cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
CONCENTRATION AND SOLVENT SENSITIVE VISIBLE SPECTRA OF POLY(TRICYANOVINYLDIMETHYLANILINE): AGGREGATION AND SOLVATOCHROMISM

ABSTRACT This work presents unusual spectral behavior of poly(tricyanovinyl dimethylaniline) (1) in dilute solutions. A new conjugated polymer(1) was prepared from p-(tricyanovinyl)N,N-dimethylaniline via the use of a methylglucopyranoside reagent. It is observed that dilute solutions of 1 exhibit spectral features associated with aggregation. The associative interaction is studied by changing the salt concentration of LiBr in DMF solution, by changing the concentration of 1, and by varying the solvents. The association modifies the visible spectrum of 1 in dilute solution. Spectra of 1 in DMF solution exhibit an intense absorption maximum at 429 nm, which can be assigned to the side group, with tailing past 700 nm. With increasing concentration, a new absorption band arises between 480 nm and 700 nm. LiBr dissociates the aggregate to decrease the additional spectral features. The visible spectrum of 1 varies in different solvents. The spectrum of 1 in chloroform solution exhibits two maxima at 490 nm and...
National-scale estimation of changes in soil carbon stocks on agricultural lands.

Abstract Average annual net change in soil carbon stocks under past and current management is needed as part of national reporting of greenhouse gas emissions and to evaluate the potential for soils as sinks to mitigate increasing atmospheric CO 2 . We estimated net soil C stock changes for US agricultural soils during the period from 1982 to 1997 using the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) method for greenhouse gas inventories. Land use data from the NRI (National Resources Inventory; USDA-NRCS) were used as input along with ancillary data sets on climate, soils, and agricultural management. Our results show that, overall, changes in land use and agricultural management have resulted in a net gain of 21.2 MMT C year −1 in US agricultural soils during this period. Cropped lands account for 15.1 MMT C year −1 , while grazing land soil C increased 6.1 MMT C year −1 . The land use and management changes that have contributed the most to increasing soil C during this period are (1) adoption of conservation tillage practices on cropland, (2) enrollment of cropland in the Conservation Reserve Program, and (3) cropping intensification that has resulted in reduced use of bare fallow.
Salinity Effects on Vegetative Growth, Seed Yield, and Fatty Acid Composition of Crambe

Agronomic development and crop diversification may promote an increased acreage of crambe in the USA. (...) Five cultivars and three germplasm releases were grown with four salinity treatments imposed on a Pachappa fine sandy loam soil. Electrical conductivities of the irrigation waters, containing NaCl and CaCl 2 , were 0.9, 3.7, 5.4, and 7.9 dS m -1 (...)
Microfiltration of starch suspensions using a tubular stainless steel membrane

Abstract This article reports on the use of a tubular stainless steel-titania composite membrane to filter cornstarch suspensions, with a view to possibly augmenting, or replacing, hydrocyclones or centrifuges which are used for the concentration and purification of starch. This research work focuses on studying the effect of operating parameters such as trans-membrane pressure, cross-flow velocity and feed concentration on the flux and rate of fouling, and on developing cleaning protocols.
The Importance of Assessing Measurement Reliability in Multivariate Regression

Abstract In many contexts involving multivariate linear regression models, some or all of the independent (predictor) variables are measured with error. It is argued that if the goal is to assess the relationship of the dependent variables to the true predictor variables, then it is important to determine the reliability matrix Λ of the measurement X of the vector of true predictors. If Λ is singular, then the slope matrix B is not identifiable. If Λ is nearly singular, then B cannot be accurately estimated. A two-step estimation procedure is proposed in which Λ is estimated from data on the measured predictors X and on prior information from reliability studies on these predictors and the parameters of the (latent) linear relationship are estimated by classical linear regression methods. This approach not only allows the use of available software but also lends itself to traditional diagnostic methods. Large-sample properties of the estimators resulting from this approach are derived. It is shown how a c...
Effects of 4-MAPC, a 5α-reductase inhibitor, and cyproterone acetate on regrowth of the rat ventral prostate

Inhibitors of 5α-reductase activity cause less involution of the rat ventral prostate (VP) than does castration. Studies were conducted in adult Sprague Dawley rats to evaluate the effects of a potent 5α-reductase inhibitor, 4-MAPC, and the antiandrogen, cyproterone acetate (CA), on DNA synthesis and apoptosis. In experiment 1, VP weight fell 33%, 53%, and 83%, and DNA per ventral prostate was reduced 24%, 46%, and 71%, by 4-MAPC, CA, and castration, respectively. In experiment 2, adult rats were castrated, and the VP involuted for 7 days prior to 3 daily injections of testosterone propionate (TP; 1 mg/kg/d) ± 10 mg/kg/d of 4-MAPC or CA. 3H-thymidine incorporation into VP DNA was increased in castrated animals treated with TP, and 4-MAPC and CA reduced uptake. In experiment 3, animals were treated for 14 days with the same protocol as that used in experiment 2. VP weight was increased in all animals treated with TP when compared with castration, and was reduced by both 4-MAPC and CA. DNA in rats treated with TP was similar to that in intact animals. DNA was not reduced by 4-MAPC, but was reduced by CA. The mRNA for TRPM-2, a marker of apoptosis, was increased only in untreated castrated rats. It appears that CA has a greater inhibitory effect than 4-MAPC on DNA synthesis. A major reason why castration reduces DNA more than either 4-MAPC or CA is that neither of these agents was able to increase programmed cell death to the degree seen with castration. © 1994 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Supercritical fluid injection of high-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic compounds in capillary supercritical fluid chromatography

A sample introduction system for capillary supercritical fluid chromatography, which allows the dissolution of the sample in the supercritical mobile phase before being introduced into the column, was constructed and evaluated. Supercritical n-pentane was shown to solvate high-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic compounds that could not be solvated using typical liquid solvents. In addition, split injection of a supercritical fluid solution was found to be more reproducible than split injections of a liquid solution. The potential of such an injection system was demonstrated, although further developments are needed in order to make the technique of practically utility.
Update of uranium fission interferences in neutron activation analysis

Abstract An updated table of uranium fission interferences in thermal neutron activation analysis (NAA) is presented for Ba, Ce, La, Mo, Nd, Ru, Te and Zr. The compiled results are presented as apparent ppm of element per ppm U: Ba (0.64), Ce (0.27), La (variable amount depending on decay time), Mo (1.6), Nd (0.23), Ru (0.13), Te (0.8) and Zr (10). An in depth survey of the fission interferences in epithermal NAA is also discussed with the suggestion that this method be used for Mo and Zr analysis to minimize the uranium fission interference effect. As well, results for uranium fission interference for Pd are presented.
Homogeneous transport in a heterogeneous membrane: water diffusion across human stratum corneum in vivo

The objective of this study was to determine whether a structurally heterogeneous biomembrane, human stratum corneum (SC), behaved as a homogeneous barrier to water transport. The question is relevant because the principal function of the SC in vivo is to provide a barrier to the insensible loss of tissue water across the skin. Impedance spectra (IS) of the skin and measurements of the rate of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were recorded sequentially in vivo in human subjects as layers of the SC were progressively removed by the serial application of adhesive tape strips. The low-frequency (< or = 100 rad s-1) impedance of skin was much more significantly affected by tape stripping than the higher frequency values; removal of the outermost SC layer had the largest effect. In contrast, TEWL changed little as the outer SC layers were stripped off, but increased dramatically when 6-8 microns of the tissue had been removed. It follows that the two noninvasive techniques probe SC barrier integrity in somewhat different ways. After SC removal, recovery of barrier function, as assessed by increasing values of the low-frequency impedance, apparently proceeded faster than TEWL decreased to the prestripping control. The variation of TEWL as a function of SC removal behaved in a manner entirely consistent with a homogeneous barrier, thereby permitting the apparent SC diffusivity of water to be found. Skin impedance (low frequency) was correlated with the relative concentration of water within the SC, thus providing an in vivo probe for skin hydration. Finally, the SC permeability coefficient to water, as a function of SC thickness, was calculated and correlated with the corresponding values of skin admittance derived from IS.
Determination of disaccharides in feces by permethylation and gas chromatography: Rapid screening for carbohydrate intolerance in children

Abstract Disaccharides can be identified and determined quantitatively in fecal specimens by permethylation of the components in crude supernatants followed by isothermal gas Chromatographic separation on OV-17 columns. The method provides a rapid screening procedure for detecting patients suspected of having a carbohydrate intolerance secondary to intestinal disaccharidase deficiency.
The use of small satellites in the NASA Earth Science Enterprise (ESE) Earth Observing System (EOS)

Abstract As NASA looks to reshape the Earth Observing System for the post-2002 mission timelines, we argue that small, commercial buses can be modified to carry key instruments as “hot” spares, technology demonstrations, or in support of new programmatic imperatives. We consider the particular case of the Indium bus flying a new sensor to demonstrate the utility of measuring ozone via stellar occultations. We find that a very low cost demonstration mission could be mounted that could be launched to fly in association with a planned EOS element, EOS CHEM. This project would serve to validate the new measurement approach and it would demonstrate the idea of launching to replace or update an element in an existing constellation. Such a mission would be a natural follow-on to the PICASSO-CENA ESSP mission. PICASSO-CENA is planned to fly in formation with EOS PM. Our mission would demonstrate that many of the current instruments and measurement requirements addressed by EOS AM and PM could be maintained through use of such small satellites, an issue not fully addressed by PICASSO-CENA or any other ESE mission.
Arytenoid Subluxation From Blunt Laryngeal Trauma

Isolated arytenoid dislocation and subluxation are uncommon laryngeal injuries most often resulting from endotracheal intubation. However, these diagnoses must be entertained in all patients having sustained laryngeal trauma. Complaints of dysphonia, pain with phonation, or odynophagia in the setting of laryngeal trauma should include evaluation for possible arytenoid displacement after an airway is secured. Prolonged hoarseness or odynophagia after endotracheal intubation should alert the physician to the possibility of a cricoarytenoid joint injury. This represents the first reported case of isolated arytenoid injury resulting from blunt external trauma to the larynx. The patient had a stable airway without intervention, and the displaced joint spontaneously relocated with resolution of the cricoarytenoid edema and hemarthrosis. We propose that the cricoarytenoid joint was subluxed probably due to edema, hematoma, and/or cricoarytenoid hemarthrosis sustained from blunt laryngeal trauma. We furthermore propose that some cases of cricoarytenoid subluxation may be treated without operative intervention.
Ancient microspheres: abiogenic, protobiogenic, or biogenic?

Criteria of biogenicity of microspheroidal objects, which have been interpreted as microfossils, are here reviewed in the light of additional data. Much weight has been placed by some commentators on constrained heterogeneity as a primary criterion of biogenicity. The data from the field and laboratory suggest the need for continuing reservation in the interpretation of these objects. On the basis of these and other data, reasons are given for the alternative explanation that the objects are lithified relics of protobiotic assemblages. The question remains open as to whether the early Archean spheroidal objects are abiotic, protobiotic, or biotic in origin.
Hepatitis B virus replication and mutation are autoregulated by interactions between surface antigen and HBeAg and the HBV DNA polymerase: a functional model with therapeutic implications

Abstract Infection with hepatitis B virus can result in asymptomatic seroconversion with viral clearance, fulminant hepatic failure and death, or chronic, typically lifelong, transmissible infection. The mechanism(s) of viral persistence are poorly understood but viral clearance and fulminant hepatic failure are generally thought to result from co-ordinated and effective and abnormally vigorous immune responses, respectively, whereas viral persistence results from immunological failure in addition to poorly characterized viral factors promoting persistence. This paper proposes (1) that the predominant viral factor(s) promoting persistence of hepatitis B virus are homeostatic mechanism(s) responsible for modulating its replication and mutation and (2) that chronic hepatitis B results when these mechanisms are successful and other outcomes occur when these homeostatic mechanism(s) fail. Furthermore, it is proposed that seroconversion (e.g. from HBsAg to anti HBsAg positivity), when it occurs, is a consequence facilitated by restricted viral antigenic diversity and reduced viral replication rather than a proximate cause of it. The specific homeostatic mechanisms proposed — negative feedback inhibition of hepatitis B virus DNA polymerase/reverse transcriptase mediated by HBs antigen and a hepatitis B virus DNA polymerase fidelity modulating function of HBeAg — are consistent with the available data and resolve many paradoxical clinical observations. But, more importantly, this model has clear implications for therapy, including the rational design of drugs and therapeutic vaccines.
The effect of methanogen growth on mineral substrates: will Ni markers of methanogen‐based communities be detectable in the rock record?

Methanogens, thought to be present on early Earth, have a high requirement for Ni, suggesting that Ni utilization could be a potential biosignature for methanogens if enhanced Ni extraction from surrounding minerals accompanies methanogenic growth. To test the potential for such Ni extraction from minerals by methanogens, Ni release from Ni-containing silicate glass was measured in Ni-free growth medium in the presence of the methanogen Methanothermobacter thermoautotrophicus (average pH ∼ 7.0) and observed to be higher than an abiotic control (average pH ∼ 6.8). However, batch dissolution experiments and a siderophore assay indicate that cell exudates such as siderophores, low molecular weight organic acids, or lysates accompanying cell death are not responsible for the observed increase in Ni release rate. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows little to no evidence of direct microbe‐mineral interactions such as biofilms or pitting. Instead, comparison with abiotic experiments suggests that changes in pH due to CO 2 uptake may be responsible for enhanced dissolution in the presence of metabolizing cells. These results document that methanogens may not preferentially extract Ni from surrounding minerals although they may indirectly affect mineral reaction rates that are pH sensitive. Thus identifiable Ni biosignatures may not exist in the rock record to document the presence of methanogens on early Earth or Mars.
From devastation to mobilisation: the Muslim community's involvement in social welfare in post-conflict DRC

Undisputedly, more than a decade of war in the Democratic Republic of Congo has had an immensely negative impact on the social fabric of communities. However, tales of woe and destruction are not all that have arisen out of the ashes of the Congo wars. In fact, the minority Muslim community has capitalised upon the opportunity of this historical moment of state weakness and desperate human need to mobilise for the benefit of the larger society. Despite decades of marginalisation and withdrawal from political and development realms, in post-conflict DRC, Muslim associations are organising to provide social services, especially education. [De la devastation a la mobilisation : le role de la communaute musulmane dans la fourniture deles services sociaux dans la periode apres-conflit en RDC] Incontestablement, plus d'une decennie de guerre dans la Republique Democratique du Congo a eu un impact tres negatif sur la structure sociale des communautes. Pourtant, les histoires de malheur et de destruction ne sont ...
Courageous science: structural studies of bluetongue virus core

The structure of the bluetongue virus core was recently reported and represents the largest structure determined to atomic resolution. As a biological machine capable of RNA transcription, the structure has immense biological significance.
TARGET OF RAPAMYCIN (TOR) SIGNALING CONTROLS EPITHELIAL MORPHOGENESIS IN THE VERTEBRATE INTESTINE

The target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling pathway regulates cell growth and proliferation, however the extent to which TOR signaling mediates particular organogenesis programs remains to be determined. Here we report an examination of TOR signaling during zebrafish development, using a combination of small molecule treatment and morpholino-mediated gene knockdown. First, we amplified and sequenced the full-length cDNA for the zebrafish TOR ortholog (ztor). By in situ hybridization, we found that ztor is expressed ubiquitously in the early embryo, but displays a dynamic pattern in the gut between 48 and 72 h post-fertilization (hpf). Treatment of zebrafish embryos with rapamycin induced only a mild general developmental delay up to 72 hpf, but digestive tract development became arrested at the primitive gut tube stage. Rapamycin inhibited intestinal epithelial growth, morphogenesis and differentiation. Using morpholino-mediated gene knockdown of TOR pathway components, we show that this effect is mediated specifically by the rapamycin-sensitive TOR complex 1 (TORC1). Thus, in addition to regulating cell growth and proliferation, TOR signaling controls the developmental program guiding epithelial morphogenesis in the vertebrate intestine.
Time-dependent physics of a single-surface multipactor discharge

The time-dependent physics of the single-surface multipactor is investigated by using both particle-in-cell (PIC) and Monte Carlo (MC) simulations. An oscillation of the normal surface field and number of electrons at twice the rf was observed in the PIC code. The temporal relationship between the fields normal and parallel to the surface traces a closed curve in the ac saturation state. The shape of the curve depends on the amplitude of the rf electric field normalized to the rf (normalized electric field). In comparison with the PIC simulation result, the oscillation in the MC simulation appears only when the normalized electric field is so large that the time step of the MC simulation is smaller than the rf period.
Stimulated release of arachidonic acid from rat liver cells by celecoxib and indomethacin.

The selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX) inhibitor, celecoxib, and the non-selective COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor, indomethacin, at microM concentrations, stimulate the release of arachidonic acid from rat liver cells (the C-9 cell line). Other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were tested, including salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, sulindac sulfone, sulindac sulfide, ibuprofen, piroxicam and the selective COX-2 inhibitor, rofecoxib, and the analgesic, acetaminophen. These compounds do not stimulate the release of arachidonic acid. The stimulated release by celecoxib is not affected by dexamethasone or the translation and transcription inhibitors, actinomycin and cycloheximide. The increased arachidonic acid release may be associated with induction of apoptosis.
Ultra-low-leakage chip multiprocessor design with hybrid FinFET logic styles

FinFET has begun replacing CMOS at the 22nm technology node because of its enhanced ability to mitigate short-channel effects. Although leakage power of FinFET logic gates is lower than their CMOS counterparts, it still contributes to a large part of total power consumption. In this article, we show how ultra-low-leakage FinFET chip multiprocessors (CMPs) can be designed using a hybrid logic style. This hybrid style exploits the ultra-low-leakage feature of asymmetric-workfunction shorted-gate (ASG) FinFETs and the high-performance feature of shorted-gate (SG) FinFETs. We explore the impact of the hybrid style at both the module and CMP levels. To do this, we have developed FinFET logic libraries targeted at SG and ASG logic gates, suitably characterized for various parameters of interest. We have also modified existing tools and created a framework to evaluate the hybrid designs of SRAMs, caches, and CMPs. Using the design with SG FinFETs as the baseline for comparison, our experimental results show that the hybrid style can reduce leakage power of execution units to as low as 10.6p of the baseline without hurting performance, that of SRAMs to between 21.5p and 4.8p of the baseline with 0p-8.3p delay overhead, and that of CMPs to 10.0p of the baseline with negligible performance degradation.
CHIC: Cylindrical Helix Imaging Coordinate Registration Fiducial for MRI-guided interventions

Accurate placement of tubular shaped surgical tools is necessary for a large variety of image-guided medical interventions. In this process, localization of the instrument, or a robotic assistant manipulating the instrument, is crucial for successful registration of physical space to medical image space. Various fiducial frames and registration methods have been proposed and discussed in literature. However, these frames are typically bulky in size or otherwise not appropriate for use with MR imaging. In particular, it is impossible or awkward to integrate them with the surgical tools. This paper presents the design a compact Cylindrical Helix Imaging Coordinate Registration Fiducial (CHIC) and algorithm to precisely and robustly localize the frame in 6 degree of freedom (DOF). The mathematical model of the frame is developed and evaluated with simulation. This cylindrical shaped frame is particularly suitable for mounting to the distal end of tubular shape surgical tools, which provides a direct imaging visualization of frame, tool and possibly the surgical sites. The paper uses MRI-guided surgical procedure as a focusing application, although the broader aim is development of a versatile registration frame that is usable for a variety of image-guided procedures ranging from ultrasound to fluoroscopy and computerized tomography (CT). Accuracy and performance were evaluated in three cases: simulated images with artificial noise, arbitrarily re-sliced 3D MRI volume, and real 3T MRI images.
The interaction of organic and inorganic phosphates with hemoglobin.

Abstract The interaction of human deoxy-, oxy-, and methemoglobin with 2,3-diphospho-glycerate, adenosine tri-, di-, and monophosphates, ribose-5-phosphate, pyrophosphate, tripolyphosphate and tetra-, and hexametaphosphate was studied by equilibrium dialysis in a cacodylate buffer (.05 m cacodylic acid, Γ 2 0.033, pH 6.5). The experimental data were analyzed to determine the binding sites and association constants. Adenosine monophosphate and ribose-5-phosphate were bound in negligible amounts. In the remaining experiments, the first class (k1) consisted of one site with a high association constant; the second class (k2) was characterized by two to four sites with lower association constants. An additional class was obtained for tripolyphosphate and hexametaphosphate. The degree of binding was generally lower in the oxyhemoglobin but the differences in the values for the respective hemoglobins were not marked. Information concerning the sites bound could not be derived from these experiments.
FLUORESCENCE SPECTRA OF PN AND BF

Abstract Resonance fluorescence has been observed from diatomic PN and BF. The species were produced in a microwave discharge and flowed into a fluorescence cell. Vibronic transition probabilities for PN are reported and compared with calculated Franck-Condon factors.
Restructuring Beijing's Social Space: Observations on the Olympic Games in 2008

Two American geographers comment on the preceding analysis of restructuring of Beijing's social space (Feng et al., 2007) by presenting observations on the city's Olympic Games, forthcoming in the summer of 2008. The authors focus on some of the more salient geographical impacts stemming from construction, relocation, and related measures undertaken by the authorities to accommodate the event. Included in the paper are sections on environmental concerns (particularly air pollution), infrastructure (water supply, automobile traffic, and mass transit), and relocation and displacement of residents (particularly of migrants and other disadvantaged segments of the population). Journal of Economic Literature, Classification Numbers: I31, O15, O18, P20. 2 figures, 2 tables, 44 references.
Atherosclerotic lesion mechanics versus biology.

The world-wide importance of acute vascular syndromes is increasing. Acute events are usually triggered by fibrous cap disruption and subsequent thrombus formation. Histological studies have established specific structural features common among unstable plaques. The eccentric, lipid-laden plaque has to bear remarkably high mechanical stresses at the “shoulder regions”. These internal stresses can reach thousands of millimeters of mercury. In addition, weakening of the extracellular matrix at these sites leads to fibrous cap rupture. Dynamic interactions between inflammatory mediators and matrix cause weakening of the plaque at these high stress locations, and it is likely that lowering cholesterol reduces both mechanical stresses and the inflammation that promotes fibrous cap weakening. Understanding the interplay of plaque architecture, mechanical properties, and matrix biology is critical in the future development of therapies to stabilize lesions.
A cross-national investigation of IPO activity: The role of formal institutions and national culture

Abstract Why does IPO activity vary across countries? This study proposes that the variation is attributable to differences in the overall quality of formal institutions and in the informal institutional effects of national culture directly and interactively. The empirical analysis of IPO activity in 45 countries from 2001 to 2011 indicates that the quality of formal institutions and high levels of performance orientation each have positive effects on the level of IPO activity. Further, the positive relationship between the quality of formal institutions and IPO activity is amplified in cultures that encourage and reward performance achievement (high performance orientation) and those that favor the use of rules, and laws to enhance the predictability of future events (high uncertainty avoidance). This study provides theoretical and practical implications for understanding what motivates IPO activity around the world.
Book Review: Poverty Amid Plenty in the New India

Atul Kohli,Poverty Amid Plenty in the New India. New Delhi: Cambridge University Press, India. 2012. 272 pages. ₹ 395
Drawing the line between humans and animals: an examination of introductory sociology textbooks

Ever since Mead, sociology has maintained a deep divide between human and non human animals. In effect, Mead constructed humans as having capacities that he saw lacking in animals. Recent research on animals has challenged the traditional ideas of Mead and others by providing evidence of animal intelligence, adaptability, selfawareness, emotionality, communication and culture. This paper examines the human‐animal relationship as presented in Introductory Sociology Textbooks to see if this new research on animals has allowed us to move beyond Mead. We find outdated information and confused thinking on such topics as the relationship between language and culture, the development of the self in animals, and the role of instinct, socialization and culture in animal behavior. We conclude that, with few exceptions, the main function of the treatment of animals in these texts is to affirm the hard line that sociology has always drawn between humans and other species.
MicroRNA-modulated targeting of vascular smooth muscle cells

VSMCs exhibit the remarkable plasticity required for development and adaptation of the cardiovascular system. The capacity of VSMCs to modulate their phenotype has evolved to facilitate angiogenesis and wound healing, but it has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, restenosis, posttransplant arteriopathy, and pulmonary hypertension. In this issue of the JCI, Boettger and colleagues report that the recently discovered Mir143/145 gene cluster promotes acquisition of the contractile phenotype of murine VSMCs (see the related article beginning on page 2634). These VSMC-restricted microRNAs, which target unique combinations of SMC genes, provide an efficient mechanism to fine-tune cardiovascular homeostasis and the response of the vessel wall to injury. This important discovery will open the door to new avenues of investigation and potentially future therapies for vascular diseases.
The Effect of Size and Fabric Weight of Protective Coveralls on Range of Gross Body Motions

This study evaluated the effects of garment size and fabric weight on range-of-motion (ROM). Ten male subjects performed a series of twelve gross body movements while wearing each of nine similarly styled coveralls. The coveralls were undersized, appropriately sized, and oversized, and were constructed from three different weights of poly/cotton fabric. A balanced 3×3 repeated measures experimental design was used, along with a seminude control condition. ROM was measured with a two-arm manual goniometer. Garment size significantly affected (p<.05) ROM for all movements except shoulder extension and trunk lateral flexion. Compared to seminude ROM, undersized garments reduced the mean ROM by as much as 24% in the case of hip flexion. Fabric weights on ROM were significant for shoulder extension and elbow, hip, knee, and shoulder horizontal flexion. Fabric weight affected ROM less than garment size. Interaction effects between fabric weight and size generally were not significant. These results demonstrate ...
Sensitivity Analyses for Viscoelastic Strength of Materials and Corresponding Continuum Mechanics Formulations

Comparison analyses are conducted for straight and curved viscoelastic beams based on Euler-Bernoulli strength of materials prescriptions and on rigorous formulations in terms of 3-D field equations. The concepts of elastic straight and curved beam analyses are well established. In the present paper, these geometric principles are extended to linear viscoelastic materials. The beams are considered subjected to un-symmetric bending as well as to thermal expansions. The distinct conditions leading to shear center and neutral axis motions in time, previously observed in straight beams are investigated. The applicability of the elastic-viscoelastic correspondence principle (analogy) in terms of integral transforms is demonstrated by application to several simulations. Comparison studies are based on pure bending loading configurations as these offer the least distinct geometric deformation patterns.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Pyridine nucleotide coenzymes of Mycobacferium phlei

Abstract The concentrations of oxidized and reduced pyridine nucleotides in cells of M. phlei and the distribution of the oxidized coenzymes in fractions of the cell have been determined. A procedure utilizing KCN in the determination of the reduced coenzymes has been used. Both DPN and TPN were present predominantly in the oxidized form. DPNH appeared to be the predominant form of the reduced nucleotide, present in two to four times the concentration of TPNH. DPN was the major oxidized nucleotide, present in six to eight times the concentration of TPN. The levels of oxidized and reduced pyridine nucleotides in M. phlei have been compared with those of animal tissues.
Extraction of correlated count rates using various gate generation techniques: Part I theory

Abstract This paper presents an overview of different gate generation techniques that can be used to extract correlated counting rates from neutron pulse trains in the context of Passive Neutron Multiplicity Counting (PNMC). PNMC based on shift register pulse train time autocorrelation analyzers is an important Non-Destructive Assay (NDA) method used in the quantification of plutonium and other spontaneously fissile materials across the nuclear fuel cycle. Traditionally PNMC employs signal-triggered gate generation followed by a random gate, separated from the trigger pulse by a long delay, to extract the totals rate (gross or singles), the pairs (coincidences or doubles) rate, and the triplets (or triples) rate of correlated neutron pulse trains. In this paper we provide expressions for singles, doubles and triples rates using the information available in both, the random and signal-triggered gates (traditional shift register analysis), in the randomly triggered gates only, and introduce a third approach to extract the correlated rates using signal-triggered gates only. In addition, we expand the formalism for randomly triggered gate generation to include Fast Accidental Sampling (FAS) and consecutive gate generation.
Arabidopsis BRICK1/HSPC300 is an essential WAVE-complex subunit that selectively stabilizes the Arp2/3 activator SCAR2

The actin cytoskeleton dynamically reorganizes the cytoplasm during cell morphogenesis. The actin-related protein (Arp)2/3 complex is a potent nucleator of actin filaments that controls a variety of endomembrane functions including the endocytic internalization of plasma membrane , vacuole biogenesis , plasma-membrane protrusion in crawling cells , and membrane trafficking from the Golgi . Therefore, Arp2/3 is an important signaling target during morphogenesis. The evolutionarily conserved Rac-WAVE-Arp2/3 pathway links actin filament nucleation to cell morphogenesis . WAVE translates Rac-GTP signals into Arp2/3 activation by regulating the stability and/or localization of the activator subunit Scar/WAVE . The WAVE complex includes Sra1/PIR121/CYFIP1, Nap1/NAP125, Abi-1/Abi-2, Brick1(Brk1)/HSPC300, and Scar/WAVE : Defining the in vivo function of each subunit is an important step toward understanding this complicated signaling pathway. Brk1/HSPC300 has been the most recalcitrant WAVE-complex protein and has no known function. In this paper, we report that Arabidopsis brick1 (brk1) is a member of the "distorted group" of trichome morphology mutants, a group that defines a WAVE-ARP2/3 morphogenesis pathway . In this paper we provide the first strong genetic and biochemical evidence that BRK1 is a critical WAVE-complex subunit that selectively stabilizes the Arp2/3 activator SCAR2.
Trace element mobility during spheroidal weathering of basalts and andesites in Hawaii and Guatemala

Abstract Trace element mobility has been studied in spheroidally weathered corestone–shell complexes developed on Late Tertiary and Quaternary volcanic rocks. The parent materials are basalts and andesites related to (1) a subduction zone (Tecuamburro and Moyuta Volcanoes, Guatemala) and (2) a hot spot (Hawaiian Islands of Oahu, Maui and Hawai'i). The initial major element compositions are largely preserved in the corestones; each corestone sample shows major element abundances characteristic of the different magmatic processes through which the lavas were generated. However, the changes in trace element compositions due to weathering show similar patterns in the corestone–shell complexes independent of the tectonic setting and age. Element mobility within the different corestone–shell complex was determined using an isovolumetric reference frame. In this method, bulk density is chosen as an independent measure of the extent of weathering. Based on volumetric concentrations, the notion of element immobility cannot be applied to all the corestone–shell complexes. Elements commonly assumed to be immobile (e.g., Zr, Ti, and Al) vary in volumetric concentration for some corestone–shell complex. Despite petrographic evidence of only minor weathering, two corestones (Oahu and Tecuamburro) have become enriched in REE 3+ relative to other lava flows from the same volcanoes, and display negative Ce anomalies. The exfoliated shells from these complexes tend to have lower concentrations of REE 3+ , and have positive Ce anomalies. The fractionation of Ce from the other rare earth elements (REE) is inferred to be a manifestation of changes in the valence state of Ce from trivalent to tetravalent under oxidizing conditions. In settings where the development of corestone–shell complex is advanced, an acidic solution can mobilize trivalent REE, leach them out of more extensively weathered materials, and transport them to less acidic portions of the regolith undergoing incipient weathering. The precipitation of the REE 3+ in the rinds and centers of the corestones are likely due to increases of the pH of the weathering solution. Systematic weathering-induced REE behavior (enrichment of most REE, with lesser Ce enrichment resulting in a negative Ce anomaly) can be discerned even in corestone samples that exhibit major element abundances and petrographic features otherwise similar to unweathered basalts and andesites.
Structural basis of Wnt signaling inhibition by Dickkopf binding to LRP5/6

LDL receptor-related proteins 5 and 6 (LRP5/6) are coreceptors for Wnt growth factors, and also bind Dkk proteins, secreted inhibitors of Wnt signaling. The LRP5/6 ectodomain contains four β-propeller/EGF-like domain repeats. The first two repeats, LRP6(1-2), bind to several Wnt variants, whereas LRP6(3-4) binds other Wnts. We present the crystal structure of the Dkk1 C-terminal domain bound to LRP6(3-4), and show that the Dkk1 N-terminal domain binds to LRP6(1-2), demonstrating that a single Dkk1 molecule can bind to both portions of the LRP6 ectodomain and thereby inhibit different Wnts. Small-angle X-ray scattering analysis of LRP6(1-4) bound to a noninhibitory antibody fragment or to full-length Dkk1 shows that in both cases the ectodomain adopts a curved conformation that places the first three repeats at a similar height relative to the membrane. Thus, Wnts bound to either portion of the LRP6 ectodomain likely bear a similar spatial relationship to Frizzled coreceptors.
Separation by programmed-gradient high-pressure liquid chromatography of vitamin A isomers, their esters, aldehydes, oximes and vitamin A2: presence of retinyl ester in dark-adapted goldfish pigment epithelium.

Abstract Mixtures containing isomers of retinol, retinal, retinyl ester, retinal oxime and 3-dehydroretinol were analyzed by programmed-gradient high-pressure liquid chromatography. The method was used to demonstrate the presence of esterified retinol in addition to 3-dehydroretinol in the pigmented ocular layers of dark-adapted goldfish.
Northward expansion of the rhizocephalan Loxothylacus panopaei (Gissler, 1884) in the northwest Atlantic.

This report describes the first occurrence of the rhizocephalan Loxothylacus panopaei (Gissler, 1884) in North America, north of Virginia and the Chesapeake Bay. Of the panopeid mud crabs suitable for infection by L. panopaei (Panopeus herbstii, Rhithropanopeus harrisii, etc.), the parasite only infected Eurypanopeus depressus. In particular, L. panopaei disproportionately infected small E. depressus (20.5% of crabs with carapace width (CW) of 5–10 mm and 11.8% of crabs with 10–15 mm CW) but did not infect any crabs over 15 mm CW. Analysis of genetic data (COI sequences) suggests this Long Island Sound population could have derived from a range expansion from the mid-Atlantic, where the parasite is invasive. Given the parasite’s disjunct distribution, human-mediated dispersal is the most likely vector for this northward range expansion.
Conditioned medium from a clonal Rous sarcoma virus transformed cerebellar cell line induces process extension in glial lines.

Abstract A Rous Sarcoma virus transformed cerebellar cell line, BC6, secretes a factor which causes clonal glial cell lines to rapidly (1 h) extend processes. The factor shows a degree of specificity since only 3 out of 10 lines which exhibit either glial or combined glial and neuronal properties respond. The active factor appears to be a soluble protein since it remains in the supernatant after centrifugation at 100,000 g for 2 h and is trypsin-sensitive. When conditioned medium is fractionated on a Sephadex G-100 column, activity elutes in and just behind the void volume. By several criteria the factor is distinct from glia maturation factor.
Effect of inhibitors on induction of SV40 tumor antigen by an adenovirus-SV40 hybrid.

A type 7 adenovirus-SV40 hybrid induces the synthesis of SV40 tumor or T antigen in hamster, rabbit, human, and monkey cells. Actinomycin D inhibits synthesis of the antigen suggesting that development of the antigen requires DNA-dependent RNA. Puromycin allows synthesis of T antigen which is therefore, apparently a low molecular weight protein or polypeptide. Synthesis of the antigen is not inhibited by p-fluorophenylalanine. Neither mitomycin C, fluorouracil, iododeoxyuridine, nor cytosine arabinoside prevent development of T antigen. It therefore appears probable that for synthesis of T antigen to proceed the synthesis of new virus DNA is not required regardless of whether this is virus DNA of SV40 or of adenovirus.
Symmetries of Ginsparg-Wilson chiral fermions

The group structure of the variant chiral symmetry discovered by Luescher in the Ginsparg-Wilson description of lattice chiral fermions is analyzed. It is shown that the group contains an infinite number of linearly independent symmetry generators, and the Lie algebra is given explicitly. CP is an automorphism of this extended chiral group, and the CP transformation properties of the symmetry generators are found. The group has an infinite-parameter invariant subgroup, and the factor group, whose elements are its cosets, is isomorphic to the continuum chiral symmetry group. Features of the currents associated with these symmetries are discussed, including the fact that some different, noncommuting symmetry generators lead to the same Noether current. These are universal features of lattice chiral fermions based on the Ginsparg-Wilson relation; they occur in the overlap, domain-wall, and perfect-action formulations. In a solvable example, free overlap fermions, these noncanonical elements of lattice chiral symmetry are related to complex energy singularities that violate reflection positivity and impede continuation to Minkowski space.
NOVEL NEURAL MODULATORS

▪ Abstract The discovery that nitric oxide (NO) is produced by neurons and regulates synaptic activity has challenged the definition of a neurotransmitter. NO is not stored in synaptic vesicles and does not act at conventional receptors on the surface of adjacent neurons. The toxic gases carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) are also produced by neurons and modulate synaptic activity. D-serine synthesis and release by astrocytes as an endogenous ligand for the “glycine” site of N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors defy the concept that a neurotransmitter must be synthesized by neurons. We review the properties of these “atypical” neural modulators.
Mexican Americans: Leadership, Ideology, and Identity, 1930-1960

Introduction: The Mexican-American generation. Part 1 The middle class: in search of America - the League of United Latin American citizens (LULAC): education and the Mexican American-Eusebio Escobar and the School Improvement League of San Antonio Mexican American Muckraker - Ignacio L. Lopez and "El Espectador": the politics of status - the election of Raymond L. Telles as Mayor of El Paso, 1957. Part 2 Labour and the left: the popular front - Josefina Fierro de Bright and Spanish Congress border Proletariats - Mexican Americans and the International Union of Mine, Mill and Smelter Workers Mexican American radicals and the Cold War - the Association Nacional Mexico-Americana (ANMA). Part 3 Mexican American Intellectuals: Carlos E. Castaneda and the search for history George E. Sanchez and the forgotten people Arthur L. Campa and the cultural question. Conclusion: the Chicano in American history.
Use of posaconazole in the treatment of invasive fungal infections.

The emergence of invasive fungal infections as an increasingly important clinical problem in immunocompromised patients highlights the need for more effective antifungal agents and better strategies for prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Posaconazole is an extended-spectrum triazole with broad activity against a variety of fungal pathogens, both yeasts and molds. In particular, it has activity against several emerging pathogens, such as the Zygomycetes, which are resistant to many currently available antifungals, making it an attractive agent for use in both prophylactic and therapeutic situations. Studies demonstrating the prophylactic utility of posaconazole in neutropenic patients with acute myelogenous leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome, and in patients with graft-versus-host disease following allogeneic stem cell transplantation has led to the approval of the drug in the USA. These data have been reviewed elsewhere in detail. Published data on posaconazole as primary antifungal therapy are very l...
Spatio-temporal delta-sigma modulation for shared wideband transmit arrays

Future array-based RF transmit systems will require linear amplification to preserve the spectral integrity of simultaneously transmitted signals. Classical delta-sigma modulation, paired with an emerging class of high-power switches, can provide this linearity by using a high-speed, low-resolution quantizer and shaping the resulting quantization errors out of the signal band. The drawback is that high clock rates are required to achieve high SNR. Recently, we have proposed shaping quantization errors jointly in temporal and spatial frequency, pushing quantization errors both out of band and to nonpropagating spatial frequencies. This provides greater SNR for a given clock rate or the same SNR at a reduced clock rate relative to conventional delta-sigma modulation, while retaining its characteristic high linearity. We present an overview of the spatio-temporal delta-sigma array architecture and present the results of some preliminary hardware experiments with a small linear array.