cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Non-linear Control Allocation Using Piecewise Linear Functions

A novel method is presented for the solution of the control allocation problem where the control variable rates or moments are nonlinear functions of control position. Historically, control allocation has been performed under the assumption that a linear relationship exists between the control induced moments and the control effector displacements. However, aerodynamic databases are discrete valued and almost always stored in multidimensional lookup tables, where it is assumed that the data are connected by piecewise linear functions. The approach that is presented utilizes this piecewise linear assumption for the control effector moment data. This assumption allows the control allocation problem to be cast as a piecewise linear program that can account for nonlinearities in the moment/effector relationships, as well as to enforce position constraints on the effectors. The piecewise linear program is then recast as a mixed-integer linear program. It is shown that this formulation accurately solves the control allocation problem when compared to the aerodynamic model. It is shown that the control effector commands for a reentry vehicle by the use of the piecewise linear control allocation method are markedly improved when compared to the performance of more traditional control allocation approaches that use a linear relationship between the control moments and the effectors. The technique is also applied to determine those flight conditions (angle of attack and Mach number) at which the reentry vehicle can be trimmed for the purpose of providing constraint estimates to trajectory reshaping algorithms.
Simultaneous Immunoblotting Analysis with Activity Gel Electrophoresis

Transferring proteins partially from a gel to a membrane by diffusion blotting is useful to (a) probe a protein on the membrane with an antibody and (b) allows one to study the gel by the method of zymography. Thus one can use a single original SDS polyacrylamide gel to combine immunoblotting analysis with another biochemical technique. However, one needs to note that there will be lower transfer efficiency than the traditional methods of transferring proteins to the membrane using electric current. Thus, this procedure, originally developed and described by Lee and Chang, allows protein blots from: 1. An SDS polyacrylamide gel, which one can then use for zymography assay 2. A native polyacrylamide gel for a method known as electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) 3. A two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel for large-scale screening and identification of a protein marker
Help Yourself Before Helping Others: When CSR Makes a Company Look Authentic

A growing body of research shows that an organization’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) increases its attractiveness as an employer. What remains less explored, however, are the conditions un...
Improving equitable access to care via telemedicine in rural public libraries.

OBJECTIVE: Rural public libraries have been proposed as ideal locations from which individuals can access a telemedicine visit, but limited adoption of this practice suggests significant barriers remain. The purpose of this study was to determine rural public librarians' perspectives on the benefits and barriers to offering patrons the ability to use their public library for a telemedicine video visit, and to suggest strategies for moving this practice forward. DESIGN: Qualitative content analysis. SAMPLE: Fifteen rural US librarians and library directors. MEASUREMENTS: Individual interviews were conducted to determine perspectives on the benefits of and barriers to implementing telemedicine in public libraries. RESULTS: We identified four themes from the data: rural public libraries increase healthcare access in a trustworthy location, librarians are supportive of telemedicine, but have concerns, limited resources drive barriers to telemedicine implementation in rural libraries, and small rural libraries continued in-person service during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION: Rural public libraries can be an important part of achieving equitable access to care, particularly with regard to chronic disease management in rural populations. Rural public health nurses can be instrumental in promoting collaborations between local libraries and regional health systems that may help libraries overcome financial barriers to this practice.
Mescaline and related compounds.

This review covers essentially derivatives of phenethylamine and phenylisopropylamine which contain three phenolic hydroxyl groups and their alkyl ethers. They comprise mescaline, its amphetamine analog and their position isomers. The chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacology of these compounds are the subject of sections of this review.
DNA loop structure and radiation response

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses new approaches to investigate the role of nuclear and chromatin structure in the effects of ionizing radiation on mammalian cells. The nucleus of eukaryotic cells is the critical organelle in which interactions with ionizing radiation result in reproductive cell death. The first level of higher-order organization of DNA in chromatin is the nucleosome. Each nucleosome contains two molecules each of the four core histones that form a disk around which is wrapped ∼ 146 base pairs (bp) of DNA. Each nucleosome is separated from its neighbor by approximately 54 bp of “linker” DNA making the nucleosome repeat unit equal to ∼ 200 bp. Packaging of DNA into nucleosomes results in a fiber of approximately 11 nm in diameter. In the next level of organization, polynucleosomes are packaged into a solenoidal array of highly condensed DNA, partly because of the interaction of histone HI with the internucleosomal or “linker” DNA and nucleosome core particles. The chapter presents a study wherein effects of radiation on nucleoid sedimentation behavior were studied with two approaches: first, alterations in the ethidium bromide response were studied as a function of dose; second, alterations in the sedimentation distance were investigated. The sedimentation technique can detect changes in nucleoids induced by heat shock or by radiation with great sensitivity. However, the interpretation of what these changes mean in terms of DNA supercoiling is compromised by the absence of independent nucleoid sedimentation and varying amounts of protein co-sedimenting with the nucleoid.
The 64-kilodalton subunit of the CstF polyadenylation factor binds to pre-mRNAs downstream of the cleavage site and influences cleavage site location.

TheCstFpolyadenylation factor isa multisubunit complex required forefficient cleavage andpolyadenylation ofpre-mRNAs. Using anRNaseH-mediated mapping technique, we showthatthe64-kDasubunit ofCstF can bephotocross-linked topre-mRNAs atU-rich regions located downstream ofthecleavage site ofthe simian virus 40late andadenovirus L3pre-mRNAs. Thispositional specificity ofcross-linking isa consequence ofCstFinteraction withthepolyadenylation complex, since the64-kDaprotein byitself iscross-linked at multiple positions on a pre-mRNAtemplate. Duringpolyadenylation, fourconsecutive U residues can substitute forthenative downstream U-rich sequenceon thesimian virus 40pre-mRNA, mediating efficient 64-kDaprotein cross-linking atthedownstream position. Furthermore, theposition oftheU stretch notonly enables the64-kDapolypeptide tobecross-linked tothepre-mRNAbutalsoinfluences thesite ofcleavage. A search oftheGenBankdatabase revealed thata substantial portion ofmammalianpolyadenylation sites carried four ormore consecutive Uresidues positioned sothattheyshould function assites forinteraction with the64-kDaprotein downstream ofthecleavage site. Ourresults indicate thatthepolyadenylation machinery physically spans thecleavage site, directing cleavage factors toa position located between theupstream AAUAAAmotif, wherethecleavage andpolyadenylation specificity factor isthought tointeract, andthe downstream U-rich binding site forthe64-kDasubunit ofCstF. Polyadenylation ofprecursormRNAs involves a series of distinct steps:recognition ofpre-mRNAsubstrates which contain thehexanucleotide sequenceAAUAAA (19)bypolyadenylation factors; endonucleolytic cleavage ofthepremRNA ata distinct site five to40nucleotides (nt) 3'ofthe hexanucleotide; andaddition ofapproximately 200adenosine residues atthe3'end(11, 22,29). Invivo, these processesare tightly coupled, butthesteps canbereadily uncoupled invitro. Previous studies haveidentified U-rich or GU-rich regions, located asfaras50ntdownstream ofthecleavage site, which influence polyadenylation bothinvivoandinvitro (6,13-15, 20,21,23,24,34).To date, themechanism bywhichthese downstream sequenceelements influence polyadenylation has notbeenelucidated. A 64-kDa(64K)polypeptide can beefficiently photo crosslinked toAAUAAA-containing
Repairing Our Human Rights Reputation

The start of a new law school year is a most fitting time to think anew about what we stand for, as lawyers and Americans. I hope I can use this occasion to address a most serious subject: re­ pairing our human rights reputation. Let me say up front that what you are about to hear is not a partisan message: during my career, I have worked both in and out of government. I have worked in the Justice Department for a Re­ publican administration and in the State Department for a Demo­ cratic administration, and I have sued both Republican and Democratic administrations for human rights violations. I believe that the task of repairing America's human rights reputation is one of the most serious problems we as Americans face today. Since all of us have been alive, our country, the United States, has been the world's acknowledged human rights leader. That is certainly why my parents came here, and probably yours as well. Since World War II, ours was universally regarded as a nation that values human rights and the rule of law, that speaks out against injustice and dictatorship, and that tries to practice what we preach. Of course we have never been perfect, but we have usually been thought to be sincere. When I was a diplomat for the United States government, I was always struck by how seriously other countries would listen to what Americans had to say. They listened to us because we were powerful, sure, but they thought us powerful be­ cause they thought we were principled. Our commitments to prin­ ciples of human rights and the rule of law were seen as a major source of our soft power.
Tunable wavelength converter using cross-gain modulation in fiber optical parametric amplifier

We have demonstrated a novel wavelength conversion scheme based on XGM in fiber OPA. The scheme enables the tunable wavelength conversion with a simple configuration, and it is free from linewidth broadening caused by the phase modulation of OPA pump. The signal at 1554 nm was converted anywhere into a 13 nm wavelength range, in either the C band (1548-1556 nm) or the L band (1574-1580 nm), with high extinction ratio and high signal to noise ratio.
The NGO Factor in Africa: The Case of Arrested Development in Kenya

Introduction 1. The Paradox of NGOs in Africa's Development: Unraveling their Inconsistency 2. NGOs, Capitalism and Globalization 3. The Genesis of NGOs: The Idea, the Movement and Implications for Kenya 4. The Colonial State and Development in Kenya: Background to the NGO Work in the Country 5. The Role of the Rockefeller Foundation (RF) in Medical Research and Health in Kenya 6. The Role of the Rockefeller Foundation (RF) in Agriculture and Education in Kenya Conclusion Bibliography Index
A MODEL FOR SYNAPSIS IN FEMALES HETEROZYGOUS FOR THE CHERRY SUB-LOCUS DUPLICATION IN DROSOPHILA.

IN Drosophila the white-eye locus consists of five subloci in the fourth of which JUDD (1964) has reported a duplication (herein indicated as 4 4). The allele cherry ( wCh) is at this sublocus. The duplication ordinarily carries no mutant allele and by itself causes no change in eye color. It is detectible by virtue of the fact that it enhances zeste (z, an eye color mutation at the left end of the X). The identification and location of the duplication involved the employment of W“ (apricot at sublocus 3) and wrh (cherry, at sublocus 4) as well as zeste and outside markers close to the white locus. A testcross of a female heterozygous for the duplication in one X (red in expression) and w‘ wch in the other (a combination which is white) yields F, females which are predominantly either red or white. However, as a result of crossing over between wa and wCh, JUDD occasionally detected F2 females that were either apricot or cherry. These are referred to as “exceptions.” Some of the apricot exceptions had the duplication (five in a total of about 71,000 females) and some did not (21 in the total); none of the cherry exceptions (six in the total) had it. If we show all the elements at the white locus (1 to 5), then the above F2 exceptions would be as listed in Table 1 (only the X derived from the female parent is shown, the X from the male is wa wCh). In order to account for the above results, JUDD assumes that pairing in the heterozygous female may be of two kinds, as shown in Figure 1 (in which the arrow indicates the crossover point). Crossing over between Wa and wCh in type I pairing would give apricot with the duplication ( wa 4 4), and in type 11, apricot with no duplication ( wa 4). The reciprocal crossover products would be formed in each case. In type I pairing they would be 3 wch, the cherry exceptions. In type 11, they would be 3 4 wCh. This
Linkage between Grain‐Size Evolution and Sediment Depletion During Colorado River Floods

Suspended-sediment concentrations decrease and suspended sediment and bed sediment coarsen significantly during floods or seasonal flood periods in the Colorado River in Grand Canyon. We present evidence of these processes for the 1996 controlled flood, examine their role in producing the sedimentologic signatures of both modern and historical flood deposits, and suggest how these processes may be exploited to optimize flood releases to achieve management objectives. In general, the processes that cause grain-size evolution in the Colorado River arise because of sediment supply limitation and a mismatch between the timing of tributary sediment supply to the Colorado River and high sediment-transporting events in the mainstem. The system fines immediately following large tributary sediment inputs, and the system coarsens as the bed sediment is winnowed during subsequent mainstem flows.
Rediscovering Board Expertise: Legal Implications of the Empirical Literature

People are rediscovering the value of expertise on corporate boards of directors. The rediscovery occurs after several decades of celebrating independent directors under the guise of the monitoring model of boards. While independence remains fashionable, and the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX) continues its long-standing promotion, SOX also requires companies to disclose whether their boards have expertise on the board audit committee and, if not, why not. This hastens an inchoate ten-year trend favoring expertise. The value of expertise is supported by theory and empirical research. Accidents of political history appear to explain its subordination, until recently, to independence. As a matter of theory, board expertise harmonizes with basic division of labor principles, yet little attention is paid to the specific expertise that directors offer. The most prominent model of director expertise, developed during the rise of the monitoring board, envisioned an expertise in “decision control.” But this views boards as monoliths and hides the significance of individuals in group decision making. Accompanying the rise of the monitoring board and its privileged place for independence was the rise of the board committee, especially the audit committee. Although committees have designated functions, until recently, the focus has been on member independence rather than expertise benefiting from division of labor. As an empirical matter, the value of expertise is supported by a large body of research. Most strikingly, research shows that accounting expertise is valuable in promoting audit committee effectiveness, while general financial and other expertise contribute less value.
Vibrational spectra and structure of small ring compounds–XXII: Cyclopentanol, cyclopentanol-O-d, cyclopentanol-d1 and cyclopentanol-d4

Abstract The i.r. spectra of cyclo pentanol, α- cyclo pentanol- d 1 and β,β,β',β' - cyclo pentanol- d 4 in the liquid and gaseous states have been recorded from 300–4000 cm −1 . The far-i.r. spectra of gaseous cyclo pentanol, cyclo pentanol-O- d , and cyclo pentanol- d 4 have been measured down to 33 cm −1 . The i.r. spectra of polycrystalline cyclo pentanol and cyclopentanol-O- d have been recorded from 33–300 cm −1 . The Raman spectra of each species have been recorded and depolarization values measured for the normal molecule. The 42 fundamental vibrations have been assigned on the basis of group frequency correlations, isotopio shift ratios, and relative band intensities. The O-H torsional and radial modes were centered at 260 and 188 cm −1 , respectively, in the spectrum of the isolated molecule but shifted to 737 and 258 cm −1 in the spectrum of the solid. Although no pseudorotational transitions were observed for gaseous cyclo pentanol, a band at 122 cm −1 in the spectrum of the solid was assigned to this low frequency ring-puckering fundamental. If a frequency shift upon condensation similar to that observed for the radial mode is postulated for the pseudorotational fundamental, the 1 ← 0 transition for the isolated molecule must be lower than 50 cm −1 . Such a low frequency, of course is consistent with a relatively small barrier to pseudorotation.
Enteric Pathogens That Affect Intestinal Epithelial Tight Junctions

This chapter covers the effects of both enteric pathogens such as bacterial and viral pathogens on intestinal epithelial tight junction (TJs). The author and his research group have shown that enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC)-induced myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation is one way that this pathogen disrupts the TJ barrier; other researchers have shown the same for enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC). Several microbes elaborate proteases. In this era of attention to host-pathogen interactions, the functional impact of some of these bacterial products is becoming apparent. An interesting paradigm has emerged over the past few years—the exploitation of TJ transmembrane proteins as microbial receptors. First, several claudin isoforms were shown to function as receptors for Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE), the toxin responsible for the diarrhea associated with C. perfringens type A food poisoning. Second, three unrelated viruses have now been shown to use TJ transmembrane proteins as receptors. The most recent studies identifying TJ proteins as receptors for both viruses and a bacterial toxin exemplify exploitation. Diarrhea benefits the host by flushing the organisms from the intestinal lumen. At the same time, diarrhea serves as a means of transmission of the pathogen.
Array Factors and Element Patterns

This chapter contains sections titled: Pattern Multiplication Wire Antennas Aperture Antennas Patch Antennas Broadband Antennas ]]>
First supramolecular poly(taco complex)

The first supramolecular poly(taco complex) was formed in the solid state as shown by X-ray analysis.
Pyrimidine dimers in Drosophila chromatin become increasingly accessible after irradiation.

Abstract A prokaryotic DNA-repair enzyme has been utilized as a probe for changes in the accessibility of pyrimidine dimers in Drosophila chromatin following UV irradiation. The results demonstrate a rapid cellular response to physiologically relevant doses of radiation which results in at least a 40% increase in accessible dimers. This increase occurs in two incision-deficient mutants which indicates that the excision-repair process, at or beyond the incision step, is not required or responsible for the increase. In the absence of excision the increase in accessibility persists for a least 2 days following irradiation. The observed increase in accessibility is inhibited by both novobiocin and coumermycin. These inhibitors do not inhibit the initial rate of incision, but do reduce dimer excision measured over more extended periods. A pre-incision process is proposed which actively exposes DNA lesions to excision repair. A fraction of the genome is postulated to be accessible without the intervention of that process.
519 HYPOTHESIS: CONGENITAL MAGNESIUM (Mg) DEFICIENCY IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF THE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME (RDS)

A shock lung is the most visible pathology of severe Mg deficiency in the very young mammal; this hypothesis suggests that RDS is a human counterpart. The mean plasma Mg value of 165 premature infants with RDS was 1.51±0.02 mEq/L. with 76% of values betweeh 1.0 and 1.6 mEq/L (mean, 1.42), despite acidosis or hypoxemia, both of which increase plasma Mg. (The Hospital's normal range for Mg is 1.6-2.2 mEq/L). Low income adolescent multipara, who are at highest risk for RDS infants, are also at high risk for Mg deficiency because of Mg-poor diet and high metabolic demand for Mg during adolescent growth and successive pregnancies. RDS incidence is high in premature infants, with highest rates at the lowest birth weights; infants of mothers with diabetes mellitus (DM);and twins. These, are at risk for Mg deficiency: Prematurity contributes to Mg deficiency, since the Mg concentration of the 20-week fetus is 62% that of the term infant (Widdowson & Dickerson, 1964); DM is associated with urinary loss of Mg.; twins have fetal-fetal competition for Mg. Secondary metabolic effects of Mg deficiency such as hypocalcemia and increased intracellular water and sodium are problems in RDS. Partutition in Mg deficient animals is prolonged and stressed. Stress, plus deficiency in Mg in respect to calcium, favors the release of stored catecholamines and histamine (Douglas, 1968). An exaggerated release of epinephrine and/or histamine leads to acute pulmonary edema, often with hemorrhage. As in anaphylactic shock, the episode is self-limited with a potential for spontaneous resolution or death. Cortisone therapy prior to delivery may be protective.
Effective creep behavior and complex moduli of fiber- and ribbon-reinforced polymer-matrix composites

Abstract This paper examines the influence of the cross-sectional aspect ratio (the thickness-to-width ratio, denoted by α) and volume concentration, c1, of 2-D randomly oriented elliptic cylinders on the overall anisotropic creep and complex moduli of a viscoelastic composite. With such a microgeometry it is first shown that two Maxwell or two Voigt constituents generally do not make a Maxwell or a Voigt composite, but under the conditions that the ratios of the shear modulus to the shear viscosity are equal for both constituents and that both Poisson's ratios remain unchanged in the course of deformation, a Maxwell and a Voigt composite can be constructed. The transversely isotropic creep compliances are then examined as the cross-sectional shape of the elastic elliptic cylinders changes from a circular one (α = 1) to that of a long, thin ribbon (α → 0). Along all five loading directions the ribbon-reinforced composite consistently gives rise to the strongest creep resistance, and as the aspect ratio increases the creep resistance also continues to weaken, with the traditional circular fibers providing the poorest reinforcement. The real and imaginary parts of the five independent complex moduli are also investigated as a function of α and c1, and the loading frequency ω. It is found that the real parts of the complex moduli all increase with increasing ω, and as ω → ∞ these moduli all approach their respective elastic moduli. The imaginary parts of the complex moduli show two distinct trends; one is marked by a monotonic decrease with increasing c1, and the other shows an initial increase before it decreases to zero. Finally, the complex plane/strain bulk moduli associated with various cross-sectional shapes are examined in light of the Gibiansky-Milton bounds, and it is found that all the theoretical results lie literally on the boundary of the bounds.
Cellular Responses to Substrate Topography: Role of Myosin II and Focal Adhesion Kinase

Although two-dimensional cultures have been used extensively in cell biological research, most cells in vivo exist in a three-dimensional environment with complex topographical features, which may account for at least part of the striking differences between cells grown in vivo and in vitro. To investigate how substrate topography affects cell shape and movement, we plated fibroblasts on chemically identical polystyrene substrates with either flat surfaces or micron-sized pillars. Compared to cells on flat surfaces, 3T3 cells on pillar substrates showed a more branched shape, an increased linear speed, and a decreased directional stability. These responses may be attributed to stabilization of cell adhesion on pillars coupled to myosin II-dependent contractions toward pillars. Moreover, using FAK−/− fibroblasts we showed that focal adhesion kinase, or FAK, is essential for the responses to substrate topography. We propose that increased surface contact provided by topographic features guides cell migration by regulating the strength of local adhesions and contractions, through a FAK- and myosin II-dependent mechanism.
Evaluation of Merit of a Corrective Mating Program for Holstein Cattle

Abstract Mating appraisal for profit data were provided by 21st Century Genetics. There were 132,791 records on Holstein cows scored from July 1, 1975, through September 30, 1979. The purpose of the program is to aid dairy producers in electing bulls for corrective matings and to provide type information on bulls. Sires are evaluated from a progeny test, and matings are recommended when the cows are scored. In selecting the appropriate bulls for a cow, basic form is considered first. After basic form, the worst fault of the cow is considered. Three bulls are chosen that are known to sire progeny strong in the major area of weakness of the cow. Legs were the most commonly occurring worst fault (17%), followed by fore udder, rump, feet, rear udder, fat test, and scale, ranging from 8.5 to 9.6%. Correlations between basic form scores of mates were −.59 in progeny of specified mating and −.13 in progeny of unspecified matings. Progeny from specified matings had a higher rate of improvement in feet and mammary scores than progeny of unspecified matings. Sire selection for milk was important, and there was no reduction in selection for milk in the specified matings.
On the role of interfacial debris morphology in a conforming contact tribosystem

Abstract Studies were made of the friction and wear behaviour of polymeric- and ceramic-based materials sliding in an annular conforming contact in high vacuum simulating conditions in space mechanism friction brakes. Extended sliding under low rubbing severity (load, 43 N; mean sliding speed, 0.18 m s−1) produced various fractional torque outputs from the system. The third-body debris morphology which develops in the interface correlates with friction level: a “full” debris layer implying high friction and an “empty” interface, with lesser debris features and interfacial “screens”, implying low friction. Wear can also be related to the debris morphology. Although friction trends were often material specific, some ceramics developed either type of interface morphology and hence either high or low friction behaviour. Friction from the tribosystem depends on the location of the active velocity accommodation sites in the interface and the results support the interface tribology view of sliding systems.
866 – Depression outcome among minority patients treated under collaborative care management

The collaborative care model (CCM) using care managers, has been reported to be more effective than usual care in depression management across various ethnic groups (1). It potentially may contribute to ameliorating racial disparity in depression care (2). The model was adopted at our institution in March 2008. This study aimed to compare 6 month treatment outcomes among minority patients enrolled under the CCM to those under usual care. Using the registry, de-identified data of minority patients defined as non-Caucasian individuals who meet criteria for CCM enrollment, defined as age 18 or over with initial PHQ-9 score of 10 or higher, from March 2008 were reviewed. Initial and 6-month PHQ-9 scores were compared to evaluate response and remission rates in both groups. Response is defined as a 50% reduction in PHQ-9 score from baseline while remission is defined as PHQ-9 score of 5 or less. Data was analyzed using Pearson chi-square and t-test. Of the 135 minority patients diagnosed with depression, 70% (n=94) were female. Majority were enrolled in CCM (n=105). Initial mean PHQ-9 score did not differ between the 2 groups. At 6 months, those under CCM had response rate of 75% compared to 33% in usual care. Remission rate at 6 months was 55% among patients in CCM and 12% in usual care. Conclusion Among minority patients with depression, the CCM is significantly more effective in achieving treatment response and remission compared to usual care. Adaptation of this model across various population groups should be considered.
Delphinidin, a dietary antioxidant, induces human epidermal keratinocyte differentiation but not apoptosis: studies in submerged and three‐dimensional epidermal equivalent models

Delphinidin (Del), [3,5,7,3'-,4'-,5'-hexahydroxyflavylium], an anthocyanidin and a potent antioxidant abundantly found in pigmented fruits and vegetables exhibits proapoptotic effects in many cancer cells. Here, we determined the effect of Del on growth, apoptosis and differentiation of normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEKs) in vitro in submerged cultures and examined its effects in a three-dimensional (3D) epidermal equivalent (EE) model that permits complete differentiation reminiscent of in vivo skin. Treatment of NHEKs with Del (10-40 μm; 24-48 h) significantly enhanced keratinocyte differentiation. In Del-treated cells, there was marked increase in human involucrin (hINV) promoter activity with simultaneous increase in the mRNA and protein expressions of involucrin and other epidermal differentiation markers including procaspase-14 and transglutaminase-1 (TGM1), but without any effect on TGM2. Del treatment of NHEKs was associated with minimal decrease in cell viability, which was not associated with apoptosis as evident by lack of modulation of caspases, apoptosis-related proteins including Bcl-2 family of proteins and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage. To establish the in vivo relevance of our observations in submerged cultures, we then validated these effects in a 3D EE model, where Del was found to significantly enhance cornification and increase the protein expression of cornification markers including caspase-14 and keratin 1. For the first time, we show that Del induces epidermal differentiation using an experimental system that closely mimics in vivo human skin. These observations suggest that Del could be a useful agent for dermatoses associated with epidermal barrier defects including aberrant keratinization, hyperproliferation or inflammation observed in skin diseases like psoriasis and ichthyoses.
Classification of sequenced SAR target images via hidden Markov models with decision fusion

The classification ground vehicle targets from the MSTAR (Moving and Stationary Target Acquisition and Recognition) database is investigated using Gaussian-mixture hidden Markov models (gHMMs) and synthetic aperture radar images. The gHMMs employ features extracted from High Range Resolution (HRR) radar signal magnitude versus range profiles of the targets. Feature enhancement is made using Cetin's point-based reconstruction technique. The impact on classification accuracy across numbers of hidden states and sequence length is explored using separate training and testing data. Multiple gHMM classifier outputs are fused according to various decision rules across which classification performance is explored.
Testing for support irreducibility

An irreducible support is one that ensures a unique solution to the phase problem without requiring that it be explicitly imposed as a reconstruction constraint. However, the only nontrivial support that has been shown to be irreducible is Eisenstein’s support. Herein a general description of support irreducibility is developed for discrete functions, both over positive, real and over complex numbers. In addition, a method of testing an arbitrary support of finite extent for irreducibility is introduced, and a number of simple irreducible supports are presented that are not of the Eisenstein type.
An electro-mechanical simulation of off state AlGaN/GaN device degradation

An electro-mechanical simulation of the degradation of AlGaN/GaN HEMT's in the Off-state. Strain driven diffusion of impurities from the gate into the AlGaN layer increases trap density which leads to unrecoverable decreases in drain current.
The level of Fmet-tRNA on ribosomes from streptomycin treated cells

Abstract Ribosomes of a sensitive strain of Escherichia coli K12 treated with streptomycin contain about twice as much formylmet-tRNA as before. Considering this and previous findings on the effect of streptomycin in whole cells we suggest that streptomycin exerts its main effect on translocation but only when protein chains are being initiated.
Breast Cancer Knowledge and Awareness among High School and College Students in Mid-Western USA

Early detection of breast cancer and its subsequent treatment lead to better patient prognosis and survival rates. However, despite advanced screening and detection techniques, the disease all too frequently remains undetected until it has reached an advanced stage. Despite a number of means of disseminating breast cancer awareness, such as public health programs, public and private media and the internet, breast cancer remains a major health problem which exerts a tremendous economic burden on the health care system. Consequently, promoting early awareness of the disease to students at both high school and college levels might potentially lead to improved health habits later in life. This study investigated breast cancer awareness among college and high school students. A self-administered questionnaire was given to 355 high school students and 132 college students in a mid-western area of the USA to determine their perceptions of breast cancer, risk factors and the need for breast self-examination. Desp...
Thermodynamic analysis of carbon monoxide binding by hemoglobin trout I.

Abstract Calorimetric measurements at 25° of the differential heat of CO binding by hemoglobin trout I have been examined together with the CO binding isotherms for the protein at 4° and 20°. Simultaneous treatment of these data sets by a statistically rigorous technique permits evaluation of all the thermodynainic parameters for both the Adair and the Monod, Wyman, Changeux (MWC) models. The results show the details of the unusual temperature dependent cooperativity which this hemoglobin exhibits. In the Adair formalism the increasingly favorable free energy change for successive steps of ligand binding are nearly linearly paralleled by increasingly negative enthalpy changes for these steps. This causes the enhanced cooperativity observed as the temperature is decreased. For the MWC case, lowering the temperature increases the stability of the Unligated T state relative to the unlieated R state since the enthalpy of the T → R transition is 29.4 kcalmol −1 . Simultaneously, the favorability of Heating R formsrelative to T is enhanced since R form lieation is 14.1 kcal (mol CC) −1 more exothermic than that of T. The balance between these opposing effects is to increase ligand binding cooperativity at low temperatures. The predicted temperature dependence of the Hill coefficient for the MWC and Adair models is identical at low and intermediate temperatures but, interestingly, would show a strong divergence at high temperatures where negative cooperativity is suggested for the Adair case and positive cooperativity for the MWC case.
Computer simulations of catalyst deactivation—II. The effect of morphological, transport and kinetic parameters on the performance of the catalyst

Abstract In this paper we employ our model of catalyst deactivation developed previously, and systematically investigate the effect of morphological properties of the catalyst (i.e. its topology and pore size distribution) and transport and kinetic parameters on its deposition capacity. We demonstrate that increasing the interconnectivity of the pore space, together with regular spatial arrangements of the pores, can significantly improve deposition capacity of a catalyst and its lifetime. Moreover, we show that if the pore size distribution of the catalyst is bimodal, then increasing the fraction of macropores can also improve the performance of the catalyst. Kinetic and transport coefficients are also shown to play major roles during the deactivation process. In particular, a nonuniform reactivity profile can significantly change the shape of deposition profiles, and increase the useful lifetime of the catalyst.
High-frequency restoration of surface seismic data

Often we come across examples in which the initial processing of a 3D seismic volume results in interpretations that are geologically suspect—e.g., cases involving complex faulted patterns or subtle stratigraphic plays. Similarly, postmortem analysis may cite small fault displacements or obscure seismic data as reasons for dry wells. In such cases, the usual practice is to create a new version of the 3D volume with some target-oriented processing to improve imaging in the zone of interest that will, in turn, lead to more accurate interpretation. This helps in some cases, but in others some questions remain unresolved. In the latter, more often than not, more accurate stratigraphic interpretation is needed but the available bandwidth of the data is inadequate to image or resolve the thickness of many thin targets seen in wells. This can be addressed by having data of reasonable quality and augmenting it by some frequency restoration procedure that improves the vertical resolution. Frequency restoration is necessary because seismic waves propagating in the subsurface are attenuated and this phenomenon is frequency dependent—higher frequencies are absorbed more rapidly than lower frequencies. Consequently, the highest frequency recovered on most seismic data is usually about 80 Hz. This article describes a new method for restoring high frequencies within the seismic bandwidth that is based on the frequency decay experienced at different VSP depth levels in a well. It is well known that VSP data contain higher frequencies than surface seismic data because the energy recorded by VSP traverses the unconsolidated weathering zone just once. Figure 1, which shows sectional amplitude spectra computed for a profile through spatially coincident 3D seismic and 3D VSP volumes, confirms this observation. The frequency content of the surface seismic data extends to 60–65 Hz but it reaches 90 Hz in the 3D VSP data. Figure 1. Sectional …
When Normal Is Abnormal: Keys to Laboratory Diagnosis of Hidden Endocrine Disease

Although veterinary clinicians commonly rely on panels of laboratory tests with individual results flagged when abnormal, care should be taken in interpreting normal test results as well. There are several examples of this in evaluating patients with endocrine disease. The finding of a normal leukogram (absence of a stress leukogram) can be indicative of adrenal insufficiency in dogs, and this disorder can be especially elusive when there are no overt indicators of mineralocorticoid deficiency. Cats with hyperthyroidism can have normal serum thyroid hormone concentrations, normal hematocrits, and normal serum concentrations of creatinine despite the presence of disease that affects these parameters. A normal serum phosphorus concentration, in the face of azotemia, isosthenuria, and hypertension can point a clinician toward a diagnosis of primary hyperaldosteronism rather than primary renal disease. A normal serum parathyroid hormone concentration in the face of hypercalcemia is inappropriate and can indicate the presence of primary hyperparathyroidism. Similarly, hypoglycemia accompanied by a normal serum insulin concentration can be found in cases of hyperinsulinism. These normal findings in abnormal patients, and their mechanisms, are reviewed.
Effect of amino acid deletions in the O-glycosylated region of Aspergillus awamori glucoamylase.

Asperillus awamori glucoamylase (GA; EC 3.2.1.3) contains globular catalytic and starch-binding domains (residues 1-471 and 509-616, respectively). A heavily O-glycosylated sequence comprises two parts. The first (residues 441-471) in the crystal structure wraps around an α/α-barrel formed by residues 1-440. The second (residues 472-508) is an extended, semi-rigid linker between the two domains. To investigate the functional role of this linker, we made internal deletions to remove residues 466-512 (GAΔ1), 485-512 (GAΔ2) and 466-483 (GAΔ3). GAΔ2 and GAΔ4 were expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae culture supernatants at ∼60 and 20% the wild-type level, respectively, wile GAΔ1 was almost undetectable
The Croatian profit tax: an ACE in practice

In a series of reforms between 1994 and 1998, Croatia assembled a uniquely interesting tax structure. It is a rare example-perhaps the only one-of a system built systematically on the principle that tax be levied on consumption rather than income. The system had - and the reason for the past tense will become clear shortly - three main components: a broad based value-added tax; a personal income tax from which dividends, interest and capital gains were explicitly exempt; and a profit tax charged only on equity income in excess of some imputed ‘normal’ return (called the rate of ‘protective interest’ (PI)). The profit tax was thus essentially an ‘Allowance for Corporate Equity’ (ACE) system of the kind advocated by the IFS Capital Taxes Group (1991) and Devereux and Freeman (1991), so that the Croatian experience provides a unique opportunity to evaluate an ACE in practice.
Substance Use and Delinquency During Adolescence: A Prospective Look at an At-Risk Sample

This paper focuses on the relationship between adolescent substance use and delinquent behavior in a sample of homeless young people. Confirmatory factor analyses indicated that delinquency and substance use are best described as discrete factors, and competing theoretical models of the longitudinal association between these two factors were examined using structural equations modeling techniques. The results suggest that delinquent behavior is associated with changes in alcohol, marijuana, and drug use across time. This effect was statistically significant over relatively brief lags in time of six months or less. Combined with previous results, these findings challenge the utility of single-factor explanations of adolescent deviance for at-risk populations and suggest that the relationship between substance use and externalizing across time may be more dynamic than previously thought. Implications for intervention are also discussed.
THE WALL JET ON AN AXISYMMETRIC BODY

Etude analytique et numerique du developpement dans l'espace d'un jet de paroi axisymetrique sur un corps axisymetrique. Le nombre de Reynolds est suppose grand
Adrenergic and cholinergic responses of the isolated heart of the goldfish Carassius Auratus

Abstract 1. Neural mechanisms in teleost cardioregulation were investigated through physiological and pharmacological characterization of autonomic receptors in the isolated heart of goldfish. 2. Acetylcholine decreases cardiac frequency and force of contraction in the isolated, saline-perfused heart, a response abolished by atropine. 3. The relative potency of sympathomimetic agonists in producing cardioacceleration is: isoproterenol > norepinephrine > phenylephrine; the effect is antagonized by propranolol but not phentolamine. 4. Propranolol decreases heart rate dose-dependently, while atropine and phentolamine elicit no change. 5. Vagal stimulation in situ produced bradycardia, reversed by atropine to tachycardia. 6. The presence of inhibitory, cholinergic-muscarinic and excitatory, β-adrenergic receptors in goldfish heart is indicated; functional cardioacceleratory fibers reach the β-adrenoceptors via the vagus nerve.
Diode arrays, crystals, and thermal management for solid-state lasers

We summarize our efforts in the development of solid-state lasers, including the laser diode arrays, pump light delivery, approaches to thermal management, and novel gain media. Our interests are in developing unique solid-state lasers, including those operating at higher powers, offering less common wavelengths, and having other specialized features. In this paper, we discuss high-power Tm:YAG and Yb:YAG lasers. The gas cooled slab laser concept using Yb:S-FAP, and side-pumped Er:YAG and Cr:ZnSe lasers. We address the optical and thermal physics of these systems and also mention several additional gain media that have the potential of offering unique performance characteristics: Ce:LiSAF, APG-2 laser glass, Dy:LaCl/sub 3/, and Yb:BCBF.
INCIDENT CHARACTERISTICS, FREQUENCY, AND DURATION ON A HIGH VOLUME URBAN FREEWAY

Rapidly deteriorating travel conditions in U.S. metropolitan areas have led to renewed interest in more effectively managing nonrecurrent congestion. Effective incident management requires an understanding of incident patterns, frequency, and duration. However, such information is limited. This paper presents an analysis of incidents using data from a major Los Angeles, California freeway. Incident patterns are described, and duration is analyzed as a function of incident characteristics. Results indicate that accidents make up a very small proportion of all incidents, but account for a relatively greater share of all incident duration. Major explanatory factors of incident duration include incident type, time of day, truck involvement, and lane closures. The paper concludes with a discussion of alternative approaches to reducing the congestion impacts of incidents.
Plasma synthesis of nanosized W-Co composite powder followed by carburization with a methane-hydrogen mixture

Nanosized tungsten carbide and cobalt composite powder was synthesized by a two-step reaction via a thermal plasma process. Ammonium paratungstate (APT) and cobalt oxide were used as the precursors. The injected precursors were vaporized in the plasma flame and the subsequent reduction of the vaporized precursors produced uniformly mixed nanosized tungsten and cobalt composite powder. The subsequent carburization of this powder by CH4–H2 mixture resulted in the formation of nanosized WC–Co composite powder with a particle size <110 nm. This new method represents an alternative route that avoids the post-treatment required for the WC1−x produced when methane was used for direct carburization in the powder production step.
The Rickettsiostatic Action of Crystalline Penicillin Fractions in Embryonate Eggs.

Summary and ConclusionsSamples of 5 relatively pure crystalline penicillin fractions have been tested for rickettsiostatic activity in typhus-infected embryonate eggs. Penicillin X appeared to be about twice as effective on a gravimetric basis, and about 4 times as effective on a (S. aureus) unitage basis as penicillin G. Penicillin F, di-hydro F, and K were much less effective. On a (S. aureus) unitage basis, penicillin X showed a potency approximately double that of samples of crude penicillin used in 1944. Penicillin G showed a very much higher potency (on a unitage basis) than most samples of partly purified penicillin which we tested in 1945 and 1946. The differential rickettsiostatic potency of these 5 penicillins is roughly parallel to their differential activity against certain bacteria in vivo as determined by other, but differs from that reported in experimental spirochaetal infections, in which penicillin G has been found most effective.Irregular results obtained by us in the past with crude an...