cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Laminar cold-flow model for the internal gas dynamics of a slab rocket motor

Abstract This paper considers the internal fluid dynamics of the slab rocket motor based on a laminar cold-flow model. An idealization process applicable to nonreacting flows leads to a mathematical solution for both steady and unsteady flow variables. Results are compared to the circular-port solution. This brings into focus the effect of a motor's radius of curvature. By comparison to a circular grain, a planar cross section exhibits slower and more gradual flow turning near the wall. It also induces reductions in core velocities and vorticities by 1/2 and 1/4, respectively. On the one hand, it appears that the reduced vortical intensity could make the slab configuration more resilient to vibrations and acoustic combustion instabilities. On the other hand, decreasing the radius of curvature seems to inhibit the inward penetration of vorticity. By comparison with the circular port, the simulated slab exhibits a more spatially uniform pressure and an uneven mass efflux at the aft end. Since the mass efflux is concentrated in a thin sheet near the core, the slab configuration is likely to exhibit improved stealth capabilities. The temporal solution is derived using the composite-scale and multiple-order WKB techniques. Asymptotic results are validated via comparisons with finite-volume solutions of the complete Navier–Stokes equations. Simulated conditions apply to forward motor segments and planar cold-flow experiments.
Determinants of enzyme thermostability observed in the molecular structure of Thermus aquaticus D-glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase at 25 Angstroms Resolution.

The crystal structure of holo d-glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) from the extreme thermophile Thermus aquaticus has been solved at 2.5 A resolution. To study the determinants of the...
Light intensity and color preferences of five ascoglossan (=sacoglossan) molluscs (Gastropoda: Opisthobranchia): A comparison of chloroplast‐symbiotic and aposymbiotic species

Light intensity and color preferences of five ascoglossan (= sacoglossan) molluscs were analyzed, including three chloroplast symbiotic species (Costasiella lilianae (Marcus), Tridachia crispala (Morch), and Elysia tuca (Marcus), and two aposymbiotic species (Oxynoe antillarum Morch and Berthelinia caribbea Edmunds). Symbiotic species oriented toward light, but preferred intensities less than those of photosynthetic optima. Aposymbiotic species avoided light at all intensities tested (100–500 μe/m2/s). Light avoidance, and selection of intensities sub‐optimal for photosynthesis, possibly function as mechanisms for predator avoidance. Field observations showed that most species exhibit a diurnal cycle of movements (upward at night, and seeking concealment by day); this pattern presumably results from the light intensity selection behavior. All species except Oxynoe antillarum exhibited distinct color preferences. These may function in location of food or, less likely, serve as temporal cues regulating vert...
Screening effect on the Landau-level broadening for electrons in GaAs-Ga1-xAlxAs heterojunctions.

A self-consistent scheme is developed for studying the screening effect on Landau-level broadening of a two-dimensional electron gas in a strong magnetic field due to long-range impurity potentials. Numerical calculation of the Landau-level widths is performed for GaAs?(hy${\mathrm{Ga}}_{1\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}\mathrm{x}}$${\mathrm{Al}}_{\mathrm{x}}$As heterojunctions with the strength of the magnetic field varying from 2 to 18 T. Our results show that the Landau levels become extremely narrow when the magnetic field is strong enough such that the Fermi level lies near the center of the lowest Landau level. However, in other regions of lower magnetic field, the level widths are usually several times broader than those obtained from the short-range impurity potential. This latter result is qualitatively in agreement with the recent de Haas--van Alphen effect experiment of Eisenstein et al.
Critical properties of a generalized pseudospin Hamiltonian

A two-parameter pseudospin Hamiltonian is introduced which contains both the Meshkov-Glick-Lipkin and the Abecasis-Faessler-Plastino Hamiltonians as special cases. The ground state critical properties of the two-parameter Hamiltonian are determined: It exhibits both first and second order phase transitions. The ground state critical properties of any one-parameter pseudospin Hamiltonian contained in the two-parameter model can immediately be determined by inspecting the interaction parameter space of the two-parameter model. The critical set in this space is identified with that of the cusp catastrophe.
AN INTEGRATIVE PROCESS MODEL OF COPING WITH JOB LOSS

Although the stress of involuntary job loss is well documented, the process through which people cope and ultimately adapt following this stressful event needs clarification. This article provides a crucial next step by introducing new theory to explain how people cope with job loss. The process model developed in this article incorporates constructs from coping theory, control theory, and self-efficacy. Future research strategies are suggested regarding coping effectiveness and reciprocal causality.
Interpolated parameter functions for neural network models

Abstract The method of neural network parameter function modeling has been demonstrated to be very effective in modeling the complex dynamics of cell growth and protein production in biotechnology processes. The development of neural network models usually requires large amounts of experimental data. This work examines the ability to use interpolated parameter functions in conjunction with neural network parameter function models to reduce the number of experiments required to develop neural network-based models of dynamic systems. Simulation and experimental results confirming the efficiency of the proposed method are presented.
Hydrogenation induced changes in band states in a-Si:H

We have determined the valence and conduction band density of states (DOS) in a-Si:H by fitting the dielectric spectra measured by spectroscopic ellipsometry. The films are grown by reactive dc magnetron sputter deposition. We find that hydrogenation reduces the states near the valence band edge, and increases those deeper in the valence band. In addition, SiH anti-bonding states are observed about 1.5 eV above the conduction band edge. These changes are systematic with hydrogen content in the film.
The compression wave produced by a high-speed train entering a tunnel

An analytical investigation is made of the compression wave produced when a high–speed train enters a tunnel. The wave propagates ahead of the train within the tunnel at about the speed of sound. In very long tunnels it is transformed by nonlinear steepening into a shock whose amplitude is about one or two per cent of atmospheric pressure. The emergence of the shock from the far end of the tunnel produces an environmental disturbance analogous to the sonic boom generated by an aircraft in supersonic flight. In this paper the train is modeled by a continuous distribution of monopole sources whose strengths are determined by the train nose profile. The initial wavelength greatly exceeds the tunnel diameter at typical train Mach numbers of about 0.2 and the analytical problem of wave generation by interaction of the monopoles with the tunnel can be solved by use of a compact Gree9s function. The functional form of Gree9s function depends on the tunnel entrance geometry and on the proximity of other inhomogeneities, such as embankments, buildings and bridge structures. Detailed predictions are given for axisymmetric ‘rain’ entering a long circular cylindrical tunnel. The results are found to be in excellent agreement with experimental data for this configuration available in the literature.
I.c.v. administration of the nonsteroidal glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, CP-472555, prevents exacerbated hypoglycemia during repeated insulin administration

Hypoglycemia elicits an integrated array of CNS-mediated counterregulatory responses, including activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The role of antecedent adrenocortical hypersecretion in impaired glucose counterregulation remains controversial. The present studies utilized the selective, nonsteroidal glucocorticoid receptor antagonist, CP-472555, as a pharmacological tool to investigate the hypothesis that hypoglycemic hypercorticosteronemia modulates CNS efferent autonomic and neuroendocrine motor responses to recurring insulin-induced hypoglycemia via glucocorticoid receptor-dependent mechanisms. Groups of adult male rats were injected s.c. with either one or four doses of the intermediate-acting insulin, Humulin neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH), on as many days, while controls were injected with diluent alone. Animals injected with four doses of insulin were pretreated by i.c.v. administration of graded doses of the glucocorticoid receptor antagonist or vehicle alone prior to the first three doses of insulin. Repeated daily injection of NPH exacerbated hypoglycemia, attenuated patterns of glucagon and epinephrine secretion, and diminished neuronal transcriptional activation in discrete CNS metabolic loci, including the lateral hypothalamic area, dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus, paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus, and nucleus of the solitary tract. While i.c.v. delivery of 25 or 100 ng doses of CP-472555 did not alter any of these parameters, animals treated with 500 ng exhibited circulating glucose, glucagon, and epinephrine levels that were similar to those in rats injected with one dose of insulin, as well as a reversal of recurring insulin-induced hypoglycemia-associated reductions in Fos immunolabeling in the lateral hypothalamic area, dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus, and paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus. These results provide unique pharmacological evidence that antecedent activation of central glucocorticoid receptor is required for exacerbation of hypoglycemia during recurring insulin-induced hypoglycemia, and that these receptors mediate modulatory effects of hypoglycemic hypercorticosteronemia on autonomic efferent responses to recurring insulin-induced hypoglycemia. The data also suggest that neurons in central loci characterized here by antagonist-mediated overturn of recurring insulin-induced hypoglycemia-induced decreases in neuronal transcriptional activation may be direct or indirect substrates for this hormonal modulation action.
Mechanisms of Disease: autosomal dominant and recessive polycystic kidney diseases

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease and autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease are the best known of a large family of inherited diseases characterized by the development of renal cysts of tubular epithelial cell origin. Autosomal dominant and recessive polycystic kidney diseases have overlapping but distinct pathogeneses. Identification of the causative mutated genes and elucidation of the function of their encoded proteins is shedding new light on the mechanisms that underlie tubular epithelial cell differentiation. This review summarizes recent literature on the role of primary cilia, intracellular calcium homeostasis, and signaling involving Wnt, cyclic AMP and Ras/MAPK, in the pathogenesis of polycystic kidney disease. Improved understanding of pathogenesis and the availability of animal models orthologous to the human diseases provide an excellent opportunity for the development of pathophysiology-based therapies. Some of these have proven effective in preclinical studies, and clinical trials have begun.
Ovarian Regulation of Hypothalamic and Pituitary Progestin-Metabolizing Enzyme Activities*

Progesterone 5α-reductase activity and 5α-dihydroprogesterone 3α-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase (3α-HSOR) activities (NADH-linked and NADPH-linked) were measured in hypothalamic and pituitary tissues from rats during various stages of the estrous cycle and in ovariectomized rats treated with 17β-estradiol or vehicle. Enzyme assays were performed using 3H-labeled steroid substrates and reverse isotopic dilution analyses. Pituitary 5α-reductase activity fluctuated over the estrous cycle, with peak levels observed on proestrus, estrus, and metestrus and lowest levels on diestrous 1 and 2 of 5-day cycling rats. Pituitary NADH-linked 3α-HSOR activity also fluctuated over the estrous cycle, paralleling 5α-reductase activity. The pituitary NADPH-linked 3α-HSOR activity and three hypothalamic enzyme activities, the 5α-reductase, NADH-linked, and NADPH-linked 3α-HSOR activities, did not change over the estrous cycle. After ovariectomy (10 days), pituitary 5α-reductase activity was elevated 10- to 12-fold relative t...
SCHEDULING ON A SINGLE MACHINE WITH FAMILY SETUPS TO MINIMIZE TOTAL TARDINESS

Abstract This paper considers the problem of scheduling on a single machine to minimize total tardiness when family setup times exist. The paper proposes optimal branch-and-bound procedures for the case where the group technology assumption is used and for the case when the group technology assumption is removed. A heuristic procedure is also proposed to solve larger problems with the group technology assumption removed. The procedures were tested on problems of various sizes and parameters. An important finding of the tests is total tardiness can be significantly reduced by removing the group technology assumption when scheduling.
Spin stiffness in frustrated antiferromagnets.

The classical antiferromagnetic Heisenberg model on the triangular lattice is studied using Monte Carlo techniques. The behavior of the antiferromagnetic structure factor, antiferromagnetic correlation length, and spin stiffness at low temperatures is consistent with recent low-temperature renormalization-group predictions based on a nonlinear sigma model (NLσ) description of the system. Our results support the validity of the NLσ model approach to the study of frustrated systems
The stability of the postulated wall-loosening enzyme in acid-induced growth.

Long-term pretreatments with cycloheximide (CH) caused inhibition of subsequent acidinduced growth of Avena coleoptile segments, but only after 6 or more h of CH treatment. These results together with previous, published evidence with frozen-thawed tissue are consistent with the hypothesis that there exists a wall-loosening enzyme responsible for acid-induced elongation and that it has a half-life of at least 7–8 h.
Evolution of near-equiaxed microstructure in the semisolid state

The microstructure of alloys with a near-equiaxed microstructure, produced by spray casting, magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) casting and the stress induced, melt activated (SIMA) process, as it evolves within short times in the semisolid state, is examined by rapid quenching and isothermal soaking experiments. Quenching experiments reveal the morphology and distribution of solid phase at high and medium volume fractions of liquid. At medium liquid content, the microstructure of spray-cast and SIMA alloys consists of discrete equiaxed grains uniformly dispersed in the liquid phase, while the corresponding microstructure of MHD-cast alloys exhibits extensive agglomerates consisting of incompletely spheroidized grains. The connectivity of solid phase and the formation of a solid skeleton in the semisolid state are discussed in terms of grain misorientation. Isothermal soaking experiments investigated grain growth and degree of spheroidization as a function of soaking time and liquid content in the semisolid state. Results demonstrated that MHD-cast microstructures are less equiaxed compared with SIMA and spray-cast alloys even after 5 min of soaking in the semisolid state. It is also shown that the grain growth rate is smaller in spray-cast alloys than in SIMA alloys. The role of coalescence and the effects of alloying elements are also discussed.
ESR Studies of Two BEDT-TTF Based Organic Superconductors, θ-(BEDT-TTF)2I3 and ι-(BEDT-TTF)4Hg2.89Br8

Abstract Variable temperature ESR measurements were carried out on two BEDT-TTF, or ET based organic superconductors, θ-(ET)2I3 and κ-(ET)4Hg2.89 Br8. The line widths of the former salt range from 60 to 80 G at room temperature and decrease with decreasing temperature. The line widths of the latter salt range from 69 to 83 G and increase with decreasing temperature. The spin susceptibilities of both salts are temperature independent. The ESR properties of these two salts are compared with those of other ET based materials.
Organizational Commitment Among Long-Term Care Staff

The study investigated the influence of workload, facility size, social support, and job satisfaction on commitment of long-term care staff. A cross-sectional design was used to collect data through a self-administered questionnaire from 363 staff members of nine long-term care facilities. Regression analysis revealed that workload, facility size, social support, and job satisfaction together contributed to 47% variance in the organizational commitment. Job satisfaction and social support increased organizational commitment, while large facility size and heavy work demand decreased organizational commitment in these long-term care facilities. Based on the findings of this study, implications for the administration of these facilities are discussed.
Determining soil quality indicators by factor analysis

Soil quality indicators (SQIs) can be used to evaluate sustainability of land use and soil management practices in agroecosystems. The objective of this study was to identify appropriate SQI from factor analysis (FA) of five treatments: no-till corn (Zee mays) without manure (NT), no-till corn with manure (NTM), no-till corn‐soybean (Glycine max) rotation (NTR), conventional tillage corn (CT), and meadow (M) in Coshocton, Ohio. Soil properties were grouped into five factors (eigenvalues > 1) for the 0‐10 cm depth as: (Factor 1) water transmission, (Factor 2) soil aeration, (Factor 3) soil pore connection 1, (Factor 4) soil texture and (Factor 5) moisture status. Factor 2 was the most dominant, with soil organic carbon (SOC) the most dominant measured soil attribute contributing to this factor. For the 10‐20 cm depth, factors identified were: (Factor 6) soil aggregation, (Factor 7) soil pore connection 2, (Factor 8) soil macropore, and (Factor 9) plant production. At 10‐
Not dead yet

Despite its triumphs, string theory has begun to lose the public battle for hearts and minds. It's time to fight back, says Sean Carroll
Rock varnish points to Younger Dryas wet period in Dead Sea Basin

During the Younger Dryas period, from about 12,900 to 11,600 years ago, the North Atlantic region cooled rapidly. This cooling, one of several rapid periods of climate change in the Earth's history, had wide effects across the globe. However, in desert regions evidence for the Younger Dryas climate change has been hard to find.
Diversity of coding profiles of mechanoreceptors in glabrous skin of kittens

Summary We examined stimulus-response (S-R) profiles of 35 single mechanoreceptive afferent units having small receptive fields in glabrous forepaw skin of 24 anesthetized domestic kittens. Single unit activity was recorded with tungsten microelectrodes from cervical dorsal root ganglia. The study was designed to be as quantitatively descriptive as possible. We indented each unit's receptive field with a broad battery of simple, carefully controlled stimuli whose major parameters, including amplitude, velocity, acceleration, duration, and interstimulus interval were systematically varied. Stimuli were delivered by a small probe driven by a feedback-controlled axial displacement generator. Single unit discharge data were analyzed by a variety of direct and derived measures including dot patterns, peristimulus histograms, instantaneous and mean instantaneous firing rates, tuning curves, thresholds for amplitude and velocity, adaptation rates, dynamic and static sensitivities, and others. We found that with respect to any of the S-R transactions examined, the properties of our sample of units were continously and broadly distributed. Any one unit might exhibit either a slow or rapid rate of adaptation, or might superficially appear to preferentially code a single stimulus parameter such as amplitude or velocity. But when the entire range of responsiveness of units to the entire stimulus battery was surveyed by a variety of analytic techniques, we were unable to find any justifiable basis for designation of discrete categories of S-R profiles. Intermediate response types were always found, and in general, all units were both broadly tuned and capable of responding to integrals of several stimulus parameters. Our data argue against the usefulness of evaluating a unit's S-R coding capabilities by means of a limited set of stimulation or response analysis procedures.
Anomalous xenon in zone 13 Okelobondo

In situ laser extraction techniques were applied for the study of heavy noble gases in a polished section of Zone 13 from the natural nuclear reactor in Okelobondo. Three main mineral phases were identified in this polished section using SEM-EDX. The Xe and Kr isotopic structures were determined by multiple measurements in each of these phases. Twenty-four isotopic analyses of the gases extracted from two different U-rich phases revealed nearly normal fission spectra. All 9 analyses of a U-free phase, consisting mainly of alumophosphates, demonstrated an unusual isotopic composition ({sup 136}Xe/{sup 134}Xe/{sup 132}Xe/{sup 131}Xe/{sup 130}Xe{sup 129}Xe/{sup 128}Xe = 1/1.25/1.73/0.89/0.0045/0.274/0) with concentrations ranging up to 10{sup {minus}2} cm{sup 3} STP/g. This is the highest Xe concentration ever measured in a natural material. Kr was also anomalous, although to a lesser extent. These results confirm the presence of Chemical Fractionation of Fission Xe (CFF-Xe) in the Okelobondo alumophosphates. CFF-Xe is a decay product of intermediate fission fragments that have migrated out of the U-rich host phases into adjacent U-free minerals. The CFF-Xe spectra in the alumophosphates are also accompanied by {sup 130}Xe excesses, which are attributed to neutron capture on fissiogenic {sup 129}I that apparently migrated out of the nearby U-rich minerals.more » The {sup 130}Xe/{sup 129}Xe ratio allows one to estimate the thermal equivalent neutron dose of 1.1 x 10{sup 21} n/cm{sup 2}. The presence of an unknown fission component remarkably similar in composition to CFF-Xe can be inferred from the atmospheric and terrestrial data. This leads one to the hypothesis that the CFF process has operated on a global scale on the Earth.« less
Henry Grady's New South: Atlanta, a Brave and Beautiful City

The popular image of Henry W. Grady is that of a champion of the postbellum South, a region that would forgive the North for defeating it and would mobilize its own many resources for hones business and agricultural competition.Biographies and collections of Grady s essays and speeches that appeared shortly after his death enhanced this image, and for a half-century, Grady was considered the personification of the New South Movement, a movement which promised industrialization for the South, an improved Southern agriculture, and justice and opportunity for black Southerners.As managing editor of the Atlanta" Constitution," he espoused the New South throughout the nation and was in demand as a speaker for audiences in New York and Boston. Through extensive research, focusing on the decade of the 1880s in Georgia, Davis demonstrates that although Grady said all the right things to show that he wished to industrialize the South and that he was committed to the improvement of agriculture and fairness in racial matters, in fact he spent most of his efforts on behalf of Atlanta.His major interest was in making a difference for that city, leaving the rest of the South to enjoy whatever Atlanta could not garner for itself."
Uterine and umbilical artery velocimetry during normal labor.

Twelve normal parturients were studied with a continuous wave Doppler unit to assess changes in uterine and umbilical velocity waveforms during labor. The analysis of these waveforms included the peak systolic/end-diastolic ratio and the evaluation of a diastolic notch. Each woman served as her own control, and all fetal heart rate tracings were normal. In latent phase labor and intact membranes, the umbilical artery systolic/end diastolic ratios before, during, and after a contraction were 2 +/- 0.2, 2 +/- 0.3 and 1.95 +/- 0.3 (N.S.). Similar results were obtained in the active phase, after rupture of membranes, or during oxytocin stimulation. This stability of the fetal cardiovascular system ensures an uninterrupted gas exchange process during the contractions (on the fetal side), enabling the great majority of term fetuses to tolerate labor with minimal if any metabolic changes. The uterine artery end-diastolic velocity fell progressively during the contraction, reaching 0 when the intrauterine pressure exceeded 35 mm Hg. Despite intrauterine pressure of greater than 60 mm Hg, the diastolic notch did not appear. Thus at term, the umbilical artery velocity waveform does not change over a wide range of uterine pressures. The changes seen in the uterine artery waveforms suggest that the end-diastolic component is primarily determined by changes in the arcuate and spiral arteries, both of which are affected during the uterine contraction.
VASCULAR K + ATP CHANNELS MEDIATE O 2 INDUCED PULMONARY VASODILATION IN FETAL LAMBS. 445

The pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) undergoes a dramatic at birth, primarily in response to O2. Release of endothelium derived nitric oxide (EDNO) plays a major role in mediating effects of O2 on pulmonary vessels. However, the mechanisms of EDNO release and its effects on vascular smooth muscle are unknown. Vascular K+ATP channels are known to mediate hypoxia induced systemic vasodilation. We proposed the hypothesis that K+ATP channels mediate O2 induced pulmonary vasodilation in the fetus. We instrumented 7 fetal lambs at 122 d gestation to measure pulmonary flow (QP) and pressure. Effects of O2, pinacidil(K+ATP channel agonist) and S-nitroso-acetyl penicillamine(SNAP, an NO donor) on fetal PVR were studied under 3 conditions - (1) control(2) after a bolus of glybenclamide (Gly, a specific K+ATP channel inhibitor), and (3) infusion of tetraethyl ammonium chloride (TEA, a non specific inhibitor of vascular K+ channels). Data are mean±SD. * P<0.05 from baseline (BL) # from control. Response to pinacidil and its inhibition by TEA and Gly indicates presence of functional K+ATP channels in fetal pulmonary arteries. Inhibition of effects of O2, but not SNAP, by Gly Indicates that endothelial K+ATP channels play a role in mediating O2 effects, probably by inducing NO release. Inhibition of effects of both O2 and SNAP by TEA indicates that K+ channels on vascular smooth muscle mediate the vasodilator effects of NO released in response to O2. The mechanism by which O2 opens vascular K+ channels requires further study. Table
Biospheric options for mitigating atmospheric carbon dioxide levels

Abstract It will be extremely difficult to control worldwide sources of carbon over the next century in order to limit atmospheric carbon dioxide to twice pre-anthropogenic levels. This paper first discusses the options for CO 2 mitigation, estimates their respective carbon reduction potentials, and then focuses on the research agenda to evaluate alternative terrestrial and marine systems for CO 2 mitigation. The options being evaluated include: a) terrestrial reforestation strategies and halophyte production in semi-arid regions, b) algal refossilization of carbon dioxide and algal-induce carbon dioxide fixation, c) structured marine farms for energy and food production, and d) carbon dioxide clathrate formation and sequestration. EPRI is currently conducting fundamental research in each of these areas. Many of these technological approaches will require international cooperation and acceptance, if they are to be deployed over the large areas necessary to fix and sequester CO 2 . Although the program is in its infancy, there are significant potentials for modulating terrestrial and marine systems to stimulate carbon removal from the atmosphere.
Democracy, War, and Wealth: Lessons from Two Centuries of Inheritance Taxation

In this article we use an original data set to provide the first empirical analysis of the political economy of inherited wealth taxation that covers a significant number of countries and a long time frame (1816–2000). Our goal is to understand why, if inheritance taxes are often very old taxes, the implementation of inheritance tax rates significant enough to affect wealth inequality is a much more recent phenomenon. We hypothesize alternatively that significant taxation of inherited wealth depended on (1) the extension of the suffrage and (2) political conditions created by mass mobilization for war. Using a difference-in-differences framework for identification, we find little evidence for the suffrage hypothesis but very strong evidence for the mass mobilization hypothesis. Our study has implications for understanding the evolution of wealth inequality and the political conditions under which countries are likely to implement policies that significantly redistribute wealth and income.
Effects of 3T3 adipocytes on interleukin-6 expression and insulin signaling in L6 skeletal muscle cells.

Abstract Objective Central adiposity and inflammation play key roles in the development of insulin resistance through the effects of pro-inflammatory adipokines such as IL-6, but the effect of infiltrating adipocytes in skeletal muscle tissues is not known. Communications between muscle cells and fat cells may contribute to the inflammatory response associated with insulin resistance. Methods In this study we used a co-culture system of skeletal muscle (L6) and adipocyte (3T3-L1) cell lines to study expression of the inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and changes in insulin signaling. This model could mimic the adipocytes infiltrating myocytes that is commonly seen in obese patients. Results When plated alone the L6 cells express IL-6 mRNA and secrete IL-6 protein, both of which are increased when the cells are challenged with the bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In contrast, the 3T3-L1 cells had very little expression of IL-6 mRNA or protein. Co-culture of 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes with L6 cells, at a density ratio of 1:10, respectively, increased IL-6 expression significantly and decreased insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation. To examine the role of IL-6 in insulin sensitivity we incubated the L6 cells with IL-6. A brief challenge of L6 cells with IL-6 enhanced insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation. In contrast, incubation of the L6 cells with IL-6 for 96 h markedly decreased insulin-stimulated Akt phosphorylation. Conclusion The enhanced IL-6 mRNA expression and IL-6 release in L6 myocytes co-cultured with 3T3-L1 cells indicate an important interaction between adipocytes and myocytes. This observation may shed some light on the long-standing enigma of obesity-induced insulin resistance where infiltration of the skeletal muscle by preadipocytes/adipocytes is evident.
Estimating sustained service rates at signalized intersections with short left-turn pockets: Mesoscopic approach

A computational approach for incorporating the effects of short left-turn pockets on sustained service rates in a mesoscopic modeling environment is presented. Mesoscopic models, intended to handle fairly large networks while maintaining individual vehicle identity, provide a detailed yet efficient alternative to estimate sustained service rates. However, mesoscopic models typically ignore midlink perturbations and queuing, thus limiting their reliability in the presence of short left-turn pockets at signalized intersections. The model presented here relies on a gating mechanism situated at the entry point to the left-turn pocket. Through a series of logical triggers, the gating mechanism allows for the formation of a (vertical) queue of vehicles upstream of the pocket when arrivals exceed storage capacity. The method satisfies all assumed requirements for integrating the effects of short left-turn bays, which include pocket spillback, pocket starvation, and sensitivity to signal timing and phase sequence. The approach has been implemented within the mesoscopic modeling platform DYNASMART for both single and multiple left-turn pockets, with the use of varying pocket lengths and demand volumes. The resulting sustained service rates favorably compare to those generated by a representative microsimulation model (VISSIM). Further comparisons of the proposed approach against empirical observations are planned.
Self-assembly of lithographically patterned nanoparticles

The construction of three-dimensional (3D) objects, with any desired surface patterns, is both critical to and easily achieved in macroscale science and engineering. However, on the nanoscale, 3D fabrication is limited to particles with only very limited surface patterning. Here, we demonstrate a self-assembly strategy that harnesses the strengths of well-established 2D nanoscale patterning techniques and additionally enables the construction of stable 3D polyhedral nanoparticles. As a proof of the concept, we self-assembled cubic particles with sizes as small as 100 nm and with specific and lithographically defined surface patterns.
Tissue characterization by magnetic resonance imaging in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Abstract A method for providing tissue characterization of the myocardium has been sought for years. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has demonstrated excellent soft tissue differentiation and has been proposed as a method for tissue characterization. This capability of MRI is suggested from previous studies that showed changes in signal intensity of ischemic compared with normal myocardium in experimental preparations. 1,2 Measurement of magnetic relaxation times, T1 and T2, in animal studies have verified a difference in these times between normal and ischemically damaged myocardium. 1–3 Recently, we encountered a patient with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HC) in whom MRI provided more accurate anatomic depiction of the condition than other imaging techniques. MRI also revealed differences in signal intensity at various sites in the left ventricular (LV) myocardium due to fibrosis and myocardial ischemia.
Zionism: The Real Enemy of the Jews, Volume 1: The False Messiah, Alan Hart, Atlanta: Clarity Press, 2009; Zionism: The Real Enemy of the Jews, Volume 2: David Becomes Goliath, Alan Hart, Atlanta: Clarity Press, 2009; Zionism: The Real Enemy of the Jews, Volume 3: Conflict Without End, Alan Hart, Atlanta: Clarity Press, 2010

Abstract This review-essay looks at a recent trilogy of works on Israeli history, the political history of the relationship between the United States and Israel, and the effect of the Israel lobby on the relationship between the two states. While the books attempt to construct a narrative that essentially blame the lobby for close to one hundred years of American malfeasance in the Middle East, they falter due to their idealism, their weak grasp of regional political economy and American capital accumulation, and their conspiracism. Instead, this review proposes a reinterpretation of regional political economy, materially grounding the lobby and the Special Relationship while situating the two within the patterns of accumulation pushed by Jonathan Nitzan and Shimshon Bichler’s ‘weapondollar-petrodollar coalition’, the main determinant of American foreign policy in the Middle East.
Microstructural investigation of granular Ag‐Fe and Ag‐Co thin films by atomic resolution and nanochemical analysis electron microscopy

The microstructure of as‐deposited granular Ag‐rich (75%–90%) Ag‐Fe and Ag‐Co thin films was investigated by atomic resolution and nanochemical analysis electron microscopy. Our results suggested that the thin films are two separate phases. The poorly crystallized transition metal particles, with size of less than 1.5 nm in the thin films, were directly observed and were found to be separated by nanosized Ag crystalline particles
Dependence of calmodulin localization in the retina on the NINAC unconventional myosin

Calmodulin is a highly conserved regulatory protein found in all eukaryotic organisms which mediates a variety of calcium ion-dependent signalling pathways. In the Drosophila retina, calmodulin was concentrated in the photoreceptor cell microvillar structure, the rhabdomere, and was found in lower amounts in the sub-rhabdomeral cytoplasm. This calmodulin localization was dependent on the NINAC (neither inactivation nor afterpotential C) unconventional myosins. Mutant flies lacking the rhabdomere-specific p174 NINAC protein did not concentrate calmodulin in the rhabdomere, whereas flies lacking the sub-rhabdomeral p132 isoform had no detectable cytoplasmic calmodulin. Furthermore, a defect in vision resulted when calmodulin was not concentrated in the rhabdomeres, suggesting a role for calmodulin in the regulation of fly phototransduction. A general function of unconventional myosins may be to control the subcellular distribution of calmodulin.
Thermoresponsive behavior of charged N-isopropylacrylamide-based hydrogels containing gold nanostructures

We report the synthesis of N-isopropylacrylamide-based hydrogels containing either an anionic (acrylic acid) or cationic ([2-(acryloyloxy)ethyl]trimethylammonium chloride) co-monomer. These hydrogels were cross-linked with a cleaveable (N,N′-cystaminebisacrylamide) and/or inert (N,N′-methylenebisacrylamide) molecule in four combinations. Gold nanostructures were then synthesized within these hydrogel matrices by in situ reduction of a metal ion precursor. The resulting eight nanocomposites and their non-gold-containing (native) analogs were characterized with several analytical methods. UV–visible and infrared spectroscopy revealed differences among the samples based largely on the concentration and identity of cross-linking agent. Equilibrium swelling masses and phase transition behavior point to differences among samples on charge of the hydrogel backbone, cross-linker type, and presence or absence of gold nanostructures. A molecular level explanation for these observations is described.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress, hepatocyte CD1d and NKT cell abnormalities in murine fatty livers

The liver regulates lipid homeostasis and is enriched with natural killer T (NKT) cells that respond to lipid antigens. Optimal maturation and activation of NKT cells requires their interaction with lipid antigens that are presented by cluster of differentiation-1 (CD-1) molecules on antigen-presenting cells. Hepatocytes express CD1d and present lipid antigens to NKT cells. Depletion and dysregulation of hepatic NKT cells occurs in mice with fatty livers. Herein, we assess whether reduced CD1d content on steatotic hepatocytes contributes to fatty liver-associated NKT cell abnormalities. We show that despite expressing normal levels of CD1d mRNA, fatty hepatocytes from ob/ob mice have significantly less CD1d on their plasma membranes than normal hepatocytes. This has functional significance because ob/ob hepatocytes are less able to activate CD1d-restricted T-cell responses in vitro, and CD1d-reactive NKT cells are reduced in ob/ob livers. Events in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) normally regulate CD1d trafficking to plasma membranes. Hepatic steatosis has been associated with ER stress. To determine if ER stress reduces CD-1 accumulation on hepatocytes, we evaluated hepatic ER stress in ob/ob mice and treated cultured hepatocytes and lean mice with tunicamycin to induce ER stress. Lipid accumulation and ER stress occurred in the livers of both ob/ob and tunicamycin-treated mice. Tunicamycin caused dose-dependent decreases in hepatocyte CD1d, inhibited hepatocyte activation of CD1d-restricted T-cell responses, depleted liver populations of CD1d-reactive NKT cells and promoted Th-1 polarization of hepatic cytokine production. In conclusion, ER stress-related decreases in hepatocyte CD1d contribute to NKT cell dysregulation in fatty livers.
Prediction of slip transfer mechanisms across grain boundaries

Etude des interactions entre les dislocations et les joints de grains dans un acier inoxydable deforme in situ dans un microscope electronique en transmission.Determination,a partir de ces observations des conditions de prevision des systemes de glissement.
Modified Kedem–Katchalsky equations and their applications

Abstract We derive a generalized form of the Kedem–Katchalsky equations describing passive transport through membranes. The equations include the effect of the boundary layers formed on either side of the membrane on the volume and solute fluxes. The force-flow relationships are given both in a nonlinear, implicit form and a linearized (Kedem–Katchalsky) form. Applications of the generalized equations are also discussed.
Boosting algorithm for LVQ ATR classifiers

Boosting has emerged as a popular combination technique to refine weak classifiers. Pioneered by Freund and Schapire, numerous variations of the AdaBoost algorithm have emerged, such as Breiman's arc-fs algorithms. The central theme of these methods is the generation of an ensemble of a weak learning algorithm using modified versions of the original training set, with emphasis placed on the more difficult instances. The validation stage then aggregates results from each element of the ensemble using some predetermined rule. In this paper the wavelet decomposition based codebook classifier proposed by Chan et al. is used as the learning algorithm. Starting with the whole training set, modifications to the training set are made at each iteration by re-sampling the original training data set with replacement. The weights used in the re-sampling are determined using different algorithms, including AdaBoost and arc-fs. The accuracies of the ensembles generated are then determined using various combination techniques such as simple voting and weighted sums. Boosting improves upon the two classifier methods (K-means and LVQ) by exploiting their inherent codebook nature.
Remediation of low permeability subsurface formations by fracturing enhancement of soil vapor extraction

Abstract This paper describes the Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation (SITE) of pneumatic and hydraulic fracturing to augment and improve the extraction of volatile contaminants from soil. The fracturing procedures involve a physical pressurization process that creates fissures and channels in soils to enhance fluid or vapor flow in the subsurface. Fractures are placed at specific locations and depths inside the boreholes of wells to increase the effectiveness of in situ remedial technologies, especially soil vapor extraction (SVE). The fracturing technology is primarily beneficial in tightly packed geologic formations having low permeabilities. Results from several demonstrations indicated orders of magnitude increases in subsurface vapor flow and contaminated vapor extraction rates after soil fracturing.
Surface-Wave Absorption

The 50% peak absorption predicted for resonant absorption in a linear density profile can be raised to above 90% if a different profile is used which involves a sharp jump in density along which a surface wave may propagate. Collisionless-plasma simulation studies show that at high intensities the energy goes into fast electrons which are accelerated back out of the plasma into the vacuum.
Vik1 Modulates Microtubule-Kar3 Interactions through a Motor Domain that Lacks an Active Site

Conventional kinesin and class V and VI myosins coordinate the mechanochemical cycles of their motor domains for processive movement of cargo along microtubules or actin filaments. It is widely accepted that this coordination is achieved by allosteric communication or mechanical strain between the motor domains, which controls the nucleotide state and interaction with microtubules or actin. However, questions remain about the interplay between the strain and the nucleotide state. We present an analysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Kar3/Vik1, a heterodimeric C-terminal Kinesin-14 containing catalytic Kar3 and the nonmotor protein Vik1. The X-ray crystal structure of Vik1 exhibits a similar fold to the kinesin and myosin catalytic head, but lacks an ATP binding site. Vik1 binds more tightly to microtubules than Kar3 and facilitates cooperative microtubule decoration by Kar3/Vik1 heterodimers, and yet allows motility. These results demand communication between Vik1 and Kar3 via a mechanism that coordinates their interactions with microtubules.
New Tendencies in the Multinational Project in Educational Technology of the OAS

Abstract This article describes recent developments in the Multinational Project in Educational Technology of the OAS, the most important major project in this field in Latin America. The results of the follow‐up study of over 300 graduates of postgraduate courses are presented and show a significant multiplier effect from the project. Aspects of the results of project efforts in institutional development and stimulation of new techniques and knowledge are discussed and some of the efforts in the area of information diffusion are highlighted, particularly the extension of the Journal of Educational Technology which is published by the project. *The opinions expressed in this article are those of the. authors and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions of the Organization.
Race/ethnicity, social class and their relation to physical inactivity during leisure time: results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1988-1994.

Background: Physical inactivity is more prevalent among racial and ethnic minorities than among Caucasians. It is not known if differences in participation in leisure time physical activity are due to differences in social class. Thus, this paper provides estimates of the prevalence of physical inactivity during leisure time and its relationship to race/ethnicity and social class. Methods: This was a national representative cross-sectional survey with an in-person interview and medical examination. Between 1988 and 1994, 18,885 adults aged 20 or older responded to the household adult and family questionnaires as part of the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey . Mexican-Americans and African-Americans were over-sampled to produce reliable estimates for these groups. Multiple assessment of social class included education, family income, occupation, poverty status, employment status, and marital status. Results: The age-adjusted prevalence (per 100) of adults reporting leisure time inactivity is lower among Caucasians (18%) than among African-Americans (35%) and Mexican-Americans (40%). African-American and Mexican-American men and women reported higher prevalence of leisure time inactivity than their Caucasian counterparts across almost every variable, including education, family income, occupation, employment, poverty and marital status. Conclusions: Current indicators of social class do not seem to explain the higher prevalence of physical inactivity during leisure time among African-American and Mexican-American. More research is needed to examine the effect of other constructs of social class such as acculturation, safety, social support and environmental barriers in promoting successful interventions to increase physical activity in these populations.