cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
X-Ray Emission from Multiphase Shock in the Large Magellanic Cloud Supernova Remnant N49

The supernova remnant (SNR) N49 in the Large Magellanic Cloud has been observed with the Advanced CCD Imaging Spectrometer (ACIS) on board the Chandra X-Ray Observatory. The superb angular resolution of the Chandra/ACIS images resolves a point source, the likely X-ray counterpart of soft gamma-ray repeater SGR 0526-66, and the diffuse filaments and knots across the SNR. These filamentary features represent the blast wave sweeping through the ambient interstellar medium and nearby dense molecular clouds. We detect metal-rich ejecta beyond the main blast wave shock boundary in the southwest of the SNR, which appear to be explosion fragments, or "bullets," ejected from the progenitor star. The detection of strong H-like Si line emission in the eastern side of the SNR requires multiphase shocks in order to describe the observed X-ray spectrum, whereas such a multiphase plasma is not evident in the western side. This complex spectral structure of N49 suggests that the postshock regions toward the east of the SNR might have been reheated by the reverse shock off the dense molecular clouds while the blast wave shock front has decelerated as it propagates into the dense clouds. The X-ray spectrum of the detected pointlike source is continuum-dominated and can be described with a power law of Γ ~ 3. This provides a confirmation that this pointlike X-ray source is the counterpart of SGR 0526-66 in the quiescent state.
Tensile properties of nicalon fiber-reinforced carbon following aerospace turbine engine testing

The durability of coated Nicalon silicon carbide fiber-reinforced carbon (SiC/C) as the flap and seal exhaust nozzle components in a military aerospace turbine engine was studied. Test specimens machined from both a flap and a seal component were tested for residual strength following extended ground engine testing on a General Electric F414 afterburning turbofan engine. Although small amounts of damage to the protective exterior coating were identified on each component following engine testing, the tensile strengths were equal to the as-fabricated tensile strength of the material. Differences in strength between the two components and variability within the data sets could be traced back to the fabrication process using witness coupon test data from the manufacturer. It was also observed that test specimens machined transversely across the flap and seal components were stronger than those machined along the length. The excellent retained strength of the coated SiC/C material after extended exposure to the severe environment in the afterburner exhaust section of an aerospace turbofan engine has resulted in this material being selected as the baseline material for the F414 exhaust nozzle system.
Geranylgeranylated RhoB is sufficient to mediate tissue-specific suppression of Akt kinase activity by farnesyltransferase inhibitors

Farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTIs) induce apoptosis by elevating the levels of geranylgeranylated RhoB (RhoB-GG) in cells. However, the mechanism by which RhoB-GG acts is unclear. Here we report that RhoB-GG is sufficient to mediate the suppressive effects of FTIs on the activity of the survival kinase Akt-1 in epithelial cells. This mechanism is tissue-specific insofar as it does not operate in fibroblasts. We discuss how the cell survival functions of RhoB and Akt may be linked biochemically in certain cell types.
Corporate Culture and Performance: A Study of Firms in Bahrain

Although the extant literature widely recognizes the impact of corporate culture on performance, such findings are either speculative or mostly based on US companies, thus may not be generalisable to other national settings. In addition, while industry effect is considered in a few studies, its combined effect with other factors on performance has not been explored. This study modifies the existing model of corporate culture on performance by adding industry effect to the model. This is also the first study that tests such a relationship in a Middle East setting. Due to its unique culture, data collection in the Middle East region has been difficult if not impossible. More research in this region is needed since most of it is still in its infancy. This study investigates firms in Bahrain, the financial hub of the Arab World, to shed some insight onto this region. The results confirm a positive relation between Culture and performance and marginal industry effect between banks and hotels.
Adhesive tongue-and-groove joints for thick composite laminates

Abstract A new approach is explored for the joining of thick, woven E-glass/vinyl-ester composite laminated plates to steel or other composite plates, with applications in naval ship structures. Adhesive is applied along through-thickness contoured interfaces, employing tongue-and-groove geometry. Both experimental and finite element modeling results are presented. They show that adhesively bonded tongue-and-groove joints between steel and composite plates loaded in monotonically increasing longitudinal tension are stronger than conventional strap joints even in relatively thin plates. In particular, a single 0.25 inch wide and 8 or 12 inch long steel tongue, bonded by the Dexter-Hysol 9339 adhesive to a groove in a 0.5 inch thick laminated plate, can support a 20,000 lbs tension force. This force is expected to increase in proportion to plate thickness. Simple design rules indicate that the adhesive bond can be made stronger than that of the tongues, so that failure is transferred from the adhesive to the adherends. High joint efficiency can be achieved for any thickness of the joined plates.
Myocarditis of Lupus Erythematosus

Excerpt To the editor: The association between lupus myositis and myocarditis reported by Borenstein and co-workers in the November issue (1) is very interesting. I wish to comment on the significa...
Prolactin and sexual maturation in the Japanese quail, Coturnix coturnix japonica.

Abstract PROLACTIN has been studied extensively in birds in relation to its role in the avian breeding cycle (van Tienhoven, 1961). Assays of the pituitaries from chickens (Burrows and Byerly, 1936; Saeki and Tanabe, 1956), pheasants (Breitenbach and Meyer, 1959), California gulls (Bailey, 1952) and California quail (Jones, 1969a) revealed that prolactin is low during sexual activity and is maximal when eggs are being incubated. Prolactin has been reported to induce broodiness as well as gonadal regression in pigeons and doves (Riddle and Braucher, 1931; Riddle et al., 1933; Bates and Riddle, 1937) and in chickens (Nalbandov, 1945; Riddle et al., 1935). The results of several studies indicated that prolactin may cause gonadal regression by inhibiting follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). In the ring dove simultaneous administration of FSH prevented prolactin-induced gonadal regression (Bates et al., 1937). In the chicken simultaneous administration of FSH but not luteinizing hormone (LH) prevented prolactin-induced gonadal regression…
On the growth of unsteady hydromagnetic multiple boundary layers

A study is made of the development of hydromagnetic multiple boundary layers in an electrically conducting rotating liquid bounded by an infinite insulating disk or by two parallel insulating disks in the presence of a uniform magnetic field. The velocity field of the unsteady boundary layer flow generated by non-torsional oscillations of the disk(s) is calculated for small and large values of time. The structures of the associated hydromagnetic boundary layers formed on the disk(s) are determined explicitly. The simultaneous effects of the external magnetic field and the Coriolis force with reference to weak and strong rotation have been explored. The characteristic features of the flow phenomena are examined in some detail. A comparison is made of the results of the present analysis with those of non-. rotating hydromagnetic flow and of hydrodynamic fluid flow. The physical interpretations of the mathematical results are given. The Laplace transform treatment together with the Heaviside expansion theorem has been employed to carry out the mathematical analysis.
Analysis of the hepatobiliary transport of IgA with monoclonal anti-idiotype and anti-allotype antibodies

The processing and fate of mixed immune complexes is influenced by the antibody isotypes present. The hepatobiliary transport of mixed immune complexes containing the mouse IgA myeloma protein J558 and corresponding monoclonal IgG or IgM anti-J558 idiotype or monoclonal IgG anti-mouse IgA allotype antibodies has been studied. The anti-idiotype or anti-allotype antibodies were radiolabeled and injected into mice with or without mouse polymeric IgA (J558). IgG anti-idiotype antibodies to J558 IgA were selectively transported into bile by J558 IgA. This process occurred with a radiolabeled Fab preparation of the IgG anti-idiotype and was inhibitable with IgA of an irrelevant antigenic specificity. Thus, polymeric IgA influenced the fate of IgA-IgG idiotype-anti-idiotype serum immune complexes. A monoclonal anti-idiotype antibody of the IgM isotype (D8-3) was not selectively transported into bile by itself or as an IgA-IgM complex. A monoclonal IgG antibody (CB5-6) to a mouse allotype determinant in the Fc portion of IgA was not selectively transported into bile. This anti-allotype monoclonal antibody inhibited the hepatobiliary transport of 125I-polymeric J558 IgA and therefore appeared to directly or indirectly block the site in the Fc region of IgA recognized by the hepatic receptor.
Effects of forest ownership and change on forest harvest rates, types and trends in northern Maine

Abstract Forest ownership maps from 1994, 2000 and 2004 were analyzed with land cover maps (early 1990s) and forest change detection maps derived from Landsat imagery (1991, 2000, 2004). Between 1994 and 2000, roughly 80% of the Industrial forest ownership in a northern Maine study area changed hands. Approximately 75% of these forestlands were sold to Timber Investment Management Organizations (TIMOs) and 25% to other Industrial owners. Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) and Logger/Short-term Investors (LDs) purchased smaller parcels of forestland from the Industrial and TIMO sellers, from 1994 to 2004. Landsat change detection methods indicated a general trend in landowners’ preference to harvest softwood and softwood–hardwood in the 1980s, softwood–hardwood and hardwood–softwood stands in the 1990s, and nearly a balanced proportion of four forest types between 2000 and 2004; however, these trends varied among individual landowners. Industrial ownership type harvested the highest percentage of forest in the 1980s, but not in the 1990s and early 2000s. The TIMOs and LDs harvested a higher percentage of forest in the 1990s and early 2000s, while the NGOs harvested less. The Non-Industrial Private Forest (NIPF) held more stable ownership through time and had more equal and intermediate harvest rates through time. Forest land that experienced no ownership change had significantly lower harvest rates than land that changed ownership between 1994 and 2000. Given the rates of past harvesting and current composition of forestland, the estimated average forest disturbance rotation on the 2004 Industrial ownership would be 51 years, compared to 70 years for NIPF forestlands.
The Experience of Discrimination and Black-White Health Disparities in Medical Care:

The current study of Black patients focuses on how discrimination contributes to racial disparities in health. The authors used a longitudinal methodology to study how perceived past discrimination affects reactions to medical interactions and adherence to physician recommendations. In addition, they explored whether these reactions and/or adherence mediate the relationship between discrimination and patients’ health. The participants in this study were 156 Black patients of low socioeconomic status at a primary care clinic. Patients completed questionnaires on their current health, past adherence, and perceived past discrimination. Then, they saw a physician and rated their reactions to the visit. Four and 16 weeks later they reported on their adherence to physician recommendations and overall health. Perceived discrimination was significantly and negatively associated with patient health, reactions to the physician, and adherence. Path analyses indicated that adherence mediated the relationship between discrimination and patient health, but patient reactions to the interaction did not.
Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT)

Gamete intrafallopian transfer (GIFT), developed in 1984, was the result of further studies on in vitro fertilization (IVF). Since that time many nurses have worked in settings near in vitro fertilization centers and, therefore, have a basic understanding of the technology. An overview is given of the GIFT procedure to prepare nurses to advise and refer couples who may qualify for GIFT and to highlight the shift in the fertility program nurse coordinator's functions toward the positions of administrator and consultant.
The structure of ordered Au films on TiOx

Abstract The growth of Au on an ultra-thin, ordered Mo(1 1 2)–(8 × 2)-TiO x , was investigated using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), low energy ion scattering spectroscopy (LEISS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and temperature programmed desorption (TPD). Wetting of the TiO x surface by Au was observed with STM and LEISS, and the ordering of the Au films was atomically resolved with STM. TPD showed that Au binds more strongly to the reduced TiO x film than to bulk TiO 2 , but more weakly than to the Mo substrate. The Au–TiO x binding energy is greater than Au–Au in bulk Au. The oxidation state of Ti in the TiO x film was deduced by XPS and from the Ti–O phonon shifts relative to bulk TiO 2 . The TiO x /Mo(1 1 2) film structure and those for the (1 × 1)- and (1 × 3)-Au/TiO x /Mo(1 1 2) surfaces are discussed.
Enhancing the Efficiency of Energy-Constrained DVFS Designs

The proliferation of embedded systems and mobile devices has created an increasing demand for low-energy hardware. Dynamic voltage and frequency scaling (DVFS) is a popular energy reduction technique that allows a hardware design to reduce average power consumption while still enabling the design to meet a high-performance target when necessary. To conserve energy, many DVFS-based embedded and mobile devices often spend a large fraction of their lifetimes in a low-power mode. However, DVFS designs produced by conventional multimode CAD flows tend to have significant energy overheads when operating outside of the peak performance mode, even when they are operating in a low-power mode. A dedicated core can be added for low-energy operation, but has a high cost in terms of area and leakage. In this paper, we explore the DVFS design space to identify the factors that affect DVFS efficiency. Based on our insights, we propose two design-level techniques to enhance the energy efficiency of DVFS for energy constrained systems. First, we present a context-aware DVFS design flow that considers the intrinsic characteristics of the hardware design, as well as the operating scenario-including the relative amounts of time spent in different modes, the range of performance scalability, and the target efficiency metric-to optimize the design for maximum energy efficiency. We also present a selective replication-based DVFS design methodology that identifies hardware modules for which context-aware multimode design may be inefficient and creates dedicated module replicas for different operating modes for such modules. We show that context-aware design can reduce average power by up to 20% over a conventional multimode design flow. Selective replication can reduce average power by an additional 4%. We also use the generated insights to identify microarchitectural decisions that impact DVFS efficiency. We show that the benefits from the proposed design-level techniques increase when microarchitectural transformations are allowed.
The effects of overfeeding on the neuronal response to visual food cues in thin and reduced-obese individuals.

Background: The regulation of energy intake is a complex process involving the integration of homeostatic signals and both internal and external sensory inputs. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of short-term overfeeding on the neuronal response to food-related visual stimuli in individuals prone and resistant to weight gain. Methodology/Principal Findings: 22 thin and 19 reduced-obese (RO) individuals were studied. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was performed in the fasted state after two days of eucaloric energy intake and after two days of 30% overfeeding in a counterbalanced design. fMRI was performed while subjects viewed images of foods of high hedonic value and neutral non-food objects. In the eucaloric state, food as compared to non-food images elicited significantly greater activation of insula and inferior visual cortex in thin as compared to RO individuals. Two days of overfeeding led to significant attenuation of not only insula and visual cortex responses but also of hypothalamus response in thin as compared to RO individuals. Conclusions/Significance: These findings emphasize the important role of food-related visual cues in ingestive behavior and suggest that there are important phenotypic differences in the interactions between external visual sensory inputs, energy balance status, and brain regions involved in the regulation of energy intake. Furthermore, alterations in the neuronal response to food cues may relate to the propensity to gain weight.
How Monuments Endure: Public Good Framing as Reiterated Problem-Solving in the Statements of Purpose of the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, 1916–2005

The process by which the meanings of commemorative monuments change has been carefully investigated. Here, however, I ask how meanings impact the endurance of monuments. I argue that supporters must repeatedly address existential questions regarding their monument’s role in the public sphere, documented here as the statements of purpose justifying the Cleveland Cultural Gardens, a chain of ethnic-themed monuments with a continuing presence in Cleveland, Ohio since 1926. The interpretive framework partners Rhys Williams’ conceptualization of “public good framing” with Jeffrey Haydu’s revision of path-analysis as reiterated problem solving. The framing typology helps me identify and situate claims, while reiterated problem solving elucidates the historical trajectory of framing in a manner that keeps agency in focus. I find that the Gardens’ advocates shifted from contractual frames, emphasizing the character of European immigrants as contributing and patriotic Americans, to stewardship frames, emphasizing community resources such as maintaining Cleveland’s image and preserving a landmark. I argue that understanding these discursive shifts is essential to explaining the survival of the Gardens in Cleveland.
Wrestling with Criticism: The World Wrestling Federation's Ironic Campaign against the Parents Television Council

Sociologists have long studied how moral entrepreneurs construct claimsmaking campaigns. However, their opponents’ strategies to mount counterclaimsmaking campaigns are less studied. This article examines how the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) used humor to attack its enemy, the Parents Television Council. By using narrative structures familiar to its fans, the WWF exploited characteristics of its opponent suitable for parody. It created a group of wrestlers called the Right to Censor who preached the moral values espoused by the Parents Television Council, yet were the most flagrant cheaters in the industry. This case study shows that under the right circumstances counterclaimsmaking using irony and satire can be effective. Moral entrepreneurs seek to reform the world, or at least their corner of it (Becker 1963). They legitimate words and deeds by means of a worldview that despairs over the present but believes there can be a better future, one that can be reached through their guidance. As they agitate for social change, moral entrepreneurs encounter other social actors—individuals, groups, social institutions, governments, even corporations—and label them good or bad, moral or immoral, as supporting their cause or not. Moral entrepreneurs, then, inhabit a world that contains both the like-minded and the “lost,” those who seem unable to accept the goals of their moral crusade. For moral entrepreneurs, claimsmaking requires social action; their acts must persuade others. Their dichotomous worldview requires them to confront unbelievers and the unconvinced in order to implement their vision of a good society. Sociologists have studied how moral entrepreneurs go about the business of identifying social problems and promoting social change (Gusfield 1981; Jenkins 1999). The moral entrepreneurs must marshal resources (material and human) and then articulate their views in ways that will resonate with and mobilize the various publics they wish to influence. They evaluate the social context in which they are acting in order
The promise of infiniband for cluster computing

The InfiniBand(tm) Architecture is a new industry standard architecture for server I/O and inter-server communication. It was developed by the InfiniBand(sm) Trade Association, a collaboration of over 200 companies including all the major server vendors, to provide the reliability, availability, performance, and scalability needed in server systems. This talk will provide an overview of InfiniBand: the problems it solves, how it was defined, what it specifies (and doesn't), and how it may radically change the position of cluster computing in the industry
CCSP modulates airway dysfunction and host responses in an Ova-challenged mouse model

Clara cell secretory protein (CCSP) is synthesized by nonciliated bronchiolar cells in the lung and modulates lung inflammation to infection. To determine the role of CCSP in the host response to a...
Effects of Introduced Bullfrogs and Smallmouth Bass on Microhabitat Use, Growth, and Survival of Native Red‐Legged Frogs (Rana aurora)

We examined the direct and indirect effects of two introduced species, the bullfrog ( Rana catesbei- ana ) and smallmouth bass ( Micropterus dolomieui ), on the microhabitat use, growth, development, and sur- vival of larval and metamorphic red-legged frogs ( Rana aurora ). In field enclosure experiments, tadpoles of R. aurora altered their microhabitat use in the presence of both species. The shift in microhabitat use by R. aurora corresponded to increased activity in adult R. catesbeiana . Time to metamorphosis increased and mass at metamorphosis decreased when R. aurora tadpoles were exposed to either larval or adult R. catesbeiana . In contrast, smallmouth bass alone had little effect on the growth and development of R. aurora . In all experi- ments, survivorship of R. aurora was significantly affected only when R. aurora were exposed to the combined effects of bullfrog larvae and adults or bullfrog larvae and smallmouth bass. Thus, the interaction between stages (larval-adult) or species (bullfrog-smallmouth bass) produced indirect effects that were greater than when each factor was considered separately.
RCS characterization of a finite ground plane with perforated apertures: simulations and measurements

The monostatic radar cross section of a finite-size perfectly conducting flat plate with perforated apertures is investigated by simulations and measurements. The geometry of a finite ground plane with triangular apertures resembles airplane and automobile windows. The method of moments surface patch formulation is used to compute the radar cross section of a solid plate, a plate with two widely spaced apertures, and a plate with two closely spaced apertures. The characteristics of the triangular patch mesh can impact the accuracy of the computed results with this formulation. The paper presents a methodology to achieve high quality meshes to ensure that the time and convenience gained by developing the general method of moments code is not lost in mesh construction and convergence tests. The results obtained using the method of moments are compared with results obtained by measurements and physical optics. It is shown that the method of moments simulations and measurements are in good agreement. The key features of the influence of the aperture separation on the RCS patterns are discussed. >
Bow-tie and bicone array designs for broad band performance specifications

Given a set of specifications we considered three broad band antennas to satisfy them. The three antennas are: bow-tie, bicone, and ellipsoid. The radiation requirements can only be satisfied by array configurations. Due to the limitation in the overall physical dimension of the antenna, only two-element arrays were considered. The optimum separation distance between the elements was found to be 0.9λ. The design based on the ellipsoidal element satisfies the characteristics most closely. It exhibits much better reflection coefficient than the stated minimum of −7.5 dB. However, it is also the longest array; it overshoots the desired length of 8 in by 1.6 in.
Metamodel-driven evolution

With the rapid development of model-driven engineering (MDE), domain-specific modeling is becoming a popular software development technique. In MDE, a metamodel represents a schema definition of the syntax and static semantics in a similar manner to how a grammar defines a programming language. In most cases, users need to modify a metamodel to incorporate new concerns resulting in failure of applying existing instances. The research described in this paper makes a contribution toward metamodel driven evolution.
Patient-reported Functional Outcomes Following Open, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Assisted Radical Prostatectomy Performed by High-volume Surgeons at High-volume Hospitals

Abstract Background Functional outcomes following radical prostatectomy (RP) have received increased focus with dissemination of minimally invasive approaches. Objective To examine contemporary patient-reported functional outcomes following open RP. (ORP), laparoscopic RP, (LRP), and robotic assisted RP (RARP) performed by high-volume surgeons at high-volume hospitals. Design, settings, and participants This was a retrospective cohort study of 1686 men with cT1–cT2 prostate cancer treated with ORP ( n =441), LRP ( n =156), or RARP ( n =1089) by high-volume surgeons (annual volume ≥25 cases) at two academic centers from 2009 to 2012. Surveys containing the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite urinary and sexual domains were administered at a median of 30.5 mo postoperatively. Interventions ORP, LRP, and RARP. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis Bother with overall urinary and sexual function was examined and stratified by surgical technique. Logistic regression models evaluated the associations of clinicopathologic features with survey responses. Results and limitations In total, 6.4% of men reported a moderate or big problem with overall urinary function (ORP 5.8%, LRP 5.1%, RARP 6.8%; p =0.62), whereas 37.3% reported a moderate or big problem with overall sexual function (ORP 37.2%, LRP 36.1%, RARP 37.5%; p =0.95). On multivariable analysis, older age at surgery (odds ratio [OR]: 1.08; p p =0.005), preoperative erectile dysfunction treatment (OR: 2.22; p p =0.02), and RP Gleason score (7 vs 6: OR: 0.96; p =0.004; 8–10 vs 6: OR: 2.25; p =0.0006) were associated with overall sexual bother. Surgical technique was not associated with either functional outcome. Limitations included selection bias and a retrospective design. Conclusions In this study of high-volume surgeons at high-volume hospitals, patients reported excellent functional outcomes independent of surgical technique. These results have implications for patient counseling. Patient summary In this study of high-volume surgeons at high-volume hospitals, patients reported excellent outcomes for urinary and sexual function following radical prostatectomy regardless of surgical technique.
THE STRUCTURE AND DYNAMICS OF EU FEDERALISM

This article analyzes European Union (EU) politics through the lens of comparative federalism. The article assesses the contributions that rationalist and constructivist approaches can make to the analysis of EU federalism, focusing on two broad questions. First, what explains shifts in authority from the state (i.e., member states) to the federal (i.e., EU) level? Second, what explains the degree to which the federal government constrains state discretion? This article develops testable hypotheses based on the rationalist and constructivist perspectives and presents a set of initial plausibility probes. The article shows that there is considerable room for dialogue between rationalist and constructivist perspectives and together they can provide a more comprehensive explanation for the dynamics of EU federalism.
Oligocene and Miocene metamorphism, folding, and low-angle faulting in northwestern Utah: Discussion and reply

No Abstract Available. The article discussed was published in the Bulletin , v. 88, p. 1237–1250.
Nested historical relations

The paper extends nested relations for managing temporal variation of complex objects. It combines the research in temporal databases and nested relations for nontraditional database applications. The basic modelling construct is a temporal atom as an attribute value. A temporal atom consists of two components, a value and temporal set which is a set of times denoting the validity period of the value. We define algebra operations for nested historical relations. Data redundancy in nested historical relations is also discussed and criteria for well-structured nested relations are established.
Effect of ammonium thilosulfate and dicyandiamide on residual ammonium in fertilizer bands

Abstract Ammonium thiosulfate (ATS, 12–0–0–26S) and dicyandiamide (DCD, 66–0–0) are fertilizer products that also inhibit nitrification. It has also been proposed that ATS can improve the nitrification inhibition properties of DCD. The purpose of this research was to compare the effects of ATS, DCD, and ATS/DCD mixtures on the nitrification of banded urea solution or urea‐ammonium nitrate (UAN) under laboratory, field microplot, and field conditions. The laboratory study demonstrated that adding 8.7% (vol vol‐1) ATS to a urea solution inhibited nitrification by 68%. Inhibition of nitrification was greater with ATS + DCD than with DCD alone. Some nitrite accumulated when ATS was added, but little or no nitrite accumulated when both ATS and DCD were present In field microplot studies, the addition of ATS to urea solution significantly (P ≤ 0.10) increased residual soil ammonium levels over urea alone at six of 11 trials. ATS was usually a less effective nitrification inhibitor than was DCD, and ATS + DCD ou...
Clinical Implications of Changes in Individual Platelet Reactivity to Aspirin Over Time in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Background and Purpose— Time-dependent changes in individual platelet reactivity have been detected in patients with coronary artery disease. Therefore, we sought to evaluate the time-dependent changes in platelet reactivity to aspirin during the acute stage after ischemic stroke and the clinical implications of variable patient responses to aspirin in acute ischemic stroke. Methods— We conducted a single-center, prospective, observational study. The acute aspirin reaction unit (ARU) was measured after 3 hours of aspirin loading, with higher values indicating increased platelet reactivity despite aspirin therapy. The follow-up ARU was measured on the fifth day of consecutive aspirin intake. The numeric difference between the follow-up ARU and the acute ARU was defined as ΔARU and was stratified into quartiles. Early neurological deterioration was regarded as an early clinical outcome. Results— Both the acute ARU (476±69 IU) and the follow-up ARU (451±68 IU) were measured in 349 patients in this study. Early neurological deterioration was observed in 72 patients (20.6%). Changes in aspirin platelet reactivity over time showed an approximately Gaussian distribution. The highest ΔARU quartile was independently associated with early neurological deterioration (odds ratio, 3.19; 95% confidence interval, 1.43–7.10; P =0.005) by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Conclusions— The results of our study showed that the increase in platelet reactivity to aspirin over time is independently associated with early neurological deterioration in patients with acute ischemic stroke. In addition, during the acute stage of ischemic stroke, serial platelet reactivity assays may be more useful than a single assay for identifying the clinical implications of aspirin platelet reactivity after ischemic stroke.
Separable functions of Nef disrupt two aspects of T cell receptor machinery: CD4 expression and CD3 signaling

The Nef protein alters T cell receptor (TCR) signaling in T cells and is critical for the pathogenesis of AIDS. We used a transient expression assay in a human CD4+ T cell line to analyze the interaction of Nef with the TCR machinery. We show that, in addition to down-regulating CD4 expression on the cell surface, Nef blocks a receptor-proximal event in CD3 signaling. Analysis of a large number of mutant Nef proteins demonstrated that the effects of Nef on CD4 expression and on CD3 signaling are separable. The ability of Nef to block CD3 signaling was selectively abolished by mutations in the central part of the Nef protein and in particular by those known to disrupt the SH3 binding surface in the structured core of Nef. In contrast, the ability of Nef to down-regulate CD4 expression was selectively abolished by two clusters of mutations, one in the N-terminal and one in the C-terminal region of Nef. These two regions correspond to the two flexible loops in Nef as predicted by solution NMR analysis. We show that this general functional organization is conserved between the Nef proteins of the human and simian immunodeficiency viruses (HIV-1 and SIV). Our data demonstrate that Nef has at least two independent mechanisms to alter TCR function and thus may interfere with a range of T cell responses.
Impact of Neurodevelopmental Disorders on Hearing in Children and Adolescents

Recent advances in maternal–fetal medicine and neonatology have led to unprecedented increase in the survival of severely preterm babies and babies with severe neurodevelopmental disabilities. These babies typically present with multiple neurosensory impairments and pose a significant challenge to neurodiagnosis and intervention. This review will describe some common neurodevelopmental disorders that impact the auditory system and present case studies to highlight the current technologies available to diagnose and treat the hearing problems.
Surveillance society needs performance theory and arts practice

This special issue on ‘Surveillance Technologies in Performance’ is motivated by a nexus of artistic inspiration, intellectual excitement and political urgency that has been building in intensity o...
Action-Oriented Energy Benchmarking for Nonresidential Buildings

The complex process of improving the energy efficiency of a building begins with understanding baseline conditions and assessing the potential for specific improvements. Traditional benchmarking typically addresses the status quo , e.g., by comparing the building to its peers at one point in time or longitudinally. Action-oriented benchmarking extends this process by also inferring potential energy-efficiency opportunities. Doing so, however, requires more in-depth benchmarking than offered by traditional “whole-building” assessment methods. The process begins by carefully identifying a peer group for comparison that has true relevance to the subject building, and then disaggregating energy use by fuels and end uses to better pinpoint inefficiencies. Toward this end, the benchmarking process can be extended from energy to emissions and costs. Building characteristics and energy utilization parameters, as distinct from resource utilization data, can also be benchmarked in order to ascertain potential relevance and applicability of energy-efficient technologies or practices. To ensure savings attainment and persistence, benchmarking must continue throughout a building's lifecycle. A publicly funded web-based benchmarking system called EnergyIQ is introduced, which implements the aforementioned principals.
A myristoylated cell-penetrating peptide bearing a transferrin receptor-targeting sequence for neuro-targeted siRNA delivery

Many neurodegenerative disorders (NDDs) are characterized by aggregation of aberrant proteins and extensive oxidative stress in brain cells. As a treatment option for NDDs, RNA interference (RNAi) is a promising approach to suppress the activation of abnormal genes and negative regulators of antioxidant genes. Efficient neuro-targeted siRNA delivery requires a delicate optimization of nucleic acid carriers, quite distinct from putative pDNA carriers in regard to stable condensation and serum protection of siRNA, blood-brain barrier (BBB) bypass, effective siRNA delivery to brain cells, and functional release of bioactive siRNA at therapeutic levels. Here, we propose that a myristic acid conjugated, cell-penetrating peptide (transportan; TP), equipped with a transferrin receptor-targeting peptide (myr-TP-Tf), will lead to stable encapsulation of siRNA and targeted delivery of siRNA to brain cells overcoming the BBB. Myr-TP-Tf was successfully prepared by solid-phase peptide synthesis with high purity. Myr-TP-Tf-siRNA complexes formulated at a 20:1 (peptide-siRNA) molar ratio provided prolonged siRNA stability against serum and ribonuclease treatment. Fluorescence images clearly indicated that siRNA uptake was successfully achieved by myr-TP-Tf complexes in both a murine brain endothelioma and a human glioma cell line. The luciferase assay and the human placental alkaline phosphatase (hPAP) reporter assay results demonstrated the functional gene silencing effect of myr-TP-Tf-siRNA complexes in a human glioma cell line as well as in primary murine neurons/astrocytes, supportive of successful release of bioactive siRNA into the cytosol. Finally, the transcytosis assay revealed that favorable siRNA transport via receptor-mediated transcytosis was mediated by myr-TP-Tf complexes. In summary, these data suggest that myr-TP-Tf peptides possess promising properties as a vehicle for neuro-targeted siRNA delivery. We will further study this peptide in vitro and in vivo for transport mechanism kinetics and to validate its capability to deliver siRNA to the brain, respectively.
Pathology of Ba Deficiency in the Rat and Response to Treatment with 2-Methyl-3-Hydroxy 4, 5-Dihydroxymethyl-Pyridine (Vitamin B6)

Vitamin B6 deficiency in rats was first described by Gyorgy.1 From the macroscopic appearance of the skin lesions he coined the term “rat acrodynia”. Many investigators have since confirmed Gyorgy's description of the symptoms. This investigation was initiated in order to study the histopathology of this deficiency and the histogenesis of the changes effected by synthetic vitamin B6.supplemented with 40 micrograms each of thiamin and riboflavin and 0.5 mg of nicotinic acid. No attempt was made to supply factor II in this series of experiments. The characteristic dermatitis became evident after 6 to 9 weeks. The animals were maintained on the deficient diet for 72 to 86 days. By this time the symptoms were very severe: The paws were denuded, edematous and moist, the ears thickened and scaly, the snout swollen and some ulcers present under the tongue. Many of the rats showed roughness and redness of the surface of the lower abdomen.Histological findings: At this stage the epithelial cells of the ears were s...
Hormonal Regulation of Pituitary Adrenocorticotrophin.

SummaryA modification of the Saffran and Schally technic of in vitro bioassay of ACTH is described and evidence is presented for its precision, validity and reliability. Changes in pituitary ACTH content and concentration in rats after administration of various hormones for one week were studied by means of this technic. ACTH administration and adrenalectomy both resulted in a striking increase in pituitary ACTH content. Epinephrine and cortisone administration were both followed by significant depletion of pituitary ACTH.
Sources of Resistance to Cowpea Curculio in Vigna sinensis and Related Species

A survey of Plant Introduction (PI) accessions, varieties, and breeding lines of southern peas, Vigna sinensis (L.) Savi ex Hassk., revealed potentially valuable sources of resistance to Chalcodermus aeneus Boheman. The highest levels were found in the breeding lines Ala. 963.8, Fla. 68F-213, Fla. 68F-63, and Fla. 421-07, and in the variety ‘Floricream.’ Related species of Tigna were mostly susceptible, but a few showed sufficient promise to justify further testing, including PI 123267, PI 180494, PI 205140, PI 250238 (all V. cylindrica (L.) Skeels), and PI 196301 ( V. sesquipedalis (L) Fruw.).
The Social Origins of Sustained Attention in One-Year-Old Human Infants

The ability to sustain attention is a major achievement in human development and is generally believed to be the developmental product of increasing self-regulatory and endogenous (i.e., internal, top-down, voluntary) control over one's attention and cognitive systems [1-5]. Because sustained attention in late infancy is predictive of future development, and because early deficits in sustained attention are markers for later diagnoses of attentional disorders [6], sustained attention is often viewed as a constitutional and individual property of the infant [6-9]. However, humans are social animals; developmental pathways for seemingly non-social competencies evolved within the social group and therefore may be dependent on social experience [10-13]. Here, we show that social context matters for the duration of sustained attention episodes in one-year-old infants during toy play. Using head-mounted eye tracking to record moment-by-moment gaze data from both parents and infants, we found that when the social partner (parent) visually attended to the object to which infant attention was directed, infants, after the parent's look, extended their duration of visual attention to the object. Looks to the same object by two social partners is a well-studied phenomenon known as joint attention, which has been shown to be critical to early learning and to the development of social skills [14, 15]. The present findings implicate joint attention in the development of the child's own sustained attention and thus challenge the current understanding of the origins of individual differences in sustained attention, providing a new and potentially malleable developmental pathway to the self-regulation of attention.
Structure analysis of solid rocket engine test thrust frame

It uses SolidWorks software to design solid rocket engine test thrust frame to 3D entities formwork, and uses Cosmos Works software for its finite element analysis.Then reveals the stress distribution of the thrust frame structure, proves that the structure is safe and reliable,and finally designs a situation analysis of the Strengthening ring.
Eicosanoid production by human aortic endothelial cells in response to endothelin

Endothelial cells actively regulate their environment by secreting humoral substances, including endothelin-1 and a variety of eicosanoids, that have local actions. To elucidate interactions among these local mediators, we measured release of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathway products of arachidonate metabolism by human aortic endothelial cells after incubation with endothelin-1. Supernatants were collected, extracted, and fractionated using high-performance liquid chromatography. Radioimmunoassays for eicosanoids were performed on the appropriate fractions. After endothelin stimulation, production of the prostacyclin metabolite 6-ketoprostaglandin F1 alpha (6-keto-PGF1 alpha), the thromboxane (Tx) metabolite TxB2, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) were increased (307 +/- 48, 320 +/- 91, and 315 +/- 74% of control, P < 0.05). Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) release was modestly increased (195 +/- 19% of control, P < 0.05). The release of 5-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE) was increased (300 +/- 57% of control, P < 0.05); production of 12-HETE and 15-HETE was unchanged. Production of eicosanoids peaked between 30 and 120 min. Preincubation with pertussis toxin prevented increased production of PGE2, LTB4, and 5-HETE after endothelin-1 stimulation; pretreatment with sphingosine had no effect. Interactions between endothelin and eicosanoids may be important components of the complex network that regulates vascular tone, coagulation, and inflammation at the local level.
Orthopedic trauma in the elderly

Summary The bones of elderly individuals fracture easily. The fractures in osteoporotic bones may not be easily identified on plain films. A high level of suspicion will result in more accurate diagnosis and appropriate referral and treatment of these patients.
Stalinism on the Frontier of Empire: Women and Soviet power

From its very inception, wracked by World War I and a bloody Civil War, the Soviet Union was an inauspicious stage for forging the communist utopia envisioned by Karl Marx. The improbable triumph of the Bolsheviks amidt the chaos of 1917 left the revolutionaries administering the largest contiguous state in the world armed with powerful Marxist critiques of capitalism but with little guidance on how to build a communist society in the future. Innumerable factors conspired against their success. The Soviet Union was isolated in a sea of capitalist powers antagonized first by the Bolsheviks' decision to take Russia out of World War I and then by their calls to workers of the world to dispense violently with their own capitalist masters. The new society lacked a trained workforce. Its industrial infrastructures and transportation networks were wholly inadequate for effective governance and economic development in the short term. Low literacy, a high proportion of land-starved peasants, and a dizzying array of ethnic groups and national minorities made this a poor laboratory for experiments in socialism. Every facet of social, political, and economic life in the Russian empire was profoundly transformed by the seemingly ceaseless sequence of war and revolutions even before the Bolsheviks set out to construct a new society. Changes in gender roles and in power dynamics between the sexes followed paths unforeseen by either revolutionaries or defenders of the old order.
Solid-State Light Sources for Color Projection

Film and electronic light-valve projectors need light sources with high intrinsic brightness. This factor is critical in determining the cost, efficiency, size, contrast, and other properties of a projector. Concentrated arcs have made some progress in brightness in recent years; however, the development of solid-state lasers in all three primary colors dramatically increases the brightness available. Recently developed lasers make it possible for a projector designed with them to compete in efficiency with efficient concentrated arc projectors. While these lasers are still in the laboratory, they may eventually become commercially viable light sources for projectors.