and implications for carbon sequestration

In a natural analog study of risks associated with carbon sequestration, impacts of CO2 on shallow groundwater quality have been measured in a sandstone aquifer in New Mexico, USA. Despite relatively high levels of dissolved CO2, originating from depth and producing geysering at one well, pH depression and consequent trace element mobility are relatively minor effects due to the buffering capacity of the aquifer. However, local contamination due to influx of brackish waters in a subset of wells is significant. Geochemical modeling of major ion concentrations suggests that high alkalinity and carbonate mineral dissolution buffers pH changes due to CO2 influx. Analysis of trends in dissolved trace elements, chloride, and CO2 reveal no evidence of in situ trace element mobilization. There is clear evidence, however, that As, U, and Pb are locally co-transported into the aquifer with CO2-rich brackish water. This study illustrates the role that local geochemical conditions will play in determining the effectiveness of monitoring strategies for CO2 leakage. For example, if buffering is significant, pH monitoring may not effectively detect CO2 leakage. This study also highlights potential complications that CO2 carrier fluids, such as brackish waters, pose in monitoring impacts of geologic sequestration.
Inactivation of bacterial fish pathogens by medium‐chain lipid molecules (caprylic acid, monocaprylin and sodium caprylate)

The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of caprylic acid (CA), monocaprylin (MC, monoglyceride ester of CA) and sodium caprylate (SC) on Edwardsiella ictaluri, E. tarda, Streptococcus iniae and Yersinia ruckeri in Mueller Hinton broth (MHB) were investigated. In addition, the bactericidal kinetics of CA and MC on the aforementioned pathogens in MHB, and that of SC in water, were determined. The MIC of CA and SC on E. ictaluri, E. tarda, S. iniae and Y. ruckeri were 7.5 and 50 mM, 7.5 and 50 mM, 10 and 25 mM, and 7.5 and 25 mM respectively. For MC, the MIC was in between 2.5 and 5 mM for all the pathogens. The MBC of CA, MC and SC on E. ictaluri, E. tarda, S. iniae and Y. ruckeri were 10, 5 and 100 mM; 10, 5 and 100 mM; 15, 5 and 75 mM; and 10, 5 and 75 mM respectively. The three lipid molecules exerted a substantial antimicrobial effect on the fish pathogens studied. The results indicate that CA and its derivatives could potentially be used for treating and controlling bacterial fish diseases, but extensive validation studies in fish are needed before recommending their usage.
Transformations of the Spatial Hegemony of the Courtyard in Post-soviet St. Petersburg

Abstract The courtyard is a space that existed before, during, and now after the Soviet period in Russian urban history. Noting the change in the courtyard's formerly hegemonic position on daily trajectories illustrates both Harvey's and Lefebvre's suggestions for uncovering the way that spaces articulate social values. A particularly revealing case study occurs in the struggle over including courtyards in a Chinese developer's project for a new multi-use district outside St. Petersburg. A brief history of the courtyard in Soviet planning allows subsequent analysis of the ways in which the city administration, the Chinese design team, and Russian planners deployed the courtyard as a spatial code for social meaning in design discussions. Examining the change in function and conceptualization of the courtyard shows how different groups in post-Soviet Russia seek to retain or redeploy concepts of the “collective” as they attempt to remake St. Petersburg as a successful “world” city.
Shock wave equation of state of muscovite

Shock wave data to provide an equation of state of muscovite (initial density: 2.835 g/cm^3) were determined up to a pressure of 141 GPa. The shock velocity (Us) versus particle velocity (Up) data are fit with a single linear relationship: U_s=4.62(±0.12) +1.27(±0.04)U_p (km/s). Third-order Birch-Murnaghan equation of state parameters (isentropic bulk modulus and isentropic pressure derivative of bulk modulus) are K_(os)=52±4GPa and K'_(os)=3.2±0.3. The pressure-temperature relation along the Hugoniot suggests that muscovite may dehydrate to KAlSi_3O_8 (hollandite), corundum, and water, with a small volume change, above 80 GPa. Thermodynamic calculations of the equilibrium pressure for the dehydration yields a significantly lower value. Observed unloading paths from shock pressures up to about 80 GPa are steeper in a density-pressure plane than the Hugoniot and become shallower with increasing shock pressure above that pressure. The changing slope may indicate that devolatilization occurs during unloading above 80 GPa. The present equation of state data for muscovite are compared with results of previously reported recovery experiments.
Solar Decathlon 2005-PV System Strategies and Results

The 2005 Solar Decathlon, an 18-team international collegiate competition of solar-powered homes, was held on the National Mall, Washington, D.C., in October 2005. For the teams, accomplishing the energy-consuming tasks required by the 10-contest competition and public event was quite challenging during the particular week of the competition owing to unseasonably cloudy and rainy weather. While no team had designed for as little solar radiation as was available during those five competition days, successful teams employed a combination of technical acumen and savvy strategy to accumulate the most points in the contests scored by objective measurements. (Some contests were scored subjectively by judges.) Following are a description of the competition, a description of the solar power systems used by entries in the Solar Decathlon, a summary of how the teams operated the PV systems in their homes, and an assessment of how the homes actually performed in the measured contests during the 2005 competition. The potential for operation of non-Solar Decathlon households with PV systems employing battery backup during periods of grid outage and limited solar resource is also discussed.
Trichloroethylene degradation and mineralization by pseudomonads and Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b

To examine the trichloroethylene (C2HCl3)-degrading capability of five microorganisms, the maximum rate, extent, and degree of C2HCl3 mineralization were evaluated for Pseudomonas cepacia G4, Pseudomonas cepacia G4 PR1, Pseudomonas mendocina KR1, Pseudomonas putida F1, and Methylosinus trichosporium OB3b using growth conditions commonly reported in the literature for expression of oxygenases responsible for C2HCl3 degradation. By varying the C2HCl3 concentration from 5 microM to 75 microM, Vmax and Km values for C2HCl3 degradation were calculated as 9 nmol/(min mg protein) and 4 microM for P. cepacia G4, 18 nmol/(min mg protein) and 29 microM for P. cepacia G4 PR1, 20 nmol/(min mg protein) and 10 microM for P. mendocina KR1, and 8 nmol/(min mg protein) and 5 microM for P. putida F1. This is the first report of these Michaelis-Menten parameters for P. mendocina KR1, P. putida F1, and P. cepacia G4 PR1. At 75 microM, the extent of C2HCl3 that was degraded after 6 h of incubation with resting cells was 61%-98%; the highest degradation being achieved by toluene-induced P. mendocina KR1. The extent of C2HCl3 mineralization in 6 h (as indicated by concentration of chloride ion) was also measured and varied from 36% for toluene-induced P. putida F1 to 102% for M. trichosporium OB3b. Since C2HCl3 degradation requires new bio-mass, the specific growth rate (mu max) of each of the C2HCl3-degradation microorganisms was determined and varied from 0.080/h (M. trichosporium OB3b) to 0.864/h (P. cepacia G4 PR1).
Sodium Multiple Quantum Spectroscopy of Articular Cartilage: Effects of Mechanical Compression

The effects of mechanical compression on the multiple quantum coherences generated from sodium ions in articular cartilage were investigated. Cartilage samples obtained from bovine patellae were studied during compression at 0.7 MPa (100 psi) for 1 hour. The double quantum filtered spectra showed marked lineshape changes in the compressed samples. Compression did not seem to influence the lineshapes of the single quantum and triple quantum filtered spectra significantly. We found that the residual quadrupolar interaction was reduced in the compressed samples. Changes in the ordering of collagen fibers may be responsible for the observed effect.
High performance clustering of social images in a map-collective programming model

Large-scale iterative computations are common in many important data mining and machine learning algorithms. Most of these applications can be specified as iterations of MapReduce computations, leading to the Iterative MapReduce programming model [1] for efficient execution of data-intensive iterative computations interoperably between HPC and cloud environments. We observe that a systematic approach to collective communication is essential but notably missing in the current model. Thus we generalize the iterative MapReduce concept to Map-Collective on the premise that large collectives are a distinctive feature of data intensive and data mining applications. To show the necessity of Map-Collective model, this paper studies the implications of large-scale social image clustering problems, where 10--100 million images represented as points in a high dimensional (up to 2048) vector space are required to be divided into 1--10 million clusters.
And Some of Us Are Braver: Stress and Coping Among African American Women

African American women fulfill many roles within their family and community. Most notably, these women are often defined by their “strength” and rarely seen as “vulnerable.” Many African American women demonstrate strength as they struggle to maintain employment, raise children, and nurture spouses and extended family, but these same women are at risk for a higher rate of health and emotional problems. In this article, the authors use relational cultural, stress and coping, and lifespan theories, along with Black feminist thought to discuss the interlocking effects of race, gender, and class regarding the psychological well-being of African American women 18 to 55 years old. We conclude with a discussion of research, practice, and teaching implications.
Eastern European National Music as Concept and Commodity at the Turn of the Nineteenth Century

Although national music was a frequent topic of Austro-German aesthetic and critical discourse in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, contemporary commentators were often unable to distinguish particular national styles in representations by Austro-German composers. I argue specifically that representations of a variety of eastern European national musics were often received equivocally, for a number of different signifieds were potentially implied by a shared set of stylistic signifiers. Such representations may best be understood not as imitations of discrete national styles but as translations of the broader perception of eastern Europe and of its music as rooted in an undoubtedly largely imaginary past. The translation into music of the ideology of folkloristic simplicity, naturalness, and artlessness, furthermore, was a very marketable one, catering to the tastes and abilities of amateurs in a way that imitations of specific national musics could not have done.
Solving the nonlinear power flow equations with an inexact Newton method using GMRES

This paper presents a detailed investigation into the effectiveness of iterative methods in solving the linear system subproblem of a Newton power flow solution process. An exact Newton method employing an LU factorization has been one of the most widely used power flow solution algorithms, due to the efficient minimum degree ordering techniques that attempt to minimize fill-in. However, the LU factorization remains a computationally expensive task that can be avoided by the use of an iterative method in solving the linear subproblem. An inexact Newton method with a preconditioned Generalized Minimal Residual (GMRES) linear solver is presented as a promising alternative for solving the power flow equations. When combined with a good quality preconditioner, the Newton-GMRES method achieves a better than 50% reduction in computation, compared to Newton-LU, for two large-scale power systems: one with 3493 buses and 6689 branches, another with 8027 buses and 13765 branches.
Myocardial electrical impedance mapping of ischemic sheep hearts and healing aneurysms

BACKGROUND This study was designed to examine the bulk electrical properties of myocardium and their variation with the evolution of infarction after coronary occlusion. These properties may be useful in distinguishing between normal, ischemic, and infarcted tissue on the basis of electrophysiological parameters. METHODS AND RESULTS The electrical impedance of myocardial tissue was studied in a sheep model of infarction. The animal model involved a one-stage ligation of the left anterior descending and second diagonal arteries at a point 40% of the distance from the apex to the base. By use of a four-electrode probe, an epicardial mapping system was developed that allowed for cardiac cycle gated and signal-averaged measurements. Subthreshold current (15 microA) was injected through two of the electrodes at frequencies of 1, 5, and 15 kHz and the induced potential measured with the other two electrodes. Epicardial maps of the left ventricle were obtained during acute infarction and at 1-, 2-, and 6-week intervals after occlusion. Results showed the average specific impedance of the myocardium before infarction to be 158 +/- 26 omega-cm independent of location on the epicardium. By 60 minutes after coronary occlusion, the specific impedance had increased by 199% (p < 0.005, n = 9); it remained elevated for up to 4 hours. One week after infarction, the specific impedance decreased to 59% of the control value (p < 0.025, n = 8). Six weeks after occlusion, the specific impedance remained low at 57% of that of the noninfarcted tissue (p < 0.005, n = 9). The phase angle of the complex impedance was also measured and revealed similar changes. The hydroxyproline content of the tissue was assayed to assess infarct healing. CONCLUSIONS In this animal model, impedance is a bulk electrical property of tissue that varies with the evolution of myocardial infarction. Impedance mapping revealed significantly different values for normal, ischemic, and infarcted tissue and may prove useful in better defining the electrophysiological characteristics of such tissue.
Can we accurately measure the onset latency to the first dorsal interosseous

We present two cases with and without a latency difference of the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) from the abductor digiti minimi (ADM) and the first dorsal interosseous (FDI). In each case, onset latencies of FDI CMAPs using the contralateral small finger as E2 were shorter than those of belly–tendon CMAPs from the ADM and FDI. We conclude that onset of the belly–tendon FDI CMAP does not necessarily indicate initial activation of the FDI. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Identification of allorecognition loci in Neurospora crassa by genomics and evolutionary approaches

Understanding the genetic and molecular bases of the ability to distinguish self from nonself (allorecognition) and mechanisms underlying evolution of allorecognition systems is an important endeavor for understanding cases where it becomes dysfunctional, such as in autoimmune disorders. In filamentous fungi, allorecognition can result in vegetative or heterokaryon incompatibility, which is a type of programmed cell death that occurs following fusion of genetically different cells. Allorecognition is genetically controlled by het loci, with coexpression of any combination of incompatible alleles triggering vegetative incompatibility. Herein, we identified, characterized, and inferred the evolutionary history of candidate het loci in the filamentous fungus Neurospora crassa. As characterized het loci encode proteins carrying an HET domain, we annotated HET domain genes in 25 isolates from a natural population along with the N. crassa reference genome using resequencing data. Because allorecognition systems can be affected by frequency-dependent selection favoring rare alleles (i.e., balancing selection), we mined resequencing data for HET domain loci whose alleles displayed elevated levels of variability, excess of intermediate frequency alleles, and deep gene genealogies. From these analyses, 34 HET domain loci were identified as likely to be under balancing selection. Using transformation, incompatibility assays and genetic analyses, we determined that one of these candidates functioned as a het locus (het-e). The het-e locus has three divergent allelic groups that showed signatures of positive selection, intra- and intergroup recombination, and trans-species polymorphism. Our findings represent a compelling case of balancing selection functioning on multiple alleles across multiple loci potentially involved in allorecognition.
Optical Lock-In Detection of FRET Using Synthetic and Genetically Encoded Optical Switches

The Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) technique is widely used for studying protein interactions within live cells. The effectiveness and sensitivity of determining FRET, however, can be reduced by photobleaching, cross talk, autofluorescence, and unlabeled, endogenous proteins. We present a FRET imaging method using an optical switch probe, Nitrobenzospiropyran (NitroBIPS), which substantially improves the sensitivity of detection to <1% FRET efficiency. Through orthogonal optical control of the colorful merocyanine and colorless spiro states of the NitroBIPS acceptor, donor fluorescence can be measured both in the absence and presence of FRET in the same FRET pair in the same cell. A SNAP-tag approach is used to generate a green fluorescent protein-alkylguaninetransferase fusion protein (GFP-AGT) that is labeled with benzylguanine-NitroBIPS. In vivo imaging studies on this green fluorescent protein-alkylguaninetransferase (GFP-AGT) (NitroBIPS) complex, employing optical lock-in detection of FRET, allow unambiguous resolution of FRET efficiencies below 1%, equivalent to a few percent of donor-tagged proteins in complexes with acceptor-tagged proteins.
On the Efficacy of Frequency Hopping in Coping with Jamming Attacks in 802.11 Networks

Frequency hopping (FH) has been the most popularly considered approach for alleviating the effects of jamming attacks. We re-examine, the efficacy of FH based on both experimentation and analysis. Briefly, the limitations of FH are: (a) the energy spill over between adjacent channels that are considered to be orthogonal, and (b) the small number of available orthogonal bands. In a nutshell, the main contributions of our work are: (a) Construction of a measurement-driven game theoretic framework which models the interactions between a jammer and a communication link employing FH. Our model accounts for the above limiting factors and provides bounds on the performance of proactive FH in coping with jamming. (b) Extensive experimentation to quantify the impact of a jammer on 802.11a/g/n networks. Interestingly, we find that 802.11n devices can be more vulnerable to jamming as compared with legacy devices. We carefully analyze the reasons behind this observation. (c) Application of our framework to quantify the efficacy of proactive FH and validation of our analytical bounds across various 802.11 network configurations. (d) Formal derivation of the optimal strategies for both the link and the jammer in 802.11 networks. Our results demonstrate that FH seems to be inadequate in coping with jamming attacks in current 802.11 networks.
OCCUPATION IN RELATION TO THE CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

A survey was made of the work and hobbies of 658 patients with the carpal tunnel syndrome. Seventy-nine per cent of the patients were employed in work requiring light, highly repetitive movements of the wrists and fingers. Fifty-one per cent of the unemployed housewives knitted. It is suggested that this type of manual activity can be a causal factor in the development of the, so-called, 'spontaneous' carpal tunnel syndrome.
On the available partial respects in which an axiomatization for real valued arithmetic can recognize its consistency

Godel's Second Incompleteness Theorem states axiom systems of sufficient strength are unable to verify their own consistency. We will show that axiomatizations for a computer's floating point arithmetic can recognize their cut-free consistency in a stronger respect than is feasible under integer arithmetics. This paper will include both new generalizations of the Second Incompleteness Theorem and techniques for evading it.
An Efficient Stereoselective Synthesis of a Tricyclic Intermediate for the Synthesis of Derivatives of Abietic and Podocarpic Acids

Abstract For many years the synthesis of diterpene acids has attracted the attention of organic chemists. Kroniger and Wheeler1 reported that the condensation of the dimethylate 1a with methyl malonate gave the cis compound 2a which on heating with palladised charcoal was converted into the trans isomer 3a. Compound 3a is a promising intermediate in the synthesis of derivatives of both abietic and podocarpic acids, while 2a could be a starting material for the synthesis of cis fused diterpene acids. However, the route to 2a and 3a was inefficient; 1a was only available as the minor component of a mixture with its epimer 1b; and the yield for the stage 2a + 3a was poor.
MULTISCALE MATERIALS MODELLING: CASE STUDIES AT THE ATOMISTIC AND ELECTRONIC STRUCTURE LEVELS ∗

Although the intellectual merits of computational modelling across various length and time scales are generally well accepted, good illustrative examples are often lacking. One way to begin appreciating the benefits of the multiscale approach is to first gain experience in probing complex physical phenomena at one scale at a time. Here we discuss materials modelling at two characteris- tic scales separately, the atomistic level where interactions are specified through classical potentials and the electronic level where interactions are treated quantum mechanically. The former is generally sufficient for dealing with mechanical deformation at large strain, whereas the latter is necessary for treating chemical reactions or electronic transport. We will discuss simulations of defect nucleation using molecular dynamics, the study of water-silica reactions using a tight-binding approach, the design of a semiconductor-oxide interface using density functional theory, and the analysis of conjugated poly- mer in molecular actuation using Hartree-Fock calculations. The diversity of the problems discussed notwithstanding, our intent is to lay the groundwork for future problems in materials research, a few will be mentioned, where modelling at the electronic and atomistic scales are needed in an integrated fashion. It is in these problems that the full potential of multiscale modelling can be realized.
The Microsieve Electrode (μSE) As a Tool for Neuromodulation in Peripheral Nerves: A Design, Modeling and Fabrication study

n BACKGROUND: An electrode array that operates within a cross-section of nerve is an attractive yet unfledged idea. Limitations in selectively recruiting individual fascicles restrict the promise and clinical viability of existing devices. Microsieve electrodes (mSE), a type of regenerative neural interface, have shown promise, providing a robust interface integrated into a transected nerve. We report a hybrid-field model demonstrating graded selective recruitment of fascicles, and a scalable microfabrication process based on current semiconductor technologies. n METHODS: A hybrid-field model was used to calculate the selectivity and recruitment of 16 electrode sites on 14 mSE designs varied by transparency (available regeneration area ranging from 20% to 80%) and hole size (30 mm and 100mm). A physical prototype was created using photolithography, physical vapor deposition and anodic metal dissolution. n RESULTS: All designs demonstrate graded recruitment by adjusting current. The 30 mm hole size favored lower stimulation currents and lessened variance in fascicle selection, however, inhibited the effects of transparency on recruitment. Contrary, the 100 mm version increased stimulation current requirements and increased variance, but enabled transparency effects on recruitment. Microfabrication was made feasible using polyimide thin-film, and platinum metal patterning of the electrodes on glass slides. The process avoided cytotoxic materials and processes, allowed multi-unit scalability, and arbitrary geometries. n CONCLUSIONS: These preliminary results provide a framework for neuromodulation using graded and selective recruitment of nerve fascicles using the mSE. Clinically, mSE could be used for rehabilitation of motor and sensory function, spinal cord injuries, chronic pain and as an enhancement to selective rhizotomies.
ACUTE AND DELAYED SPACE PROBLEMS FOLLOWING PULMONARY RESECTION

The goal at the completion of a pulmonary resection should be to have no residual space. When a residual space persists either early or late, there are a number of therapeutic modalities that can be utilized to deal with this. Early recognition and prevention whenever possible are the keys to success in dealing with this problem.
Corporate Meltdowns and the Deduction of Credit Risk Interest

Corporate equity is like an option for big, high volatility investments because shareholders get all the gains but shift some of the losses to creditors by defaulting on the debt. That asymmetry allows shareholders to improve their position by increasing the volatility of corporate assets. In doing so, however, they impose losses not just on creditors, but also on employees, suppliers, customers, and the economy at large. It would be far better not to induce high risk in the first place.This proposal would disallow the deduction of credit-risk interest that covers the risk of default. Because the credit-risk interest is an assessment of how likely it is that the debt will not be paid, it tracks the protection against loss that gives equity its optionlike character. Risk is an equity-like feature of an instrument. Current law’s attempt to distinguish debt from equity is a quagmire. Disallowing the extra credit-risk interest is a gradual, fair, and administrable way to separate debt features from equity.This proposal is as part of the Shelf Project, a collaboration among tax professionals to develop proposals to raise revenue by defending the tax base. Shelf Project proposals raise revenue without a VAT or a rate increase in ways that would improve the fairness, efficiency, and rationality of the tax system. Shelf projects are intended to foreclose both 85 percent income tax rates and 60 percent federal sales.
First demonstration of Ge nanowire CMOS circuits: Lowest SS of 64 mV/dec, highest gmax of 1057 μS/μm in Ge nFETs and highest maximum voltage gain of 54 V/V in Ge CMOS inverters

Ge nanowire CMOS circuits are experimentally demonstrated on a Ge on insulator (GeOI) substrate for the first time. The nanowire CMOS devices have channel lengths (Lch) from 100 to 40 nm, nanowire height (HNW) of 10 nm and nanowire widths (WNW) from 40 to 10 nm, and dielectric EOTs of 2 and 5 nm. Four types of Ge MOSFETs: accumulation mode (AM) and inversion mode (IM) nFETs and pFETs are studied in great details. Record low SS of 64 mV/dec and high maximum trans-conductance (gmax) of 1057 μS/μm are obtained on Ge nanowire nFETs. Furthermore, hybrid Ge nanowire CMOS with AM nFET and IM pFET is also first realized. The highest maximum voltage gain reaches 54 V/V.
Ion Mobility Studies of Carbohydrates as Group I Adducts: Isomer Specific Collisional Cross Section Dependence on Metal Ion Radius

Carbohydrates play numerous critical roles in biological systems. Characterization of oligosaccharide structures is essential to a complete understanding of their functions in biological processes; nevertheless, their structural determination remains challenging in part due to isomerism. Ion mobility spectrometry provides the means to resolve gas phase ions on the basis of their shape-to-charge ratios, thus providing significant potential for separation and differentiation of carbohydrate isomers. Here, we report on the determination of collisional cross sections for four groups of isomeric carbohydrates (including five isomeric disaccharides, four isomeric trisaccharides, two isomeric pentasaccharides, and two isomeric hexasaccharides) as their group I metal ion adducts (i.e., [M + Li]+, [M + Na]+, [M + K]+, [M + Rb]+, and [M + Cs]+). In all, 65 collisional cross sections were measured, the great majority of which have not been previously reported. As anticipated, the collisional cross sections of the ca...
Thermodynamics of binding of di- and tetrasubstituted naphthalene diimide ligands to DNA G-quadruplex.

Naphthalene diimide ligands have the potential to stabilize human telomeric G-quadruplex DNA via noncovalent interactions. Stabilization of G-quadruplex high order structures has become an important strategy to develop novel anticancer therapeutics. In this study four naphthalene diimide based ligands were analyzed in order to elucidate the principal factors determining contributions to G-quadruplex-ligand binding. Three possible modes of binding and their respective Gibbs free energies for two naphthalene diimide based di-N-alkylpyridinium substituted ligands have been determined using a molecular docking technique and compared to experimental results. The structures obtained from the molecular docking calculations, were analyzed using the ab initio based fragment molecular orbital (FMO) method in order to determine the major enthalpic contributions to the binding and types of interactions between the ligand and specific residues of the G-quadruplex. A computational methodology for the efficient and inex...
Rheology of Imidazolium-Based Ionic Liquids with Aromatic Functionality

A series of imidazolium-based ionic liquids with cyclic and aromatic groups and a bis[(trifluoromethane)sulfonyl]amide anion were characterized using dynamic and steady shear rheology in a wide temperature range. The cations investigated include 1-(cyclohexylmethyl)-3-methylimidazolium ([CyhmC1im](+)), 1-benzyl-3-methylimidazolium ([BnzC1im](+)), 1,3-dibenzylimidazolium ([(Bnz)2im](+)), and 1-(2-naphthylmethyl)-3-methylimidazolium ([NapmC1im](+)). Rheological properties are reported from terminal flow to the glassy state. All ionic liquids show very similar flow behavior with a glassy modulus approaching 1 GPa. The temperature dependences of the shift factors used for time-temperature superposition and the viscosity both follow the same VFT or WLF relationship, and the dynamic fragility at Tg ranges from 117 to 130 for the aromatic ionic liquids investigated, considerably more fragile, in the Angell sense, than the aliphatic analogs. Additionally, an anomalous aging effect in the dynamic viscosity response (i.e., a maximum observed at intermediate frequencies) was found using a strain-controlled rheometer but not using a stress-controlled rheometer.
Field testing of Brownian diffusion fiberbed mist eliminators for sulphuric acid plant service

A portable field element pressure drop test apparatus for Brownian diffusion fiberbed mist eliminators was developed to measure bed resistance on-site for evaluation and comparison of manufacturing levels of elements and predict if elements will operate acceptably when they have been washed during maintenance periods. The equipment arrangement, set-up and operation of the portable field pressure drop test apparatus are described and the comparison of bulk packing, parallel wrapped, angle wrapped roving and angle roving concentric elements are carried out. The value of gas pressure drop in a sulphuric acid plant is discussed as well.
Studies on the enzymic hydroxylation of 3,4-benzpyrene.

We have investigated the relationship between the capacity of rat liver microsomal preparations to metabolize several foreign substances, and their content of the carbon monoxide-binding pigment, P-450. A rapid and convenient radioactive assay for the hydroxylation of 3,4-benzpyrene has been developed and the kinetics of this system studied. Optically clear, but not soluble, enzyme preparations were obtained by treatment of rat liver microsomes derived from benzpyrene-treated animals with the nonionic detergent Triton N-101. It was shown that the capacity of these preparations to hydroxylate 3,4-benzpyrene after various types of treatments, was impaired in direct proportion to the conversion of P-450 to its inactive form, P-420. Benzpyrene hydroxylase activity and the content of P-450 during storage were conserved to a large degree by the addition of glycerol to the medium. Treatment of rats with either 3,4-benzpyrene or phenobarbital resulted in elevated levels of benzpyrene hydroxylase, zoxazolamine hydroxylase, and p-nitroanisole demethylase activities as well as in a higher P-450 content, although the increases of these various components resulting from drug treatment were not in the same proportion. Evidence for the reactivation of acid-treated enzyme preparations by the addition of flavins was obtained.
Ocular squamous cell carcinoma: immunological responses to tumour tissue and phytomitogens.

Cows with histologically confirmed ocular squamous ccll carcinoma were injected with autochthonous tumour brei in adjuvant. Lymphoproliferative responses of isolated peripheral blood lymphocytes exposed to phytomitogens and inhibition of cell migration indicated that afflicted animals were immunocompetent. Similar but lesser responses were evident when autochthonous tumour homogenates were used to stimulate lymphocytes.
Extending logic programming beyond computability

From a practical point of view, any extension of a logic programming language based on a first-order logic should stay within the realm of computability. Indeed, over the last several years many such extensions have been proposed, resulting in languages based on various logics such as modal, temporal, higher-order, non-monotonic, etc. In this paper however, we propose an extension which leads to a proper generalization of the notion of computability. We obtain this by allowing universal quantification in the body of program clauses, and we refer to the resulting language as UNILOG. We show that in UNILOG, in addition to the computable functions, one can also define functions that are non-computable. We argue that such an extension is valuable from a theoretical point of view. The claim that UNILOG is indeed a logic programming language is justified by our demonstration that it has an appropriate fixed-point semantics. Building upon an idea of Fitting [1], we present a recursion-theoretic semantics by generalizing the notion of a unary enumeration operator to that of a binary enumeration operator. We then show that there is one-to-one correspondence between the logic programs in UNILOG and a set of these binary enumeration operators. In the context of an earlier work by the present author, this paper refers to an axiomatic theory of generalized computability, arguing that within it, this semantics can be used as a foundation for future theoretical studies of UNILOG.
Learning to Draw in Antebellum Massachusetts

At first glance, Eloise Richards Payne (1787–1819) would seem similar to visual art educators today: she was female, white, and native born. Her family was part of an emerging, urban middle class. As a child, Eloise probably paid attention to the visual culture surrounding her. A closer look reveals differences reflecting her gender and time period; her early art materials were probably watercolors and silk embroidery thread. Eloise’s parents were teachers who owned the Berry Street Academy in Boston, a venture or for-profit school. Before the invention of common schools, most schools were independent, with parents paying either by cash or by barter. Notwithstanding, if enough students chose not to enroll, the school soon failed.
Improvement of energy consumption for a lower limb exoskeleton through verticalization time optimization

This paper focuses on a lower limb exoskeleton. The problem of improvement of energy efficiency of the exoskeleton during sit-to-stand motion (verticalization) is considered. Optimization of the time allocated for the verticalization motion is proposed as a way to improve energy efficiency. It is shown that optimal time of verticalization depends on the initial position of the exoskeleton and the relation between the two can be approximated by a polynomial function. An analysis and suggestions for practical applications of the obtained results are presented.
Reliable PUF design using failure patterns from time-controlled power gating

Physical Unclonable Functions (PUFs) leverage silicon process variations to generate unique keys or hardware identifiers. A common PUF mechanism is based on uninitialized power-up states of bistable storage elements, but any bias in these storage elements will reduce their sensitivity to process variations and induce correlated outputs. Alternatively, a high quality PUF can be created by exploiting differences in the failure propensity of instances of identical storage cells, and this approach does not require power-up states to be unbiased. Contrary to previous failure-based PUFs that induce failures by controlling supply voltage explicitly, in this work we propose a failure-based PUF that uses failures induced by controlling the duration of power gating. We demonstrate the approach in simulation using D flip-flop circuits, and show that it reliably produces high quality output bits.