cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The age-related changes in DNA binding activity of AP-1, NF-κB, and OCT-1 transcription factors in lymphocytes from rats

The effect of aging on the induction of the ubiquitous transcription factors AP-1, NF-κB, and OCT-1 by concanavalin A (conA) was studied in nuclear extracts from spleen lymphocytes isolated from young (6 mo) and old (24 mo) male Fischer 344 rats. The induction of AP-1, NF-κB, and OCt-1 DNA binding activities were significantly lower (35 to 60%) in nuclear extracts from spleen lymphocytes isolated from old rats compared to nuclear extracts from spleen lymphocytes isolated from young rats. Because the transcription factor AP-1 consists of heterodimers of Fos and Jun oncoproteins, the induction of c-fos and c-jun expression (mRNA levels) by conA stimulated lymphocytes was measured using northern blot analysis. ConA induction of c-fos mRNA but not c-jun mRNA decreased approximately 70% with age. Therefore, the age-related decrease in the induction of AP-1 transcription factor appears to arise from alterations in c-fos expression.
Continuity of Metric Projection, Pólya Algorithm, Strict Best Approximation, and Tubularity of Convex Sets

Abstract The notion of tubularity of a convex subset, K, of l∞ (n) was originally introduced to study the convergence of the Polya algorithm. It is shown in the present paper that this geometric condition provides a characterization of thosed closed convex sets onto which the set-valued metric projection is continuous. In the development of this result, Rice′s strict best approximation is characterized in three new ways, and is shown, assuming tubularity of K, to be a continuous selection. The class of sets on which the Polya algorithm is known to converge is enlarged to include all closed convex totally tubular sets. Tubularity is shown to be related to the (P)-sets introduced, in a study of the metric projection, by Brown and Wegmann.
WE-C-201C-03: Tissue Discrimination Methods in Mammography and Tomosynthesis

Breast imaging is undergoing a revolution towards quantitative tomographic methods. There is active research and development of both dedicated computed tomography, and digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) or limited‐angle computed tomography. Numerous clinical DBT trials are in progress and two systems are available in Europe. DBT has been shown to have clear value in increasing the conspicuity of lesions by removing overlaying structures present in mammograms. We have recently installed a Hologic Dimensions DBT prototype that has been modified to allow contrast‐enhanced (CE) imaging. Both dual‐energy and temporal CE‐DBT are under investigation. Current research is focused on the development and validation of precise image‐derived metrics (image‐based biomarkers) with physiologically relevant parameters, including treatment response to interventions and clinical outcomes. Our work continues with technique optimization, reconstruction algorithm development, motion correction, and scatter and other signal dependent corrections. With appropriate corrections, CE‐DBT can accurately quantify contrast agent uptake. In previous work, we have shown that CE‐DBT can provide results concordant with dynamic contrast‐enhanced MR in a group of 17 women with known or suspected breast cancer. As such, we believe that CE‐DBT has potential in the same roles as MR. These roles include screening high‐risk populations, staging cancer patients through identification of multifocal, multicentric and contralateral cancer, and assessment of tumor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Finally, there is a revolution in radiographic contrast agents. Taking inspiration from nuclear medicine and optical imaging, we are seeing an increase in research into radiographic contrast agents. These developments are made possible given recent advances in nanoparticles such as designer liposomes, polymersomes and nanospheres. Both blood‐pool and targeted contrast agents are under investigation. Learning Objectives: 1. Review the state‐of‐the‐art in DBT system design 2. Describe adaptations necessary to perform quantitative CE‐DBT 3. Exemplify the clinical applications of CE‐DBT Research support for this project has been provide in part by XCounter AB, General Electric Health Care, and Hologic Corp, in addition to the Komen for the Cure Foundation, the Department of Defense and the Radiological Society of North America.
Polarization mode dispersion effects on phase and polarization diversity receivers

The objective of this paper is to examine the combined effects of weak phase noise and polarization mode dispersion (PMD) on a coherent receiver employing phase and polarization diversity reception. The receiver is assumed to be subjected to the following: transmitter and receiver polarization misalignment relative to the principal states of the optical fiber, phase noise, polarization mode dispersion, and shot noise. The receiver outputs are investigated for ASK demodulation using square-law and envelope detection. The results show that for the assumed receiver configuration, square law detection provides an output which is independent of PMD, phase noise, and polarization misalignment. Envelope detection results in a receiver output which is dependent on all of these parameters. Furthermore, when phase noise and PMD are simultaneously present, the resulting probability of bit error is no greater than the probability of bit error under worst-case operating conditions when polarization mode dispersion and phase noise are absent.© (1992) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Understanding the broad substrate repertoire of nitroreductase based on its kinetic mechanism

The oxygen-insensitive nitroreductase from Enterobacter cloacae (NR) catalyzes two-electron reduction of nitroaromatics to the corresponding nitroso compounds and, subsequently, to hydroxylamine products. NR has an unusually broad substrate repertoire, which may be related to protein dynamics (flexibility) and/or a simple non-selective kinetic mechanism. To investigate the possible role of mechanism in the broad substrate repertoire of NR, the kinetics of oxidation of NR by para-nitrobenzoic acid (p-NBA) were investigated using stopped-flow techniques at 4 °C. The results revealed a hyperbolic dependence on the p-NBA concentration with a limiting rate of 1.90 ± 0.09 s(-1), indicating one-step binding before the flavin oxidation step. There is no evidence for a distinct binding step in which specificity might be enforced. The reduction of p-NBA is rate-limiting in steady-state turnover (1.7 ± 0.3 s(-1)). The pre-steady-state reduction kinetics of NR by NADH indicate that NADH reduces the enzyme with a rate constant of 700 ± 20 s(-1) and a dissociation constant of 0.51 ± 0.04 mM. Thus, we demonstrate simple transient kinetics in both the reductive and oxidative half-reactions that help to explain the broad substrate repertoire of NR. Finally, we tested the ability of NR to reduce para-hydroxylaminobenzoic acid, demonstrating that the corresponding amine does not accumulate to significant levels even under anaerobic conditions. Thus E. cloacae NR is not a good candidate for enzymatic production of aromatic amines.
Expression of genes in incomplete T4 Genomes

Abstract In single infection the phage genes on incomplete T4 genomes can direct the synthesis of three “early” enzymes as efficiently as do the genes on full-length molecules of T4 DNA. The regulation of these enzymes is abnormal.
Wind and refractive turbulence profiling using imaging-filtering technique

ABSTRACT The theoretical description of incoherent source imaging through an extended turbulent medium is considered.It is demonstrated that the temporal-spatial power spectra of the defocused images contain information about thetransverse wind velocity and the refractive turbulence strength along an optical path. The information about windand turbulence profiles can be recovered from these spectra using a class of quasi one-dimensional natural sources,and a spatial filter in the aperture plane. 1. INTRODUCTION In 1974, Lee1 proposed using spatially filtered optical element to make localized measurements of refractiveturbulence. This technique was investigated in detail by Churnside e al.2 It requires a spatial filter at each end ofthe propagation path, which makes this technique inconvenient for vertical profiling. A point source (e.g.,a star)and a spatially filtered receiver can be used to obtain vertical profiles,3'4 but the longitudinal resolution is poorbecause the transmitter, in this case the star, is not spatially filtered. For a point source or turbulent medium thatis moving, the spatial resolution of the profiles increases.5'6 Churnside e al.7 proposed using a second spatial filterat the receiver and an arbitrary transmitter to obtain turbulence profiles at high spatial resolution.
A Jumble of Needs: Women's Activism and Neoliberalism in the Colonias of the Southwest

Rebecca Dolhinow Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 2010, 237 pp., US$25 paperback, (ISBN 978-0-8166-5058-3) This fascinating monograph analyzes the lives of female community leaders and n...
Quantum correlations are tightly bound by the exclusivity principle.

It is a fundamental problem in physics of what principle limits the correlations as predicted by our current description of nature, based on quantum mechanics. One possible explanation is the ``global exclusivity'' principle recently discussed in Phys. Rev. Lett. 110, 060402 (2013). In this work we show that this principle actually has a much stronger restriction on the probability distribution. We provide a tight constraint inequality imposed by this principle and prove that this principle singles out quantum correlations in scenarios represented by any graph. Our result implies that the exclusivity principle might be one of the fundamental principles of nature.
Nuclear properties of 254Md, 255Md, 256Md, 257Md and 258Md

Abstract The isotopes 254–258Md were produced by irradiating an Es target with 4He ions and their nuclear properties were investigated. A chromatographic separation procedure was utilized to obtain pure Md samples. The half-lives of 255Md, 256Md, 257Md and 258Md were found to be 27 ± 2 min, 75 ± 4 min, 5.4 ± 0.5 h and 56 ± 7 d, respectively, and are in agreement with previously reported values. The α/(α+EC) ratios for 255Md, 256Md and 257Md were measured to be 7 ± 1 %, 8.5 ± 0.8 % and 10 ± 3 %, respectively. The main a groups of 255Md, 256Md, 257Md and 258Md were found to have energies of 7.322 ± 0.005, 7.202 ± 0.005, 7.064 ± 0.005 and 6.716 ± 0.005 MeV, respectively. The nucleide 254Md was observed for the first time and was found to decay by EC with a half-life of 10 ± 3 min. Successive chemical separations of Fm indicate the existence of another 254Md isomer having a half-life of 28 ± 8 min.
Note on the Occurrence of Taxine in Taxus brevifolia

A small amount of an alkaloid isolated from the fresh needles of Pacific yew was shown to be amorphous taxine. No cyanogenetic glycoside could be detected in this plant material. The chemotaxonomic significance of these findings is discussed.
Fluctuations in body satisfaction across situations

Although the variable nature of body image was underscored by Schilder (The image and appearance of the human body. New York: International Universities Press, 1950), few investigators have addressed the stability of body image or its sensitivity to variation in environmental or situational conditions. Most researchers have assumed that body image is a stable characteristic. The present study was designed to investigate the situational specificity of body satisfaction, one facet of body image. One hundred forty-four undergraduate women indicated their degree of body satisfaction in general and in the following four situations: (a) walking by a group of attractive men and women at the beach in a bathing suit, (b) having a conversation with a close female friend over lunch, (c) getting dressed to go to school in privacy, and (d) trying on bathing suits in the dressing room of a department store. Body satisfaction varied significantly across the four situations for all body parts except the face, hair, and hands. Additionally, body satisfaction scores were found to reflect how subjects felt about their bodies when they were being especially self-critical, rather than how they felt in “everyday” situations. © 1993 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Applications of thermoelectrometry to metal-ion modified polyimide films

As part of a research program to decrease the electrical resistivity of polyimide films with ionic additives a variable temperature three probe electrical resistivity measurement system has been designed and constructed. Sample temperature, electrification time, atmosphere, and measurement mode are computer controlled. As a data interpretation aid, temperature cycled analysis can be routinely performed. Surface resistivities in the range 103–1015 ohm and volume resistivities in the range 105–1018 ohm-cm are theoretically measurable under well controlled experimental conditions from room temperature to 250°. The electrical resistivity measurement system is useful for the evaluation of polymer films or films in general. Application of the system for analysis of cobalt, lithium and tin ion-modified polyimide films and some experimental considerations are presented. Correlation of the electrical measurements with differential scanning calorimetry, thermomechanical analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis is demonstrated.
A complex definite integral used in the semi-analytical solution of the mass transport equation in an unbounded two- or three-dimensional domain

Abstract This technical note gives the proof of the solution of a complex definite integral. Such a typical integral is required when the analytical solution for contaminant transport in an unbounded two- or three-dimensional porous (or fractured) medium is sought using the Fourier Integral Transform.
IBM system z10 firmware simulation

While a number of techniques to further improve firmware quality H. Elfering and design stability and to reduce firmware field problems over the long term were introduced with the IBM z900 and z990, a second wave of techniques were introduced for the IBM System z10™ platform. This paper describes the three new techniques: an enhanced static code analysis tool, code coverage, and simulation improvements.
Glutamate-induced NFκB Activation in the Retina

Purposes To determine the distribution and glutamate-mediated activation of NFκB members in the retina and pan-purified retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), and to characterize steps in the signal transduction events which lead to NFκB activation.
Functional Capacity of Hispanic Elderly Immigrants

The OARS methodology was used to assess functional capacity in 152 noninstitutionalized Hispanic elderly immigrants. Their economic resources were the most impaired of any functional dimension. Only half of the sample wasfunctioning well in mental health. Although there were no significant gender differences on social resources there were significant differences in economic resources, mental health, physical health, and ADL. Education was predictive of better social and economic resources. Younger people had significantly better function on physical health and ADL. I discuss cultural interpretation of the findings and examine strategies for practice.
Evidence for debris flow gully formation initiated by shallow subsurface water on Mars

Abstract The morphologies of some martian gullies appear similar to terrestrial features associated with debris flow initiation, erosion, and deposition. On Earth, debris flows are often triggered by shallow subsurface throughflow of liquid water in slope-mantling colluvium. This flow causes increased levels of pore pressure and thus decreased shear strength, which can lead to slide failure of slope materials and subsequent debris flow. The threshold for pore pressure-induced failure creates a distinct relationship between the contributing area supplying the subsurface flow and the slope gradient. To provide initial tests of a similar debris flow initiation hypothesis for martian gullies, measurements of the contributing areas and slope gradients were made at the channel heads of martian gullies seen in three HiRISE stereo pairs. These gullies exhibit morphologies suggestive of debris flows such as leveed channels and lobate debris fans, and have well-defined channel heads and limited evidence for multiple flows. Our results show an area–slope relationship for these martian gullies that is consistent with that observed for terrestrial gullies formed by debris flow, supporting the hypothesis that these gullies formed as the result of saturation of near-surface regolith by a liquid. This model favors a source of liquid that is broadly distributed within the source area and shallow; we suggest that such liquid could be generated by melting of broadly distributed icy materials such as snow or permafrost. This interpretation is strengthened by observations of polygonal and mantled terrain in the study areas, which are both suggestive of near-surface ice.
Multispectral size-averaged incoherent spatial filtering

A method of 2-D size-averaged incoherent recognition filtering is described. White light input illumination is used to multiplex chromatically a continuum of inputs differing in their spatial Fourier spectral magnifications. A two-grating dichromated-gelatin lateral-dispersion compensating device is inserted to correct chromatic dispersion introduced by a computer-generated hologram filter. The resulting registered recognition patterns are added to form a single effective filter size-averaged recognition peak. Using high efficiency compensating gratings and a bleached binary hologram allow the use of a relatively low-power light source.
QoS routing based on multi-class nodes for mobile ad hoc networks

Abstract In this paper, we present a new quality of service (QoS) routing protocol for mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs). Most of the existing routing protocols assume homogeneous nodes in MANETs, i.e., all nodes have the same communication capabilities and characteristics. However, in many ad hoc networks, nodes are not the same. Some nodes have longer transmission range, larger transmission bandwidth, and are more reliable and robust than other nodes. We take advantage of the non-homogeneous property to design more efficient QoS routing protocol. And node location information is used to aid routing. We also develop a new algorithm to calculate end-to-end bandwidth for a given path. Our QoS routing protocol contains end-to-end bandwidth calculation and bandwidth reservation. QoS route is discovered and setup only when it is needed. Extensive simulation studies demonstrate the good performance of the QoS routing protocol.
Quantum mechanical inversion of atom—rigid rotor differential cross sections. The infinite order sudden approximation

Abstract The infinite order sudden approximation and the Goldflam—Kouri—Green factorization of the scattering amplitude is used to derive an approximate inversion scheme which allows the direct determination of the atom—rotor potential from the degeneracy averaged elastic and inelastic differential cross sections. The possibility of applications of present results to other problems is discussed.
Effect of prostaglandin E2 on pulmonary vascular resistance in intact dog, swine and lamb.

Abstract The effects of prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 )on pulmonary vascular resistance in the intact dog, swine and lamb were studied using a right heart catheterization technique to isolate and perfuse the left lower lung lobe at controlled blood flow. Infusion of PGE 2 into the lobar artery increased lobar arterial perfusion pressure but did not alter pressure in the left atrium in all 3 species. The increase in lobar arterial pressure was associated with a rise in pressure in the small intrapulmonary lobar vein in the dog but no change in pressure in these veins in the swine and lamb. Infusion of PGE 2 into the iliac artery produced a marked decrease in perfusion pressure in the hindlimb of the dog. The effects of PGE 2 on the canine lung occurred in the absence of any significant change in arterial blood gases, pH, hematocrit or rate and volume of respiration, and this substance increased pulmonary vascular resistance when the lung was perfused with dextran instead of blood. These results show that in dog, swine and lamb, PGE 2 increases pulmonary vascular resistance; however, the site of vasoconstriction is different in the dog and swine or lamb. In the swine and lamb vasoconstriction occurred primarily in vessels upstream to the small veins, presumably small arteries, whereas in the dog lung, the pre- and postcapillary vessels were actively constricted by this naturally occurring substance.
Group II metabotropic glutamate receptors and schizophrenia.

Schizophrenia is one of the most common mental illnesses, with hereditary and environmental factors important for its etiology. All antipsychotics have in common a high affinity for monoaminergic receptors. Whereas hallucinations and delusions usually respond to typical (haloperidol-like) and atypical (clozapine-like) monoaminergic antipsychotics, their efficacy in improving negative symptoms and cognitive deficits remains inadequate. In addition, devastating side effects are a common characteristic of monoaminergic antipsychotics. Recent biochemical, preclinical and clinical findings support group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluR2 and mGluR3) as a new approach to treat schizophrenia. This paper reviews the status of general knowledge of mGluR2 and mGluR3 in the psychopharmacology, genetics and neuropathology of schizophrenia
Pedagogical Content Knowledge in Social Studies

Abstract: Gudmundsdottir, S. & Shulman, L. 1987. Pedagogical Content Knowledge in Social Studies. Scandinavian Journal of Educational Research 31, 59‐70. The role of teacher's pedagogical content knowledge in social studies is addressed through two case studies: a novice and a veteran teacher. We demonstrate that the important difference between the novice and the expert is manifested in a special kind of knowledge that is neither content nor pedagogy per se. It rests instead in pedagogical content knowledge, a form of teacher understanding that combines content, pedagogy and learner characteristics in a unique way.
Optimization of Control and Combustion on a 330MW Face-Fired Boiler

A pair of contradictory problems of unstable combustion at low load and serious slagging near the burners, appear on a 330MW boiler made by Babocock. By diagnosis from aspects of the distributed control system (DCS) control logics and the boiler operation modes, it is found that the root cause is the coarse controlling of primary air (PA) flow which is caused by improper measure or calculation logical blocks of DCS. These improper DCS control logics are corrected. The PA flow rates are calibrated by tests in order to get precise coefficients for the new logic. The combustion mode, the control curves of the primary air pressure and the secondary air pressure are optimally adjusted at last. As a result, the boiler efficiency increases by 0.75%, the power consumption rate decreases by 0.2%, the NOx emission concentration reduce to half.
Myocardial infarction due to congenital coronary arterial aneurysm (with successful saphenous vein bypass graft).

Abstract A 32 year old white woman with congenital saccular aneurysm of the left coronary artery is described. The patient presented with acute myocardial infarction. Calcification in the wall of the aneurysm could be seen on the chest roentgenogram. Selective coronary cineangiograms demonstrated a calcified aneurysm at the origin of the left anterior descending coronary artery which caused complete occlusion of this vessel and partial compression of the circumflex coronary artery. Left ventricular cineangiograms disclosed an akinetic area in the anterior wall and mild mitral regurgitation. The patient successfully underwent saphenous vein bypass graft from aorta to left anterior descending coronary artery. Postoperative studies demonstrated patency of the vein graft with excellent antegrade filling of a normal vessel and nonfunctioning of the previously demonstrated collateral channels.
Prevention of ventricular fibrillation by bretylium in a conscious canine model of sudden coronary death.

In anesthetized dogs, a silver wire electrode was inserted into the lumen of the circumflex coronary artery (LCX) and myocardial infarction was produced by a temporary gO-minute occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) followed by reperfusion. Four days later while in the ambulatory state, a 150 PA current was applied to the intimal surface of the LCX of saline (n = 10) and bretylium (n = 10) treated animals. lntimal injury and coronary thrombosis produced ST segment changes at 138 + 39 minutes (X f SEM), followed by premature ventricular beats (at 142 f 37 minutes), ventricular tachycardia (at 156 k 49 minutes), and ventricular fibrillation (at 163 + 51 minutes) in g of 10 saline-treated animals. In bretylium-treated animals, ST segment changes appeared at 128 f 35 minutes, with six animals surviving for 24 hours (p < 0.03 vs saline). LAD infarction was present in both saline (14.1 f 2.3%) and bretylium (15.1 + 2.1% of left ventricle) treated animals with only bretylium-treated animals developing LCX infarcts (16.1 rt 2.1%). Bretylium prevents ventricular fibrillation (VF) resulting from ischemia at a site distant to prior myocardial infarction in the conscious dog and deserves further attention as a potential antifibrillatory agent for prevention of sudden coronary death in man. (AM
Processing SiC-particulate reinforced titanium-based metal matrix composites by shock wave consolidation

SiC particulate reinforced titanium matrix composites have been processed by shock wave consolidation. These materials are difficult to produce using traditional methods because of the high reactivity of titanium with most reinforcement materials. However, using shock consolidation, fully dense composite compacts that are free from interfacial reactions and macroscopic cracks have been obtained. Process variables (starting powder size, dispersion of SiC particles, chemical impurity level, and pre-compaction degassing and heat treatment) have been investigated. Proper post-consolidation annealing has also been explored to improve impurity segregation and, thus, ductility of the matrix. Subsequent heat treatments of the composites produce controlled interfacial reaction zones sizes. The processed materials are ideal for studying effects of interfacial properties on the mechanical behavior of particulate reinforced metal matrix composites.
Enhanced electron injection and transport with LiF doping

Lithium fluoride has been demonstrated to be an efficient n-dopant for organic semiconductors. 3 orders of magnitude increase in conductivity and 2X enhancement in organic light emitting device efficiency have been demonstrated.
Does propagation method affect yield and survival? The potential of Miscanthus × giganteus in Iowa, USA

Abstract As a sterile hybrid, Miscanthus × giganteus must be vegetatively propagated. Previous work has shown that propagation method may negatively impact not only yield of M. × giganteus, but also winter survival. However, these studies only considered rhizome and micropropagated M. × giganteus. Recently, stem propagated plants have also become available to the US market. Similar to micropropagation, these propagules do not rely on rhizomes to produce planting stock, but little is known about the yield potential or survival of stem propagated plants in the field. Here we addressed these questions in a replicated, side-by-side comparison of rhizome and stem propagated plants at three sites in Iowa, USA. We found no propagule related differences in above- or belowground biomass, establishment losses or winter losses of M. × giganteus. Yields averaged 24.7 (±3.5) Mg ha−1. Though M. × giganteus productivity frequently peaks in the third year after planting, second year yields in Iowa were not significantly different than third. Additionally, winter mortality was very low, averaging only 1.2% during the first two winters. Establishment mortality, however, was significantly greater (P
Identification of Sendai Virus L Protein Amino Acid Residues Affecting Viral mRNA Cap Methylation

Viruses of the order Mononegavirales all encode a large (L) polymerase protein responsible for the replication and transcription of the viral genome as well as all posttranscriptional modifications of viral mRNAs. The L protein is conserved among all members of the Mononegavirales and has six conserved regions (“domains”). Using vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) (family Rhabdoviridae) experimental system, we and others recently identified several conserved amino acid residues within L protein domain VI which are required for viral mRNA cap methylation. To verify that these critical amino acid residues have a similar function in other members of the Mononegavirales, we examined the Sendai virus (SeV) (family Paramyxoviridae) L protein by targeting homologous amino acid residues important for cap methylation in VSV which are highly conserved among all members of the Mononegavirales and are believed to constitute the L protein catalytic and S-adenosylmethionine-binding sites. In addition, an SeV L protein mutant with a deletion of the entire domain VI was generated. First, L mutants were tested for their abilities to synthesize viral mRNAs. While the domain VI deletion completely inactivated L, most of the amino acid substitutions had minor effects on mRNA synthesis. Using a reverse genetics approach, these mutations were introduced into the SeV genome, and recombinant infectious SeV mutants with single alanine substitutions at L positions 1782, 1804, 1805, and 1806 or a double substitution at positions 1804 and 1806 were generated. The mutant SeV virions were purified, detergent activated, and analyzed for their abilities to synthesize viral mRNAs methylated at their cap structures. In addition, further studies were done to examine these SeV mutants for a possible host range phenotype, which was previously shown for VSV cap methylation-defective mutants. In agreement with a predicted role of the SeV L protein invariant lysine 1782 as a catalytic residue, the recombinant virus with a single K1782A substitution was completely defective in cap methylation and showed a host range phenotype. In addition, the E1805A mutation within the putative S-adenosylmethionine-binding site of L resulted in a 60% reduction in cap methylation. In contrast to the homologous VSV mutants, other recombinant SeV mutants with amino acid substitutions at this site were neither defective in cap methylation nor host range restricted. The results of this initial study using an SeV experimental system demonstrate similarities as well as differences between the L protein cap methylation domains in different members of the Mononegavirales.
Ergonovine maleate provocative test for coronary arterial spasm.

Ergonovine maleate was evaluated as a provocative agent for inducing coronary spasm during coronary arteriography. The study group consisted of 98 patients with either mild fixed obstructions of coronary luminal diameter (less than 50 percent) or normal coronary arteriograms. The test was considered positive if the drug precipitated severe coronary spasm. A positive ergonovine test occurred in 10 of 11 patients with Prinzmetal's variant angina (P < 0.02). Two of these patients had a transmural myocardial infarction in the distribution of the spastic artery. Ergonovine tests were negative in (1) the 15 control patients with no clinically suspected coronary artery disease (P < 0.001), (2) 63 of 66 patients with angina-like chest pain (P < 0.001), and (3) all 6 patients with myocardial infarction and no history of Prinzmetal's variant angina (P < 0.05). No major complications occurred as a result of this test. Thus, ergonovine maleate test is a safe, sensitive and specific method for reproducing coronary spasm in patients with Prinzmetal's variant angina and no major coronary obstructions. The results suggest that coronary spasm can be implicated as a cause of myocardial infarction in patients with normal coronary arteriograms who also have Prinzmetal's variant angina. Coronary spasm was not demonstrated in patients who had normal coronary arteriograms and a history of myocardial infarction as an isolated clinical event. Also, coronary spasm could not be demonstrated in the majority of patients who had angina-like chest pain and no major coronary obstruction.
Design method for prototyping a cost-effective VR spherical motor

This paper presents a CAD/CAE procedure for designing a variable-reluctance spherical motor (VRSM). The procedure offers an effective way to optimize key parameters that could significantly affect the torque performance of a VRSM. Specifically, the analytical procedure streamlines the design process using a conceptual design as an input to create 3D solid models, upon which FE analyses are performed to optimize key parameters. As an illustrative example, we introduce the design concept of a SWM capable of open-loop orientation control while its rotor spins continuously and demonstrate the concept feasibility experimentally.
Infertility among cosmetologists.

Although chemicals used in hair salons have been linked to infertility in animal models, little is known about whether exposures in hair salons are associated with infertility in women. Thus, a survey-based study was performed to investigate infertility in 448 cosmetologists and 508 non-cosmetologists working in Baltimore, Maryland and its surrounding counties. Infertility was assessed with questions addressing time-to-pregnancy (TTP) length (≥12 months), consulting a medical professional about fertility problems, and taking medication to become or maintain a pregnancy. Occupational exposure was assessed by job tasks and customers served per week. There were no statistically significant associations between working as a cosmetologist and the odds of TTP ≥ 12 months, consulting a medical professional about infertility, or taking medication to either become or maintain a pregnancy. The data suggest that cosmetologists are not at increased risk for infertility compared to women of the same age working in other occupations.
Probing Low-Energy Collective Nuclear Modes with Fast Neutrons

The low-energy, low-spin collective modes of nuclei that can be excited through inelastic scattering reactions with fast neutrons are reviewed. Recent studies of quadrupole, octupole, and multiphonon vibrations are described, and more exotic modes, including mixed-symmetry states, scissors mode states, and intruder excitations, are presented. The opportunities afforded through reactions with very energetic neutrons are considered, and a view to the future of nuclear structure studies with energetic neutrons is given.
FINE STRUCTURE OF THE CILIARY EPITHELIUM OF THE RABBIT, WITH PARTICULAR REFERENCE TO "INFOLDED MEMBRANES," "VESICLES," AND THE EFFECTS OF DIAMOX

The structure of the ciliary epithelium of the adult albino rabbit has been studied by electron microscopy. Material was fixed in osmium tetroxide and embedded in epoxy resins. Two hitherto unappreciated features of the non-pigmented epithelial layer are described. First, the "infolded plasma membranes" described by previous workers are shown by serial sections to be projections or interdigitations from adjacent cells. Second, the "rows of vesicles" described by previous workers are shown by serial sections to be part of an unusual form of smooth-surfaced tubular endoplasmic reticulum. The tubules are highly convoluted and extensively interconnected. They are arranged in sheets, so that a cross-section through a sheet gives the appearance of a row of vesicles. The other structural features of the ciliary epithelium are also described. Previous workers have reported that Diamox, which inhibits the secretory activity of the epithelium, causes profound structural changes. An effort has been made to confirm these reports under carefully controlled experimental conditions. It was found that secretion could be inhibited by a maximally effective dose of Diamox without the occurrence of any detectable structural changes. The physiological significance of these findings is discussed.
Insulin Promotes Formation of Polymerized Microtubules by a Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase- Independent, Actin-Dependent Pathway in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Direct demonstrations implicating the microtubule cytoskeleton in insulin-mediated adipose/muscle-specific glucose transporter (GLUT4) translocation are beginning to emerge, and one role of the microtubule network appears to be the provision of a solid support for GLUT4 vesicle movement. In the current study we show that insulin treatment increases total polymerized alpha-tubulin in microtubules in a time- and dose-dependent manner that coincides with established insulin-mediated changes in GLUT4 translocation. Insulin stimulates the growth of microtubules through a pathway that requires tyrosine kinase activity, as indicated by inhibition of the effect after treatment with genistein. Insulin-mediated growth was not inhibited by treatment with the MAPK kinase (MEK) inhibitor, PD98059 or by wortmannin, indicating that the effect does not require activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 or phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase. Depolymerization of the actin cytoskeleton with latrunculin B abrogated the effect of insulin on microtubule polymerization, indicating that an intact actin network is a requirement for insulin-dependent modulation of microtubules. Using methods that measure insulin-dependent GLUT4 translocation in populations of adipocytes as opposed to individual cells, we show a statistically significant reduction in translocation (30% inhibition) in the presence of low concentrations of nocodazole (2 mum). This concentration incompletely depolymerizes the microtubule network, revealing that partial depolymerization of microtubules is sufficient to inhibit GLUT4 translocation. It is likely that stabilization of the microtubule network contributes to insulin stimulation of GLUT4 translocation.
Integrating Marketing and Environmental Studies Through an Interdisciplinary, Experiential, Service-Learning Approach:

This article describes and evaluates an interdisciplinary, experiential service-learning project that combined environmental studies and marketing courses at a liberal arts college over a 2-year period. The inherent tensions between these two disciplines regarding issues of environmental protection and conservation make this project’s contribution unique. The project is in line with the increased emphasis on environmental issues as a key strategic consideration for both marketing academics and practitioners. Environmental studies students identified and prioritized solid waste streams. Marketing students developed social marketing initiatives aimed at reducing the high-priority waste streams. The two best initiatives were implemented by students via pilot projects in environmental studies and marketing courses. Students in environmental studies were able to identify and apply ways in which marketing tools can be employed to promote social causes and effect positive environmental behavioral change. Marketi...
Role of canonical glucocorticoid responsive elements in modulating expression of genes regulated by the arylhydrocarbon receptor.

A number of genes involved in foreign compound metabolism are inducibleby polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and the study of their molecular regulationis an active area of research. The prototypical...
Electrochemical Corrosion of the Ti- x Al- y Fe Alloys Fabricated by Direct Metal Deposition in Hanks Solution

INTRODUCTION Titanium based alloys, such as Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-6Al-7Nb, have been used for orthopedic implant materials because of their combination of biocompatibility, corrosion resistance and mechanical properties. However, toxicity of alloying elements as compared to that of bone has been pointed out. The new type of titanium alloys composed of non-toxic elements, such as Ti, Al, and Fe with lower modulus of elasticity, greater strength and greater corrosion resistance has been fabricated by direct metal deposition (DMD) technique. The purpose of this study is to investigate the electrochemical properties of the DMD fabricated Ti-xAlyFe alloys in synthetic biological solution (Hank’s type) .
Using 3D tubes to solve the intersecting line representation problem

We discuss 3D rendering as a solution to the line crossing problem associated with using connecting lines for illustrating relations in visual programming. The Bezier tube was introduced for modeling connecting lines in general and hyperedges in specific and an algorithm is given for laying out hyperedges. 3D hyperedges are shown to have features that enhance their readability over that of 2D representations of connecting lines. >
Equine mastitis ‐ a review of 28 cases

Mastitis was diagnosed in 28 mares. Cytological evaluation of milk samples showed large numbers of neutrophils in 72 per cent and bacteria in 33 per cent. Aerobic bacteria were cultured from 71 per cent of samples. Streptococcus zooepidemicus was the most common isolate (37 per cent). Gram-negative species accounted for 42 per cent. Determination of the probability for antimicrobial susceptibility of bacterial isolates from mares with mastitis indicated that a trimethoprim-sulphonamide combination would be active against more than 75 per cent of isolates while penicillin would be active against less than 60 per cent. Systemic antibiotics, frequent milking, hotpacks and/or hydrotherapy and, if possible, infusion of an intramammary antibiotic preparation is recommended for treatment of equine mastitis.
Defining and characterizing differences in college alcohol intervention efficacy: A growth mixture modeling application.

OBJECTIVE: While college alcohol misuse remains a pervasive issue, individual-level interventions are among the most efficacious methodologies to reduce alcohol-related harms. Growth mixture modeling (GMM) was used as an exploratory moderation analysis to determine how many types of college drinkers exist with regard to intervention efficacy over a 12-month period. METHOD: Data from 3 randomized controlled trials were combined to yield a sample of 1,040 volunteer and mandated college students who were given 1 of 3 interventions: a brief motivational intervention, Alcohol Edu for Sanctions, or Alcohol 101 Plus. Participants were assessed at baseline, and 1, 6, and 12 months postintervention. RESULTS: Through the examination of heavy drinking behaviors, piecewise GMM identified 6 subpopulations of drinkers. Most of the sample (76%) was lighter drinkers who demonstrated a strong intervention response, but returned to baseline behaviors over the subsequent 12 months. In contrast, 11% of the sample reported no significant change over the 12-month period. Four minority subpopulations were also identified. In sum, 82% of the sample responded to intervention, but 84% of the sample reported intervention decay over the subsequent 12 months. Female gender, being an, upperclassmen, beginning drinking later in life, not engaging in drinking games, and lower norms predicted a greater likelihood of responding to intervention. CONCLUSION: Individual-level interventions are successful at effecting change in most college students, but these effects tend to decay to baseline behaviors by 12 months. These results suggest intervention efforts need to find ways to engage freshmen men and those who play drinking games. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved). Language: en
Systems modeling of nonlinear effects in high density digital magnetic recording

We propose a new nonlinear model for high density magnetic recording systems. Unlike previous Volterra series methods, this model can be constructed based on simple measurements of the isolated transition response and dibit responses. The experimental results show that the proposed nonlinear model accurately predicts the channel output over the entire length of the 1023-bit maximum length pseudo-random binary testing sequence. The validity of our model is also confirmed through the use of a nonlinear canceler in conjunction with class IV partial response (PR4) equalization.
Race and the teacher–student relationship: interpersonal connections between West Indian students and their teachers in a New York City high school1

Through a review of interviews with West Indian, African American, and white teachers at a New York City high school with a large West Indian population (ages 14 to 18), in this paper I discuss the complicated nature of teacher–student matching, and its impact on student achievement. I find that West Indian teachers have strong points of connection with their West Indian students, and clearly serve as their advocates when cultural differences such as parental nonparticipation, lack of discipline, and avoidance of eye contact come up. Non‐West Indian teachers, however, also connect with West Indian students. White teachers draw upon common experiences of immigration, and African American teachers draw upon common experiences of race prejudice and American race relations. The downside of strong identification with one group of students—in this case, West Indians—can sometimes lead to a distancing from others—in this case, African Americans. West Indian teachers sometimes identify strongly as West Indian in ...
Sodium Flux Ratio in Na/K Pump-Channels Opened by Palytoxin

Palytoxin binds to Na(+)/K(+) pumps in the plasma membrane of animal cells and opens an electrodiffusive cation pathway through the pumps. We investigated properties of the palytoxin-opened channels by recording macroscopic and microscopic currents in cell bodies of neurons from the giant fiber lobe, and by simultaneously measuring net current and (22)Na(+) efflux in voltage-clamped, internally dialyzed giant axons of the squid Loligo pealei. The conductance of single palytoxin-bound "pump-channels" in outside-out patches was approximately 7 pS in symmetrical 500 mM [Na(+)], comparable to findings in other cells. In these high-[Na(+)], K(+)-free solutions, with 5 mM cytoplasmic [ATP], the K(0.5) for palytoxin action was approximately 70 pM. The pump-channels were approximately 40-50 times less permeable to N-methyl-d-glucamine (NMG(+)) than to Na(+). The reversal potential of palytoxin-elicited current under biionic conditions, with the same concentration of a different permeant cation on each side of the membrane, was independent of the concentration of those ions over the range 55-550 mM. In giant axons, the Ussing flux ratio exponent (n') for Na(+) movements through palytoxin-bound pump-channels, over a 100-400 mM range of external [Na(+)] and 0 to -40 mV range of membrane potentials, averaged 1.05 +/- 0.02 (n = 28). These findings are consistent with occupancy of palytoxin-bound Na(+)/K(+) pump-channels either by a single Na(+) ion or by two Na(+) ions as might be anticipated from other work; idiosyncratic constraints are needed if the two Na(+) ions occupy a single-file pore, but not if they occupy side-by-side binding sites, as observed in related structures, and if only one of the sites is readily accessible from both sides of the membrane.
Optimal edge detection in two-dimensional images

This paper presents a new edge detection scheme that detects two-dimensional (2-D) edges by a curve-segment-based detection functional guided by the zero-crossing contours of the Laplacian-of-Gaussian (LOG) to approach the true edge locations. The detection functional is shown to be optimal in terms of signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and edge localization accuracy; it also preserves the nice scaling property held uniquely by the LOG in scale space.