cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A comparison of the effect of external loading upon power output in stair climbing and running up a ramp

Previous studies have shown that external loading increases the power output measured during stair climbing. However, it was noted in an earlier study that stairtreads form mechanical contraints which limit the extent to which a subject can be externally loaded, and, thereby, make it impossible to observe maximal power output for this type of activity. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of external loading upon power output when running up stairs or a ramp. Since a ramp is free of the mechanical constraints of stairtreads, it was felt that higher power output values would be achieved using the ramp, and that it would be possible to observe an asymptote in power output which could not be obtained for stair climbing. Seven male subjects performed maximal ramp and stair climbing tests under five experimental loading conditions (no external load, 10.1, 19.2, 24.2, and 29.2 kg). For the ramp, it was possible to employ a sixth loading condition of 34.2 kg. For stair climbing, the mean (±SD) power output values under the five experimental conditions were 16.6±0.7, 17.3±1.3, 18.5±1.0, 18.6±1.5, and 18.9±1.7 W·kg−1, respectively. In contrast, the mean (± SD) power output values observed while running up the ramp were 18.8±1.4, 19.9±1.6, 20.5±1.6, 20.1±2.1, 20.3±2.1, and 19.8±1.9 W·kg−1, respectively. At each experimental condition, the differences between the ramp and stairs was significant (P<0.05). For the ramp, the highest mean power output occurred at a load of 19.2 kg. Beyond this load, power output progressively declined. In contrast, for the stairs, the highest power output occurred at a load of 29.2 kg. The results of this study demonstrate that the effect of loading upon power output measurements can be extended to running up a ramp. Furthermore, unlike stair climbing, it was possible using the ramp to observe a maximal power output value for each subject.
Impact of microwave pulses on microwave-induced thermoacoustic imaging applications

Microwave-induced thermoacoustic imaging (TAI), combining the high contrast of microwave imaging and high resolution of ultrasound imaging, is a promising noninvasive imaging technique for breast cancer detection (R. A. Kruger et al, Radiology, vol. 216, 279-283, 2000). In order to efficiently detect a breast tumor by TAI, understanding the characteristics of the acoustic signal emanated by a tumor target is needed. Theories of thermoacoustic signal generation have been well established. The characteristics of the induced acoustic signal are principally contributed by three sets of factors: first, features of the microwave pulse including width, waveform (envelope of the microwave pulse) and carrier frequency; second, tumor dimension and morphology; and third, dielectric, acoustic and thermal properties of the biological sample containing both the tumor and background normal tissues. Here, our interest is focused on studying different pulse widths, pulse waveforms and tumor sizes. Although some effects of pulse width and target size have been reported, impact of pulse waveform and especially the combination of pulse width, pulse waveform and target size has not been addressed by previous research endeavors.
A Systemic view of fraud explaining its strategies, anatomy and process

Abstract Auditors do not and cannot represent the difference underlying audit risk and fraud (Deleuze, G.,Difference and Repetition , Patton, P. (trans.) (New York: Columbia University Press, 1994).), which may explain why the auditing literature’s reductionist, holistic and historical-event approaches to audit risk and fraud do not curb the increasing number of fraud cases occurring today. The concern for this ineffectiveness has reached such a high level that the U S Congress and society at large now question the entire independent auditing process (Fogarty, T. J., Heian, J. B. & Knutson, D., “The Rationality of Doing ‘Nothing’: Auditors’ Responses to Legal Liability in an Institutionalized Environment", Critical Perspectives on Accounting, Vol. 2, 1991, pp. 201–226.). This paper explains the Deleuzian difference in order to develop a systemic description of fraud. The historical-event of fraud presumes that a fraud event occurs within a system. Without understanding the system’s nature and components (anatomy), environment and structures (CES), and the mechanism that explains their causative and probabilistic interactions, fraud may not be deterred or detected on time. The system of fraud developed in this paper is an open one since fraud can never be totally eliminated from society given the endless greed and chaos that rule every-day life. (Deleuze, G. and Guattari, F., The Logic of Sense, Mark Lester with Charles Stivale (trans.), Constantin, V. Boundas (ed.) (New York: Columbia University Press, 1990).) and (Deleuze, G., Anti-Oedipus, R. Hurley, M. Seem and H. R. Lane (trans.), (Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1983); Deleuze, G. and Guattari, F., A Thousand Plateaus, B. Massumi (trans.), (Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1987).) refer to such an open system as pragmatic, rhizomatic schizoanalytic and nomadologic. Ironically, this pragmatic (open) system of fraud is the auditing profession’s raison d’etre: without it, there would be no need for the attest function, as we now know it. Therefore, such conclusions as “auditors should prevent fraud" and “auditing standards should be designed to eliminate fraud" form contradictions currently littering the auditing literature.
A survey and partial characterization of iceucleating fluids secreted by giant-rosette (Lobelia and Dendrosenecio) plants of the mountains of eastern Africa☆

Abstract Ice-nucleating activities of the fluids from east African giant lobelias (13 samples from 10 taxa of Lobelia, Lobeliaceae) and giant senecios (4 samples from 4 taxa of Dendrosenecio, Asteraceae) were determined using supercooling temperatures as the indicator. Variation in supercooling temperatures of these fluids was found both within and between species. Fluids from L.gregoriana subsp. gregoriana, L. itdeckenii subsp. deckenii, L. telekii (Mount Kenya), D. brassiciformis, L. gregoriana subsp. elgonensis, L. rhynchopetalum, D. battiscombei, D. keniensis, and D. cheranganiensis subsp. dalei had the highest supercooling temperatures and were assumed to contain the most effective ice-nucleators. The first four of these were chosen for more detailed examination. The most effective ice-nucleating fluids contained either a polysaccharide fraction composed primarily of uronic acid units or a pair of polysaccharide fractions containing little or no uronic acid. Polysaccharides isolated via 70% ethanol precipitation from fluids of L. gregoriana subsp. gregoriana, L. deckenii subsp. deckenii, and D. brassiciformis gave the two fractions on DEAE-cellulose chromatography. Main fractions were composed primarily of neutral sugars (glucose, mannose, fucose, rhamnose, and/or galactose); smaller amounts of galacturonic and glucuronic acids were also present. Fluid from L. telekii gave a single main fraction that chromatographed as an almost neutral polysaccharide although galacturonic acid was its principal sugar component. Supercooling temperatures of the isolated main fractions were lower than those of the original fluids except for that from L. gregoriana subsp. gregoriana, but all still exhibited ice-nucleating activities.
The Design and Rating of the Pressure Exchange Steam Ejector for a Waste Heat Driven Automotive Air Conditioning System

A pressure exchange ejector invented by George Washington University’s Professor Charles Garris has been considered a novel concept for energy conversion and utilization of two working fluids. One of the applications of the pressure exchange ejector involves taking the captured waste heat from the car’s engine to assist in running its air conditioning system. This study involves implementing the pressure exchange ejector in a modified vapor compression air conditioning system and determining its feasibility with performance and sizing for a typical midsize sedan. The specific midsize sedan chosen in the analysis is the inline six-cylinder BMW 530i sedan. The analysis involves comparing previous results and data of high and low cooling loads from the conventional automotive air conditioning (A/C) system using R-134a refrigerant with a new steam pressure exchange ejector A/C system. The pressure exchange (PE) ejector similar to the conventional ejector can be represented by the turbomachinery analog. Desirable theoretically efficiencies of the PE ejector using the turbomachinery analog are varied to determine the minimal efficiency required to run the ejector air conditioning system. The performances of the ideal and minimum condition for the PE ejector A/C system are determined to view the potential and feasibility of the system. The system consists of environmentally friendly steam as a refrigerant and replaces the conventional A/C system’s engine driven compressor with an ejector and a second loop for waste heat recovery from the car’s engine exhaust system. Simulation tests of varying ejector efficiency under the designed A/C system and vehicle conditions are conducted through computational heat transfer and thermodynamic analysis using MATLAB/Simulink. The software is a numerical calculation and visualization software program where various environmental, thermodynamic, heat transfer, and sizing conditions can be monitored. Engine exhaust heat and conventional air conditioning results and properties are obtained through previous experiments and analysis at respected universities and laboratories.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Impact of active power curtailment on overvoltage prevention and energy production of PV inverters connected to low voltage residential feeders

As non-controllable power sources, photovoltaics (PV) can create overvoltage in low voltage (LV) distribution feeders during periods of high generation and low load. This is usually prevented passively by limiting the penetration level of PV to very conservative values, even if the critical periods rarely occur. Alternatively, one can use active power curtailment (APC) techniques, reducing the amount of active power injected by the PV inverters, as the voltage at their buses increase above a certain value. In this way, it is possible to increase the installed PV capacity and energy yield while preventing overvoltage. This paper investigates a number of approaches for sizing and controlling the PV power generated by 12 net-zero energy houses equipped with large rooftop PV systems in a typical 240 V/75 kVA Canadian suburban radial distribution feeder. Simulations of a one year period with typical solar irradiance and load profiles are conducted with PSCAD to assess the performance of the different approaches in terms of overvoltage occurrence, sharing of the burden for overvoltage prevention per house and total energy yield of the residential PV feeder.
Modification of supported lipid membranes by atomic force microscopy

The atomic force microscope (AFM) was used to structurally modify supported lipid bilayers in a controlled quantitative manner. By increasing the force applied by the AFM tip, lipid was removed from the scanned area, leaving a cut through the lipid bilayer. Cuts were repaired with the AFM by scanning the region with a controlled force and driving lipid back into the cut. A slow self-annealing of cuts was also observed.
Pyogenic Hepatic Abscess Secondary to Endolumenal Perforation of an Ingested Foreign Body

Pyogenic hepatic abscess induced by foreign body perforation of the gastrointestinal tract is an increasing phenomenon. Pyogenic liver abscess in itself is a challenge to treat without the complication of a foreign body. A case of a patient who developed a pyogenic hepatic abscess after unknown ingestion of a toothpick that subsequently perforated the duodenum is presented, and a literature review of pyogenic hepatic abscesses secondary to ingestion of foreign bodies and their causes, diagnosis, and treatment was performed. Even with a thorough workup, often the diagnosis of a pyogenic hepatic abscess secondary to an endolumenal foreign body perforation is not obtained until the time of operation.
Tectonic controls on carbonate sequence formation in an active strike–slip setting: Serranilla Basin, Northern Nicaragua Rise, Western Caribbean Sea

Abstract The Serranilla Basin is a flat-floored, semi-circular bathymetric depression (100×100 km; 1100–1200 m deep) at the western end of the northern Nicaragua Rise (NNR) in the Caribbean Sea. It is bound to the north by the Cayman Trough, an area of active sea floor spreading, and is part of the Northern Caribbean Plate Boundary Zone (NCPBZ). Single-channel, high-resolution seismic data were calibrated to rock dredges and ODP Site 1000 to define the geologic evolution and attempt to tie sequence formation within the basin to tectonic developments in this part of the Caribbean. Five seismic sequences were identified within the basin. The two lower sequences (A and B) are interpreted as neritic and shallow periplatform deposits which infill three distinct basins that make up the early to late Miocene Serranilla Basin. The three upper sequences (C through E) are interpreted as periplatform and pelagic deposits interspersed with turbidites, and in some areas, megabreccias. Faulting is prevalent in sequences A through C in the central basin, and becomes progressively younger toward the south, disrupting the seafloor in places and perhaps indicating renewed activity along the Pedro Fracture Zone. The timing of sequence boundary formation has been correlated to tectonic activity along the NCPBZ and closure of the Central American Seaway. Possible mechanisms of sequence boundary formation include tectonic tilting within the basin in conjunction with increased turbidite deposition, carbonate platform drowning and subsequent back-stepping associated with circulation changes resulting from tectonic `gateway' closure, and megabreccia deposition associated with bank demise. Although a direct genetic relationship is not proven, regional tectonic changes are considered more important than eustatic sea-level changes in controlling depositional sequence formation in the Serranilla Basin.
Effect of conjugation on the incorporation of glycine into Tetrahymena

Abstract 1. 1. Conjugation of Tetrahymena enhanced the incorporation of glycine into the nuclear fraction by 500%. 2. 2. Incorporation of glycine into the microsomal supernatant was augmented by almost 500% by conjugation. 3. 3. Mitochondrial incorporation was stimulated nearly 3-fold in the conjugating strains while the incorporation of glycine into the microsomes was enhanced approximately 2.5 times. 4. 4. In the whole cell, glycine incorporation was increased nearly 2-fold by conjugation. 5. 5. Strong nuclear involvement was indicated by elevated metabolic activity and incorporation of glycine into RNA and DNA. 6. 6. Stimulation of the metabolism of Tetrahymena by cell communication suggests that the contents of a cell can have a synergistic effect on another cell. 7. 7. Augmentation of the biosynthetic capacities of cells by fusion is a demonstration of the dominant role of the cell membrane in the regulation and control of cells. 8. 8. Enhancement of biosynthesis of nuclear proteins in conjugating strains of cells indicates that fusion gives rise to the synthesis of new protein from previously existing protein or protein procursors. 9. 9. The specific activities of the subcellular fractions after the incorporation of glycine into 2 separated starved strains of Tetrahymena followed the usual pattern of nucleus less than whole cells, whole cells less than mitochondria, mitochondria less than microsomes, but with the microsomal supernatant being much greater than that of the microsomes.
Radiation crosslinking of vinyl chloride–vinyl stearate copolymer

The crosslinking of internally plasticized polyvinyl chloride- stearate copolymer by irradiation with high-energy electrons was studied. Based on gel yields and swelling as a measure of relative crosslinking, the effect of added tetrafunctional monomers, and of carbon black and silica fillers are discussed. Crosslinking by dicumyl peroxide at 170 deg C even in the presence of a stabilizer, causes concurrent decomposition (dehydrochlorination) which is avoided in the radiation crosslinking process. The heat sthbility of the copolymer is not impaired by radiation crosslinking under the proper conditions. Results of tensile measurements at 25 and l50-C are given for the radiation crosslinked copolymer with and without filler reinforcement. (auth)
Ionic Current Blockades from DNA and RNA Molecules in the α-Hemolysin Nanopore

We characterize the substate structure of current blockades produced when single-stranded polynucleotide molecules were electrophoretically driven into the alpha-hemolysin protein pore. We frequently observe substates where the ionic current is reduced by approximately 50%. Most of these substates can be associated with a molecular configuration where a polymer occupies only the vestibule region of the pore, though a few appear related to a polymer occupying only the transmembrane beta-barrel region of the pore. The duration of the vestibule configuration depends on polymer composition and on which end of the polymer, 3' or 5', subsequently threads into the narrowest constriction and initiates translocation. Below approximately 140 mV a polymer is more likely to escape from the vestibule against the applied voltage gradient, while at higher voltages a polymer is more likely to follow the voltage gradient by threading through the narrowest constriction and translocating through the pore. Increasing the applied voltage also increases the duration of the vestibule configuration. A semiquantitative model of these trends suggests that escape has stronger voltage dependence than threading, and that threading is sensitive to polymer orientation while escape is not. These results emphasize the utility of alpha-hemolysin as a model system to study biologically relevant physical and chemical processes at the single-molecule level.
Absolute partial and total cross sections for electron-impact ionization of argon from threshold to 1000 eV.

Absolute partial cross sections from threshold to 1000 eV are reported for the production of ${\mathrm{Ar}}^{\mathit{n}+}$ (n=1--4) by electron-impact ionization of argon. The total cross sections, obtained from an appropriately weighted sum of the partial cross sections, are also reported. These results are obtained with an apparatus incorporating a time-of-flight mass spectrometer with position-sensitive detection of the product ions. The simple apparatus design embodies recent developments in pressure measurement and particle detection and is believed to yield more reliable results than those previously reported. For singly charged ions, the overall uncertainty in the absolute cross section values reported here is \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}3.5%. Previous measurements of absolute partial and total cross sections are reviewed and compared with the present results.
Sub-wavelength Discrete Solitons in Nonlinear Metallic Waveguide Arrays

We present the first theoretical prediction of sub-wavelength discrete solitons in nonlinear periodic metamaterials. These solitons result from the three-fold interplay between periodicity, nonlinearity, and surface plasmons tunneling in nano-scaled nonlinear metallic waveguide array.
Health Equity Research in the Veterans Health Administration: We’ve Come Far but Aren’t There Yet

One hundred and fifty years ago, the Civil War dramatically altered the makeup of the US military. More than 200 000 freemen and former slaves enlisted in black regiments, and an additional 25% of the Union Army were foreign-born Irish, German, and Dutch immigrants. It was another 80 years before President Harry S. Truman signed Executive Order 9881 officially desegregating the US Armed Forces, declaring “there shall be equality of treatment and opportunity for all persons in the armed services without regard to race, color, religion or national origin.” Since then the makeup of the military and, as a result, that of the veteran population has continued to evolve, with notable recent increases in the number of women, Hispanic, and other minority veterans. The challenge for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in serving this increasingly diverse population is to ensure that we help each veteran achieve the best outcomes possible regardless of who they are, where they live, or what health problems they have. For well over two decades, VA researchers have been helping the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) determine whether we are meeting that challenge.1 Almost a decade ago, the VA Health Services Research and Development Program established the Center for Health Equity Research and Promotion to foster research to accelerate disparities research, following a roadmap that progressed rapidly from detecting and understanding health disparities to testing interventions that sought to eliminate them in the real world.2 In 2012, faced with evidence that we were not yet achieving equal outcomes for all veterans, VHA established the Office of Health Equity under Uchenna S. Uchendu, MD, creating a policy office with a mandate to addressed a wide range of issues to promote health equity.
A comparative histochemical and electron microscopic study of the surface coatings of cardiac muscle cells

Abstract An external lamina was present on the plasma membrane of the myocardial cells of all species studied. The thickness of this lamina measured about 1000 A in crustaceans, 300 to 400 A in fishes, 400 to 650 A in amphibians, 400 to 500 A in reptiles, and 200 to 400 A in mammals. Histochemical studies at the light and electron microscopic level showed that the external lamina is rich in carbohydrates with acidic residues. It is proposed that the external lamina acts as a selective barrier between the intra- and extracellular environment. As a circulatory system develops in the myocardium, this function is shared by the basal lamina of endocardial and capillary endothelial cells. A lamina similar to that of the plasma membrane was observed on the luminal surface of the transverse tubular system (T-system). However, a T-system was not found in cells in which the myofibrils are located primarily in the periphery of the cell, but only in cells in which the myofibrils are either centrally located or evenly distributed within the cell.
Creativity from childhood to adulthood: A difference of degree and not of kind

An idea used by Darwin to explain the great difference in mental powers between the higher animals and humans while arguing for our continuity with them is used as the source analogy to explain the relationship between creativity in childhood and creativity in adulthood.
Characterization, Cloning and Expression of the 67-kDa Annexin from Chicken Growth Plate Cartilage Matrix Vesicles

Analysis of a 67 kDa lipid-dependent Ca2+-binding protein from avian matrix vesicles revealed amino acid sequences homologous to mammalian annexin VI. PCR methods were used to identify a clone from an avian cDNA library that contained a full length copy of the 67-kDa annexin cDNA. This was restriction mapped, subcloned and sequenced. The cDNA sequence of the open reading frame showed 70 percent identity to that of murine annexin VI; the predicted amino acid sequence, 78 percent identity. There was no homology in the 5′- and 3′-untranslated regions. A plasmid was constructed that overexpresses the intact chicken 67-kDa matrix vesicle annexin in E. coli DH5α in high yield; the physicochemical properties and the amino terminal sequence of the expressed protein exactly matched those of the native protein.
Modulation codes for the controlled polarity recording channel

Peak detection, because of simplicity, remains a practical channel for magnetic tape recording even at densities above 80 kfci. Recently, write equalization has been shown to be useful in controlling the polarity of adjacent recorded transitions. By this method the data density is improved to 120-160 kbpi. Because consecutive same polarity data pulses give rise to charge accumulation new channel codes are needed to regulate the number of consecutive same polarity pulses. This paper presents codes applicable to these new channels.
A PAK-activated linker for EGFR and FAK

Transmembrane growth factor and integrin matrix receptors form multiprotein signaling complexes with FAK, a cytoplasmic cell motility-associated kinase. In a recent issue of Molecular Cell , Long et al. now show that a PAK-phosphorylated alternate-spliced isoform of the steroid receptor coactivator-3 (SRC-3Δ4) bridges EGFR and FAK, enhancing breast carcinoma cell migration and metastasis.
Darstellung und oxidative Derivatisierung von Dialkylthiophosphiten

Geschwindigkeit und Verlauf der Reaktion von Triestern der phosphorigen Saure, (RO)3P (R = Me, Et, Ph) mit H2S in Gegenwart verschiedener Amine (Et3N, Et2NH, Et2NPh, Pyridin) werden entscheidend von der Art des verwendeten Amins beeinflust. Bei Verwendung von Pyridin als Base und Alkalialkoholaten als Katalysatoren werden Thiophosphorigsauredialkylester, (RO)2P(S)H (R = Me, Et, Bu), mit uber 80% Ausbeute erhalten. Die oxidative Derivatisierung der Thiophosphite mit CCI4 und protischen (4-Nitrophenol, 2,4,5-Trichlorphenol, Ammoniak, Piperidin, Phenylhydrazin) bzw. anionischen Nucleophilen (F−, NCS−,NCO−, CN−, N3−), (Atherton-Todd-Reaktion) ergibt Thiophosphorsaurederivate (RO)2P(S)Nuc (R = Me, Et, Bu: Nuc = 4-Nitrophenoxy, PhNHNH; R =; Me, Et: Nuc = 2,4,5-Trichlorphenoxy, F, NCS, N3; R = Me: NH2, C5H10N; R = Et: Nuc = CI, CN) und z. T. deren Entalkylierungsprodukte (RO)P(Nuc)SO− (R = Me; Nuc = CI, F, NCS, CN). Die Umsetzung der Thiophosphorylazide mit PPh3 bzw. P(OEt)3 ermoglichte die Darstellung der noch nicht beschriebenen Phosphazene (EtO)2P(S)N = PPh3 und (MeO)2P(S)N = P(OEt)3. Preparation and Oxidative Derivatisation of Phosphonothionic Esters The kind of the amine used influences decisively course and rate of the reaction of trialkyl phosphites, (RO)3P (R = Me, Et, Ph) with H2S in the presence of different amines (Et3N, Et2NH, Et2NPh, pyridine). Phosphonothionic esters, (RO)2P(S)H (R = Me, Et, Bu), are obtained in over 80% yield by using pyridine as base and an alkali alcoholate as catalyst. The oxidative derivatisation of phosphonothionic esters by means of CCI4 and protic (4-nitrophenol, 2,4,5-trichlorophenol, ammonia, piperidine, phenylhydrazine) or anionic nucleophiles (F−, NCS−, NCO−, CN−, N3−) (Atherton-Todd reaction) yields thiophosphoric acid derivatives (RO)2P(S)Nuc (R = Me, Et, Bu: Nuc = 4-nitrophenoxy, PhNHNH; R = Me, Et: Nuc = 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxy, F, NCS, N3; R = Me: NH2, C5H10N; R = Et: Nuc = CI, CN) and in some cases the dealkylated products (RO)P(Nuc)SO− (R = Me; Nuc = CI, F, NCS, CN). The phosphazenes (EtO)2P(S)N = PPh3 and (MeO)2P(S)N P(OEt)3, up to now unknown in literature, were obtained by treating thiophosphoryl azides with PPh3 or P(OEt)3, resp.
Schizophrenic Poetics A Proposed Cure

This article engages recent interests in temporality and poetic theory. For the most part, poetics has failed to bridge the gaps between distantly related aspects of verse - syntax and sound, prosody and rhetoric, meter and meaning, and so on. The result has been a schizophrenic poetics that provides detailed treatement of individual elements of poetry but cannot account for how these elements combine. To cure this theoretical schizophrenia, the author suggests that we reorient the basic principles of poetics from space to time. Much of our experiences derives from the rhythmicity of our cognitive processing; therefore, the qualities of this rhythmicity are the most available means for finding order/similarity in textured poetic differences.
Regulation of fibre contraction in a rat model of myocardial ischemia.

Background The changes in the actomyosin crossbridge cycle underlying altered contractility of the heart are not well described, despite their importance to devising rational treatment approaches. Methodology/Principal Findings A rat ischemia–reperfusion model was used to determine the transitions of the crossbridge cycle impacted during ischemia. Compared to perfused hearts, the maximum force per cross-sectional area and Ca2+ sensitivity of fibers from ischemic hearts were both reduced. Muscle activation by photolytic release of Ca2+ and ATP suggested that the altered contractility was best described as a reduction in the rate of activation of noncycling actomyosin crossbridges to activated, cycling states. More specifically, the apparent forward rate constant of the transition between the nonforce bearing A-M.ADP.Pi state and the bound, force bearing AM*.ADP.Pi state was reduced in ischemic fibers, suggesting that this transition is commensurate with initial crossbridge activation. These results suggested an alteration in the relationship between the activation of thin filament regulatory units and initial crossbridge attachment, prompting an examination of the post-translational state of troponin (Tn) T and I. These analyses indicated a reduction in the diphosphorylated form of TnT during ischemia, along with lower Ser23/24 phosphorylation of TnI. Treatment of perfused fibers by 8-Br-cAMP increased Ser23/24 phosphorylation of TnI, altering the reverse rate constant of the Pi isomerization in a manner consistent with the lusitropic effect of β-adrenergic stimulation. However, similar treatment of ischemic fibers did not change TnI phosphorylation or the kinetics of the Pi isomerization. Conclusions Ischemia reduces the isomerization from A-M.ADP.Pi to AM*.ADP.Pi, altering the kinetics of crossbridge activation through a mechanism that may be mediated by altered TnT and TnI phosphorylation.
Substituting the Alcohol Swab for the Alcohol Lamp

The alcohol swab is a very reliable and easily obtained substitute for the alcohol lamp in performing a routine culture.
Disorder-to-order transition of 1,4-dimethylnaphthalene: Formation of molecular complex with water and p-xylene on Al2O3 (0001).

Amorphous 1,4-dimethylnaphthalene, DMN, that can be prepared by vacuum deposition on Al 2 O 3 exhibits relatively intense excimer fluorescence. Upon heating the surface, the adlayer undergoes a disorder-to-order transition, signaled by a decrease in excimer and an increase in monomer fluorescence. In a bilayer experiment, water, which has a lower desorption temperature than DMN, is vacuum deposited first, followed by DMN. When the surface is heated, water percolates through the DMN and forms a molecular H 2 O-DMN surface complex that desorbs simultaneously. The stoichiometric ratio of this complex was determined to be (DMN) 1.4±0.3 ·H 2 O. When the bilayer was formed with p-xylene, a complex of DMN-p-xylene was observed that had the stoichiometry of (DMN) 7.9±1 ·p-xylene.
Decreased time for detection and quantification of virulent Bacillus anthracis and Yersinia pestis using a BioNanoPore (BNPTM) membrane technology

Many aspects of biodefense research require quantitative growth assessments of the test agent. This study evaluated the BioNanoPore (BNP™) technology to quantitate Bacillus anthracis and Yersinia pestis faster than traditional plate counting methods. The BNP™ technology enabled quantification of B. anthracis and Y. pestis in phosphate-buffered saline and naive rabbit blood at 6 and 24 h, respectively. After 6 h of growth, counts for B. anthracis ranged from 6·19–6·45 log10 CFU ml−1 on BNP™, while counts after 24 h on tryptic soy agar (TSA) ranged from 6·51–6·58 log10 CFU ml−1. For Y. pestis, counts on BNP™ at 24 h ranged from 6·31–6·41 log10 CFU ml−1 on BNP™ and ranged from 6·44–6·89 log10 CFU ml−1 on TSA at 48 h. This study demonstrates that the BNP™ technology provides a more rapid detection of B. anthracis and Y. pestis, which could aid in the evaluation of potential medical countermeasures and treatments as well as other biological defense applications such as surface sampling or decontamination efficacy.
Evolution of phage display: from bioactive peptides to bioselective nanomaterials.

Background: New phage-derived biorecognition nanomaterials have emerged recently as a result of the in-depth study of the genetics and structure of filamentous phage and the evolution of phage display technology. Objective: This review focuses on the progress made in the development of these new nanomaterials and discusses the prospects of using phage as a bioselectable molecular recognition interface in medical and technical devices. Methods: The author used data obtained both in his research group and sourced using Science Citation Index (Web of Science) search resources. Results/conclusion: The merging of phage display technologies with nanotechnology over the past few years has proved promising and has already shown its vitality and productivity by contributing vigorously to different areas of medicine and technology, such as medical diagnostics and monitoring, molecular imaging, targeted drug and gene delivery, vaccine development, as well as bone and tissue repair.
Decision frames and direct marketing offers: A field study in a fundraising context

One of the major questions facing direct marketing fundraisers is “How much should we ask for?” If the asking amount is too high, fewer people might give. If the asking amount is too low, average donations might be reduced. This study was designed to answer this question. The results are encouraging for direct marketers. The presentation asking range affects the percentage of givers and the size of the gift. This implies that direct marketers can impact the donation choice process by manipulating the presentation of the asking range. This study represents a first step in understanding how context effects might benefit direct marketers.
A note on “Project scheduling with resource constraints: A branch and bound approach”

Abstract This note points out an incorrect Lagrangian relaxation used in N. Christofides, R. Alvarez-Valdes, J.M. Tamarit [European Journal of Operational Research 29 (1987) 262–273] study of the project scheduling problem with resource constraints.
Properties of adaptive walks on uncorrelated landscapes under strong selection and weak mutation.

We examine properties of adaptive walks on uncorrelated (i.e. random) fitness landscapes starting from moderately fit genotypes under strong selection weak mutation. As an extension of Orr’s model for a single step in an adaptive walk under these conditions, we show that the fitness rank of the dominant genotype in a population after the fixation of a beneficial mutation is, on average, ði þ 6Þ=4, where i is the fitness rank of the starting genotype. This accounts for the change in rank due to acquiring a new set of single-mutation neighbors after fixing a new allele through natural selection. Under this scenario, adaptive walks can be modeled as a simple Markov chain on the space of possible fitness ranks with an absorbing state at i ¼ 1, from which no beneficial mutations are accessible. We find that these walks are typically short and are often completed in a single step when starting from a moderately fit genotype. As in Orr’s original model, these results are insensitive to both the distribution of fitness effects and most biological details of the system under consideration. r 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Multiple Recombining Loci Encode MaSp1, the Primary Constituent of Dragline Silk, in Widow Spiders (Latrodectus: Theridiidae)

Spiders spin a functionally diverse array of silk fibers, each composed of one or more unique proteins. Most of these proteins, in turn, are encoded by members of a single gene family thought to have arisen through duplication and divergence of an ancestral silk gene. Because of its remarkable mechanical properties, orb weaver dragline silk, a composite of 2 proteins (MaSp1 and MaSp2), is the best studied. Here, we demonstrate that multiple loci encode MaSp1 in widow spiders (Latrodectus). Because these copies may be the result of more recent duplication events than those leading to the currently recognized silk gene paralogs, they offer insight into the early evolutionary fate of silk gene duplicates. In addition to 3 presumed functional MaSp1 loci in Latrodectus hesperus (Western black widow) and Latrodectus geometricus (brown widow) genomes, we find a MaSp1 pseudogene in L. hesperus, demonstrating the potential for unrecognized extinction of silk gene paralogs. We also document recombination events among L. hesperus MaSp1 loci and between Latrodectus MaSp1 loci and MaSp2. This result supports the hypothesis that concerted evolution occurs not only within an individual silk gene but also among silk gene paralogs. One of the L. geometricus MaSp1 copies encodes a protein that has diverged in amino acid composition and potentially converged on the secondary structure of MaSp2. Based on the presence of multiple MaSp1 loci and the phylogenetic distribution of MaSp1 versus MaSp2, we propose that MaSp2 is derived from an ancestral MaSp1 duplicate. Finally, divergence has occurred in the upstream flanking sequences of the L. hesperus MaSp1 loci, the region most likely to contain regulatory motifs, providing ample opportunity for differential expression. However, the benefits associated with increased protein production may be the primary mechanism maintaining multiple functional MaSp1 copies in widow genomes.
Dynamic magnetoelastic coupling in ferromagnets and antiferromagnets

Recent advances in the theory and application of dynamic magnetoelastic coupling in single-crystal ferromagnets and antiferromagnets are reviewed. As background, a linear model of a magnetoelastic ferromagnet is constructed by demanding that the small-signal equations lead to small-signal power-energy and stress-momentum conservation. Self-consistent boundary conditions are also discussed. Magnetoelastic excitations are reviewed both as waves and quasiparticles and coupled-mode analysis is used to describe the propagation of spin-elastic waves in a crystal subjected to time-varying and/or space-varying magnetic bias fields. In such cases, the character of a wave packet can change. This is especially true for longitudinal-elastic/spin waves propagating in yttrium iron garnet (YIG). Microwave and optical experiments dealing with this important case are recounted; the latter demonstrates that strong Bragg scattering of coherent 1150-nm wavelength laser radiation can be used to allow one to "see" the microwave (1.5 GHz) spin/elastic conversion in detail.
Advanced Cu/Low-k BEOL Integration, Reliability, and Extendibility

This talk will be a detailed discussion of technical aspects of Cu BEOL wiring that may be helpful or essential to preserve it successful migration path. The focus will be on BEOL architecture, integration techniques, their impact on reliability, and their outlooks for 32 nm. The talk will mainly call on new data produced by our Research and Development organizations and their associated alliances.
Individualism/collectivism, charitable giving, and cause-related marketing: a comparison of Chinese and Americans

With the global expansion of cause-related marketing (CRM), advertisers need to know whether and how cultural and societal differences impact attitude toward CRM across markets. To add to that knowledge, the present study identifies two consumer traits, that is, individualism/collectivism and perception of individual charitable giving as a social norm, and investigates and compares their influence on attitude toward CRM. By conducting surveys with Chinese and American samples, the present study found that gender, horizontal collectivism (HC), and perception of individual charitable giving as a social norm were significantly associated with attitude toward CRM in the American sample, whereas horizontal individualism, HC, and vertical collectivism were significant predictors of attitude toward CRM in the Chinese sample. Theoretically, these findings suggest that associations between one cultural dimension and the attitude toward CRM are independent to relationships involving other dimensions. And the particular circumstance of a local market may determine which consumer traits will actually have a significant association with attitude toward CRM. Practically, the findings suggest that advertisers may want to choose social causes that have national impact in China because there is a tendency of achieving egoistic enhancement through individual charitable giving whereas social causes that are relevant to female consumers are better strategic choices in the USA. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors binding a non-classical Cis-element prevent heterochromatin effects on locus control region activity.

Abstract A locus control region (LCR) is a cis-acting gene-regulatory element capable of transferring the expression characteristics of its gene locus of origin to a linked transgene. Furthermore, it can do this independently of the site of integration in the genome of transgenic mice. Although most LCRs contain subelements with classical transcriptional enhancer function, key aspects of LCR activity are supported by cis-acting sequences devoid of the ability to act as direct transcriptional enhancers. Very few of these “non-enhancer” LCR components have been characterized. Consequently, the sequence requirements and molecular bases for their functions, as well as their roles in LCR activity, are poorly understood. We have investigated these questions using the LCR from the mouse T cell receptor (TCR) α/Dad1 gene locus. Here we focus on DNase hypersensitive site (HS) 6 of the TCRα LCR. HS6 does not support classical enhancer activity, yet has gene regulatory activity in an in vivo chromatin context. We have identified three in vivo occupied factor-binding sites within HS6, two of which interact with Runx1 and Elf-1 factors. Deletion of these sites from the LCR impairs its activity in vivo. This mutation renders the transgene locus abnormally inaccessible in chromatin, preventing the normal function of other LCR subelements and reducing transgene mRNA levels. These data show these factor-binding sites are required for preventing heterochromatin formation and indicate that they function to maintain an active TCRα LCR assembly in vivo.
Psychometric properties of the scorable self-care evaluation.

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this study was to examine evidence for the reliability and validity of the Scorable Self-Care Evaluation (SSCE), an 18-item assessment of observed and perceived self-care performance commonly used with persons with psychiatric disabilities. METHOD. As part of a longitudinal study, 70 adults with psychiatric disabilities were administered two cognitive measures, the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test and the Logical Memory subscales of the Weschler Memory Scale, at baseline, and the SSCE at follow-up. After transforming the weighted item scores, intraclass correlation coefficients were used to examine inter-rater reliability and Rasch analysis was used to examine internal consistency of the SSCE. Spearman rank-order correlations were used to examine construct validity. RESULTS. High interrater reliabilities were found for the four subscale scores (ICCs ranging from .96 to 1.00, p < .001) and the total scores (ICC =. 98, p < .001) of the SSCE. Rasch analysis indicated that no items misfit; however, some items showed a weak distribution across all possible scores. The SSCE subscale and total scores correlated to varying degrees with the cognitive measures. CONCLUSION. The SSCE has the potential to be a reliable and valid clinical measure, as demonstrated by the results of the current study. However, these results were only achieved using a transformation of the current scoring system for the SSCE, pointing to the need for further revision of the test items and scoring system.
Protein Kinase Cα Negatively Regulates Systolic and Diastolic Function in Pathological Hypertrophy

The protein kinase C (PKC) family is implicated in cardiac hypertrophy, contractile failure, and β-adrenergic receptor (βAR) dysfunction. Herein, we describe the effects of gain- and loss-of-PKCα function using transgenic expression of conventional PKC isoform translocation modifiers. In contrast to previously studied PKC isoforms, activation of PKCα failed to induce cardiac hypertrophy, but instead caused βAR insensitivity and ventricular dysfunction. PKCα inhibition had opposite effects. Because PKCα is upregulated in human and experimental cardiac hypertrophy and failure, its effects were also assessed in the context of the Gαq overexpression model (in which PKCα is transcriptionally upregulated). Normalization (inhibition) of PKCα activity in Gαq hearts improved systolic and diastolic function, whereas further activation of PKCα caused a lethal restrictive cardiomyopathy with marked interstitial fibrosis. These results define pathological roles for PKCα as a negative regulator of ventricular systolic and diastolic function.
Hybrid DOT and MRI system

Recently, there has been a great deal of interest in further improving the in-vivo characterization of tumors by interrogating tissues with multiple simultaneous image based measurement techniques that provide complementary information about the functional state of the tissue under investigation. Besides offering the possibility of complementary information, multi-modality techniques could also be used to improve the measurements done by either modality as well as providing cross validation measurements. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and near-infrared diffuse optical tomography (DOT) are two techniques that, when combined, provide complementary structural and functional information. MRI can be used to obtain detailed structural and metabolic information regarding tumors. On the other hand, DOT can be used to determine local quantitative information regarding tumor composition and metabolism. Thus, a combined system consisting of MRI and DOT has the potential to enhance understanding of the complex biological processes in tumors. In this work, we describe the design of the hybrid DOT-MRI system.
Management of anastomotic leaks after Roux-en-Y bypass using self-expanding polyester stents

Abstract Background To analyze the outcomes of a series of endoscopically placed polyester self-expanding polyflex stents (SEPSs) for the management of anastomotic leaks after Roux-en-Y bypass. Anastomotic leaks after gastric bypass cause significant morbidity and mortality. Covered polyester SEPSs might have a role in the treatment of these leaks. Methods A retrospective chart review was performed from January 2006 to November 2006 that included all acute and chronic leaks treated with SEPSs. Results A total of 6 patients were treated with stents, with a mean procedure time of 22 minutes. Of these 6 patients, 5 had acute postoperative leaks and 1 had a chronic fistula. Five patients started oral intake 1–6 days after their procedure. All acute leaks had complete healing at a median of 44 days. The patient with a chronic gastrocutaneous fistula required revisional surgery for fistula closure. In addition, 5 patients had stent migration, and 3 required stent replacement. Conclusion An endoscopically placed SEPS provides a less-invasive alternative to treat acute anastomotic leaks after Roux-en-Y bypass while simultaneously allowing oral intake. The results of this case series have demonstrated this treatment to be safe and effective.