cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Spectral-domain optical coherence phase and multiphoton microscopy

We describe simultaneous quantitative phase contrast and multiphoton fluorescence imaging by combined spectral-domain optical coherence phase and multiphoton microscopy. The instrument employs two light sources for efficient optical coherence microscopic and multiphoton imaging and can generate structural and functional images of transparent specimens in the epidirection. Phase contrast imaging exhibits spatial and temporal phase stability in the subnanometer range. We also demonstrate the visualization of actin filaments in a fixed cell specimen, which is confirmed by simultaneous multiphoton fluorescence imaging.
Abstract 5540: Preclinical investigation of the novel histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor AR-42 in the treatment of cancer-induced cachexia

Background: Cachexia occurs in more than 50% of cancer patients. Cachexia is characterized by severe loss of weight and skeletal muscle that is not reversed by nutritional support, and contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. The development of effective therapies for cancer cachexia is clearly warranted. AR-42 is a novel class I/IIB HDAC inhibitor that was developed in our laboratories and currently in Phase I/IB trials at The Ohio State University. Here, we report the anti-cachectic activity of AR-42 in two murine models of cancer cachexia. Methods: Experiments were conducted using the colon-26 adenocarcinoma (C-26) and Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) tumor mice models of cancer cachexia. AR-42 was administered by oral gavage at 50 mg/kg every other day starting at day 6 after tumor cell inoculation. Serum samples (n = 3) and muscle tissues (n = 8) from each group were sent for RNAseq and small RNAseq (OSU), cytokine/chemokine profiling assays [Eve Technologies, Alberta, Canada] and metabolomic analyses [Metabolon, Research Triangle Park, NC]. Results: In the C-26 model, AR-42 significantly attenuated cachexia-induced losses of skeletal muscle mass and body weight, with minimal effects on C-26 tumor growth, and prolonged survival time relative to mice treated with vehicle only or with other HDAC inhibitors (vorinostat and romidepsin). Metabolomic and gene expression analyses revealed that the effects of AR-42 were associated with its ability to maintain metabolic and gene expression profiles in skeletal muscle to levels comparable to those in muscle from tumor-free mice. Analysis of RNAseq data of relevant genes suggests that AR-42 modulates major pathways involved in muscle wasting, mitochondrial function, lipolysis, and cytoskeletal integrity. The main mechanism of action is thought to be through down-regulating FOXO1 (> 5-fold) leading to suppression of MuRF1 and Atrogin-1. Additional mechanistic validation is underway and full results will be available at the meeting. AR-42-induced abrogation of cachexia and rescue of muscle weight was additionally confirmed in the LLC model. Conclusion: Our results suggest AR-42 induces unique protective effects on cancer-induced muscle wasting and lipolysis, and our findings support further evaluation of AR-42 as a potential treatment for cancer cachexia. Citation Format: Yu-Chou Tseng, Samuel Kulp, I-Lu Lai, Wei He, Ralf Bundschuh, David Frankhouser, Pearlly Yan, Denis Guttridge, Guido Marcucci, Ching-Shih Chen, Tanios Bekaii-Saab. Preclinical investigation of the novel histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor AR-42 in the treatment of cancer-induced cachexia. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 5540. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-5540
Sustained proteolysis is required for human platelet activation by thrombin.

Abstract A maximally effective dose of indomethacin does not prevent serotonin release and aggregation in human platelets stimulated with thrombin. Thrombin induces rapid activation of inositol phospholipids-specific phospholipase C, which is reflected by the degradation of inositides and the phosphorylation of the resultant 1,2-diacylglycerol to phosphatidic acid. Thrombin also activates protein kinase C and myosin light chain kinase as indicated by phosphorylation of the 40,000 and 20,000 dalton proteins, respectively. Leupeptin, a protease inhibitor that does not inhibit thrombin's proteolytic activity or its binding to platelet surface, is able to reverse platelet activation by thrombin when it is administered after the addition of the agonist and indomethacin. The results suggest a proteolytic-mediated pathway in transmembrane signalling involved in platelet activation by thrombin.
Analysis of coal log ram extrusion

Abstract Ram extrusion of coal logs was studied for thr purpose of coal log pipeline transportation of coal. Due to the existence of wall friction and contraction of the die (mold) cross-sectional area, high pressure may be needed to cause the flow of coal through the die. One common problem of ram extrusion is the predetermination of the extrusion load. In this study, equations are derived to predict the pressure drop inside a conical die under static conditions. It was found that the extrusion area ratio, the Janssen constant (i.e. the radial-to-axial stress ratio), the contact friction coefficient, and the cone angle all contribute to the extrusion load. Experiments were carried out on a conical die using a bituminous coal. There was less than 10% difference between the experimental results and the theory. It was also found that the Janssen constant approaches a constant when the compaction pressure is high. Water content, binder, and lubricant all effect the force transmitted to the wall and the contact friction coefficient.
Sex, communication values, and cultural values: Individualism‐collectivism as a mediator of sex differences in communication values in two cultures

In an effort to understand how socialization shapes value orientations, the current study examined the mediating role of individualism‐collectivism on the connection between sex and communication values in two cultures, American and Chinese. Participants (97 Americans, 39 men and 58 women; 105 Chinese, 44 men and 61 women) completed scales providing assessments of communication values and individualism‐collectivism. Regression analyses showed that collectivism was an especially strong mediator of the sex‐communication values association among Americans, but not among Chinese. In addition, collectivism made strong, independent contributions to the prediction of communication values. These results are interpreted in terms of how broad‐scale value orientations (such as collectivism) shape more specific orientations to particular forms and functions of communication.
Capital Budgeting for Replacements with Unequal Remaining Life

A capital budgeting decision procedure appropriate for choosing the continuance, replacement, or abandonment of an asset‐in‐place is examined. The optimal replacement decision on an asset already in service requires simultaneous consideration of project life, project chaining, and possible abandonment points for both the asset‐in‐place and the replacement asset. The additional information required for the suggested procedure over the traditional replacement procedure is generally manageable and a practical solution procedure is feasible.
Verification of a complex, variable viscosity model for a tubular polymerization reactor

Abstract Beginning with Lynn and Huff [A.I.Ch.E.J. 17 , 475 (1971)], variable viscosity models have been applied to polymerization in tubular reactors. Such models can become quite complex and are difficult to verify based just on the usual experimental responses of conversion, number and weight average molecular weights, and effluent temperature. Verification of predicted velocity profiles is particularly important for scale-up processes. The present study reports the validation of the velocity profile predictions using residence time measurements. The process model for the styrene polymerization is based on the steady state, two-dimensional equations of mass energy and momentum transport. It contains adjustable parameters. This model predicts axial and radial velocity profiles which are then used in a tracer model. The tracer model consists of the unsteady, two-dimensional convective diffusion equation. It was solved using an apparently new technique which decouples the steps of axial convection and radial diffusion. The validity of this technique was confirmed by comparison with analytical solutions. Experimental measurements were made on tubular reactors having inside diameters of 0.011 and 0.033 m. Styrene conversions were approximately 20%. Mean residence times were 3600 s. The residence time distribution was measured using toluene as the inert tracer. Results showed excellent agreement with model predictions.
Vowel duration and neutralization of vowel length contrasts in Kinyarwanda

Abstract In Kinyarwanda, a Bantu language spoken in Rwanda, there is a contrast in vowel length, as in [ɡutaka] “to scream” and [ɡutaːka] “to decorate”. This contrast is neutralized in various positions: there are only short vowels word-initially or -finally, and there are only long vowels before a nasal-obstruent (NC) sequence or after a consonant-glide (CG) sequence. An acoustic study was performed to determine how vowel duration varied according to (a) vowel type (short, long, pre-NC, post-CG), (b) vowel height (low, high), (c) position in the word (initial, penultimate, final), and (d) position in the phrase (initial word, final word). It was found that pre-NC vowels were intermediate in duration between short vowels on the one hand and long or post-CG vowels on the other. Low vowels were longer than high vowels. Word-penultimate vowels were longer than word-initial or -final vowels, and phrase-penultimate vowels were longer than other word-penultimate vowels. The duration of phrase-final vowels depended on the extent of final devoicing. Implications for the representation and implementation of the vowel length contrast are discussed.
Spin and charge transport induced by magnetization dynamics in diffusive ferromagnetic metals

In ferromagnetic metals, the temporal and spatial dependence of the magnetization vector generates spin-dependent electric and magnetic fields. We study spin and charge transport by using the linearalized Boltzmann equation in response to these fields. A generalized spin-diffusion equation is derived and then exactly solved for a nanowire where the spatial dependence of the magnetization is one dimensional. It is found that the relative length scales between the domain-wall width and the spin-diffusion length are important in determining the local electromotive force and the enhanced damping induced by magnetization dynamics.
Cable and wire rope barrier design considerations: Review

Cable or wire rope barrier was being used in the 1940s and maybe earlier for vehicle containment. Through the years the designs have changed, but engineers continue to see cable barrier as an inexpensive barrier for use in some roadside applications. Recently, cable or wire rope has gained popularity as a median barrier for the prevention of cross-median accidents. Cross-median accidents are typically violent collisions with a high probability of multiple serious injuries and deaths. Thus, the design trend is gravitating toward providing positive vehicle containment in wider medians for which barriers have not historically been warranted. Wire rope often provides a cost-effective solution for this design scenario. Field experience with cable or wire rope barriers has identified areas for design improvement. It is desirable that cables remain taut to improve interaction with the vehicle, reduce dynamic deflections, and minimize maintenance. Additionally, reduced design deflections result in more potential application sites. Recent research demonstrates that such improvements are practical and cost-effective. Besides the initial tension in the wire ropes, other factors that can have a significant influence on dynamic deflections include post spacing and horizontal curvature. Computer simulations with cable barriers with various post spacings and horizontal curvatures were used to develop guidelines for expected design deflections. Finally, full-scale crash tests were completed with a new, cost-effective cable terminal system, and a brief review of the design and crash test results is included.
LAPAROSCOPIC RENAL DENERVATION AND NEPHROPEXY FOR AUTOSOMAL DOMINANT POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE RELATED PAIN IN ADOLESCENTS

Purpose: We present our initial experience with laparoscopic renal denervation and nephropexy for ADPKD related pain in the adolescent population.Materials and Methods: Four patients 15 to 19 years old previously diagnosed with ADPKD presented with chronic pain refractory to narcotic analgesics. These 4 patients underwent laparoscopic renal denervation of 5 kidneys.Results: Mean operative time was 136 minutes and mean hospital stay was 2.75 days. All patients were pain-free at discharge home and remained pain-free at a mean followup of 11.5 months.Conclusions: We believe that laparoscopic renal denervation plus nephropexy is a promising option for uncontrolled ADPKD related pain in the adolescent population.
Kinetic spectrophotometric determination of submicromolar orthophosphate by molybdate reduction

Abstract A kinetic spectrophotometric procedure was developed for determination of submicromolar orthophosphate based on the reaction in which orthophosphate serves as a catalyst in the reduction of molybdenum, and the initial rate of molybdenum-blue formation ( λ max = 780 nm) is proportional to the concentration of orthophosphate in the samples. The detection limit (3 × standard deviation of blank, n = 8) was 6 nM and the linear calibration ranged from 10 to 100 nM ( r 2 = 0.997). The precisions of this method were 3.3% at 10 nM and 5.4% at 50 nM ( n = 8), respectively. Similar to other molybdate based methods, silica and arsenate in the samples can interfere with phosphate determination. The responses of silicate and arsenate were about 25% and 7% of that of orthophosphate, respectively, and their interferences were enhanced in the presence of phosphate in the samples due to the synergistic effect of phosphate with arsenate or silicate on the molybdate reagent.
Aliphatic dicarboxylate copper coordination polymers with 3-pyridylmethylnicotinamide: Effect of chain length and steric bulk on dimensionality

Abstract Hydrothermal reaction of divalent copper salts, aliphatic dicarboxylic acids, and 3-pyridylmethylnicotinamide (3-pmna) has afforded a series of coordination polymer solids that were characterized via single-crystal X-ray crystallography. A significant dependence of the dimensionality and topology of these materials on the part of aliphatic chain length and substituent was revealed. Both [Cu2(suc)2(3-pmna)]n (1, suc = succinate) and its substituted congener {[Cu2(dms)2(3-pmna)]·4H2O}n (2, dms = 2,2-dimethylsuccinate) manifest {Cu2(OCO)4} paddlewheel dimers, connected into chain motifs that are further linked by 3-pmna ligands into 2-D (4,4) grid networks. The enhanced steric bulk of the dms ligands in 2 impart larger interlamellar regions occupied by disordered water molecules. {[Cu2(glu)2(3-pmna)]·H2O}n (3, glu = glutarate) has similar dimer-containing [Cu2(glu)2]n chain motifs, but retains a 1-D dimensionality due to bridging by syn-conformation 3-pmna ligands. [Cu(2-mglu)(3-pmna)]n (4, 2-mglu = 2-methylglutarate) features anti-syn {CuOCO}n chain patterns and a 3,5-connected (3.52)(3253647) 2-D topology. {[Cu2(adp)2(3-pmna)2]·H2O}n (5, adp = adipate) exhibits 2-D [Cu2(adp)2]n layers, linked by anti-conformation 3-pmna ligands into a very rare 3-D 3,5-connected hms net with (63)(698) topology. A minor 1-D chain product {[Cu2(adp)2(3-pmna)]·0.25H2O}n (6) was also isolated at higher temperature. Variable temperature magnetic susceptibility data for 5 indicates the presence of very weak antiferromagnetic coupling along its anti-syn bridged {CuOCO}n chains. Thermal properties of these new materials are also investigated.
Compositional Model Checking of Concurrent Systems

This paper presents a compositional framework to address the state explosion problem in model checking of concurrent systems. This framework takes as input a system model described as a network of communicating components in a high-level description language, finds the local state transition models for each individual component where local properties can be verified, and then iteratively reduces and composes the component state transition models to form a reduced global model for the entire system where global safety properties can be verified. The state space reductions used in this framework result in a reduced model that contains the exact same set of observably equivalent executions as in the original model, therefore, no false counter-examples result from the verification of the reduced model. This approach allows designs that cannot be handled monolithically or with partial-order reduction to be verified without difficulty. The experimental results show significant scale-up of this compositional verification framework on a number of non-trivial concurrent system models.
Expressiveness does predict well-being

Previous studies of “sex role” and well-being have yielded mixed results on the relationship between expressive traits and well-being. This may be due to methodological inconsistencies, problems inherent in early sex role inventories, and narrow definitions of well-being. This study assessed the relationship between the instrumental and expressive traits on the Short Bem Sex Role Inventory (SBSRI) and a composite picture of well-being, including depression, positive affect, affect balance, life satisfaction, and affect intensity, in a sample of primarily white middle-class college students. The two scales of the SBSRI predicted most aspects of well-being equally well, yielding two independent main effects. The expressive scale was the only significant predictor of affect intensity. Expressiveness scores were positively correlated with affect intensity overall, and with positive affect intensity in particular. It is suggested that the SBSRI is tapping two factors of a general positive self-schema, rather than sex role per se.
The relationship of television viewing time to scores on the Fear Survey Schedule

Abstract The responses of 460 undergraduates enrolled in introductory psychology to the Wolpe-Lang Fear Survey Schedule (FSS) were examined to determine the effect of television viewing time. Contrary to predictions of cultivation theory, heavy viewers (more than four hours daily) did not obtain significantly higher total fear scores than light (less than two hours) or medium viewers (two to four hours). Similarly, the scores on five FSS Subscales—Social Phobia, Agoraphobia, Fear of Bodily Injury, Illness and Death, Fear of Sexual and Aggressive Scenes, and Fear of Harmless Animals—did not reveal any differences related to viewing time. However, the total fear score of female respondents increased with viewing time and was significantly higher than male scores; significant sex differences were found in four subscales as well. Implications for future use of the FSS and cultivation theory were discussed.
Forced convection in a composite parallel plate channel: modeling the effect of interface roughness and turbulence utilizing a k-ε model

Abstract In this paper, a composite parallel plate channel whose central part is occupied by a clear fluid and whose peripheral part is occupied by a fluid-saturated porous medium is considered. The modeling is based on the assumption that the flow in the clear fluid region is turbulent while in the porous region the flow remains laminar. The turbulent and laminar flow solutions are matched at the porous/fluid interface, which is assumed rough. Two different models are utilized for calculating turbulent viscosity in the clear fluid region, the algebraic Cebeci–Smith model and a k–e model. Numerical results obtained utilizing both models are compared and analyzed in detail.
Major depression in patients with cardiac disease: diagnosis and somatic treatment.

Abstract Depression is frequent in the cardiac patient, but it can be treated effectively, provided that appropriate guidelines are adhered to. Of the subtypes of depression in the cardiac patient, melancholia is the most commonly encountered. Tricyclic antidepressants suitable for its treatment are assessed in detail, along with possible side effects to watch for (the most important of which are altered ECG, increased heart rate, and orthostatic hypotension). Careful monitoring of plasma drug levels will contribute to control of these effects. Reluctance to treat depression in the cardiac patient is a common error and can actually increase morbidity and mortality.
Glucose absorption in highly inbred strains of mice.

Conclusions1. Glucose absorption in the mouse has been studied. Increasing the concentration of administered solution results in an increase in the amount of glucose absorbed. 2. Glucose solutions of 75% concentration were absorbed somewhat more readily by mice of the C57 strain than by those of the A strain (p = 0.015). 3. Administration of 25% glucose solutions leads to some diminution of the phosphatase activity of the small intestine determined both chemically and cytochemically.
Endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor in the cerebral circulation

Abstract In cerebral vessels, there is at least one factor or mechanism not involving nitric oxide/endothelium-derived relaxing factor (NO/EDRF) or prostacyclin that is responsible for dilations when endothelial receptors are stimulated. This factor or mechanism is termed endothelium-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). In rat middle cerebral arteries, branches of the middle cerebral arteries and penetrating arterioles, ATP or UTP elicits the release of EDHF through stimulation of P2Y 2 receptors on the endothelium. The dilations are characterized by the involvement of calcium-activated potassium channels (K Ca ) and hyperpolarizations in vascular smooth muscle. In smaller arteries and in arterioles, EDHF appears to be more important than in larger cerebral arteries. Finally, the EDHF response is upregulated 24 h following mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). EDHF may play an important role in the regulation of cerebral blood flow during normal physiological conditions and an even greater role following pathological conditions such as TBI.
Violence and the perceived risks of taking antiretroviral therapy in US jails and prisons

Purpose – About one in five men living with HIV in the USA passes through a correctional center annually. Jails and prisons are seen therefore as key intervention sites to promote HIV treatment as prevention. Almost no research, however, has examined inmates’ perspectives on HIV treatment or their strategies for retaining access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) during incarceration. The purpose of this paper is to describe the results of an exploratory study examining men's perceptions of and experiences with HIV care and ART during incarceration. Design/methodology/approach – Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 42 HIV positive male and male-to-female transgendered persons recently released from male correctional centers in Illinois, USA. Findings – Interpersonal violence, a lack of safety, and perceived threats to privacy were frequently cited barriers to one's willingness and ability to access and adhere to treatment. Over 60 percent of study participants reported missed doses or sus...
Supplementation with γ-tocopherol attenuates endotoxin-induced airway neutrophil and mucous cell responses in rats

Neutrophil-mediated tissue injury is a shared pathogenesis of both chronic pulmonary diseases and acute responses to pathogens, allergens, and airborne pollutants. Interventions to minimize toxic effects of neutrophil-derived oxidants and proteases are usually limited to corticosteroids, which can have adverse side effects. We used a rodent model of endotoxin-induced lung injury to test the hypothesis that the dietary supplement γ-tocopherol (γT), a natural form of vitamin E with antioxidant and novel anti-inflammatory properties, will protect from adverse nasal and pulmonary inflammatory responses induced by endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide; LPS). Male Fisher F344 rats were intranasally (i.n.) instilled with LPS for 2 consecutive days. Beginning 2 days before i.n. LPS, the rats were gavaged daily with 30mg/kg γT. Twenty-four hours after the last i.n. LPS, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected, and pulmonary and nasal tissues were analyzed for gene expression and morphometric analyses of neutrophils and intraepithelial mucosubstances (IM). LPS caused increased BALF total cells (70% increase), neutrophils (300%), protein (35%), PGE2 (500%), and secreted mucins (75%). Robust increases in neutrophils and IM were detected in conducting airways. Pulmonary expression of MUC5AC, MIP-2, CINC-1, and MCP-1 was elevated three- to eightfold by LPS. Treatment with γT inhibited LPS-induced increases in BALF total cells, neutrophils, protein, PGE2, and secreted mucins, as well as IM and tissue neutrophil influx. Furthermore γT induced the expression of the regulatory cytokines IL-10 and IFN-γ while decreasing MUC5AC, MIP-2, CINC-1, and MCP-1. These data demonstrate novel therapeutic effects of the dietary vitamin E γT promoting anti-inflammatory pathways to protect from neutrophil-mediated lung injury.
Collinear Central Configuration in Four-Body Problem

In the n-body problem a central configuration is formed if the position vector of each particle with respect to the center of mass is a common scalar multiple of its acceleration vector. We consider the problem: given a collinear configuration of four bodies, under what conditions is it possible to choose positive masses which make it central. We know it is always possible to choose three positive masses such that the given three positions with the masses form a central configuration. However for an arbitrary configuration of four bodies, it is not always possible to find positive masses forming a central configuration. In this paper, we establish an expression of four masses depending on the position x and the center of mass u, which gives a central configuration in the collinear four body problem. Specifically we show that there is a compact region in which no central configuration is possible for positive masses. Conversely, for any configuration in the complement of the compact region, it is always possible to choose positive masses to make the configuration central.
Field Evaluation of Nylar for Control of Cat Fleas (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae) in Home Yards

Procedures were developed to evaluate juvenoid insect growth regulators in home yards as part of an ongoing program to identify photostable insecticides for control of the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis (Bouche). Nylar, an emulsifiable concentrate formulation of pyriproxyfen, was selected as the experimental insect growth regulator. Efficacy studies, yard survey, and pretreatment sampling techniques are described. Soil samples collected from the yards at intervals after treatment were taken to the laboratory, infested with flea larvae, and tested for juvenoid activity. Results indicated that Nylar applied at a concentration of 32 mg/m2 in 0.82 liter of water/m2 (20 gal/1,000 ft2) prevented development of approximately 80% of the fleas for a period of 3 wk.
Fourier fluorescence spectrometer for excitation emission matrix measurement

We demonstrate a fluorescence spectrometer that utilizes principles of Fourier transform spectroscopy to measure excitation emission matrices (EEM) rapidly and with high spectral resolution. For this EEM fluorometer, incoherent excitation light is first input into a differential-delay scanning Michelson interferometer. Light from the output port excites sample fluorescence. The fluorescence remitted from the sample is directed to a second Michelson interferometer, whose differential-delay scanning is synchronized with the first interferometer. The EEM is obtained by two-dimensional Fourier analysis of the detected signal from the output port of the second interferometer. EEM results from the system are verified by comparing with results from a standard spectrometer. The system provides a wide spectral range, adjustable spectral resolution, and fast EEM acquisition speed, which allows EEM’s to be acquired in 40 seconds at a spectral resolution of 81-cm-1.
Activity of Ro13-5223 and Ro13-7744 Against Stored-Product Insects

Two carbamate-type compounds that exhibit juvenile hormone activity were effective as progeny suppressants of stored-product insects. Ro13-5223 {ethyl [2-(p-phenoxyphenoxy)ethy1] carbamate} prevented development of F1 progeny of nine coleopteran and three lepidopteran species at < 0.1 to 10 ppm levels in wheat media. Ro13-7744 {S-ethyl [2-(p-phenoxyphenoxy)ethy1] thiocarbamate} was slightly less active against three of the species. A malathion-resistant strain of the Indian meal moth was not cross-resistant to Ro13-5223.
Lifetimes of the 668-keV and 961-keV excited states in Cu63

Abstract The 668-keV and 961-keV levels of Cu63 have been studied by the resonance scattering method. The levels were excited by the gamma radiations from gaseous and from liquid sources of Zn63, and both the resonance effect and the angular distribution of the scattered radiations have been measured. Fitting the data to a distribution of the form W(θ) = 1 + A2P2(cosθ) yielded the values −0.03±0.07 and 0.8±0.2 for A2 in the case of the 668-keV and 961-keV lines, respectively. Assuming spin 1 2 for the 668-keV level, its mean life was measured to be (3.1±0.3)10−13s. The mean life of the 961-keV level was found to be (9±1.5)10−13s, assuming a spin of 5 2 .
Effects of Metals and Metal Oxides on the Leaching of Nuclear Waste Glasses

The effects of the presence of various metals and metal oxides on the leaching of nuclear waste glasses in water can be considerable even under rapid flow conditions. The systems studied here include SRL TDS-131 glass in the presence of lead and stainless steel, and PNL 76-68 glass in the presence of aluminum, alumina and their mixtures. Lead specifically suppresses dissolved silica, but does not inhibit dissolution of defense waste glass as a whole. Stainless steel specifically reduces the levels of dissolved Ca and Sr. Al and Al2O3 exercise a general reducing effect on the rates of dissolution of commercial waste glass and the presence of alumina may have a beneficial role in enhancing waste package durability.
Physics of magnetically accelerated nonequilibrium surface discharges in high-speed flow

The physics of constricted moving nonequilibrium discharges between surfaceimbedded electrodes in strong magnetic field is analyzed. In the experiments reported elsewhere, the almost-parallel electrodes were slightly diverging in either upstream or downstream direction, and the discharge was confined to the boundary layer of supersonic flow. The magnetic field perpendicular to the surface caused the discharge to move downstream or upstream with high velocity. Electron and ion number densities and the discharge radius are estimated. Based on the equations of motion for electrons and ions, the discharge propagation velocity is calculated and is found to be in agreement with experimental data. Boundary layer velocity increase caused by the moving discharge is calculated, and ways to enhance the gas acceleration and the ratio of “push power” to the heating rate are analyzed. Possible mechanisms of discharge canting and its spiral structure are discussed.
Differentiation of SH-SY5Y cells to a neuronal phenotype changes cellular bioenergetics and the response to oxidative stress

Cell differentiation is associated with changes in metabolism and function. Understanding these changes during differentiation is important in the context of stem cell research, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. An early event in neurodegenerative diseases is the alteration of mitochondrial function and increased oxidative stress. Studies using both undifferentiated and differentiated SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells have shown distinct responses to cellular stressors; however, the mechanisms remain unclear. We hypothesized that because the regulation of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation is modulated during cellular differentiation, this would change bioenergetic function and the response to oxidative stress. To test this, we used retinoic acid (RA) to induce differentiation of SH-SY5Y cells and assessed changes in cellular bioenergetics using extracellular flux analysis. After exposure to RA, the SH-SY5Y cells had an increased mitochondrial membrane potential, without changing mitochondrial number. Differentiated cells exhibited greater stimulation of mitochondrial respiration with uncoupling and an increased bioenergetic reserve capacity. The increased reserve capacity in the differentiated cells was suppressed by the inhibitor of glycolysis 2-deoxy-d-glucose. Furthermore, we found that differentiated cells were substantially more resistant to cytotoxicity and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by the reactive lipid species 4-hydroxynonenal or the reactive oxygen species generator 2,3-dimethoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone. We then analyzed the levels of selected mitochondrial proteins and found an increase in complex IV subunits, which we propose contributes to the increase in reserve capacity in the differentiated cells. Furthermore, we found an increase in MnSOD that could, at least in part, account for the increased resistance to oxidative stress. Our findings suggest that profound changes in mitochondrial metabolism and antioxidant defenses occur upon differentiation of neuroblastoma cells to a neuron-like phenotype.
Studies on the inhibitory effect of Graptopetalum paraguayense E. Walther extracts on the angiotensin converting enzyme

Abstract This study was aimed at evaluating the kinetic properties and capacities of water (GWE), 50% ethanolic (GE50) and 95% ethanolic (GE95) extracts from Graptopetalum paraguayense for the potential to inhibit angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). The results showed that GWE, GE50 and GE95 showed potent inhibitory effects on ACE. It was found that the ACE inhibitory activities of all the tested extracts increased with the increase of their concentrations. In addition, the ACE inhibition of the tested extracts of G. paraguayense were significantly reduced after the addition of 1.5 mM ZnCl 2 , suggesting the inhibitory action of the extracts may have resulted from the chelation of the ACE zinc cofactor. The inhibition kinetics, analyzed by Lineweaver–Burk plots, revealed that G. paraguayense extracts showed a mixed-type inhibition. A comparison of the 50% inhibition concentration (IC 50 ) and K i values showed that the ethanolic extracts, including GE50 and GE95 exhibited the more effective ACE inhibitory activity than the water extracts of G. paraguayense .
Interaction of heterotrimeric G13 protein with an A-kinase-anchoring protein 110 (AKAP110) mediates cAMP-independent PKA activation.

Abstract Heterotrimeric G proteins [1] and protein kinase A (PKA) are two important transmitters that transfer signals from a wide variety of cell surface receptors to generate physiological responses. The established mechanism of PKA activation involves the activation of the Gs-cAMP pathway [2]. Binding of cAMP to the regulatory subunit of PKA (rPKA) leads to a release and subsequent activation of a catalytic subunit of PKA (cPKA). Here, we report a novel mechanism of PKA stimulation that does not require cAMP. Using yeast two-hybrid screening, we found that the α subunit of G13 protein interacted with a member of the PKA-anchoring protein family, AKAP110. Using in vitro binding and coimmunoprecipitation assays, we have shown that only activated Gα13 binds to AKAP110, suggesting a potential role for AKAP110 as a Gα subunit effector protein. Importantly, Gα13, AKAP110, rPKA, and cPKA can form a complex, as shown by coimmunoprecipitation. By characterizing the functional significance of the Gα13-AKAP110 interaction, we have found that Gα13 induced release of the cPKA from the AKAP110-rPKA complex, resulting in a cAMP-independent PKA activation. Finally, AKAP110 significantly potentiated Gα13-induced activation of PKA. Thus, AKAP110 provides a link between heterotrimeric G proteins and cAMP-independent activation of PKA.
Possible reasons for the superior performance of zeolite-based catalysts in the reduction of nitrogen oxides

Literature data and results obtained in this laboratory are used to compare catalysts supported on either zeolites or amorphous oxides and used in NOx reduction to N2. The data show that the catalytic activity of the zeolite-based materials is higher if alkanes, alkenes, or organic oxygenates are used as reductants, but with ammonia the performance of both groups of catalysts is comparable. These findings are rationalized in the context of the present knowledge of the mechanism of NOx reduction. Transition metals form oxo-ions on zeolites, but solid solutions on alumina. On zeolites, optimal Coulomb stabilization can be achieved if heterolytic dissociation of molecules transforms multipositive cations to monopositive cations. N2O4 dissociates to form NO++NO3− on BaNa/Y. In contrast, no NO+ ions are detected on BaO/γ-Al2O3. Another important parameter is the high heat of adsorption of small molecules in the narrow zeolite pores. Because oxygenates are superior to alkanes in competing against water for active sites, NOx reduction with alkanes is favored by zeolites with low Al/Si ratios, but NOx reduction with acetaldehyde is more efficient on a faujasite with a high Al/Si ratio. Over these catalysts, water vapor actually enhances NOx reduction by preventing formation of crotonaldehyde, which would poison catalyst sites.
Piezoelectric Property of Otoliths

Otoliths of two species of bony fishes have been found to be piezoelectric. Hence, in theory, they constitute a mechanism for depth perception or frequency analysis of sound waves, or both.
Support your staff employees: they support the academy

Purpose – The aim of this paper was to serve both as an informational tool identifying library services and resources and as a mechanism to gather input from campus staff to inform outreach services. Design/methodology/approach – Surveys were distributed to all non-faculty and non-administrative support staff. Questions included direct choice and open-ended responses in four categories: demographics; general library use; information needs; and student interactions. Findings – The results confirm that knowledge and awareness of the library can empower staff employees and that support staff are eager to learn about and use library resources and services. The results give guidance to liaison librarians to facilitate an effective outreach program to improve the ability of support staff to do their work and to share information with the students and faculty with whom they come into contact. Research limitations/implications – While these survey findings cannot be extrapolated to all academic settings, they bui...
Brief report: Physician discomfort and variability with disability assessments.

BACKGROUND: Completing a disability assessment is a common physician task; yet, little formal training is available.
Effects of aldehyde or dipyrromethane substituents on the reaction course leading to meso-substituted porphyrins

Abstract To better understand the effects of diverse substituents on reactions leading to porphyrins, pyrrole+aldehyde condensations and related reactions of dipyrromethanes were examined. The course of pyrrole+aldehyde condensations was investigated by monitoring the yield of porphyrin (by UV–Vis spectroscopy), reaction of aldehyde (by TLC), and changes in the composition of oligomers (by laser desorption mass spectrometry). Reaction reversibility was examined via exchange experiments. Reversibility of reactions leading to porphyrin was further probed with studies of dipyrromethanes. The reaction course was found to depend on the nature of the substituent and the acid catalyst. Alkyl or electron-donating substituents displayed levels of reversibility (exchange/scrambling) on par or greater than that of the phenyl substituent, whereas electron-withdrawing or sterically bulky substituents exhibited little to no reversibility. The results obtained provide insight into the electronic and steric effects of different substituents and should facilitate the design of synthetic plans for preparing porphyrinic macrocycles.
Translocation of chromosomes 16 and 18 in oxygen radical-transformed human lung fibroblasts.

Abstract Human lung fibroblasts (MRC5) were treated chronically with the oxygen radical-generating system hypoxanthine plus xanthine oxidase and assayed for malignant transformation in the soft agar colony assay. After a thrice weekly exposure to oxygen radicals for 4 and 5 weeks, there was a significant number of transformants compared to controls. In 4 separate experiments, karyotypes of the malignant transformants were examined. 22 75 metaphases exhibited karyotypic abnormalities and in 13 22 of the abnormal karyotypes, a t16:18 (p13.3,q21) translocation was observed. This genetic lesion may represent a marker for oxygen radical-induced malignant transformation in mammalian cells.
Diabetes in America: Epidemiology and Scope of the Problem

Epidemiological studies performed over the past 40 years have shown that the prevalence of diagnosed diabetes has increased dramatically in the U.S. and that a substantial proportion of the population has undiagnosed diabetes, impaired fasting glucose, and impaired glucose tolerance. Diabetes is most prevalent in minority populations, such as African-Americans, Native Americans, and Mexican Americans. Increasing prevalence of diabetes has led to increases in microvascular complications such as blindness, end-stage renal disease, and lower limb amputations. Poor glycemic control contributes to the high incidence of these complications, yet community-based studies of diabetic patients show their mean fasting plasma glucose concentration is generally > 180 mg/dl compared with 100 mg/dl for nondiabetic individuals. In people with diabetes, risk factors for cardiovascular disease including elevated fasting plasma glucose, blood pressure, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and obesity partly explain the high proportion of deaths (60-70%) caused by cardiovascular disease in people with diabetes. More intensive diabetes management and improved glycemic control could minimize long-term complications of the disease and would be expected to reduce the morbidity, mortality, and costs associated with diabetes.
Use of 3.5-mm Acetabular Reconstruction Plates for Internal Fixation of Flail Chest Injuries

The technique of using 3.5-mm acetabular reconstruction plates for multiple rib fractures with cerclage wires has been successful. We modified it by securing the reconstruction plates to the fractured ribs with cortical screws using the standard AO-ASIF (Arbeitsgemeindschaft fur Osteosynthesefragen [Association for the Study of Internal Fixation]) group technique. Our method for the internal fixation of the unstable chest wall is described. It is relatively simple and provides uniform results.
Chronic caffeine exposure reduces the excitant action of acetylcholine on cerebral cortical neurons.

Chronic administration of caffeine (s.c. for a period of 14 days in escalating doses of 10-70 mg/kg) decreased the sensitivity of rat cerebral cortical neurons to the excitant action of microiontophoretically applied acetylcholine. The sensitivity of spontaneously firing rat cerebral cortical neurons in caffeine-treated animals was compared with that of saline-treated controls using the same multiple barrel micropipettes tested on the same day. Acetylcholine sensitivity was determined by the E.T50 method. The E.T50 for 71 neurons in the caffeine-treated rats of 224.0 +/- 11.3 (S.E.M.) was significantly (P less than 0.001) greater than that of 65 neurons in the saline-treated control rats (153.8 +/- 6.9), indicating a reduction in the excitant action of acetylcholine on neurons which had been chronically exposed to caffeine. The level of spontaneous activity was also reduced in the caffeine-treated animals. A down-regulation of acetylcholine receptors is a possible cause for these effects.
Herbert Croly on Work and Democracy

This article explores the meaning of work for American democracy through a study of the writings of the Progressive political theorist Herbert Croly. Drawing primarily on his two principal political writings, The Promise of American Life and Progressive Democracy, the article interprets his political thought as an attempt to realize democracy by changing the way Americans think about work. Close attention is paid to his views on three topics: occupation, specialization, and administrative organization. According to Croly, a reconceptualization of work could correct the atomizing and conformist tendencies of modern industrial life, could enhance the efficiency and increase the productivity of both managers and workers, and could facilitate the development of an administrative state that would distribute labor in response to public desires and needs. The essay concludes with a discussion of how Croly can help us understand the political challenges and possibilities posed by the contemporary American experience of work.
Scattering by thin wire loaded with a ferrite ring

A coupled integral equation formulation and a method of moments (MoM) solution are presented for the problem of scattering by a thin conducting wire of circular cross section with ferrite loading. It is proved that ferrite loading can be used to reduce the radar cross section of long thin objects at their resonant frequency. >
Oxidized LDL triggers pro-oncogenic signaling in human breast mammary epithelial cells partly via stimulation of MiR-21

Dyslipidemia and obesity are primary risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis and are also epidemiologically linked to increased susceptibility to a variety of cancers including breast cancer. One of the prominent features of dyslipidemia is enhanced production of oxidized LDL (ox-LDL), which has been shown to be implicated in key steps of atherogenesis including inflammatory signaling and proliferation of vascular cells. In this study we analyzed the effects of ox-LDL in human mammary epithelial cells (MCF10A). MCF10A cells avidly internalized dil-ox-LDL and exhibited increased proliferative response to ox-LDL within the range of 1–50 µg/ml in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment of cells with 20 µg/ml ox-LDL for 2 and 12 hours was associated with upregulation of LOX-1 and CD36 scavenger receptors while MSR1 and CXLC16 receptors did not change. Ox-LDL-treated cells displayed significant upregulation of NADPH oxidases (subunits P22phox and P47phox), lipoxygenases-12 and -15, and cytoplasmic, but not mitochondrial, SOD. Ox-LDL also triggered phosphorylation of IκBα coupled with nuclear translocation of NF-κB and stimulated p44/42 MAPK, PI3K and Akt while intracellular PTEN (PI3K/Akt pathway inhibitor and target of miR-21) declined. Quantitative PCR revealed increased expression of hsa-miR-21 in ox-LDL treated cells coupled with inhibition of miR-21 target genes. Further, transfection of MCF10A cells with miR-21 inhibitor prevented ox-LDL mediated stimulation of PI3K and Akt. We conclude that, similarly to vascular cells, mammary epithelial cells respond to ox-LDL by upregulation of proliferative and pro-inflammatory signaling. We also report for the first time that part of ox-LDL triggered reactions in MCF10A cells is mediated by oncogenic hsa-miR-21 through inhibition of its target gene PTEN and consequent activation of PI3K/Akt pathway.