cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Deposition of Polyborate Monolayers at Ag(111) Electrodes

Non-Faradaic electrodeposition of polyborate monolayers at Ag(111) in aqueous solutions containing sodium borate (Na2B4O7) is reported. Electrodeposition is characterized by a very sharp voltammetic wave with half-wave potential E1/2 ≈ −1.2 V vs Hg/Hg2SO4 and surface charge density σ = 20 ± 5 μC/cm2. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance measurements demonstrate that monolayer formation occurs at potentials positive of E1/2. The voltammetric behavior suggests that electrodeposition is associated with the polymeric condensation of B(OH)4- and B(OH)3, both species produced by the dissociation of B4O72- in the bulk solution (B4O72- + 7H2O ⇌ 2B(OH)4- + 2B(OH)3). The dependence of the voltammetric wave shape on scan rate is consistent with the nucleation and growth of an ordered polyborate monolayer. Deposition of the monolayer is also observed in boric acid/NaOH solutions, strongly supporting the proposed mechanism.
Desalination using solar energy: Towards sustainability

This paper describes the theoretical rationale for a new low temperature phase-change desalination process, and six examples of applications to illustrate how this process can be engineered for sustainable desalination. In this process, brackish water is evaporated at near-ambient temperatures under near-vacuum pressures created by the barometric head without any mechanical energy input. Thermodynamic advantages and benefits of low temperature phase-change desalination are discussed and results from simulation studies and a prototype test system are presented. Three of the examples illustrate how the proposed process can be driven by solar energy: a) utilizing direct solar energy; b) inclusion of an external reflector; c) utilizing photovoltaic energy during non-sunlight hours. The other examples illustrate how the proposed process can be driven by waste heat: i) waste heat rejected by an absorption refrigeration unit driven by grid power; ii) waste heat rejected by an absorption refrigeration unit driven by solar collectors; and iii) waste heat rejected by an absorption refrigeration unit supported by a photovoltaic array. Merits of utilizing solar energy and process waste heat in reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions are discussed in detail.
A Framework for Modeling Uncertainty in Spatial Databases

Geographic Information Systems and spatial databases are inherently suited for fuzziness, because of the uncertainty inherent in the assimilation, storage, and representation of spatial data. These objects may also have naturally occurring imprecise boundaries. It is difficult to store and represent these objects while continuing to demonstrate the uncertainty inherent in the objects. This paper describes a fuzzy object–oriented framework to model spatial objects with either precise or uncertain boundaries that will also provide for fuzzy querying of these objects. A prototype system, FOOSBALL, which implements this framework is also discussed.
Molecular weight studies on glutenin before and after disulfide-bond splitting.

Abstract The unique elastic and cohesive properties of wheat gluten are associated with glutenin (1). Glutenin is electrophoretically homogeneous but is a mixture of sedimenting species with molecular weights ranging into the millions. Cleaving the disulfide bonds of glutenin either by performic acid oxidation or by reaction with sulfite reduces it to an ultracentrifugally homogeneous species with a molecular weight of 20,000 and with an attendant loss of elastic and cohesive properties. It is therefore concluded that glutenin contains basic polypeptide units with molecular weights of 20,000, various numbers of which are linked via disulfide bonds to form the native protein. It is further concluded that the unique elastic and cohesive properties of glutenin depend on the integrity of this disulfide cross-linked structure.
An application of H∞ fault detection and isolation to a transport aircraft

Abstract This paper presents an application of H ∞ fault detection and isolation (FDI) to the longitudinal motion of a Boeing 747-100/200 aircraft. FDI filters are synthesized for open-loop linear, time invariant (LTI) models of the aircraft to detect and isolate faults in the elevator actuator and pitch rate sensor while attenuating the effect of disturbances and noise on the fault signals. Simulations with a nonlinear B-747 aircraft model augmented with a flight controller in the presence of gust and noise validate the fault detection and isolation, the disturbance rejection, and the robust properties of the H ∞ LTI FDI filters.
Survival in patients with peripheral vascular disease after percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Abstract Background Patients with peripheral vascular disease (PVD) undergoing coronary revascularization have high rates of adverse outcomes. Whether there are important differences in outcomes for surgical versus percutaneous coronary revascularization is unknown. The objective of this study was to compare survival in patients with PVD who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery for multivessel coronary artery disease. Methods In-hospital data were collected on 1,305 consecutive patients undergoing coronary revascularization (PCI, n=341; CABG, n=964) in northern New England from 1994 to 1996. Patient records were linked to the National Death Index to assess survival out to 3 years (mean 1.2 years). Logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression were used to calculate risk-adjusted odds ratios and hazard ratios. Results Compared with CABG patients, those undergoing PCI were more often women, had more renal failure, more prior coronary revascularizations, were more likely to have two-vessel coronary artery disease and were more likely to undergo the procedure emergently. They were less likely to have a history of heart failure. After adjusting for differences in baseline characteristics, patients undergoing CABG had better intermediate survival than did PCI patients (hazard ratio 0.68; 95% confidence interval, 0.46 to 1.00; p = 0.05). Conclusions Patients with multivessel coronary artery disease and PVD undergoing CABG surgery have better intermediate survival out to 3 years than similar patients undergoing PCI. This information may be useful in counseling patients with PVD requiring coronary revascularization.
The site of binding of injected H3-norepinephrine

Tritium-markiertes nor-Epinephrin, welches im Meerschweinchenherzen 4 bis 8 h nach intravenoser Injektion gebunden war, wurde mit der gleichen Geschwindigkeit wie korpereigenes Catecholamin nach Verabreichung von Reserpin freigesetzt. Es kann daher angenommen werden, dass injiziertes nor-Epinephrin sich im Herzen mit der Masse des endogenen Hormons vermischt.
Identification of Tethering Domains for Protein Kinase A Type Iα Regulatory Subunits on Sperm Fibrous Sheath Protein FSC1

The fibrous sheath is a unique cytoskeletal structure in the sperm flagellum believed to modulate sperm motility. FSC1 is the major structural protein of the fibrous sheath. The yeast two-hybrid system was used to identify other proteins that contribute to the structure of the fibrous sheath or participate in sperm motility. When FSC1 was used as the bait to screen a mouse testis cDNA library, two clones were isolated encoding the type Iα regulatory subunit (RIα) of cAMP-dependent protein kinase. Deletion analysis using the yeast two-hybrid system andin vitro binding assays with glutathioneS-transferase-FSC1 fusion proteins identified two RIα tethering domains on FSC1. A domain located at residues 219–232 (termed domain A) corresponds to the reported tethering domain for a type II regulatory subunit (RII) of cAMP-dependent protein kinase, indicating that this binding domain has dual specificity to RI and RII. Another RIα tethering site (termed domain B) at residues 335–344 shows specific binding of RIα and had no significant sequence homology with known RII tethering domains. However, helical wheel projection analysis indicates that domain B is likely to form an amphipathic helix, the secondary structure of RII tethering domains of protein kinase A anchoring proteins. This was supported by the finding that site-directed mutagenesis to disrupt the amphipathic helix eliminated RIα binding. This is apparently the first report of an RIα-specific protein kinase A anchoring protein tethering domain.
Parasitoids in low-level populations ofLymantria dispar [Lep.: Lymantriidae] in different forest physiographic zones

A 2-year study was conducted on the distribution of parasitoids of gypsy moth,Lymantria dispar (L.) (Lep.: Lymantriidae), in mesic and adjacent higher elevation transition and xeric forest habitats in Vermont (U.S.A.). In both years, overall parasitism ranged from 12–18% in each habitat. When analyzed according to the life stage at which the host was collected, parasitism rates of greater than 40% were obtained among the late instars.Parasetigena silvestris (Robineau-Desvoidy) andPhobocampe disparis (Viereck) were recovered most commonly from the mesic habitat, andCotesia melanoscelus (Ratzeburg) andBlepharipa pratensis (= Sturmia scutellata) (Meigen) were most common in collections from the xeric area. Parasitism byCompsilura concinnata (Meigen) occurred at similar levels in all three habitats, and this species was responsible for the highest parasitism rates on the site, reaching 40% among the late instars in 1985. Percent parasitism byC. concinnata increased three-four-fold from 1984 to 1985, while parasitism by other species declined.
Improving the electrical conductivity of polymer acid-doped polyaniline by controlling the template molecular weight

We report the synthesis and characterization of a series of polyanilines (PANI) that are templated with a polymer acid at varying molecular weights. The polymer acid template of choice, poly(2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid), or PAAMPSA, was synthesized via conventional free-radical polymerization with molecular weights ranging from 45 kg mol−1 to 724 kg mol−1. Subsequent aniline polymerization in the presence of PAAMPSA yielded water-dispersible, conductive PANI–PAAMPSA. The electrical conductivity of PANI–PAAMPSA increases by approximately three-fold with decreasing PAAMPSA molecular weight. This trend is accompanied by significant structural changes, including increases in PANI crystallinity and conjugation length. These conductivities (0.4–1.1 S cm−1) exceed the highest reported for polymer acid-doped PANI systems.
Socio-Economic Factors Affecting Individual Household Energy Consumption: A Systematic Review

Energy consumption in the United States’ residential sector has been marked by a steady growth over the past few decades, in spite of the implementation of several energy efficiency policies. To develop effective energy policies for the residential sector, it is of utmost importance to study the various factors affecting residential energy consumption. Earlier studies have identified and classified various individual factors responsible for the increment in household energy consumption, and have also analyzed the effect of socio-economic factors such as standard-of-living and income on overall household energy consumption. This research study identifies the socio-economic factors affecting household energy consumption. Potential reasons for the variation in residential energy efficiency consumption have been investigated in previous studies that only represent viewpoints of investigators analyzing specific problems. Additionally, a comprehensive review of literature failed to reveal existing research that had systematically explored the interdependencies among the various factors that could possibly affect residential energy consumption to give an overall perspective of these factors. Widely used academic and scholarly scientific databases were employed by two independent investigators to search for original research investigations. A total of more than 200 research studies were found by the investigators, with almost ninety percent agreement between the two investigators. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria of this research study the authors systematically reviewed 51 prominent research studies to create a comprehensive list of factors affecting residential energy consumption. The results are discussed in this review.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Trends of Power Electronic Packaging and Modeling

A review of recent advances in power electronic packaging is presented based on the development of power device integration. The presentation will cover in more detail how advances in both semiconductor content and power advanced package design and materials have co-enabled significant advances in power device capability during recent years. Extrapolating the same trends in representative areas for the remainder of the decade serves to highlight where further improvement in materials and techniques can drive continued enhancements in usability, efficiency, reliability and overall cost of power semiconductor solutions. Along with new power packaging development, the role of modeling is key to assure successful package design. An overview of the power package modeling is presented. Challenges of power semiconductor packaging and modeling in both next generation design and assembly processes are presented and discussed.
About time: sensing the crisis in Nophoto's El último verano

AbstractNophoto's collective photography and video project El ultimo verano provides a fragmented, often contradictory document to the deteriorating conditions of everyday life in times of crisis. In it, nine photographers turn their lenses toward portraits of downward mobility, precarity and the growing phenomenon of emigration, as well as summer pleasures and moments of escape. Drawing from Lauren Berlant's writings on the impasse, I read how la crisis is sensed first in these photos in the subject's affective attachments to perceptible losses and then in strategies for survival developed amid an ongoing crisis. Taking stock of the present at an impasse, I argue, is immersed in a strong sense of temporality in which change and loss destabilize the present, evoking senses of return, nostalgia, future projection, escapist fantasy, anxieties about projected risk and so on. And in the photographs, the composite character of Nophoto's project indexes for viewers other ways of looking in times of crisis, in p...
Impressions of an Old Master: Hospital Libraries and Librarians, 1970–2014

This article is a retrospective look at the changes in hospital libraries from 1970 to 2014 based on the author's experience and a survey of the literature related to hospital libraries indexed in PubMed from 1970 to the present. New roles for librarians and methods for conveying the value of libraries to administrators are described.
Traffic-aware multiple mix zone placement for protecting location privacy

Privacy protection is of critical concern to Location-Based Service (LBS) users in mobile networks. Long-term pseudonyms, although appear to be anonymous, in fact empower third-party service providers to continuously track users' movements. Researchers have proposed the mix zone model to allow pseudonym changes in protected areas. In this paper, we investigate a new form of privacy attack to the LBS system that an adversary reveals a user's true identity and complete moving trajectory with the aid of side information. We propose a new metric to quantify the system's resilience to such attacks, and suggest using multiple mix zones to tackle this problem. A mathematical model is presented that treats the deployment of multiple mix zones as a cost constrained optimization problem. Furthermore, the influence of traffic density is also taken into account to enhance the protection effectiveness. The placement optimization problem is NP-hard. We therefore design two heuristic algorithms as practical and effective means to strategically select mix zone locations, and consequently reduce the privacy risks of mobile users trajectories. The effectiveness of our proposed solutions is demonstrated through extensive simulations on real-world mobile user data traces.
A Predictor-Compensator Design to Assist Human Decision-Making Process in an Air-Traffic-Control Simulator

Air traffic control is a demanding task for human operators, as this task requires tracking multiple events, managing the events, and taking actions in the presence of multiple and possibly competing objectives. In such critical tasks, human intelligence is extremely crucial however human decisions also become more prone to errors, which could cause tragic events. One idea to prevent such errors is to design smart machines that can assist human subjects in making decisions whenever human errors become more likely. In this article, we present a simulation model that captures the essence of how a human subject model would interact with a simplified version of an air traffic control simulator, and show how we design a predictor-compensator in order to regulate and possibly improve this interaction, such that overall human-machine interface can be optimized, and human workload is reduced on average.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
The Whittier Narrows, California Earthquake of October 1, 1987—Performance of Buildings at California State University, Los Angeles

Abstract The Whittier Narrows earthquake (Richter Magnitude 5.9), which struck Southern California in the morning of October 1, 1987, caused some $20.5 million damage to various engineered buildings at California State University, Los Angeles and the death of a student due to a falling precast concrete panel. Peak ground acceleration of 0.39 g and a building response of 0.48 g were recorded in one of the affected buildings. The damage was both structural (cracking of reinforced concrete beams, columns and shear walls) and non‐structural (cracked plaster and partition walls, dislodged and broken ceiling tiles, lights and other fixtures, damage to the science, computer and mechanical equipment and to utilities). A fire broke out in one chemistry laboratory and toxic combinations of chemicals were created by the spills in another chemistry laboratory. Shaking from the earthquake also aggravated existing friable asbestos contamination, forcing closure of one and portions of other buildings.
Two‐grid mixed finite‐element methods for nonlinear Schrödinger equations

Two-grid mixed finite element schemes are developed for solving both steady state and unsteady state nonlinear Schrodinger equations. The schemes use discretizations based on a mixed finite-element method. The two-grid approach yields iterative procedures for solving the nonlinear discrete equations. The idea is to relegate all of the Newton-like iterations to grids much coarser than the final one, with no loss in order of accuracy. Numerical tests are performed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 28: 63-73, 2012
Delayed Fluorescence from Fe-S Type Photosynthetic Reaction Centers at Low Redox Potential

Fluorescence kinetics were measured in membranes of a photosystem II-deletion mutant of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 containing photosystem I as the only reaction center and of the anoxygenic photosynthetic bacterium Heliobacillus mobilis. The measurements were performed under conditions where forward electron transfer to secondary acceptors was inhibited by the strong reductant sodium dithionite. Delayed fluorescence due to recombination of the primary radical pair P+A0- in both species was found to consist of several kinetic components. The longest-lived component had a lifetime of 35 ns in photosystem I and 18 ns in H. mobilis, respectively, which corresponds with the lifetime of the primary radical pair. Delayed fluorescence components with lifetimes of about 4 ns, 1 ns, and 200 ps were also observed in both species and were attributed to relaxations within the radical pair. A standard free energy difference of 0.18 eV was calculated for both species between the relaxed primary radical pair and the excited antenna at room temperature. A value of 0.25 eV was estimated for the free energy difference between the relaxed primary radical pair and the excited primary donor. The temperature dependence of the delayed fluorescence between 25 and 2 degrees C indicated that more than half of the free energy difference is due to enthalpy. Our measurements indicate an overall similarity between the primary electron transfer process in the Fe-S type (or low potential) reaction centers and the (bacterio)pheophytin-quinone type (or high potential) reaction centers found in purple photosynthetic bacteria and photosystem II.
Actinomycin D binds to d(TGTCATG) with 2:1 drug to duplex stoichiometry.

Despite the apparent single-stranded conformation and the absence of a GpC site, d(TGTCATTG) has been found to bind strongly to actinomycin D (ACTD) with 1:1 drug to strand binding stoichiometry. A hairpin binding model was speculated in which the planar phenoxazone chromophore inserts at the GTC site by pushing out the T-base while the terminal G folds back to form a G·C base pair so that the 3‘-sides of both G-bases stack on the opposite faces of the phenoxazone plane. However, it was also suggested that a slipped duplex binding with similar binding principle could also be operative at higher DNA concentrations. To support such a contention, ACTD binding studies were made with d(TGTCATG) and related oligomers. This heptamer differs from the parent octamer d(TGTCATTG) by a mere removal of a T-base which should result in an enhancement of dimeric duplex formation and a concomitant reduction in monomeric hairpin contribution. It was found that ACTD binds well to d(TGTCATG) with 1 drug to 1 strand (or 2 dru...
Equation of State of Some Synthetic Rubbers

Abstract The synthetic rubbers thus far developed bid fair to replace rubber permanently in hundreds of its varied uses. Though no one synthetic can, as yet, replace rubber in all of its applications, there are several synthetics available, each one of which excels rubber in one particular property. For example, some synthetics are oil- and gasoline-resistant, others resist the aging effects of heat, light, and oxygen, while still others surpass rubber in their resistance to flexing and abrasion.
A B-spline least-squares surface-fitting method for articular surfaces of diarthrodial joints

The B-spline least-squares surface-fitting method is employed to create geometric models of diarthrodial joint articular surfaces. This method provides a smooth higher-order surface approximation from experimental three-dimensional surface data that have been obtained with any suitable measurement technique. Akima's method for surface interpolation is used to provide complete support to the B-spline surface. The surface-fitting method is successfully tested on a known analytical surface, and is applied to the human distal femur. Applications to other articular surfaces are also shown. Results show that this method is precise, highly flexible, and can be successfully applied to a large variety of articular surface shapes.
Changes in third ventricular size in pediatric patients undergoing endoscopic third ventriculostomy.

Optimal methods of evaluating radiographic data following endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) are not yet known. This study analyzes imaging parameters, including third ventricular width and cross-sectional area (CSA), in pediatric ETV patients. Hydrocephalic pediatric patients treated by ETV at the senior authors’ institution from 2004 to 2011 were stratified clinically (successful versus unsuccessful outcome) and retrospectively reviewed. Measured from pre- and post-operative imaging studies, third ventricular parameters included maximal width and mid-sagittal CSA, while lateral ventricular parameters included the ratio of greatest frontal horn width to co-linear skull internal diameter and the frontal-occipital horn ratio. Ten successful ETV patients (mean age 10.6 years; range 11 months to 19.8 years) obtained imaging at least 2.75 months following surgery, while four unsuccessful ETV patients (mean age 9.8 years; range 4 months to 17.3 years) underwent imaging before repeat intervention. Third ventricular width showed an average decline of 0.32 cm and 17.4 % in the successful ETV cohort, but average increases of 0.35 cm and 21.0 % in the ETV failure group. Successful ETV patients exhibited mean decreases of 1.85 cm2 and 19.7 % in third ventricular mid-sagittal CSA, while unsuccessful ETV patients showed mean increases of 1.17 cm2 and 17.3 % per patient. These differences were statistically significant. Measures of lateral ventricular size showed similar trends, but with lower magnitude. Third ventricular imaging parameters (width and mid-sagittal CSA) exhibited more pronounced responses to ETV than lateral ventricular measurements in pediatric hydrocephalic patients.
The Pittsburgh consolidation charter

This is a reply to the article by Martin L. Faust which appeared in our August number. Mr. Faust criticized the charter and the tactics of the commission of which Mr. Miller is the head. The charter submitted by the commission was radically amended by the legislature and failed to secure the necessary two-thirds vote in a majority of the municipalities of the county at the election on June 25.
Distribution of connective tissue proteins during development and neovascularization of the epicardium

Objective The epicardium is the site of initial cardiac neovascularization and formation of the coronary circulatory system. Recent evidence indicates that vascular progenitor cells are influenced by the connective tissue proteins of their extracellular environment, yet little is known about the composition or function of the embryonic epicardial extracellular matrix (ECM). This study examines the distribution of ECM proteins during the migration, growth and maturation of epicardial cells and also during the development of the coronary vascular network. Methods Immunofluorescence microscopy was used to determine the distributions of vitronectin, fibronectin and a newly described fibrillin-like protein, the JB3 antigen, in the embryonic chicken heart. Immunoblot analysis was performed to compare the relative electrophoretic mobilities of the JB3 antigen and fibrillin-1. Results The data show that vitronectin and fibronectin are present at sites of initial migration of the epicardial cells. The expression of vitronectin (and also fibronectin) becomes more pronounced as the epicardium thickens, undergoes remodeling and differentiates. The JB3 antigen is prominently expressed in the coronary arteries, allowing visualization of their connection to the systemic circulation and to the heart muscle, as well as vessel wall formation and organization. Immunoblot analysis suggests that the JB3 antibody recognizes a fibrillin-like polypeptide that is distinct from fibrillin-1. Conclusions The observed distributions of vitronectin and fibronectin are consistent with roles in migration of epicardial cells, in remodeling of the epicardium and as substratum components during blood vessel formation. The observed distribution of the JB3 antigen indicates a structural/organizational role in coronary arterial wall assembly and suggests that the JB3 antibody be considered an early marker for maturing coronary arteries.
Biotechnology-based recognition elements

The author discusses technology, applications, and opportunities for biosensors. The following topics are considered: the shape of the myoglobin molecule; a schematic structure of an antibody showing the different regions of the molecule; the form of the membrane-bound acetylcholine receptor protein; forces responsible for interactive behavior between receptors and ligands; a photolithographic technique for the production of a peptide library on a chip; the principle of affine chromatography; the structure of a glucose electrode developed by Leland Clark; interferences with an enzyme-based glucose biosensor; components of biosensors; a glucose sensor based on fiber optics. >
Polychlorinated dibenzofurans in the edible portion of selected fish

Abstract Fillets of 35 fish were examined for parts-per-trillion (ppt) levels of polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs). The fish were obtained from sites contaminated with industrial chemicals or contained known or suspected levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). PCDFs were extracted and cleaned up by column chromatography on a series of modified silica gel, carbon, and alumina adsorbents. Selected-ion mass spectrometry following capillary gas chromatography was used for quantitation. The predominant PCDFs found were 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran, which occurred in 12 fish at an average of 25 ppt (range 3–93 ppt), and 2,3,4,7,8-pentachlorodibenzofuran, which occurred in 14 fish at an average of 34 ppt (range 4–113 ppt). Other tri-, tetra-, penta-, hexa-, and heptachlorodibenzofurans were found with less frequency; all of these were tentatively identified as 2,4,6-substituted PCDFs, that is, they were chlorinated at the 2, 4, and 6 positions. PCDFs were not found in 17 fish (limit of detection in the range 1–15 ppt). The reasons why individual PCDF congener levels in fish fillets seldom exceeded 150 ppt are discussed.
Pressor and subpressor angiotensin II administration two experimental models of hypertension

Administered dose is an important determinant of the type of hypertension produced by angiotensin II. With chronic administration of pressor doses, there is salt and water retention and expansion of extracellular fluid volume, and the pressure-natriuresis curve is shifted to higher pressures. Important compensatory mechanisms, including resetting of baroreceptors, de novo synthesis of vasodilator prostaglandins, and atrial natriuretic factor release, are triggered by the acute rise of blood pressure. Histologic evidence for vascular injury confounds the interpretation of findings. When angiotensin II is administered in initially subpressor doses, the rise of blood pressure is gradual, there are no detectable changes in salt and water balance, and compensatory mechanisms do not seem to be activated. Autopotentiation of pressor and vasoconstrictor responses by angiotensin II is the characteristic feature of the early stages of hypertension induced by small doses of angiotensin II. Trophic stimulation of vascular tissue, in particular restructuring of extracellular matrix, precedes and may, therefore, be the mechanism responsible for the hemodynamic changes. The pressor and subpressor models of angiotensin II-induced hypertension draw attention to the relative importance of renal and extrarenal mechanisms in the pathogenesis of hypertension. The long-term administration of initially subpressor doses of angiotensin II mimics the development of human hypertension to a greater extent than does the administration of pressor doses.
Microtubule‐Based Gold Nanowires and Nanowire Arrays

Biological structures are attractive as templates to form nanoscale architectures for electronics because of their dimensions and the ability to interact with inorganic materials. In this study, we report the fabrication and electrical properties of microtubule (MT)-templated Au nanowires, and methods for assembling Au nanowire arrays based on these templates. The adsorption of MTs on silicon substrates is an effective means for preserving the conformation of the MT and provides a convenient platform for electrical measurements. To improve the metallization of MTs, a photochemical route for gold reduction is adapted, which leads to continuous coverage. The conductivity values measured on micrometer-long nanowires are similar to those reported for other biotemplated gold nanowires. A protocol for fabricating arrays of MT-templated gold nanowires is demonstrated.
Densification, Mechanical Properties, and Oxidation Resistance of TaC–TaB2 Ceramics

The densification of tantalum carbide (TaC) was enhanced by adding 10 wt% (11 vol%) TaB 2 , reaching 98.6% relative density by hot pressing at 2100° or 2200°C using a 30 MPa applied pressure. X-ray diffraction analysis identified two phases, TaC and tantalum diboride (TaB 2 ), with no peak shifts, indicating a solid solubility was not significant at these temperatures. Mechanical properties were measured for TaC-10 wt% (11 vol%) TaB 2 hot pressed at 2100°C and compared with monolithic TaC hot pressed at 2300°C. The Young's modulus increased from 472 GPa for monolithic TaC to 543 GPa for TaC with 10 wt% (11 vol%) TaB2 additions. Vickers' hardness increased from 14.1 to 19.4 GPa. Fracture toughness values were comparable, in the range of 3.4-3.5 MPa.m 1/2 . The average flexure strength was 600 MPa, comparable to the flexure strength of monolithic TaC (686 MPa). Thermal gravimetric analysis indicated that the TaC-10 wt% (11 vol%) TaB 2 oxidized at a slightly higher temperature than monolithic TaC. Together, the results indicate that TaB 2 is an effective sintering aid for the densification of TaC.
On Families of Sets Represented in Theories

Abstract : A necessary and sufficient condition is given for a family of sets to be the family of all sets representable in a theory.
GETTING AT DISCOURSE REFERENTS

I examine how discourse anaphoric uses of the definite pronoun it contrast with similar uses of the demonstrative pronoun that. Their distinct contexts of use are characterized in terms of two contextual features---persistence of grammatical subject and persistence of grammatical form---which together demonstrate very clearly the interrelation among lexical choice, grammatical choices and the dimension of time in signalling the dynamic attentional state of a discourse.
Biogeography of ‘Cyprinella lutrensis’: intensive genetic sampling from the Pecos River ‘melting pot’ reveals a dynamic history and phylogenetic complexity

Thorough sampling is necessary to delineate lineage diversity for polytypic "species" such as Cyprinella lutrensis. We conducted extensive mtDNA sampling (cytochrome b and ND4) from the Pecos River, Rio Grande, and South Canadian River, New Mexico. Our study emphasized the Pecos River due to its complex geological history and potential to harbor multiple lineages. We used geometric-morphometric, morphometric, and meristic analyses to test for phenotypic divergence and combined nucDNA with mtDNA to test for cytonuclear disequilibrium and combined our sequences with published data to conduct a phylogenetic re-assessment of the entire C. lutrensis clade. We detected five co-occurring mtDNA lineages in the Pecos River, but no evidence for cytonuclear disequilibrium or phenotypic divergence. Recognized species were interspersed amongst divergent lineages of "C. lutrensis". Allopatric divergence among drainages isolated in the Late Miocene and Pliocene apparently produced several recognized species and major divisions within "C. lutrensis". Pleistocene re-expansion and subsequent re-fragmentation of a centralized lineage founded younger, divergent lineages throughout the Rio Grande basin and Edwards Plateau. There is also evidence of recent introductions to the Rio Grande, Pecos and South Canadian Rivers. Nonetheless, deeply divergent lineages have coexisted since the Pleistocene.
Efficient Selection of Multiple Bandit Arms: Theory and Practice

We consider the general, widely applicable problem of selecting from n real-valued random variables a subset of size m of those with the highest means, based on as few samples as possible. This problem, which we denote Ex-plore-m, is a core aspect in several stochastic optimization algorithms, and applications of simulation and industrial engineering. The theoretical basis for our work is an extension of a previous formulation using multi-armed bandits that is devoted to identifying just the one best of n random variables (Explore-1). In addition to providing PAC bounds for the general case, we tailor our theoretically grounded approach to work efficiently in practice. Empirical comparisons of the resulting sampling algorithm against state-of-the-art subset selection strategies demonstrate significant gains in sample efficiency.
Taylor Approximations on Sierpinski Gasket Type Fractals

For a class of fractals that includes the familiar Sierpinski gasket, there is now a theory involving Laplacians, Dirichlet forms, normal derivatives, Green's functions, and the Gauss–Green integration formula, analogous to the theory of analysis on manifolds. This theory was originally developed as a by-product of the construction of stochastic processes analogous to Brownian motion, but has been given by a direct analytic construction in the work of Kigami. Until now, this theory has not provided anything analogous to the gradient of a function, or a local Taylor approximation. In this paper we construct a family of derivatives, which includes the known normal derivative, at vertex points in the graphs that approximate the fractal, and obtain Taylor approximations at these points. We show that a function in the domain of Δn can be locally well approximated by an n-harmonic function (solution of Δnu=0). One novel feature of this result is that it requires several different estimates to describe the optimal rate of approximation.
Association Between Mortality and Persistent Use of Beta Blockers and Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors in Patients With Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction and Coronary Artery Disease

Beta blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers (ACEIs/ARBs) are evidence-based medications for chronic heart failure, but little is known about the persistent use and clinical effectiveness of these medications. We evaluated the longer-term use of β blockers and ACEIs/ARBs in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and coronary artery disease. Patients with an ejection fraction
Differential expression of extracellular matrix remodeling genes in rat model of hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation.

Background Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their specific physiological inhibitors, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), are thought to play an essential role in tissue repair, cell death and morphogenesis. We have previously discovered unexpected up-regulation of genes coding for multiple MMP/TIMP family members in a rat model of hemorrhagic shock and resuscitation. However, the effect of different resuscitation protocols at the level of protein expression and function remains unknown. Materials and methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 50; 10/group) were subjected to a three-stage volume controlled hemorrhage and resuscitated as follows: 1) lactated Ringer’s solution (LR), 3:1 volume of lost blood; 2) 7.5% hypertonic saline (HTS), 9.7 ml/kg; 3) plasma, 1:1 volume. Sham hemorrhage and sham resuscitation groups were used as controls. Expression of lung and spleen MMPs (-2, -7, -9, -10, -14, and -16), and TIMPs (-1, -2, and -3) was analyzed at transcriptional, functional and protein expression level using RT-PCR, ELISA, Western blotting, and gelatin zymography techniques. Results Spleen was affected more than lung by the resuscitation strategy and the largest number of changes was caused by HTS resuscitation. RT-PCR confirmed an increased levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, MMP-7, MMP-14, MMP-16, and TIMP-1, TIMP-2 in the spleen of HTS group compared to sham groups, whereas in lungs transcriptional levels of only TIMP-3 and TIMP-1 were significantly changed. Conclusion Expression of MMP and TIMP in lung and spleen following hemorrhage is modulated by the resuscitation strategy.
Convergence of Self-Report and Archival Crash Involvement Data: A Two-Year Longitudinal Follow-Up:

This study constructively extends Arthur et al. (2001) by assessing the convergence of self-report and archival motor vehicle crash involvement and moving violations data in a 2-year longitudinal follow-up. The relationships among these criteria, conscientiousness, and driving speed were also assessed using both predictive and postdictive criterion-related validation designs. Data were collected from a 2-year follow-up sample of 334 participants. Results suggested a lack of convergence between self-report and archival data at both Time 1 and Time 2. In addition, the predictor/criterion relationships varied across research design and data source. An actual application of our findings is that the interpretation of relationships between specified predictors and crash involvement and moving violations must be made within the context of the criterion-related validation design and criterion data source. Specifically, predictive designs may produce results different from those of postdictive designs (which are more commonly used). Furthermore, self-report data appear to include a broader range of incidents (more crashes and tickets), and thus researchers should consider using self-report data when they are interested in including lower threshold crashes and tickets that may not be reported on state records (e.g., because of the completion of a defensive driving course).
The Therapeutic Use of Touch with the Elderly

Articles on the beneficial effects of touch have been quite prolific in health care literature over the past ten to fifteen years. Prior to that time, affective touching was not encouraged in health care. Touch other than task oriented touch was feared to carry sexual connotations or to be associated with primitive healing and superstitious practices. Scientific research of the 50s and 60s demonstrated the importance of touch to physical and psychological well bein. Health care professionals were encouraged to use touch abundantly especially with infants and the elderly. With little understanding of the skills needed in touch, some health care professionals are unable to obtain the results they desire.
Lateral Movement of Unbraced Trusses During Construction

Factors contributing to lateral buckling potential of trusses during construction are presented along with equations for determining maximum spacing of temporary lateral bracing.
IS THERE ADVERSE SELECTION IN LIFE INSURANCE MARKETS

Adverse selection theory predicts people with a high risk of death are more likely to own life insurance. Using a unique data set merging administrative and survey records, we test this theory and find the opposite: people with high death risk are less likely to own life insurance. We postulate advantageous selection and price discrimination swamp adverse selection in individual life insurance markets. To determine which effect is more powerful, we analyze group life insurance markets, where insurance companies cannot price discriminate as well as in individual markets. Our data suggest that price discrimination has a stronger effect than advantageous selection. (JEL D8, G1, I1)
Practical Considerations in Preparing an Institutional Procedure of Image Guided Radiation Therapy

205 Part of this paper has been presented at the 12th Seoul Radiation Oncology Symposium, at Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea, September 13, 2013. Submitted December 12, 2013, Accepted December 17, 2013 Corresponding Author: Byong Yong Yi, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, 22 S Greene Street Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA Tel: 1-410-328-7165, Fax: 1-410-328-2618 E-mail: byi@umm.edu Practical Considerations in Preparing an Institutional Procedure of Image Guided Radiation Therapy
Cerebrovascular challenges in diabetic patients: the pressure is on to maintain perfusion.

See related article, pp 738–745 In this edition of Hypertension , Kim et al1 report that cerebral perfusion is differentially effected by pharmacological blood pressure treatment in hypertensive patients, uncomplicated type II diabetics, and type II diabetics with microvascular complications. Specifically, they reported a progressive decrease in cerebral blood flow after 6 months of antihypertensive medication in diabetics with microvascular complications, whereas cerebral blood flow in hypertensive or uncomplicated diabetics was only marginally reduced by treatment. In addition, the diabetics with microvascular complications demonstrated a blunted cerebral responsiveness to CO2 but similar middle cerebral artery blood velocity compared with hypertensives and uncomplicated diabetics before treatment for their hypertension. However, it is unknown whether the blunted cerebral vasodilator responses at baseline were caused by the same mechanisms that reduced middle cerebral artery blood velocity after blood pressure treatment. When the findings of Kim et al1 are viewed in an epidemiological context, it is interesting to note that, in middle-aged and …
Application of coefficients of transmissibility and storage to regional problems in the Houston District, Texas

The Houston District, as the term is used in this paper, comprises an area between the Trinity and Brazos rivers in Harris County and parts of Montgomery, Waller, and Fort Bend counties, Texas. It consists of a plain of low relief that lies not far above sea-level, and is a part of the West Gulf Coastal Plain. A part of the District is shown in Figure 1. Large quantities of ground-water are pumped in the Houston District from a succession of beds of sand that occur between 300 and 1,900 feet below the surface. These sands are interbedded with relatively impermeable clays. The formations range in age from Miocene to Recent and were deposited during several cycles of marine and continental deposition. They may be classified into several zones which are predominantly clay or predominantly sand, but in which the individual beds at most horizons can not be traced very far. Most of the beds interfinger and grade into one another laterally and vertically in short distances, the thinner beds in many places changing character or pinching out within a few hundred feet. The formations dip to the southeastward, the dip ranging from about 35 feet to the mile in the older formations to about 20 feet to the mile in the younger. In the outcrop-areas of the formations, and for considerable distances down the dip, the sediments are in general dominantly sandy. Far to the southeastward, in the direction of the Gulf, clay predominates.
Six-dimensional weak-strong simulations of head-on beam-beam compensation in RHIC

To compensate the large beam-beam tune spread and beam-beam resonance driving terms in the polarized proton operation in the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC), we will introduce a low-energy DC electron beam into each ring to collide head-on with the opposing proton beam. The device to provide the electron beam is called an electron lens. In this article, using a 6-D weak-strong-beam-beam interaction simulation model, we investigate the effects of head-on beam-beam compensation with electron lenses on the proton beam dynamics in the RHIC 250 GeV polarized proton operation. This article is abridged from the published article [1].
Biomaterials-Based Strategies in Blood Substitutes

Blood is responsible for providing tissues with nutrients via plasma and also transporting cellular components for gas exchange, immune surveillance, and hemostatic responses. Blood transfusion is a clinical mainstay in the management of bleeding complications and congenital blood disorders. Therefore, there is a high clinical emphasis on blood donation and refinement of the collection, storage, and transport strategies of natural blood products. However, these products are often short in supply, require meticulous antigen matching, and pose risks of pathological contamination and biologic side effects. Consequently, there is significant clinical interest in synthetic blood substitutes. To this end, biomaterials provide unique ways of designing blood cell mimics and plasma substitutes. In parallel to synthetic blood substitutes, currently research is also being focused on generating blood cells from stem cells. This chapter provides a comprehensive discussion of the various blood product designs highlighting the biomaterials-based applications and approaches in this field.