cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Lmo7 recruits myosin II heavy chain to induce apical constriction in Xenopus ectoderm

Abstract Apical constriction, or reduction of the apical domain, underlies many morphogenetic events during development, such as furrow or tube formation. Actomyosin complexes play an essential role in apical constriction, however the detailed analysis of molecular mechanisms is still pending. Here we show that Lim domain only protein 7 (Lmo7), a multidomain adaptor at apical junctions, promotes apical constriction in the Xenopus superficial ectoderm, whereas apical domain size increases in Lmo7-depleted cells. Lmo7 is localized to and promotes the formation of the circumferential actomyosin belt adjacent to apical junctions. We find that Lmo7-dependent apical constriction requires the RhoA-ROCK-Non-muscle myosin II (NMII) pathway. Strikingly, Lmo7 binds and recruits NMII heavy chains to apical junctions. Lmo7 overexpression altered the subcellular distribution of Wtip, a sensor of mechanical tension. Our findings suggest that Lmo7 serves as a scaffold organizing the actomyosin network to regulate contractility at apical junctions.
CHAPTER 99 – Overview of Protein Dephosporylation

There are two classes of enzymes that regulate signaling through the phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of proteins: protein kinases and protein phosphatases. This chapter focuses on the regulation, structure, and function of the protein phosphatases. Protein phosphatases are generally divided into two main groups based on substrate specificity. Protein phosphatases (PPs) specifically hydrolyze serine/threonine phosphoesters, while protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are phosphoty-rosine specific. A subfamily of PTPs, the dual-specificity phosphatases, are capable of efficient hydrolysis of both phosphotyrosine and phosphoserine/threonine. Although both PPs and PTPs catalyze phosphoester hydrolysis, they employ different catalytic mechanisms.
Serious theories and skeptical theories: Why you are probably not a brain in a vat

Skeptical hypotheses such as the brain-in-a-vat hypothesis provide extremely poor explanations for our sensory experiences. Because these scenarios accommodate virtually any possible set of evidence, the probability of any given set of evidence on the skeptical scenario is near zero; hence, on Bayesian grounds, the scenario is not well supported by the evidence. By contrast, serious theories make reasonably specific predictions about the evidence and are then well supported when these predictions are satisfied.
Supplementation of polyphenol-rich blackcurrant extract exerted hypolipidemic and anti-inflammatory effects in diet-induced obese mice (121.7)

Obesity is closely tied to hyperlipidemia, chronic inflammation, and insulin resistance. To gain insight into the effect of polyphenol-rich blackcurrant extract (BCE) on obesity-associated abnormal...
Time series analysis based on running Mann-Whitney Z Statistics

A time series analysis method based on the calculation of Mann–Whitney U statistics is described. This method samples data rankings over running time windows, converts those samples to Mann–Whitney U statistics, and then normalizes the U statistics to Z statistics using Monte-Carlo generated null parameters. Based on the Z statistics’ magnitudes this algorithm can identify time windows containing significant incidences of low or high data rankings, where the window length is determined by the sample size. By repeating this process with sampling windows of varying duration ranking regimes of arbitrary onset and duration can be objectively identified in a time series. The simplicity of the procedure's output – a time series’ most significant non-overlapping ranking sequences – makes it possible to graphically identify common temporal breakpoints and patterns of variability in the analyses of multiple time series. This approach is demonstrated using United States annual temperature data during 1896–2008.
Circular conditional autoregressive modeling of vector fields

As hurricanes approach landfall, there are several hazards for which coastal populations must be prepared. Damaging winds, torrential rains, and tornadoes play havoc with both the coast and inland areas; but, the biggest seaside menace to life and property is the storm surge. Wind fields are used as the primary forcing for the numerical forecasts of the coastal ocean response to hurricane force winds, such as the height of the storm surge and the degree of coastal flooding. Unfortunately, developments in deterministic modeling of these forcings have been hindered by computational expenses. In this paper, we present a multivariate spatial model for vector fields, that we apply to hurricane winds. We parameterize the wind vector at each site in polar coordinates and specify a circular conditional autoregressive (CCAR) model for the vector direction, and a spatial CAR model for speed. We apply our framework for vector fields to hurricane surface wind fields for Hurricane Floyd of 1999 and compare our CCAR model to prior methods that decompose wind speed and direction into its N-S and W-E cardinal components.
Ziele und Grenzen der Wissenschaft

Seit dem Anfang seiner kulturellen Entwicklung hat der Mensch die Welt, in der er lebt, mit Neugier betrachtet. Stets suchte er Erkl/irungen ffir seine eigene Existenz und ffir die Existenz der Welt wie sie erschaffen wurde, auf welche Weise sie Leben fiberhaupt und auch den Menschen hervorgebracht hat und wie sie eines Tages enden wird. Frfihe Vorstellungen bewegten sich in einem mythologischen, religi6sen oder philosophischen Rahmen; und alle diese Ideen besitzen ein gemeinsames Charakteristikum: Sie sind auf die Totalit/it der Ph/inomene ausgerichtet; sie versuchen, alles was ist, einzubeziehen. Sie streben nach der absoluten Wahrheit, sie geben unmittelbare Antworten auf fundamentale Fragen der Existenz wie: ,,Warum ist die Welt so, wie wir sie vorfinden? Was ist Leben? Was ist der Anfang und das Ende des Univer-
Advances in model-integrated computing

The paper discusses challenges and new directions in integrated system and software design. The primary focus is embedded computing. The first topic describes methods and tools for the specification and construction of multiple-view, domain-specific modeling languages and environments. The second topic focuses on tool integration technologies. The third topic discusses the role of model-based generators in model-integrated computing.
National Public Broadcasting

Bob Williams, the CEO of National Public Broadcasting (NPB), was considering an unsolicited offer to purchase the company in the early spring of 2006. The company was a media underwriting representative for public television and radio stations throughout the United States. When Mr. Williams and his wife Linda Williams started NPB in 1996, they had imagined that it would grow quickly and be acquired by a larger media representation firm in a few years. But the business proved to be more complex than they had anticipated with slower growth and less interest from strategic acquirers and, as a result, Mr. Williams had been running NPB ever since. The unsolicited offer gave the Williams and their partners the potential opportunity to realize a significant cash payment for the business. The case explores the impact on the sale of the ownership structure decisions that were made when NPB was formed and the complexity of the sales process for small businesses.Learning Objective: The case explores the impact on the sale of the ownership structure decisions that were made when NPB was formed and the complexity of the sales process for small businesses.
Language, Communication and Culture.

details was not to tell you how pre-reading should be taught, but to suggest that prereading studies be expanded to welcome the imaginative contribution of students as they begin to say something in a foreign language. I want to free us from feeling that we are "taking time" from the book when we give students time and freedom to tell their own ideas in their new loose-fitting language. At the same time vocabulary aimed at a specific reading or listening assignment gives the teacher a handle by which he can guide and control the conversation toward disciplined language development. The time spent reacting to the word list with students is the central activity and emphasizes studying to express their reactions to words and pictures in a second language. Anyone talks willingly about himself; he may talk fluently if his expression is valued as an end in itself. When students contribute to the development of the central theme of class discussion and are kept aware of the significance of their contributions, they will surely progress more rapidly to mature use of the language and will maintain interest in learning the language instead of taking a
Reactive Processing of Polymers: A) Reactive Processing of Engineering Thermoplastics; B) Reaction Injection Molding of Polyurethanes

Abstract As a class of materials, engineering thermoplastics have enjoyed phenomenal growth in sales. The capital investment required to develop and introduce a new engineering thermoplastic has, however, increased dramatically. In response to these competitive pressures, engineering resin producers have increasingly focused their R&D efforts towards improving the performance of existing resins. One approach is to move chemistry from reaction vessels into processing equipment. This strategy is often referred to as reactive processing. Successful development of new engineering polymer grades by reactive processing calls for a multidisciplinary approach, with expertise required in chemistry, polymer science, polymer engineering, computer modeling and statistical process control. The first part of this paper will give a survey of the research work at Bayer Corporation on the synthesis of block copolymers, compatibilized blends and impact modifiers. Polyurethanes are inherently reactive processing polymers. T...
Importance of biological processes in the sulfur budget of a northern hardwood ecosystem

Total S, organic S and sulfate were measured in foliage, litter, roots, soil and solutions at a hardwood site within the Adirondack Mountains of New York. Sulfate as a percentage of total S was similar in foliage and litter (10%), but was greater in roots (30%). Sulfur constituents in the hardwood forest ecosystem were dominated by C-bonded S (60 g m−2) and ester sulfate (16 g m−2) which are formed by biological processes. Because sulfur mineralization (1.42 g m−2 yr−1) was greater than wet precipitation inputs (0.82 g m−2 yr−1), those factors that influence mineralization-immobilization processes are important in evaluating S cycling and sulfate fluxes in this ecosystem. Ester sulfate was formed within the forest floor by the soil biota and was leached to mineral horizons. Annual turnover of this pool was high (25%) within the mineral forest floor. Forest-floor C-bonded S was derived from root and above-ground litter, and substantial amounts were leached to mineral horizons. Calculated storage + outputs (1.64 g m−2 yr−1) was much greater than wet inputs (0.82 g m−2 yr−1).
Mononic saddle-path dynamics

Abstract This letter provides necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of a monotonic waddle path in second-order difference equations. The conditions are illustrated with three popular exchange-rate models.
Some effects of small amounts of residual solvent on polyacrylonitrile film

Abstract During an extensive study of gas and vapor transport in solventcast acrylonitrile homopolymer films, it was found that the film contained small amounts of tenaciously held solvent, normally dimethylformamide [1]. The amount remaining even after prolonged exposure in vacuum at 50°C was about 2. 5%. This could be reduced to less than 0. 25% by prolonged boiling in water and completely removed by alternate benzene and boiling water extractions. Removal of the 2–3% residual solvent was found to raise the glass transition temperature from 72 to 95°C and to lead to more brittle films.
Attitudes towards lexical borrowing and intra-sentential code-switching among Spanish-English bilinguals

The present study seeks to evaluate bilinguals’ attitudes towards the contact forms that are manifested in the speech of Spanish-English bilinguals in the United States, and the factors that contribute to this linguistic assessment. Towards that end, bilinguals of diverse proficiencies are presented with five versions of the fairytale Little Red Riding Hood/La Caperucita Roja: a normative Spanish text, two Spanish texts that contrast in the type of English lexical insertions made, and two code-switched texts, differentiated by type of intra-sentential alternation represented. Multiple measures are used to evaluate participants’ attitudes, including scalar judgments on personality characteristics of the authors of the texts. Data from fifty-three participants unveil a continuum of preferences that largely confirms the hypotheses posited: Spanish-English bilinguals evaluate single-noun insertions more positively than code-switching and report more fine-grained distinctions — differentiating specific versus core noun insertions and felicitous versus infelicitous code-switching — as commensurate with social and linguistic factors, such as language heritage and linguistic competence.
Blood lead, serum homocysteine, and neurobehavioral test performance in the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Regression analysis was used to estimate and test for relationships between blood lead, serum folate, red blood cell folate, serum vitamin B12, serum homocysteine, and neurobehavioral test performance in adults, 20-59 years old, participating in the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The three neurobehavioral tests included in the survey were simple reaction time, symbol-digit substitution, and serial digit learning. Serum folate, red blood cell folate, and serum vitamin B12 decreased as the blood lead concentration increased. Serum homocysteine increased as the blood lead concentration increased. Serum homocysteine decreased as the serum folate and serum vitamin B12 concentrations increased. Neurobehavioral test performance was not related to the blood lead, serum folate, or serum vitamin B12 concentrations. In adults 20-39 years old, performance on the serial digit learning test improved as the serum homocysteine concentration increased. In adults 40-59 years old, neurobehavioral test performance was not related to the serum homocysteine concentration. Homocysteine may impair cognitive function by acting at N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors, and improve cognitive function by acting at N-methyl-D-aspartate or gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors.
Comparative Performance Levels of Female and Male Infants with Down Syndrome

Superior performance of the part of girls with Down syndrome as compared to boys with Down syndrome has been demonstrated repeatedly in the literature on a number of developmental variables. In only one recent study on infants with Down syndrome ranging in age from 3-30 months have the performance levels of the two sexes been shown to be similar. The present study was designed to examine sex differences on mental and motor performance between female and male infants with Down syndrome under two years of age. In support of the most recent study which evaluated sex differences among slightly older infants but in contrast to four earlier studies which evaluated sex differences in older children with Down syndrome, no significant between-group differences were found between the female and male infants tested on any of the mental or motor measures used in this study. Implications of these findings for developmental therapists are discussed.
Absorption of thermal radiation in a V-groove cavity

Analysis of energy absorbed when radiation from an external source enters a v-groove cavity
Comparative biochemistry of skin the mucopolysaccharides of shark skin

Abstract Mucopolysaccharides were obtained and fractionated from the skin of two eleasmobranch fishes, the Blue shark and Sandbar shark. In both species, the main polysaccharide fractions were hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulfate B. The total mucopolysaccharide content, however, varied considerably. In both species, the chondroitin sulfate B fractions were oversulfated. In both species, keratosulfate appeared to be present in small amounts.
Abstract C68: Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of prostate cancer stem cells

Abstract Recent evidence in many tumor systems suggests that there may exist several or even many tumorigenic subpopulations in each tumor. Utilizing 4 xenograft human prostate cancer (PCa) models, including two AR+/PSA+ (LAPC9 and LAPC4) and two AR-/PSA- (Du145 and PC3) xenografts, and by performing exhaustive limiting-dilution tumor regeneration assays in NOD/SCID mice using purified PCa cells based on functional properties (i.e., side population and Aldefluor assays) or preferential expression of surface markers (ABCG2, CD44, or integrin α2β1), we provide evidence for both the phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of PCa stem cells (i.e., PCa cell subpopulations with enhanced tumor-regeneration activity). Our results show that no single marker or assay seems to be able to capture all tumorigenic subsets in all 4 xenografts. We further show that different tumor-initiating subpopulations appear to co-exist in a common tumorigenic pool. We also demonstrate that some tumorigenic PCa cells overexpress stem cell-associated gene expression profiles. Finally, we provide evidence that primary prostate tumors possess subsets of tumor cells that bear similar phenotypic features to those in xenografts. Our results raise the possibility that different PCa patient tumors may harbor CSCs with distinct phenotypic and functional properties. Note: This abstract was not presented at the conference because the presenter was unable to attend. Citation Format: Xin Liu, Xin Chen, Brian Laffin, Binglan Yin, Tammy Calhoun-Davis, Feng Wang-Johanning, Dean G. Tang. Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of prostate cancer stem cells [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on Advances in Prostate Cancer Research; 2012 Feb 6-9; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(4 Suppl):Abstract nr C68.
Density Functional Study of Geometry and Vibrational Spectra for the Isoelectronic and Cr(CO)6 Molecules

We study the geometry and vibrational spectra obtained by density functional theoretical (DFT) methods for isoelectronic V(CO and Cr(CO)6 molecules. We compare many Gaussian basis set options with ...
RELIABILITY ASSESSMENT OF CONTINUOUSLY REINFORCED CONCRETE PAVEMENTS

This paper describes a reliability model developed for continuously reinforced concrete pavements (CRCPs) for the Texas Department of Transportation. The model predicts the probability that a CRCP section with a certain amount of distress manifestations will last at least a certain number of equivalent‐single‐axle‐load (ESAL) applications. An existent Texas CRCP distress index was used to quantify the pavement condition, and accurate predictions of ESALs to failure were obtained for each reliability level using a CRCP database containing more than 80% of nonfailed sections. While conventional methods for model calibration would preclude use of more than 80% of test sections in the database, the approach used here takes into account the data provided by nonfailed sections, maximizing the amount of information extracted from the data, and allowing timely development of an operational pavement management system to comply with the 1991 Intermodal Surface Transportation Act. An example of the model application...
Differential lysis of sedimentary bacteria by Arenicola marina L. : examination of cell wall structure and exopolymeric capsules as correlates

Sedimentary bacteria are consumed and digested by deposit-feeding macroinvertebrates. Lysis of diverse strains of bacteria by deposit feeders may occur at different rates, thus altering the composition of bacteria in feces and surrounding sediments. The goals of this study were to determine whether various sedimentary bacterial isolates were equally susceptible to digestion by the digestive fluids of a model deposit feeder and to identify potential mechanisms of differential digestion. Specifically, cell wall type and exopolymeric capsule production were examined. We used a turbidimetric assay to compare the lytic susceptibilities of bacteria when exposed to digestive fluids collected from the deposit-feeding polychaete, Arenicola marina L.. Forty-three environmental isolates were tested under identical conditions. Significantly different bacteriolytic rates were observed (P<0.0001, ANOVA); 74% of the strains were completely resistant to lysis, while the remaining strains exhibited varied rates of digestion. All gram-positive bacteria were resistant to lysis, while 31% of the gram-negative bacteria were susceptible. Using the G-test of independence (with William's correction) we rejected the null hypothesis that cell wall type and susceptibility were independent (P<0.01). Approximately 88% of the strains tested produced capsules under our culture conditions. Twenty-four percent of the encapsulated bacteria were resistant to digestion, as compared to 20% of the non-encapsulated bacteria. The influence of encapsulation on resistance was not significant (0.75<P; G-test of independence). Although it cannot be concluded that encapsulation provides no protection against digestion for any bacterial strains, it was demonstrated that capsules do not necessarily confer resistance; this likely reflects the diversity of capsule chemistry and structure in various bacterial species. On the contrary, the strong relationship between cell wall type and lytic susceptibility may provide the ability to predict the fate of introduced bacteria to marine sediments. The demonstrated inefficiencies in digestion of bacteria by deposit feeders appear to be due to inherent differences in susceptibilities among bacterial strains, as opposed to physiological differences among individuals of all taxa.
Introduction: Expert Testimony in the New Millennium

With litigation growing increasingly more complex, the courtroom spotlight has centered on the expert witness. Generally, the outcome of the case turns on the testimony elicited from an expert, or on the party's inability to secure admission of such testimony. This special issue focuses on how expert testimony has moved from a supporting role into the forefront, and what issues security practitioners can expect to confront in light of the advances in expert testimony jurisprudence.
The challenge of developing a herpes simplex virus 2 vaccine

HSV infections are prevalent worldwide. A vaccine to prevent genital herpes would have a significant impact on this disease. Several vaccines have shown promise in animal models; however, so far these have not been successful in human clinical studies. Prophylactic HSV vaccines to prevent HSV infection or disease have focused primarily on eliciting antibody responses. Potent antibody responses are needed to result in sufficiently high levels of virus-specific antibody in the genital tract. Therapeutic vaccines that reduce recurrences need to induce potent T-cell responses at the site of infection. With the increasing incidence of HSV-1 genital herpes, an effective herpes vaccine should protect against both HSV-1 and HSV-2. Novel HSV vaccines, such as replication-defective or attenuated viruses, have elicited humoral and cellular immune responses in preclinical studies. These vaccines and others hold promise in future clinical studies.
Mass-Transfer Coefficients in Packed-Beds at Very Low Reynolds-Numbers

Accurate, transport-controlled, mass transfer coefficients for packed beds have been measured by an electrochemical technique at low Reynolds numbers (0.00271 < v/av < 0.198). At low Peclet numbers, the data show a strong dependence upon the bed length, but this dependence diminishes at the higher flow rates. The results are correlated by a dual-sized, straight-pore model for the bed's pore volume. The bed behaves as though 1.46% of the pore volume were in pores whose diameter is 56% greater than the diameter of the remaining pores. The larger pores result in a flow maldistribution and significantly reduce mass transfer at the lower Peclet numbers.
Reconstitution of succinate-Q reductase.

Abstract Reconstitution of succinate-Q reductase is achieved by admixing soluble succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) and ubiquinone-protein-S (QP-S), a new protein isolated from the soluble cytochrome b-c 1 complex. The reconstituted reductase catalyzes reduction of Q by succinate. The reaction is fully sensitive to thenoyltrifluoroacetone. The reconstituted reductase (same as succinate-cytochrome c reductase or submitochondrial particles) does not show “low concentration ferricyanide reductase activity” as soluble dehydrogenase does. In other words, this enzymic site on SDH is occupied by QP-S. When an artificial dye, such as phenazine methosulfate or Wurster's Blue, is used as electron acceptor the rate of oxidation of succinate by SDH is not significantly changed regardless of whether the dehydrogenase is in the free or in the reconstituted succinate-Q reductase forms.
S100A13 Participates in the Release of Fibroblast Growth Factor 1 in Response to Heat Shock in Vitro

S100A13, a member of the S100 gene family of Ca(2+)-binding proteins has been previously characterized as a component of a brain-derived heparin-binding multiprotein aggregate/complex containing fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1). We report that while expression of S100A13 in NIH 3T3 cells results in the constitutive release of S100A13 into the extracellular compartment at 37 degrees C, co-expression of S100A13 with FGF1 represses the constitutive release of S100A13 and enables NIH 3T3 cells to release S100A13 in response to temperature stress. S100A13 release in response to stress occurs with kinetics similar to that observed for the stress-induced release of FGF1, but S100A13 expression is able to reverse the sensitivity of FGF1 release to inhibitors of transcription and translation. The release of FGF1 and S100A13 in response to heat shock results in the solubility of FGF1 at 100% (w/v) ammonium sulfate saturation, and the expression of a S100A13 deletion mutant lacking its novel basic residue-rich domain acts as a dominant negative effector of FGF1 release in vitro. Surprisingly, the expression of S100A13 also results in the stress-induced release of a Cys-free FGF1 mutant, which is normally not released from NIH 3T3 cells in response to heat shock. These data suggest that S100A13 may be a component of the pathway for the release of the signal peptide-less polypeptide, FGF1, and may involve a role for S100A13 in the formation of a noncovalent FGF1 homodimer.
New trends in tunable lasers based on color center and radiationally pertubed doped crystals

Abstract Four trends in tunable lasers based on color center and radiationally pertubed doped crystals are reported. The first trend takes advantage of optimizing the processes of radiational coloration of the crystals and color center stabilization. The second new trend is connected with the development of highly concentrated LiF color center crystals with a wave guide thin film geometry. The third new trend is composed of a novel color center laser optical cavity, providing superbroadband generation across the whole emission region of the LiF : F 2 − active medium. The fourth trend relates to new promising laser media based on radiationally pertubed Sc-doped crystals.
Ca2+-dependent, protein kinase-A modulation of the plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase in parotid acinar cells

Cross-talk between cAMP and [Ca(2+)](i) signaling pathways represents a general feature that defines the specificity of stimulus-response coupling in a variety of cell types including parotid acinar cells. We have reported recently that cAMP potentiates Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores, primarily because of a protein kinase A-mediated phosphorylation of type II inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (Bruce, J. I. E., Shuttleworth, T. J. S., Giovannucci, D. R., and Yule, D. I. (2002) J. Biol. Chem. 277, 1340-1348). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the functional and molecular mechanism whereby cAMP regulates Ca(2+) clearance pathways in parotid acinar cells. Following an agonist-induced increase in [Ca(2+)](i) the rate of Ca(2+) clearance, after the removal of the stimulus, was potentiated substantially ( approximately 2-fold) by treatment with forskolin. This effect was prevented completely by inhibition of the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase (PMCA) with La(3+). PMCA activity, when isolated pharmacologically, was also potentiated ( approximately 2-fold) by forskolin. Ca(2+) uptake into the endoplasmic reticulum of streptolysin-O-permeabilized cells by sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase was largely unaffected by treatment with dibutyryl cAMP. Finally, in situ phosphorylation assays demonstrated that PMCA was phosphorylated by treatment with forskolin but only in the presence of carbamylcholine (carbachol). This effect of forskolin was Ca(2+)-dependent, and protein kinase C-independent, as potentiation of PMCA activity and phosphorylation of PMCA by forskolin also occurred when [Ca(2+)](i) was elevated by the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase inhibitor cyclopiazonic acid and was attenuated by pre-incubation with the Ca(2+) chelator, 1,2-bis(o-aminophenoxy) ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA). The present study demonstrates that elevated cAMP enhances the rate of Ca(2+) clearance because of a complex modulation of PMCA activity that involves a Ca(2+)-dependent step. Tight regulation of both Ca(2+) release and Ca(2+) efflux may represent a general feature of the mechanism whereby cAMP improves the fidelity and specificity of Ca(2+) signaling.
Three-dimensional numerical modeling of composite panels subjected to underwater blast

Abstract Designing lightweight high-performance materials that can sustain high impulsive loadings is of great interest for marine applications. In this study, a finite element fluid–structure interaction model was developed to understand the deformation and failure mechanisms of both monolithic and sandwich composite panels. Fiber (E-glass fiber) and matrix (vinylester resin) damage and degradation in individual unidirectional composite laminas were modeled using Hashin failure model. The delamination between laminas was modeled by a strain-rate sensitive cohesive law. In sandwich panels, core compaction (H250 PVC foam) is modeled by a crushable foam plasticity model with volumetric hardening and strain-rate sensitivity. The model-predicted deformation histories, fiber/matrix damage patterns, and inter-lamina delamination, in both monolithic and sandwich composite panels, were compared with experimental observations. The simulations demonstrated that the delamination process is strongly rate dependent, and that Hashin model captures the spatial distribution and magnitude of damage to a first-order approximation. The model also revealed that the foam plays an important role in improving panel performance by mitigating the transmitted impulse to the back-side face sheet while maintaining overall bending stiffness.
The photon-fluence scaling theorem for Compton-scattered radiation

This paper concerns a method of scaling photon fluence from one scattering material to another when the photon energies are such that the dominant mode of interaction is Compton scattering. The theorem establishes a one-to-one correspondence between points in the two scattering media where the spectra of primary and scattered photons have the same distribution in energy and angle, and where the fluence ratio equals the square of the electron density ratio. Experimental tests were made with cobalt-60 gamma radiation using ionization-chamber measurements in graphite, acrylic plastic, polystyrene, and water phantoms. The experimental results are consistent with the equality of photon spectral shapes and angular distributions at corresponding points. The fluence ratios may differ by a few percent from the predicted values, depending on distance from the source.
Cloud and aerosol remote sensing using a new radiative transfer model: application to MODIS

We describe a radiative transfer model (SBDART-MOD) that can be used to analyze observations from new moderate resolution sensors such as MODIS. The gaseous absorption and thermal emission produced by this model rely on a pre-calculated correlated k-distribution database. Predictions from a line- by-line radiative transfer model is used to compare and evaluate the accuracy of the correlated-k method in both clear and cloudy conditions.
Revisiting the stability of 2D passive biped walking: Local behavior

Models of biped walking have demonstrated that stable walking motions are possible without active control. Stability of these motions has typically been quantified by studying the stability of an associated Poincare map (orbital stability). However, additional insight may be obtained by examining how perturbations evolve over the short-term (local stability). For example, there may be regions where small perturbations actually diverge from the unperturbed trajectory, even if over the entire cycle small (but perhaps not large) perturbations are dissipated. We present techniques to calculate local stability, and demonstrate the utility of these techniques by examining the local stability of the 2D compass biped. These techniques are relevant to the design of controllers to maintain stability in robots, and in understanding how the neuromuscular system maintains stability in humans.
Development of a General Method for Modeling Asphaltene Stability

Asphaltenes constitute a potential problem in deep-water production because of their tendency to precipitate and deposit. A universal model to predict the stability of these species, under differen...
The ice-covered Earth instability in a model of intermediate complexity

The ice-covered Earth instability found in energy balance models is studied with a zonal mean statistical dynamical atmospheric model coupled to a global mixed layer ocean model. The response of the model to changes in solar constant is examined in two parallel studies, one with and one without a fixed meridional heat transport (a Q-flux) being included in the ocean model. The Q-flux is derived so as to make the climate with the current value of the solar constant resemble the earth’s current climate. In both cases the climate displays a hysteresis loop as the solar constant decreases and then increases, with two equilibrium states being possible for a range of values of the solar constant. In the case without a Q-flux, as in energy balance models, one state corresponds to an ice-covered Earth, and the other is partially covered. In the case with a Q-flux, because the poleward Q-flux is stronger in the Southern Hemisphere, one state corresponds to an ice-covered Northern Hemisphere, but a Southern Hemisphere that is only partially ice-covered; the other state has much reduced ice-cover in both hemispheres. In the case when the Q-flux is present, the sensitivity of the state with smaller ice-cover is about half as much, and the hysteresis loop extends over a smaller range of values of the solar constant. Also in this case there is a strong ice-covered Earth instability that sets in when the solar constant is about 13–14% below the current value. However in the case without a Q-flux the ice-covered Earth instability virtually disappears. The different behavior is attributed to the much lower efficiency of the meridional heat transport in the case with no Q-flux. The behavior in this case may be more realistic for cold climates. The results in both cases confirm the simple analytical relation between global mean surface temperature and global ice area found in energy balance models.
Engagement in M&A deals: a best practice guide

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to explore the various practices in achieving successful cultural integration in the merger and acquisition (M&A) activity of global organizations, with a focus on factors enhancing employee engagement, viewed as a fundamental aspect of deal value and long‐term business results.Design/methodology/approach – The paper is based on interviews with human resource (HR) leadership, isolating best practices consistent with successful integration within the organizations.Findings – The interviews and Mercer research helped to codify four core elements of an approach to M&A cultural integration, including employee engagement factors that were highly consistent and reinforced in the various examples.Practical implications – Organizations that embrace this consistent approach – or variations thereof – to cultural integration in their M&A activity will improve the probability for success in creating sustainable value in the merged organizations.Originality/value – The paper provides...
Hyperparathyroidism; case report illustrating spontaneous remission due to necrosis of adenoma, and a study of the incidence of necroses in parathyroid adenomas.

The majority of patients suffering with the clinical entity hyperparathyroidism are found to have adenomas of one or more parathyroid glands, and the pathologic physiology of the disease is corrected by surgical removal of the tumor. One would expect the hormonal output of an hypersecreting adenoma to be approximately constant, perhaps increasing gradually with anatomic enlargement of the tumor, but hardly fluctuating widely from week to week or from month to month. Yet soon after hyperparathyroidism was recognized (1, 2, 3), it began to be noted that certain patients seemed to have spontaneous remissions of the disease (4, 5), as judged symptomatically, radiographically and by serum chemical changes. The clinician may, therefore, be justifiably worried when he is confronted by a patient who has had renal calculi containing calcium, hypercalciuria, hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia, and perhaps even roentgenographically suspicious evidence of hyperparathyroidism, yet who at the time of examination presen...
Plasticity in hippocampal excitatory amino acid receptors in Alzheimer's disease

Abstract Entorhinal cell loss occurs in the course of Alzheimer's disease. In rodents, entorhinal lesions result in axon sprouting in the hippocampus. Quantitative autoradiography was used to examine the density and distribution of N-methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA) and kainic acid (KA) receptors in human hippocampus obtained post-mortem from Alzheimer's disease patients and from age-matched controls. In Alzheimer's disease, there was an expanded distribution of the KA receptor field in the dentate gyrus, indicative of sprouting of the commissural and associational fibers. This regenerative response is thought to facilitate transmission, but in doing so it may also enhance vulnerability to excitotoxic mediated neuronal damage. No significant change was observed in the density or distribution of NMDA receptors. The distribution of these receptors does, however, correlate with the predilection for neurofibrillary tangles and neuritic plaques in hippocampal subfields.
Construction of reduced order controllers for nonlinear systems with periodic coefficients

This study provides a methodology for reduced order controller design for nonlinear dynamic systems with time-periodic coefficients. The proposed methodology is quite general in a sense that it can be easily modified for nonlinear systems with constant coefficients. The equations of motion are represented by quasi-linear differential equations in state space, containing a time-periodic linear part and nonlinear monomials of states with periodic coefficients. The Lyapunov—Floquet (L-F) transformation is used to transform the time-varying linear part of the system into a time-invariant form. Eigenvalue decomposition of the time-invariant linear part can then be used to identify the dominant/nondominant dynamics of the system. The nondominant states of the system are expressed as a nonlinear, time-periodic, manifold relationship in terms of the dominant states. As a result, the original large system can be expressed as a lower order system represented only by the dominant states. A reducibility condition is ...
Modal Models of Time

Au-dela des constructions topologiques du temps developpees par R. Le Poidevin, l'A. defend la these de la compatibilite entre le relationnisme modal et les conceptions metriques du temps. Privilegiant une structure actualiste plutot que possibiliste, l'A. developpe un modele temporel relationniste qui rend compte du statut ontologique et metaphysique des intervalles vides, des mondes vides et des changements de temps.
The use of a sequenced questioning paradigm to facilitate associative fluency in preschoolers

Abstract The intent of the study was to investigate the extent to which free play vs. sequenced questioning conditions facilitated preschoolers' associative fluency. Twenty-four children (12 boys and 12 girls, x age of 50.7 months) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: free play, questions, control, in the first two conditions, children interacted with randomly chosen conventional objects. Children in all conditions were asked for novel uses for the conventional objects. Children in the sequenced questioning condition generated significantly more novel responses than children in the other two conditions (p
Use of ureteroscopy and holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser in the treatment of an infundibular stenosis

An infundibular stenosis is defined by a dilated calyx draining through a narrowed infundibulum into a nondistended renal pelvis. We describe the use of ureteroscopy and the holmium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (YAG) laser to successfully treat an infundibular stenosis in a 27-year-old woman who presented with left flank pain. The holmium:YAG laser is well suited for this application. It can be applied with precise control of the direction and depth of the cut. The retrograde approach avoids the morbidity of a percutaneous nephrostomy and is well suited for treating an anterior infundibular stenosis.
Correlation of Tm and sequence of DNA duplexes with ΔH computed by an improved empirical potential method

Tm values for 20 DNA duplexes with different repeating base sequences provided the data base for developing a rational and relatively simple methodology for computing apparent enthalpies for the helix coil transitions of DNA helices, ΔHcalc. The computational variables and their range of acceptable values were selected on the basis of physically plausible arguments. Over 350,000 different combinations of the variables were tested for degree of fit. It was therby possible to find a combination giving a high degree of linear fit between Tm and ΔHcalc (correlation coefficient, 0.99), with Tm values deviating (on average) from the regression line by only ±2.17°C. Most of this uncertainty is attributed to experimental limitations, although computational approximations also contribute. With ΔHcalc for the melting of each of the unique complementary dinucleotide fragments computed by the method developed, it is possible to estimate Tm and (relative) ΔHcalc reliable for the melting of any particular DNA [with base pairs G(I)·C and A·T] given only its base sequence. The ΔHcalc values for the complementary dinucleotide fragments, together with statistical considerations, make it apparent that Tm of DNAs with repeating base sequence show only an approximate linear dependence on G·C content because A·T and G·G pairs do not contribute to helix stability independently of the base-pair sequence in which they occur. In fact, the nearestneighbor stacking interactions are so significant that certain complementary dinucleotide fragment sequences with 0,50, and 100% G·C content have the same stability.
Evidence for a previously undetected sequence at the carboxyterminus of the α1 chain of chicken bone collagen

Abstract The peptides tyrosyltyrosine and Asp,(Gly) 2 ,Tyr,Arg have been isolated respectively from tryptic digests and chymotryptic digests of chicken bone collagen solubilized in denaturing solvents. By homology to the structure of calf skin collagen, the peptides appear to derive from the carboxyterminus of the α1 chain. To confirm this, α1 and α2 chains were isolated from bone gelatin and tyrosyltyrosine was recovered from a tryptic digest of α1 but not from α2. Since tyrosine is not present at the carboxyterminus of the α1 chain of neutral salt-soluble and acid-soluble bone collagen of lathyritic chicks, it is concluded that a carboxyterminal sequence is missing from α1 chains of such extracts.
Subtype-Specific Regeneration of Retinal Ganglion Cells following Axotomy: Effects of Osteopontin and mTOR Signaling

In mammals, few retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) survive following axotomy, and even fewer regenerate axons. This could reflect differential extrinsic influences or the existence of subpopulations that vary in their responses to injury. We tested these alternatives by comparing responses of molecularly distinct subsets of mouse RGCs to axotomy. Survival rates varied dramatically among subtypes, with alpha-RGCs (αRGCs) surviving preferentially. Among survivors, αRGCs accounted for nearly all regeneration following downregulation of PTEN, which activates the mTOR pathway. αRGCs have uniquely high mTOR signaling levels among RGCs and also selectively express osteopontin (OPN) and receptors for the insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). Administration of OPN plus IGF-1 promotes regeneration as effectively as downregulation of PTEN; however, regeneration is still confined to αRGCs. Our results reveal dramatic subtype-specific differences in the ability of RGCs to survive and regenerate following injury, and they identify promising agents for promoting axonal regeneration.
A conceptual approach to decision support system models

Abstract A framework for development of decision support systems is presented. This framework outlines abstractions involved in a decision-making process and describes the conceptual specifications of various functions and components of a decision support system. A decision support system is described in terms of five basic facets of a decision-making process: data processing, model building, goal analysis, problem recognition and analysis, and virtual solution process. These functions cover the entire span of a decision-making process and provide a decision analysis environment in order to extend the decision maker's judgment and intuition systematically. These functions are fulfilled by the integration and coordination of six different components of a decision support system architecture: the Central Intelligent Unit, the Data/Model Base Management System, the Control System, the Interface System, the Communications Unit, and the Operating System. The architecture provides facilities that allow the decision maker to deal with abstractions at knowledge level and reduce them to lower operational and procedural levels. The applications of the conceptual framework is illustrated with an example.