cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
NF-κB as a target for oncogenic viruses.

NF-κB is a pivotal transcription factor that controls cell survival and proliferation in diverse physiological processes. The activity of NF-κB is tightly controlled through its cytoplasmic sequestration by specific inhibitors, IκBs. Various cellular stimuli induce the activation of an IκB kinase, which phosphorylates IκBs and triggers their proteasomal degradation, causing nuclear translocation of activated NF-κB. Under normal conditions, the activation of NF-κB occurs transiently, thus ensuring rapid but temporary induction of target genes. Deregulated NF-κB activation contributes to the development of various diseases, including cancers and immunological disorders. Accumulated studies demonstrate that the NF-κB signaling pathway is a target of several human oncogenic viruses, including the human T cell leukemia virus type 1, the Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus, and the Epstein–Bar virus. These viruses encode specific oncoproteins that target different signaling components of the NF-κB pathway, leading to persistent activation of NF-κB. This chapter will discuss the molecular mechanisms by which NF-κB is activated by the viral oncoproteins.
Sampling the Sun

The composition of solar wind particles collected by the Genesis mission will fill gaps in our understanding of how the Sun and solar system formed.
On random sampling for parallel simulated annealing

We investigate the parallelism of simulated annealing for graph partitioning. A random sampling technique, in which disjoint partitions of the graph are distributed across the processors so that moves can be proposed and evaluated asynchronously in distinct processors, is proposed. Synchronizations among processors are not necessary until the equilibrium is reached at each processor. Such an approach may thus achieve a speedup that is approximately linear in the number of processors. Furthermore, since no interacting moves can occur in our strategy, it is obvious that our scheme is free of errors in cost evaluation. >
A multivariate regression model for continuous genetic traits

Summary. In many commonly used models for multivariate traits, the likelihood is specified as a mixture of nested sums of products over the unobserved genotypes of all the family members, in which the familial covariance matrices vary in size and structure for different families, and their sizes can be immense for large family units. These issues pose computational difficulties in many applications. Bonney's compound regressive model for univariate traits simplifies the familial covariance structure and reduces the mixture of nested sums only to the parent–offspring level, thus enhancing computation significantly. This model has been extended to the multivariate case in the absence of unobserved genotypes. Here, we further extend this model to incorporate major genes, covariates and multiple loci. As is typical in practice, this causes new computational difficulties. We study the computational issues and explore the behaviour of this extended model.
Beta-nitro derivatives of germanium(IV) corrolates.

The reaction between germanium(IV) meso-triphenylcorrolates and nitrate salts affords the corresponding β-nitro substituted corroles in good yield. Chromatographic separation of the crude reaction mixtures enables isolation of a μ-oxo dimer along with the corresponding monomers bearing a hydroxy or methoxy group at an axial position of the germanium central metal ion. Depending on the reaction conditions, mono- or dinitro substituted complexes can be obtained. The substitution is highly regioselective in each case, giving only the 3-nitro or 3,17-dinitro derivative among the different possible isomers. Five of the synthesized complexes were examined by cyclic voltammetry and UV−visible spectroelectrochemistry in dichloromethane, and the dinitro μ-oxo dimer is structurally characterized.
Evaluating the greenhouse gas reduction benefits of compact housing development

Regional land use and transportation planning influences energy use and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in a number of ways, such as through its effect on vehicle miles travelled and the extension of municipal infrastructure to serve newly developed areas. Planning regulations also help to shape the density and form of residential development, which creates opportunities for energy savings, as more compact housing types (attached homes and apartments) use less energy, on average, than single-family detached units. This study uses micro-data from the US Department of Energy's Residential Energy Consumption survey to estimate future residential energy use for space heating and cooling in Virginia's 10 Census-designated metropolitan regions. It then calculates the effect of four residential development scenarios on that energy demand and resulting GHG emissions. Potential GHG emission reductions of approximately 23% are found between the most conservative and aggressive scenarios. The greatest potential energ...
The Diagnostic Significance Of Spontaneous Nystagmus As Observed In The Electronystagmographic Examination

A study of spontaneous nystagmus in 121 normal subjects and 1601 patients suggests that an “idiopathic spontaneous nystagmus” is recorded with the subject's eyes closed in 20–25% of both the normal and patient population. This nystagmus is probably of no significance in the diagnosis of vertigo-producing disorders. It is of low intensity (usually below 6°/sec, but occasionally in the 6–10°/sec range), and is more frequently directed to the left than to the right. Spontaneous nystagmus above 10°/sec is of diagnostic significance. It is probable that such a nystagmus will be of peripheral origin and directed away from the side of the peripheral lesion.
Four-Year Incidence and Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy and Macular Edema: The Los Angeles Latino Eye Study

Purpose To estimate the 4-year incidence and progression of diabetic retinopathy, macular edema (ME) and clinically significant macular edema (CSME) among adult Latinos with diabetes mellitus. Design A population-based, longitudinal study of 4658 self-identified Latinos (primarily Mexican Americans), residing in Los Angeles, examined at baseline (2000–2003) and at 4 years (2004–2008). Methods Participants underwent a standardized ophthalmic examination. Diabetic retinopathy (DR) and CSME were detected by grading of stereoscopic fundus photographs using the modified Airlie House classification scheme. χ2 and trend tests were used to assess differences in incidence when stratifying by age and duration of diabetes. Results The 4-year incidence of DR, ME, and CSME was 34.0% (182/535), 5.4% (38/699), and 7.2% (50/699) respectively. Younger persons and those with longer duration of diabetes mellitus had a higher incidence of DR compared to those who were older and had shorter duration of diabetes mellitus. A higher incidence of ME was associated with longer duration of diabetes mellitus (P = .004). Worsening/progression of any DR was found in 38.9% (126/324) and improvement occurred in 14.0% (37/265) of participants. Progression from nonproliferative DR (NPDR) to proliferative DR (PDR) and from NPDR to PDR with high-risk characteristics occurred in 5.3% and 1.9% of participants. Conclusions The 4-year incidence and progression of DR and the incidence of ME and CSME among Latinos are high compared to non-Hispanic whites. These findings support the need to identify and modify risk factors associated with these long-term complications.
Distributed travel time savings of a multiscale transportation access management program

Access management in transportation planning can save travel time, reduce crashes, and increase route capacities. The planning literature suggests a need for performance metrics and a decision-aiding framework to guide access management programs across large corridor networks and diverse time horizons. This paper describes a quantitative framework to support access management programs, applying multicriteria analysis and cost-benefit analysis with parameter uncertainties. The metrics used to assess relative priorities at existing access points include the following: travel time delay index, traffic exposure, value of time, and costs of typical access management activities. Uncertain parameters that influence the estimates of the potential benefits and costs are identified and treated via a numerical interval analysis. The framework is demonstrated at several geographic scales and locations including 7,000 km of highway arterials of a 110,000 square-kilometer region and several sub-regions. The results assist decision makers to identify route segments that should be addressed sooner by eliciting additional information, reserving right-of-way, closing access points, planning new alignments, facilitating development proffers, etc. The approach is transferable to other topics involving resource allocation for preservation and improvement of multiscale infrastructure systems.
From combinatorial chemistry to cancer targeting nanotherapeutics

We have developed a number of amphiphilic polymers, comprised of a cluster of cholic acids (4 to 10) linked by a series of lysines and attached to one end of a linear polyethylene glycol chain (PEG, 2000-5000 Dalton). Under aqueous condition, such telodendrimers can self-assemble together with hydrophobic payloads to form highly stable micelles (15-150 nm diameter, size tunable). We used near infrared fluorescence (NIRF) optical imaging technique to study the in vivo passive accumulation of our nanocarriers (via EPR effect) in different types and stages of tumors. The results demonstrated that the micelle could preferentially accumulate in many types of tumor xenografts or synografts implanted in mice. Nanoparticle uptake in solid tumors was found to be much higher than that of lymphoma, which could be attributed to the relatively low microvascular density in the latter. We have also demonstrated that micelles smaller than 64 nm preferentially targeted xenografts with high efficiency and with low liver and lung uptake, whereas those micelles at 154 nm targeted the tumor poorly but with very high liver and lung uptake. Telodendrimers decorated with oligolysine or oligoaspartic acid resulted in high uptake of the nanoparticles into the liver. When decorated with cancer targeting ligands identified from the one-bead-one-compound (OBOC) combinatorial library methods, the drug-loaded nanoparticles were rapidly taken up by the target cultured tumor cells causing cell death. In vivo near infra-red optical imaging studies with hydrophobic fluorescent dye demonstrated that xenograft uptake of the micelles was greatly enhanced by the cancer targeting peptide.
Generalized Lyapunov exponents corresponding to higher derivatives

Abstract We generalize the notion of Lyapunov exponents to higher order derivatives. For fixed points and periodic orbits we derive a relationship for the higher order Lyapunov spectrum in terms of the usual first order Lyapunov spectrum. Based on numerical experiments as well as general arguments, we conjecture that this relationship also holds for chaotic orbits. This work is relevant to a priori error estimates for time series forecasting.
Quantum-resolved vibrational energy transfer in Br2 B3II(Ou+)

State-to-state vibrational energy transfer and electronic quenching in the lower vibrational levels, v' <EQ 3 of the B3II (Ou+) state of 79Br2 were investigated using spectrally resolved, temporally resolved laser induced fluorescence techniques. Spectrally resolved emissions from collisionally populated Br2 (B) vibrational levels were observed for Br2 and rare gas collision partners. Vibrational transfer is quite efficient in the non-predissociated levels and is adequately described by the Montroll- Shuler model for harmonic oscillators. A fundamental rate coefficient for vibrational transfer from v' equals 1 to v' equals 0, kv (1,0), was used to characterize vibrational relaxation.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Lasso screening with a small regularization parameter

Screening for lasso problems is a means of quickly reducing the size of the dictionary needed to solve a given instance without impacting the optimality of the solution obtained. We investigate a sequential screening scheme using a selected sequence of regularization parameter values decreasing to the given target value. Using analytical and empirical means we give insight on how the values of this sequence should be chosen and show that well designed sequential screening yields significant improvement in dictionary reduction and computational efficiency for lightly regularized lasso problems.
SEASONAL COMPOSITION OF TEMPERATE PLANKTON COMMUNITIES: FREE AMINO ACIDS1

In marine plankton, the patterns of seasonal succession and free amino acid composition reveal several features in common. Fret amino acid levels are generally higher in summer than in winter communities: major changes occur during periods of community change in late spring and early winter, These levels also appear to be an index of physiological condition and productive capacity. The variations arc quantitative in terms of concentration per unit tissue weight; relative compositions are the same in both the summer and the winter dominant copepods ( Acartia tonsa and Acartia clausi). Factor analysis reveals an extremely high degree of intercorrelation within the free amino acid pools. The phytoplankton-microzooplankton, consisting primarily of diatoms and larval crustaceans in varying proportions, has greater consistency of quantitative change (one amino acid in relation to all others) than does the zooplankton. Furthermore, the amino acid communality of an estuarine phytoplankton-microzooplankton community is surprisingly high.
Flexibility of the Frame Revisited: Commentary on Tony Bass's “When the Frame Doesn't Fit the Picture”

The author argues that the word frame is misleading because it conjures up the image of a picture frame constructed of unyielding material like wood or metal. Psychoanalytic work demands a flexible frame in which patient and analyst together jointly construct a comfortable envelope within which to interact. Bass candidly acknowledges countertransference blind spots and illustrates the complexities of frame management in the course of analytic work. The transference–countertransference dimensions of psychoanalytic relationship cannot be seen from a position outside the dyad. Hence, periodic consultation with a senior and trusted colleague can be extremely useful in frame considerations. What we think may be in the best interests of the patient can be a rationalization designed to serve our own interests, consultation may be the best strategy for us to allow our blind spots to come into our visual field.
The origin of adaptive phenotypes

Sequences of DNA provide documentary evidence of the evolutionary past undreamed of by pioneers such as Darwin and Wallace, but their potential as sources of evolutionary information is still far from being realized. A major hindrance to progress has been confusion regarding the role of positive (Darwinian) selection, i.e., natural selection favoring adaptive mutations. In particular, problems have arisen from the widespread use of certain poorly conceived statistical methods to test for positive selection (1, 2). Thousands of papers are published every year claiming evidence of adaptive evolution on the basis of computational analyses alone, with no evidence whatsoever regarding the phenotypic effects of allegedly adaptive mutations. But it would be a mistake to dismiss Yokoyama et al.'s (3) study, in this issue of PNAS, of the evolution of visual pigments in vertebrates as more of the same. For, unlike all too many recent papers in the field, this study is solidly grounded in biology.
Experiments in ultrasonic flaw detection using a MEMS transducer

In earlier work we developed a MEMS phased array transducer, fabricated in the MUMPs process, and we reported on initial experimental studies in which the device was affixed into contact with solids. We demonstrated the successful detection of signals from a conventional ultrasonic source, and the successful localization of the source in an off-axis geometry using phased array signal processing. We now describe the predicted transmission and coupling characteristics for such devices in contact with solids, demonstrating reasonable agreement with experimental behavior. We then describe the results of flaw detection experiments, as well as results for fluid-coupled detectors.
Tabulation of rate constants for combustion modeling

Extrapolation of rate constant data to temperatures and pressures far from the original experimental conditions is common in combustion modeling. However, great care must be taken when performing such an extrapolation in order to prevent gross errors. Modelers should be able to consult tables of parameters for combustion-relevant reactions that would enable the calculation of rate constants as a function of temperature and pressure over the entire range of interest. A complete tabulation would include both uni-and bimolecular reactions, including those bimolecular reactions proceeding via a bound intermediate. In this paper we illustrate the usefulness of such an approach for the H-atom abstraction reactions from ethane and neopentane by O-atoms, OH-radicals and CH3-radicals and for the more complex reactions CH4=CH3+H, OH+CO=CH2+H and CH3+CH3=C2H5+H.
On probability-possibility transformations

Abstract A probability-possibility transformation is a purely mechanical transformation of probabilistic support to possibilistic support and vice versa. That is, a conversion of the measure of support of one theory into that of the other that is independent of the problem domain. In this paper it is shown that any bijective mapping between probability distributions and normalized possibility distributions that is symmetric and expansible cannot preserve the properties of projection, noninteraction, or conditionalization.
The Effects of Compression on Air-Flow Measurements of Cotton Fiber Immaturity

Determination of cotton fiber immaturity indices using air-flow techniques generally requires compression of the specimen. The reliability of the determination is subject not only to the degree of compression but to the initial orientation of the fibers within the test specimen. It is shown that the rekability of immaturity indices obtained from randomly oriented fiber specimens rapidly increases with compression up to a certain compression levd. Further reduction in specimen volume beyond this borderline level has little value.
Incidence, risk factors, and complications of postoperative delirium in elderly patients undergoing radical cystectomy.

Objective To identify the risk factors for, and complications associated with, the development of delirium after radical cystectomy. Materials and Methods From July 2008 to December 2009, 59 patients, aged ≥65 years and undergoing radical cystectomy, were prospectively enrolled. The baseline cognitive status was assessed using the Mini-Mental Status Examination. Postoperative delirium was assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method. Results A total of 49 patients completed the surgery and all assessments. The incidence of postoperative delirium was 29%, with duration of 1-5 days. On univariate analysis, older age and preoperative Mini-Mental Status Examination score were associated with postoperative delirium. On multivariate analysis, only age was associated with postoperative delirium (odds ratio 1.52, 95% confidence interval 1.04-2.22, P = .03). The 2 groups did not differ in pathologic stage, length of surgery, intraoperative and postoperative narcotic usage, body mass index, age-adjusted Charlson comorbidity index, activities of daily living scores, smoking history, preoperative hematocrit, estimated blood loss, urinary tract infection, interval to a regular diet, or length of hospital stay. The patients who developed postoperative delirium were more likely to undergo readmission (odds ratio 10.7, 95% confidence interval 2.2-51.8, P = .01) and reoperation (odds ratio 9.2, 95% confidence interval 1.5-55.3, P = .03) but did not differ in the 90-day and 1-year mortality rates or incidence of postoperative complications. Conclusion In patients aged ≥65 years, a lower preoperative Mini-Mental Status Examination score and older age were significantly associated with the development of postcystectomy delirium, as measured using the Confusion Assessment Method. The patients who developed delirium were more likely to undergo readmission and reoperation. Larger studies with multiple surgeons are needed to validate these findings.
Preliminary pharmacokinetic studies of propylthiouracil in humans

Previous analytical procedures for the analysis of propylthiouracil (PTU) in blood and urine samples are questionable on several points. Therefore, a gas-liquid chromatography method has been developed which is both more sensitive and more specific. Application of this procedure confirmed that the drug was rapidly absorbed and eliminated. The mean terminal half-life in euthyroids was found to be 63 min. One hyperthyroid subject showed a far higher plasma clearance than seen with euthyroids, which requires further study.
Cell proliferation in dysplasia of the prostate: Analysis by PCNA immunostaining

Patterns of cell proliferation in the prostate were compared between benign epithelium and dysplasia. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunostaining was used to quantitate proliferation, and basal cells were tallied separately from secretory cells with the aid of keratin immunostaining. Using a novel technique, absolute cell densities (cells/mm) were determined and used to calculate growth fractions. In benign epithelium, 83% of PCNA+ cells were basal cells, while only 7% of PCNA+ cells in dysplasia were basal cells and there was a clear separation between groups. This dramatic shift of the proliferative compartment to the secretory cells in dysplasia was accompanied only by a moderate increase in overall secretory cell density and moderate reduction in basal cell density, but these ranges overlapped those of benign epithelium. The median PCNA+ secretory cell “growth fraction” was 0.12% in benign epithelium and 1.06% in dysplasia. The findings presented give further support to the concept that dysplasia represents an evolutionary stage in the malignant transformation of prostatic epithelium. The patterns of change in PCNA immunostaining may reflect certain aspects of the biologic nature of malignant transformation. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Convective Burning in Solid-Propellant Cracks

Transient combustion processes inside solid-propellant cracks can significantly affect the performance of a rocket motor. A comprehensive theoretical model has been developed to study the gas dynamics, heat transfer, and flame spreading phenomena within a single isolated crack. Calculations obtained from the theoretical mode! revealed that the infernal pressurization rate, pressure gradient, and flame propagation velocity in propellant cracks decrease as the gap width increases, the rocket chamber pressurization rate decreases, and the propellant gasification temperature increases. Additionally, the predicted flame spreading was found to decelerate in a region near the crack tip; this phenomena has been experimentally observed by others. A laboratory-size combustion chamber has been designed to establish a fundamental data base in propellant crack combustion and to verify the predicative capability of the theoretical model. Preliminary experimental data, obtained in wide cracks ( — 0.1 cm) for relatively low chamber pressurization rates, closely compares with theoretical predictions.
The association between energy cost of walking and physical function in older adults

To assess the association between energy cost of walking and self-report of function, independent of comorbidity and gait speed, in older adults with mobility limitations. This cross-sectional observational study was conducted within an ambulatory clinical research training center. Forty-two older adults, age 65 and older, with slow and variable gait participated. Function was assessed using the Late Life Function and Disability Index-Basic Lower Extremity Subscale, while energy cost of walking was derived by standardizing the mean oxygen consumption recorded during physiological steady state by gait speed. Comorbidity and gait speed were collected as co-variates. Pearson's r correlation coefficient and regression analyses were used to assess the relationship between energy cost and function. Energy cost of walking was significantly correlated with self-reported function (Pearson's r=-0.50, p<0.001); furthermore, energy cost of walking explained an additional 17% (p=0.002) of the variance in self-reported function above and beyond the variance explained by comorbidity and gait speed combined. Energy cost of walking is emerging as another significant factor related to functional performance among older adults, even after controlling for comorbidity and gait speed - robust variables known for their strong contributions to function. Knowledge of and attention to the efficiency of how one moves (high energy cost of walking) may enhance rehabilitation efforts to further reduce "functional burden" in older adults.
A model of emotional schemas

Three theoretical models of the relationship between cognition and emotion are examined: (a) ventilation theory (i.e., the greater expression of emotion, the better the outcome), (b) emotionally focused therapy (i.e., activation, expression, and validation of emotion facilitate acceptance and self-understanding), and (c) a cognitive model of emotional processing (i.e., individuals differ in their conceptualization and strategies in responding to emotion). A self-report assessment of emotional schemas reflecting 14 dimensions related to cognitive processing and strategies of emotional response is presented. Fifty-three adult psychotherapy patients were assessed and their responses on the emotional schemas evaluation were correlated with the Beck Depression Inventory and the Beck Anxiety Inventory. There was strong support for a cognitive model of emotional processing. Depression was related to greater guilt over emotion, expectation of longer duration, greater rumination, and viewing one's emotions as less comprehensible, less controllable, and as different from the emotions others have. Anxiety was related to greater guilt over emotion, a more simplistic view of emotion, greater rumination, viewing one's emotions as less comprehensible, less acceptance of feelings, viewing emotions as less controllable, and as different from the emotions others have. Dimensions related to the strict ventilation model—such as validation, numbness, and expression—were not related to depression or anxiety, although acceptance of feelings was related to less anxiety. Support was found for the emotional-focus model. Validation was related to less guilt, less simplistic ideas of emotion, expectation of shorter duration, less rumination, and to viewing emotion as more comprehensible, more controllable, more similar to emotions of others, and more acceptance of feelings.
Optimal separations between concurrent-write parallel machines

We obtain tight bounds on the relative powers of the Priority and Common models of parallel random-access machines (PRAMs). Specifically we prove that: The Element Distinctness function of n integers, though solvable in constant time on a Priority PRAM with n processors, requires O(A(n,p)) time to solve on a Common PRAM with p ≥ n processors, where A(n,p) = n log n/p log (n/p log n + 1).One step of a Priority PRAM with n processors can be simulated on a Common PRAM with p processors in O(A(n,p)) steps.As an example, the results show that the time separation between Priority and Common PRAMs each with n processors is T(log n/log log n).
Lack of association between dermal arches and mitral valve prolapse: Relation to anxiety☆

Abstract Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) has been reported to be associated with an increased frequency of dermal arches. To determine whether dermal arches are associated with MVP, 42 patients with echocardiographic (echo) MVP (probands) and 140 first-degree relatives in their families, including 48 with and 92 without MVP, were studied. Seventyfive, subjects with neither MVP nor blood relation to probands served as control subjects. Among the female probands, 6.9% had arches and among the males, 3.8% had arches. The proportion of arches was lower among female control subjects (4.0%) but higher among male control subjects (7.9%) (neither difference being significant [NS]). Among the relatives, 7.1% of the women with MPV and 4.6% of the women without MVP had arches (NS). Five percent of the men with MVP and 6.3% without MVP had arches (NS). No association existed between the occurrence of cardiovascular symptoms in patients and family members with MVP and presence of dermal arches, but a high proportion of probands with elevated trait anxiety without panic disorder had 4 or more dermal arches. These findings do not support a direct association of dermal arches with MVP.
ACTION SPECTRA FOR THE APPEARANCE OF DIFFERENCE ABSORPTION BANDS AT 480 AND 520 mμ IN ILLUMINATED CHLORELLA CELLS AND THEIR POSSIBLE SIGNIFICANCE TO A TWO‐STEP MECHANISM OF PHOTOSYNTHESIS

— In the difference absorption spectrum of thin, actively growing* aerobic suspensions of Chlorella pyrenoidosa, both the 480 mμ (negative) and the 520 mμ (positive) bands are produced by light absorbed in chlorophyll b and chlorophyll a; the ratio of absorption changes caused by equal number of incident quanta of 650 mμ light and those of 680 mμ light, is about 1.2. Both effects are partially inhibited by DCMU. Upon replacing air with argon, the effects are increased several fold and become relatively insensitive to DCMU. The increase is stronger in the absorption region of chlorophyll a, than in that of chlorophyll b; the ratio of the absorption changes, caused by equal numbers of 650 mμ and 680 mμ quanta decreases to about 0.8, for both effects. Variable (as regards the exact ratios of absorption changes), but parallel results for 480 and 520 mμ bands were obtained with cultures having low quantum yield of photosynthesis. This parallelism in the behavior of the 480 mμ and the 520 mμ band suggests that at least part of these two bands have a common origin. However, many observations suggest that both difference bands may have a multiple origin; as a working hypothesis, this origin is discussed in terms ofthree reactions: Reaction A—Photoreduction of chlorophyll a in system II; Reaction B—Photooxidation of chlorophyll b in system II; and Reaction C—Photooxidation (perhaps of a carotenoid) in system I.
The metallurgy of antimony

Abstract Globally, the primary production of antimony is now isolated to a few countries and is dominated by China. As such it is currently deemed a critical and strategic material for modern society. The metallurgical principles utilized in antimony production are wide ranging. This paper will outline the mineral processing, pyrometallurgical, hydrometallurgical and electrometallurgical concepts used in the industrial primary production of antimony. As well an overview of the occurrence, reserves, end uses, production, and quality will be provided.
Requirement of topoisomerase IV parC and parE genes for cell cycle progression and developmental regulation in Caulobacter crescentus

We have identified the parC and parE genes encoding DNA topoisomerase IV (Topo IV) in Caulobacter crescentus. We have also characterized the effect of conditional Topo IV mutations on cell division and morphology. Topo IV mutants of C. crescentus are unlike mutants of Escherichia coli and S. typhimurium, which form long filamentous cells that are defective in nucleoid segregation and divide frequently to produce anucleate cells. Topo IV mutants of C. crescentus are highly pinched at multiple sites (cell separation phenotype) and they do not divide to produce cells lacking DNA. These results suggest unique regulatory mechanisms coupling nucleoid partitioning and cell division in this aquatic bacterium. In addition, distinctive nucleoid-partitioning defects are not apparent in C. crescentus Topo IV mutants as they are in E. coli and S. typhimurium. However, abnormal nucleoid segregation in parE mutant cells could be demonstrated in a genetic background containing a conditional mutation in the C. crescentus ftsA gene, an early cell division gene that is epistatic to parE for cell division and growth. We discuss these results in connection with the possible roles of C. crescentus Topo IV in the regulation of cell division, chromosome partitioning, and late events in polar morphogenesis. Although the ParC and ParE subunits of Topo IV are very similar in sequence to the GyrA and GyrB subunits of DNA gyrase, we have used DNA sequence analysis to identify a highly conserved ‘GyrA box’ sequence that is unique to the GyrA proteins and may serve as a hallmark of the GyrA protein family.
Fragrance compounds and amphiphilic association structures

Abstract Fragrance formulations have taditionally been based on alcohol as the solvent, but the recent legal restrictions on volatile organic solvents have prompted the industry to change to aqueous solubilized systems. The article reviews the fundamental factors in the application of such systems evaluating the influence by different amphiphilic association structures on the vapor pressure of fragrance compounds. This information is subsequently used to estimate the variation of fragrance compound vapor pressures during evaporation. The results reveal that the vapor pressure versus time variation is improved compared to solvent-based formulations.
Isolation of Genes Which Block Neuronal Differentiation of Teratocarcinoma PCC7 Cells

Since several viral oncoproteins block differentiation and induce proliferation of differentiated cells, we developed an expression screening method to isolate cDNAs which block neuronal differentiation and induce proliferation of teratocarcinoma cells. Mouse E2F1, RNP-1, and RNP-2 (Regulator of Neuronal Proliferation) were isolated using the developed screening method. Overexpression of E2F1, RNP-1, and RNP-2 cDNAs in neuronally differentiated teratocarcinoma PCC7 cells results in blocking differentiation and initiation of proliferation. Also, expression of RNP-1 and RNP-2 blocks the expression of neurofilament-L and GAP-43 genes in PCC7 cells.
Variations in A-V and V-A conduction dependent upon the time relations of auricular and ventricular systole: The supernormal phase

Abstract Two cases of transient complete heart block are reported in which there was a supernormal phase in the conductivity of the depressed region. In the first case, penetration of the depressed zone by an impulse arising in the ventricle produced a supernormal phase during which A-V conduction occurred. The conducted impulse in turn gave rise to a supernormal phase which permitted the next impulse to pass, so that normal sinus rhythm was established. It was maintained until auricular slowing caused the auricular impulse to fall outside of the period of supernormal conductivity. In the second case, impulses arising in the auricle produced in the depressed zone a supernormal phase which permitted retrograde conduction.
Fredholm property of a family of operators on the five-dimensional Heisenberg group

Abstract An expansion in Euclidean spherical harmonics on the ball in the Heisenberg group of dimension five decomposes the Dirichlet problem for the Laplacian in an infinite number of two-dimensional problems. Fundamental solutions are obtained for each of the partial differential operators in these problems, thus reducing them further (via layer potentials) to one-dimensional integral equations. The main result in this article states that the corresponding integral operators are Fredholm in appropriate weighted L 2 spaces.
Selection and sensitivity of pellet dimensions and operating parameters to maximize production rate

The manufacture of pellets from extruded plastic strands is modeled as a constrained nonlinear programming problem. The objective is to maximize the production rate by choice of pellet dimensions and pelletizing machine operating parameters. A general solution strategy leading to identification of a globally maximum production rate for any numerical case is given. It is shown that increases in the maximum production rate can be obtained by selective relaxation of the constraints. A numerical example is presented and discussed.
Enzyme-Retted Flax Fiber and Recycled Polyethylene Composites

Municipal solid wastes generated each year contain potentially useful and recyclable materials for composites. Simultaneously, interest is high for the use of natural fibers, such as flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), in composites thus providing cost and environmental benefits. To investigate the utility of these materials, composites containing flax fibers with recycled high density polyethylene (HDPE) were created and compared with similar products made with wood pulp, glass, and carbon fibers. Flax was either enzyme- or dew-retted to observe composite property differences between diverse levels of enzyme formulations and retting techniques. Coupling agents would strengthen binding between fibers and HDPE but in this study fibers were not modified in anyway to observe mechanical property differences between natural fiber composites. Composites with flax fibers from various retting methods, i.e., dew- vs. enzyme-retting, behaved differently; dew-retted fiber composites resulted in both lower strength and percent elongation. The lowest level of enzyme-retting and the most economical process produces composites that do not appear to differ from the highest level of enzyme-retting. Flax fibers improved the modulus of elasticity over wood pulp and HDPE alone and were less dense than glass or carbon fiber composites. Likely, differences in surface properties of the various flax fibers, while poorly defined and requiring further research, caused various interactions with the resin that influenced composite properties.
Optical materials for surface-enhanced Raman applications based on sol-gel encapsulated gold particles

A photochemical method of producing nanometer gold particles in optically transparent sol-gel silicate materials is described. Organometallic gold precursor compounds are dissolved in the sol and encapsulated in the growing silicate network. Irradiation of the doped monoliths with ultraviolet light causes the photodeposition of gold particles within the silica gel or xerogel. The particles are characterized by their electronic absorption spectra and by TEM. The transparent, porous monoliths are excellent substrates for surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS). Small molecules such as pyrazine diffuse into the monoliths and are detected by using SERS. The sol-gel matrix stabilizes the gold particles (in comparison to colloids in liquid media) and SERS can be used to detect molecules that penetrate the matrix.
Recovering information in augmented designs, using SAS PROC GLM and PROC MIXED

The SAS GLM and MIXED procedures can be useful for experimenters desiring to analyze data from screening experiments using a member of the class of augmented experiment designs. Since application of the procedures is typically not straightforward for these designs, several programs of possible interest are described. We show how to recover interbiocking and intervariety information when the blocking and varieties are random effects, how to arrange varietal responses in descending order, and a number of other options. Tech. Rep. BU-1378-M, Biometrics Unit, Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY.
Examining the cognitive interview in a double-test paradigm.

Abstract The Cognitive Interview (CI) was compared with a standard interview protocol (based on the National Transportation Safety Board) to interview witnesses of a videotaped traffic accident. Witnesses were tested twice, five minutes after viewing the accident and again two weeks later. The CI elicited approximately 70% more correct facts than did the standard interview, and at equivalent accuracy rates, at both the first interview and the second interview. The double-testing procedure generated novel data patterns that may allow us to identify incorrect recollections; other results lead us to question some legal assumptions about the diagnosticity of inconsistent recollections.
The role of intimacy and social support in health outcomes: Two processes or one?

That intimacy and social support are related to an individual's health and well-being has often been noted. The present study had two goals. First, we intended to establish whether intimacy and social support were related to mental and physical health in a large, representative community sample. Second, we sought to determine whether intimacy and social support make unique contributions to predicting health, as a step toward developing a model of the relation between these processes. Results strongly supported the initial hypothesis that intimacy and social support were both related to health status. We also found that the effects of intimacy on well-being were mediated by social support, but that the effects of social support were not mediated by intimacy. We therefore concluded that the health-promoting benefits of intimacy most likely occur because intimate relationships are likely to engender higher levels of social support. Distinguishing unique and shared prediction effects is a generic concern for disciplines that study variables that are naturally correlated in real life, such as in the field of personal relationships.
The effect of dredging in a polluted estuary on the physiology of larval zooplankton

Abstract The effect of water samples from three dredging locations in Charleston Harbor and its tributaries upon the physiology of larval or juvenile zooplankton was determined, Daphnia were used for Location 1 with a salinity of 0‰, Paleomonetes for Location II with intermediate salinities and Polydora for Location III with highest salinities. Water from the disposal area of each location was most toxic. Samples from 200 yd downstream were intermediate in effect, and the dredge site sample was least toxic.
PS1-08: Lynch Syndrome Screening Patterns in Colorectal Cancer Patients in a Large Multi-institutional Cohort.

Background/AimsUp to 5% of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients have a hereditary predisposition to CRC called Lynch Syndrome (LS). Here we use the CERGEN population to investigate how frequently institutions document family history of cancer in a meaningful manner for LS identification. We characterize the individuals who receive LS testing, and determine the pattern of usage among the institutions with regard to the multiple recommended testing schemes.MethodsThe study population includes 1220 patients with stage III or stage IV CRC, from one of the seven participating Cancer Research Network (CRN) study sites. Eligible patients were initially diagnosed with stage IV CRC between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2009 or stage III CRC between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2006. We compute descriptive statistics, such as proportions, counts, means, and variances, to summarize the derived information. Data analyses were conducted using SAS Release 9 (SAS Institute, Cary, NC).ResultsFamily history documentation in the EMR varied, with 3 sites clustering below 70% (279/436, 70/103, 137/199) and 4 sites with over 85% (111/127, 61/63, 119/136, 147/156). Of those with family history documentation 61% (591/971) have a relative with cancer and 20% of these (120/591) report CRC in at least one first degree relative. Less than 5% of the population received LS testing. These individuals tended to be younger (53 versus 67), and have a documented CRC family history. The decision to test for Lynch syndrome tended to be made soon after diagnosis (median 59 days). Microsatellite instability testing and immunohistochemistry testing were both used for initial LS testing, with some individuals receiving both, while a small number of individuals proceeded directly to germline sequencing. Of the individuals who received germline testing, 2 were diagnosed with LS.DiscussionFamily history of colon cancer is documented for the majority of individuals although this varies by site. Very few individuals are tested for LS at any site, representing a potential under diagnosis of this hereditary condition in patients and their families. When testing is performed, there does not seem to be a preference for immunohistochemistry or microsatellite instability testing for any site.
Isolation and characterization of amber mutants of bacteriophage R17

Fifty-five amber mutants of R17 were isolated, 23 after nitrous acid mutagenesis and 32 after fluorouracil mutagenesis. The mutants were classified by their growth properties and by complementation experiments into one or another of the three cistrons of R17; three are RNA synthetase or C cistron mutants; 13 are coat protein or B cistron mutants; and 39 are assembly function or A cistron mutants. The sites of the mutations in the coat protein cistron were found by sequence analysis of the coat protein isolated from mutants which had been grown on the permissive host S26R1E. Seven have the mutation at the position of the sixth amino acid in the coat protein, one has its mutation at position 50 in the coat protein and the other five have the mutation at position 54 in the coat protein. Since glutamine residues occur at each of these positions in the wild-type coat protein, the mutants must have arisen by changing of the glutamine codon CAG to amber UAG. The position 50 and 54 mutants are not strongly polar to the C cistron, whereas the position 6 mutants are strongly polar. Experiments with these mutants indicate that each RNA genome is preferentially but not exclusively replicated by its own RNA synthetase.
Hydrogen diffusion and mobile hydrogen in amorphous silicon

Diffusion phenomena in hydrogenated amorphous silicon $(a\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{S}\mathrm{i}:\mathrm{H})$ are modeled assuming that mobile H excited from Si-H bonds normally annihilates at dangling-bond defects, as in the ``H collision'' model of light-induced metastability. This diffusion model explains the long-standing puzzle of the doping dependence of the hydrogen diffusion coefficient ${D}_{\mathrm{H}}.$ It also yields the magnitudes of the ${D}_{\mathrm{H}}$ Arrhenius prefactors in doped and undoped $a\ensuremath{-}\mathrm{S}\mathrm{i}:\mathrm{H}.$ Mobile H diffuses over an energy barrier of about 0.3 eV; at room temperature, its diffusion rate is slightly greater than that of H in crystalline Si.
New facets of the neuropathology and molecular profile of human temporal lobe epilepsy

This review summarizes the salient features of the anatomical and molecular neuropathology of the hippocampus from patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). It argues that sclerotic hippocampus is essential for seizure expression and that sclerosis is not a consequence of seizures, but is related to the epileptogenicity of the seizure focus. While neurons in sclerotic hippocampus may contribute to hippocampal hyperexcitability, this role is perhaps less important than that of the astrocytes. The astrocytes in sclerotic hippocampus may directly influence excitability through altered water homeostasis and K+ buffering by redistribution of AQP4 transporters on their plasma membrane. It is proposed that they contribute to a high extracellular glutamate level through reduced glutamine synthetase, and activation through pro-inflammatory factors that release chemokines and cytokines, which enhance calcium-dependent glutamate release. Such a focal pool of glutamate may diffuse to surrounding neuron-rich areas to generate seizure activity in TLE.