cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Regulatory role for SRC and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase in initiation of fibronectin matrix assembly.

Fibronectin (FN) matrix assembly is a tightly regulated stepwise process that is initiated by interactions between FN and cell surface integrin receptors. These interactions activate many intracellular signaling pathways that regulate processes such as cell adhesion, migration, and survival. Here we demonstrate that cells lacking Src family kinases showed reduced ability to assemble FN fibrils as detected by immunofluorescence and by analysis of detergent extracts. The amount of FN matrix was further reduced by treatment with the phosphatidylinositol 3 (PI 3-kinase) inhibitor, wortmannin. CHOα5 cells, which are dependent on exogenous FN to initiate fibril formation, also showed significant reductions in matrix when treated with inhibitors of Src and PI 3-kinase. Combination of both inhibitors showed an additive inhibitory effect on assembly, which was concomitant with a loss of focal adhesion kinase phosphorylation. Decreased binding of the 70-kDa amino-terminal FN fragment at matrix assembly sites further supports a role for these kinases early during the process. We propose that these two signaling molecules, which lie downstream of integrins and focal adhesion kinase, are essential for efficient initiation of FN matrix assembly.
Inter-layer crosstalk management in differential dual-striplines

Dual-stripline is gaining popularity in computer designs to save printed circuit board (PCB) cost and achieve more compact form factor. A key concern in dual-stripline design is the inter-layer crosstalk (ILC). In this paper, differential dual-stripline crosstalk is investigated, and a complete design strategy is provided. In addition to the conventional crosstalk mitigation techniques, an innovative wiring technique is proposed to reduce ILC for parallel dual-striplines. The proposed routing strategy can effectively mitigate the impact of ILC, and, as a result, enable high-density PCB layout, achieve compact form factor, and save the bill of material (BOM) cost.
Multi-dimensional sensitivity analysis and ecological implications of a nutrient uptake model

Mechanistic models of nutrient uptake are essential to the study of plant-soil interactions. In these models, uptake rates depend on the supply of the nutrient through the soil and the uptake capacity of the roots. The behaviour of the models is complex, although only six to ten parameters are used. Our goal was to demonstrate a comprehensive and efficient method of exploring a steady-state uptake model with variation in parameters across a range of values described in the literature. We employed two analytical techniques: the first a statistical analysis of variance, and the second a graphical representation of the simulated response surface. The quantitative statistical technique allows objective comparison of parameter and interaction sensitivity. The graphical technique uses a judicious arrangement of figures to present the shape of the response surface in five dimensions. We found that the most important parameters controlling uptake per unit length of root are the average dissolved nutrient concentration and the maximal rate of nutrient uptake. Root radius is influential if rates are expressed per unit root length; on a surface area basis, this parameter is less important. The next most important parameter is the effective diffusion coefficient, especially in the uptake of phosphorus. The interactions of parameters were extremely important and included three and four dimensional effects. For example, limitation by maximal nutrient influx rate is approached more rapidly with increasing nutrient solution concentration when the effective diffusion coefficient is high. We also note the ecological implications of the response surface. For example, in nutrient-limited conditions, the rate of uptake is best augmented by extending root length; when nutrients are plentiful increasing uptake kinetics will have greater effect.
Wavelet analysis of condensed phase molecular dynamics

Abstract A novel application of wavelet analysis to the characterization of many-body dynamics is described. In this approach, the velocities of particles in a molecular dynamics simulation are decomposed into contributions from a hierarchy of time scales. A scale spectrum is defined, in analogy with conventional spectral densities, which gives the effective average “temperature” of the resulting scales of motion. The method is applied to simulations of solid and liquid argon, and the signatures of liquid—solid phase transition in the results of the wavelet analysis are investigated.
Study of Folic Acid and Vit. B12 in Blood and Urine During Normal Pregnancy.

SummaryA comparison of PGA and vit. B12 levels in blood and urine during pregnancy shows that levels of PGA are high, and those of B12 are low. Possible explanations for these findings are discussed.
Methane production and consumption monitored by stable H and C isotope ratios at a crude oil spill site, Bemidji, Minnesota

Abstract Stable isotopic ratios of C and H in dissolved CH4 and C in dissolved inorganic C in the ground water of a crude-oil spill near Bemidji, Minnesota, support the concept of CH4 production by acetate fermentation with a contemporaneous increase in HCO3− concentration. Methane concentrations in the saturated zone decrease from 20.6 mg L−1 to less than 0.001 mg L−1 along the investigated flow path. Dissolved N2 and Ar concentrations in the ground water below the oil plume are 25 times lower than background; this suggests that gas exsolution is removing dissolved CH4 (along with other dissolved gases) from the ground water. Oxidation of dissolved CH4 along the flow path seems to be minimal because no measurable change in isotopic composition of CH4 occurs with distance from the oil body. However, CH4 is partly oxidized to CO2 as it diffuses upward from the ground water through a 5- to 7-m thick unsaturated zone; theδ13C of the remaining CH4 increases, theδ13C of the CO2 decreases, and the partial pressure of CO2 increases. Calculations of C fluxes in the saturated and unsaturated zones originating from the degradation of the oil plume lead to a minimum estimated life expectancy of 110 years. This is a minimum estimate because the degradation of the oil body should slow down with time as its more volatile and reactive components are leached out and preferentially oxidized. The calculated life expectancy is an order of magnitude estimate because of the uncertainty in the average linear ground-water velocities and because of the factor of 2 uncertainty in the calculation of the effective CO2 diffusion coefficient.
Possible improvement on the general test of the CPT theorem at a φ-factory

Abstract We discuss the current test of the CPT theorem and limits from K °- K stems. Contrary to common belief, CPT could be broken at a level comparable to CO violation. Limits that come from Im(ϵ′/ϵ) tests rely on a non-zero ϵ′ and current estimates of the t quark mass may suggest ϵ′/ϵ is very small. We report the possible limit that could be achieved at a φ factory. Recent measurements of φ+− in E731 and NA31 are > 1σ from the expectations of CPT invariance.
General Correction for Electrode Sphericity in Voltammetry of Nernstian Systems

Abstract The current is considered at a stationary reversible spherical electrode whose potential E(t) as a function of time is given, such that E(t) determines the ratio of oxidized to reduced species at the electrode surface. Writing the current as that for planar geometry, I 0 , plus corrections for sphericity, we derive formulae for the corrections. The first two are expressed as integrals over I 0 , with no explicit dependence on the potential, for any form of E(t) , and whether the reduced species diffuses into the electrode or into the solution. If the ratio of diffusion constants for oxidized and reduced species is taken as unity, and if oxidized and reduced species are both in the solution, the corrections become extremely simple (no integrations or differentiations), regardless of the form of E(t) . The first correction is evaluated in several cases where this does not obtain.
Effect of Positive, Negative, and Mixed Occupational Information on Cognitive and Affective Complexity.

Abstract A series of concentrated research studies over the past 8 years has significantly demonstrated that cognitive complexity in the vocational realm is positively related to congruence or appropriateness of vocational choice. Moreover, research has shown that introducing occupational information significantly reduces, rather than increases, cognitive complexity. The results of the study reported here relate to changes in cognitive complexity as a function of the type of occupational information introduced, namely, information with respect to the advantages of occupations; the disadvantages of occupations, or a combination of positive and negative features of occupations. Our results clearly demonstrated that while positive occupational information alone leads to greater simplicity, negative or mixed information significantly retards the trend toward greater simplicity. Results are discussed from both theoretical and practical perspectives, especially with reference to the typical occupational information provided in routine vocational counseling.
A mechanism for the formation in vivo of the 8-methyl ether of xanthurenic acid in humans

Abstract The mechanism of formation of the tryptophan metabolite, xanthurenic acid 8-methyl ether, has been open to question since it was shown to occur in the urine of humans. To investigate possible pathways, human subjects were given l -methionine-methyl- 14 C, l -kynurenine-keto- 14 C, 3-hydroxy- l -kynurenine-keto- 14 C, or xanthurenic acid-4- 14 C. Analysis of urine by ion exchange chromatography, paper chromatography and carier isolations showed that the methyl group of xanthurenic acid 8-methyl ether came from l -methionine-methyl- 14 C. The xanthurenic acid 8-methyl ether accounted for 0.005–0.038% of the dose of l -methionine-methyl- 14 C. Keto - 14 C labeled l -kynurenine and 3-hydroxy- l -kynurenine were both converted to xanthurenic acid 8-methyl ether, but accounted for only 0.015 and 0.028% of the dose, respectively. Xanthurenic acid-4- 14 C also gave rise to labeled xanthurenic acid 8-methyl ether in four human subjects, with this metabolite accounting for 0.045–0.15% of the dose. No urinary 3-methoxykynurenine was detected, but labeled 3-methoxyanthranilic acid (from l -methionine-methyl- 14 C) was detected. These data indicate that xanthurenic acid may be methylated directly to form xanthurenic acid 8-methyl ether in humans. Since 3-methoxykynurenine could not be detected, it is suggested that 3-methoxyanthranilic acid is formed by methylation of 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid rather than from 3-methoxykynurenine, although the transient presence of the latter cannot be excluded.
Rotator cuff repair after shoulder replacement.

Development of a rotator cuff tear after shoulder arthroplasty can adversely affect outcome. To assess the results of a subsequent procedure to repair the torn cuff, we reviewed all shoulder arthroplasties performed at our institution to identify patients who had a subsequent operation for cuff repair with or without component revision. We identified 19 patients and 20 involved shoulders. One patient was lost to follow-up, and one was excluded because the subsequent cuff repair could not be adequately accomplished. Patients were studied retrospectively a mean of 9.1 years after cuff repair by analysis of prospectively collected data supplemented by use of a questionnaire (10 shoulders). The presence of the tear was diagnosed preoperatively by physical examination or routine radiographs in 13 shoulders, an arthrogram in 3, and surgical exploration in 2. The tear involved the subscapularis in 7 shoulders, the supraspinatus in 15, and the infraspinatus in 8. Rotator cuff repair was successful in only 4 shoulders and was unsuccessful in the remaining 14. Pain was absent in 4 shoulders, slight in 6, occasionally moderate in 5, and moderate in 3. The mean visual analog pain score was 5.6. Range of motion was limited, with mean values for elevation of 78° and external rotation of 54°. Because results of subsequent cuff repair are poor, every attempt should be made to repair the cuff securely and carefully direct postoperative physical therapy.
Decoupling Policy and Practice: How Life Scientists Respond to Ethics Education.

Many graduate programmes in science now require courses in ethics. However, little is known about their reception or use. Using websites and interviews, this essay examines ethics requirements in the field of biosciences in three countries (the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and Italy) between 2000 and 2005. Evidence suggests that current policies may be ineffective, and that scientists who take ethical issues seriously are seen as exceptional.
Analysis of five-year trends in self-reported language preference and issues of item non-response among Hispanic persons in a large cross-sectional health survey: implications for the measurement of an ethnic minority population

Significant differences in health outcomes have been documented among Hispanic persons, the fastest-growing demographic segment of the United States. The objective of this study was to examine trends in population growth and the collection of health data among Hispanic persons, including issues of language preference and survey completion using a national health survey to highlight issues of measurement of an increasingly important demographic segment of the United States. Data from the 2003-2007 United States Census and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were used to compare trends in population growth and survey sample size as well as differences in survey response based on language preference among a Hispanic population. Percentages of item non-response on selected survey questions were compared for Hispanic respondents choosing to complete the survey in Spanish and those choosing to complete the survey in English. The mean number of attempts to complete the survey was also compared based on language preference among Hispanic respondents. The sample size of Hispanic persons in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System saw little growth compared to the actual growth of the Hispanic population in the United States. Significant differences in survey item non-response for nine of 15 survey questions were seen based on language preference. Hispanic respondents choosing to complete the survey in Spanish had a significantly fewer number of call attempts for survey completion compared to their Hispanic counterparts choosing to communicate in English. Including additional measures of acculturation and increasing the sample size of Hispanic persons in a national health survey such as the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System may result in more precise findings that could be used to better target prevention and health care needs for an ethnic minority population.
A constructive algorithm for stabilization of nonlinear neutral time-delayed systems occurring in bioengineering

A criterion is given for the stabilization of the trivial solutions solution of a nonlinear functional differential equation of neutral type occurring in bioengineering under the assumptions of continuity and boundedness of the coefficients. The criterion is a condition on the roots of a certain ‘quasi-polynomial’, i.e. a polynomial in a variable and exponential of that variable. The derivation is based on a constructive algorithm which generates a stabilizing control. The method is illustrated by the construction of stabilizing control for a smooth per suit eye movement system. It is shown that for the synthesis of required control function it is unnecessary in a number of cases to solve the corresponding Riccati matrix equation; rather, it is sufficient to find the roots of a certain ‘quasi-polynomial’, i.e. a polynomial in a variable and exponential of that variable. The model of the smooth pursuit eye movement system can be mathematically described by a set of nonlinear, neutral, functional differenti...
Unusual presentation of hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies

Hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies (HNPP) is an autosomal-dominant painless peripheral neuropathy characterized by episodes of repeated focal pressure neuropathies at sites of entrapment/compression, with a considerable variability in the clinical course. Electrodiagnostic and genetic testing are important in the diagnostic evaluation of these patients. We report an unusual HNPP phenotype, five compression neuropathies in four nerves in a patient with bilateral hand numbness. A 42-year-old female, presented with acute bilateral paresthesias and weakness in her hands after starting yoga exercises requiring hyperextension of her hands at the wrists. Her presentation was complicated by: a) a remote history of acute onset foot drop and subsequent improvement, b) previous diagnoses of demyelinating peripheral neuropathy, possibly Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, and c) exposure to leprosy. Electrodiagnostic testing showed 5 separate compression neuropathies in 4 nerves including: severe left and right ulnar neuropathies at the wrist, left and right median neuropathies at the wrist and left ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. There was a mild generalized, primarily demyelinating, peripheral polyneuropathy. Based on the clinical suspicion and electrodiagnostic findings, consistent with profound demyelination in areas of compression, genetic analysis was done which identified a deletion of the PMP-22 gene consistent with HNPP. HNPP can present with unusual phenotypes, such as 5 separate mononeuropathies, bilateral ulnar and median neuropathies at the wrists and ulnar neuropathy at the elbow with mild peripheral demyelinating polyneuropathy associated with the PMP-22 gene deletion.
Ultra fast track in elective congenital cardiac surgery

Abstract Background . Changes in healthcare delivery have affected the practice of congenital cardiac surgery. We recently developed a strategy of limited sternotomy, early extubation, and very early discharge, and reviewed the perioperative course of 198 pediatric patients undergoing elective cardiovascular surgical procedures, to assess the efficacy and safety of this approach. Methods . One hundred ninety-eight patients aged 0 to 18 years (median 3.2 years) underwent 201 elective cardiovascular surgical procedures over a 1-year period. All patients were admitted on the day of surgery. Patients were divided into six diagnostic groups: group 1, complex left-to-right shunts (n = 14, 7.0%); group 2, simple left-to-right shunts (n = 83, 41.3%); group 3, right-to-left shunts with pulmonary obstruction (n = 33, 16.4%); group 4, isolated, nonvalvular obstructive lesions (n = 30, 14.9%); group 5, isolated valvular anomalies (n = 20, 10.0%); and group 6, miscellaneous (n = 21, 10.4%). Results . After 201 procedures, 175 patients (87.1%) were extubated in the operating room and 188 (93.6%) within 4 hours from operation. Four patients (2.0%) were extubated more than 24 hours from completion of the procedure, and 2 (1.0%) died while on respiratory support (never weaned). Five patients (2.6%) failed early extubation ( Conclusions . Selected patients with a broad spectrum of congenital heart disease may enjoy same-day admission, limited sternotomy, immediate extubation, and very early discharge with excellent outcomes and acceptable morbidity.
Minor honeybee plants of Louisiana indicated by pollen analysis

Analysis of 54 Louisiana honey samples revealed 23 species of minor honeybee plants (pollen contribution 1–15%). These species, in order of decreasing frequency of occurrence in the honey samples, were:Gleditsia spp., honey locust and water locust;Quercus spp., oak;Vitis spp., grape;Ilex spp., holly;Fraxinus spp., ash;Nyssa spp., tupelo and black-gum; Poaceae, Grass Family;Mimosa strigillosa, mimosa;Vicia spp., vetch;Verbena spp., vervain;Castaneapumila, chinquapin;Ulmus spp., elm;Trifolium incarnatum, crimson clover;Ligustrum spp., privet;Celtis laevigata, hackberry or sugarberry;Forestiera acuminata, swamp privet;Ampelopsis spp., peppervine;Allium spp., onion, garlic, or leek;Cassia fasciculata, partridge pea;Cercis canadensis, redbud; Chenopodiaceae, Goosefoot Family;Polygonum spp., smartweed;Brunnichia ovata, eardrop vine. Pollen-type descriptions and brief plant descriptions are given for the minor honeybee flora. Trace pollen types (pollen contributions <1%) are listed.
Asia and the new century: challenges and opportunities

Asia is the world’s largest and most culturally diverse region. Consisting of some 53 independent nations with a combined population of more than 3808 million persons – 59% of the world’s total population in 2005 – patterns of social and economic development in the region have been comparatively slow, especially with respect to rates of economic expansion, protection of human rights, environmental protection, and the extension of social protections to the region’s historically vulnerable population groups – including women, children, the aged, persons with disabilities and others. Continuing high rates of population growth, in combination with long-standing internal and intra-regional conflicts, compounds the difficulties experienced by Asian leaders in achieving more ambitious development objectives. This paper reports on the Asian region’s social development successes and challenges for the 35-year period beginning in 1970. Data are reported at three levels of analysis: (1) for the region-as-a-whole; (2) for each of Asia’s four major subregions; and (3) for 45 of the region’s most populous countries. The picture that emerges from this analysis is that, for the region-as-a-whole, Asia’s development remains both asynchronous and heterogeneous, i.e., inconsistent and uneven development across a broad range of inter-dependent socio-economic sectors. Some nations within the region, however, realized extraordinary social progress during the period studied and the lessons they offer may provide important insights into the development strategies adopted by other nations both within and outside Asia.
Sex‐specific association of the reelin gene with bipolar disorder

The Reelin gene (RELN) encodes a secretory glycoprotein critical for brain development and synaptic plasticity. Post-mortem studies have shown lower Reelin protein levels in the brains of patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder (BP) compared with controls. In a recent genomewide association study of schizophrenia, the strongest association was found in a marker within RELN, although this association was seen only in women. In this study, we investigated whether genetic variation in RELN is associated with BP in a large family sample. We genotyped 75 tagSNPs and 6 coding SNPs in 1,188 individuals from 318 nuclear families, including 554 affected offspring. Quality control measures, transmission-disequilibrium tests (TDTs), and empirical simulations were performed in PLINK. We found a significant overtransmission of the C allele of rs362719 to BP offspring (OR = 1.47, P = 5.9 × 10 –4 ); this withstood empirical correction for testing of multiple markers (empirical P = 0.048). In a hypothesis-driven secondary analysis, we found that the association with rs362719 was almost entirely accounted for by overtransmission of the putative risk allele to affected females (ORFemale = 1.79, P = 8.9 × 10 –5 vs. ORMale = 1.12, P = 0.63). These results provide preliminary evidence that genetic variation in RELN is associated with susceptibility to BP and, in particular, to BP in females. However, our findings should be interpreted with caution until further replication and functional assays provide convergent support.
Flat-field correction technique for digital detectors

The effects of the stationary noise patterns and variable pixel responses that commonly occur with uniform exposure of digital detectors can be effectively reduced by simple 'flat- field' image processing methods. These methods are based upon a linear system response and the acquisition of an image (or images) acquired at a high exposure to create an inverse matrix of values that when applied to an uncorrected image, remove the effects of the stationary noise components. System performance is optimized when the correction image is totally free of statistical variations. However, the stationary noise patterns will not be effectively removed for flat-field images that are acquired at a relatively low exposure or for systems with non-linear response to incident exposure variations. A reduction in image quality occurs with the incomplete removal of the stationary noise patterns, resulting in a loss of detective quantum efficiency of the system. A more flexible approach to the global flat-field correction methodology is investigated using a pixel by pixel least squares fit to 'synthesize' a variable flat-field image based upon the pixel value (incident exposure) of the image to be corrected. All of the information is stored in two 'equivalent images' containing the slope and intercept parameters. The methodology provides an improvement in the detective quantum efficiency (DQE) due to the greater immunity of the stationary noise variation encoded in the slope/intercept parameters calculated on a pixel by pixel basis over a range of incident exposures. When the raw image contains a wide range of incident exposures (e.g., transmission through an object) the variable exposure flat-field correction methodology proposed here provides an improved match to the fixed-point noise superimposed in the uncorrected image, particularly for the higher spatial frequencies in the image as demonstrated by DQE(f) measurements. Successful application to clinical digital mammography biopsy images has been demonstrated, and benefit to other digital detectors appears likely.
The deployment of three prototype detectors for reactor monitoring and safeguards

Fission reactors emit large numbers of antineutrinos and this flux may be useful for the measurement of two quantities of interest for reactor safeguards: the reactor's power and plutonium inventory throughout its cycle. The high antineutrino flux and relatively low background rates means that simple cubic meter scale detectors at tens of meters standoff can record hundreds or thousands of antineutrino events per day. Such antineutrino detectors would add online, quasi-real-time bulk material accountancy to the set of reactor monitoring tools available to the IAEA and other safeguards agencies with minimal impact on reactor operations. Our LLNL/SNL collaboration has deployed a total of three prototype safeguards detectors at a reactor in Southern California in order to test both the method and the practicality of its implementation in the field. Results from these detectors will be presented, and their respective advantages and disadvantages described. LLNL-POST-404014 This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in part under Contract W-7405-Eng-48 and in part under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344. Sandia National Laboratories is a multiprogram laboratory operated by Sandia Corporation, a Lockheed Martin Company, for the United States Department of Energy under contract DE-AC04-94AL85000.
Integration of batteries with ultracapacitors for a fuel cell hybrid transit bus

Abstract Battery electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles require electric energy storage systems that exhibit high energy and power density, as well as good cycle life. Batteries possess good energy density, whereas ultracapacitors possess high power density and cycle life. The complementary features of batteries and ultracapacitors can be advantageously combined to create an integrated system that exhibits high performance with low weight and adequate battery lifetime, at an affordable cost. This paper presents simulation studies on the benefits of adding ultracapacitors to a fuel cell battery hybrid transit bus operating on two standardized driving schedules (Manhattan Bus Cycle and UDDS). Simulations were conducted using our LFM powertrain simulator which was developed in MATLAB/SIMULINK. The energy storage systems considered here include battery only, as well as various combinations of batteries and ultracapacitors. Simulation results show that the addition of ultracapacitors greatly improves performance parameters such as battery C -rates, energy throughput, and energy storage heat generation at comparable cost and weight.
TWO-DIMENSIONAL NUMERICAL MODELING OF STORM DEPOSITION ON THE NORTHERN CALIFORNIA SHELF

Abstract A two-dimensional, across-shelf sediment-transport model has been developed to simulate storm deposition on continental shelves. This paper describes the structure of the model and related algorithms. In the model, the time-dependent sediment resuspension, transportation and deposition, and across-shelf transport gradients are simulated as responses to storm waves on the Eel shelf, northern California. The simulations show that the pattern of storm deposition on the sandy inner shelf is different from that on the muddy middle and outer shelf. Storm-bed thickness decreases seaward across the inner-shelf sandy zone as far as the 50-m isobath. Farther seaward, storm-bed thickness increases as the mud component in the sea floor becomes abundant, then decreases again, as the weakening of bottom-wave motion with greater depth becomes the dominant control. Storm-bed thickness in the mud zone thus has a nearly symmetrical cross-shelf pattern, with the maximum thickness at a water depth of 70 m. The pattern suggests that while the sequence of new beds found in February 1995 on the Eel shelf may have had a flood source, their geometry reflects storm resuspension and transport. The new muds found in these beds may have been reworked, transported and redeposited several times by storm waves and other oceanic forces. Numerical simulations illustrate that the critical bottom shear stress for mud erosion, τe, and the coefficient for sand resuspension, γ0, are more important than other parameters in determining storm depositional patterns on the Eel shelf.
Modeling of elastic buckling of carbon nanotubes by molecular structural mechanics approach

This paper reports the elastic buckling behavior of carbon nanotubes. Both axial compression and bending loading conditions are considered. The modeling work employs the molecular structural mechanics approach for individual nanotubes and considers van der Waals interaction in multi-walled nanotubes. The effects of nanotube diameter, aspect ratio, and tube chirality on the buckling force are investigated. Computational results indicate that the buckling force in axial compression is higher than that in bending, and the buckling forces for both compression and bending decrease with the increase in nanotube aspect ratio. The trends of variation of buckling forces with nanotube diameter are similar for single-walled and double-walled carbon nanotubes. Compared to a single-walled nanotube of the same inner diameter, the double-walled carbon nanotube shows a higher axial compressive buckling load, which mainly results from the increase of cross-sectional area, but no enhancement in bending load-bearing capacity. The buckling forces of nanotubes predicted by the continuum beam or column models are significantly different from those predicted by the atomistic model.
Double Aortic Arch Associated with Coarctation of the Aorta: Surgically Treated Patient

The case of a 25-year-old man with double aortic arch, coarctation of the left arch and stenosis of the right arch is reported. The usual clinical signs of coarctation of the aorta were exhibited. A vascular malformation in association with the coarctation was suspected from the roentgenoscopic examination, which revealed esophageal compression in the upper part of the thorax. No symptoms of esophageal or tracheal dysfunction were present. Treatment consisted in resection of the area of coarctation in the left arch with end-to-end anastomosis of this arch. The continuity of the right arch was interrupted. The postoperative course of the patient was good.
Stoichiometry of STAT3 and mitochondrial proteins: implications for the regulation of oxidative phosphorylation by protein-protein interactions

The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a transcription factor and downstream product of cytokine and growth factor pathways. Among members of the STAT family, STAT3 has garnered particular interest due to its role in cancer and development. Recently, it was proposed that STAT3 regulates cardiac ATP generation in vivo through protein interaction with the mitochondrial complexes of oxidative phosphorylation, specifically Complexes I/II. For this mechanism to work effectively, the cellular ratio of Complexes I/II and STAT3 must approach one. However, using three different proteomic approaches in cardiac tissue, we determined the ratio of Complexes I/II and STAT3 to be ∼105. This finding suggests that direct protein interaction between Complexes I/II and STAT3 cannot be required for optimal ATP production, nor can it dramatically modulate oxidative phosphorylation in vivo. Thus, STAT3 is likely altering mitochondrial function via transcriptional regulation or indirect signaling pathways that warrant further investigation.
Emissions of Carbonyl Compounds from Various Cookstoves in China

This paper presents a new database of carbonyl emission factors for commonly used cookstoves in China. The emission factors, reported both on a fuel-mass basis (mg/kg) and on a defined cooking-task basis (mg/task), were determined using a carbon balance approach for 22 types of fuel/stove combinations. These include various stoves (e.g., traditional, improved, brick, and metal, with and without flue) using different species of crop residues and wood, kerosene, and several types of coals and gases. The results show that all the tested cookstoves produced formaldehyde and acetaldehyde and that the vast majority of the biomass stoves produced additional carbonyl compounds such as acetone, acrolein, propionaldehyde, crotonaldehyde, 2-butanone, isobutyraldehyde, butyraldehyde, isovaleraldehyde, valeraldehyde, hexaldehyde, benzaldehyde, o-tolualdehyde, m,p-tolualdehyde, and 2,4-dimethylbenzaldehyde. Carbonyls other than formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, however, were rarely generated by burning coal, coal gas, and...
Evaluation of two new gadolinium chelates as contrast agents for MRI.

Abstract Two new gadolinium chelates were investigated for potential use as tissue-specific contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging. In vitro measurements of stability constants, octanol/water partition coefficients and relaxation times in solutions of water and human serum albumin (HSA) were performed with each new chelate and compared with gadolinium-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid, Gd(DTPA). Biodistribution studies and magnetic resonance imaging in rats were used to evaluate the new chelates in vivo. The stability constants (log K) of gadolinium- N,N″ -bis(3-hydroxy-6-methyl-2-pyridylmethyl)diethylenetriamine- N,N′,N″ -triacetic acid, Gd(DTTA-HP), and gadolinium-1,7-13-triaza-4,10-16-trioxacyclooctadecane- N,N′,N″ -triacetic acid, Gd(TTCT), were determined to be 23.65 and 18.07, respectively. These can be compared to a literature value of 22.46 for Gd(DTPA). Octanol/water partition coefficients for both complexes showed they were more lipophilic than Gd(DTPA). Gd(DTTA-HP) exhibited a smaller relaxivity in water but a larger relaxivity in 4% HSA than Gd(DTPA). Gd(TTCT) exhibited a lower relaxivity than Gd(DTPA) in both water and 4% HSA. Both complexes showed similar biodistributions to Gd(DTPA) no carrier-added concentrations. Gd(DTTA-HP) had a greater percent change in signal intensity than Gd(DTPA) on T 1 -weighted spin-echo images in the heart, liver, and kidney. Percent change in signal intensity for Gd(TTCT) was lower than Gd(DTPA) in heart, liver, and kidney.
Dynamics of a circular membrane with an eccentric circular areal constraint: Analysis and accurate simulations

Abstract The dynamics of a circular membrane with an eccentric circular areal constraint is studied under arbitrary initial conditions. The symmetric and antisymmetric modes of vibrations are investigated and the results are compared with those in the literature. The accuracy of the eigenfrequencies and mode shapes are studied for different sizes and locations of the constraint and it is shown that proper choice of the number of angular modes is critical to accurate computation of the mode shapes; fewer or more number of angular modes can provide relatively accurate eigenfrequencies but completely inaccurate mode shapes. The orthogonality of distinct modes of constrained membranes is mathematically established in this work. The orthogonality property of the modes is used to compute the modal coefficients for simulation of the dynamics. In comparison to prior work, where the objective has been limited to computing the first few eigenfrequencies, this work presents a method for accurately computing the eigenfrequencies, mode shapes, and modal coefficients needed for dynamics simulation. Numerical simulations and video animations of vibration of constrained membranes are presented for arbitrary initial conditions.
SMALL GENOMES TAKE FLIGHT

![Figure][1] Flight evokes awe among us largely earth-bound creatures and the anatomical and physiological adaptations underlying aerial locomotion remain of great interest to scientists and the general public alike. Within extant vertebrates, birds and bats exemplify the notion that there is
GPIHBP1 and the processing of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins

GPIHBP1 is a new addition to a group of proteins required for the lipolysis of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. GPIHBP1 contains an acidic domain and an Ly6 domain with ten cysteines. GPIHBP1 binds lipoprotein lipase avidly and probably tethers lipoprotein lipase to the luminal surface of capillaries. Inactivation of Gpihbp1 in mice is associated with milky plasma and severe chylomicronemia, even on a low-fat chow diet. Recently, four missense mutations in GPIHBP1 were identified in humans with severe chylomicronemia (C65Y, C65S, C68G and Q115P). All four mutations involve highly conserved residues within GPIHBP1’s Ly6 domain. This article provides an update on GPIHBP1’s role in the processing of chylomicrons and the pathogenesis of chylomicronemia.
Effects of conformational distributions on sigma profiles in COSMO theories.

The charge density or sigma profile of a solute molecule is an essential component in COSMO (conductor-like screen model) based solvation theories, and its generation depends on the molecular conformation used. The usual procedure is to determine the conformation of an isolated molecule, and assume that this is unchanged when the molecule is placed in solution. In this paper, the conformations of 1-hexanol and 2-methoxy-ethanol in both the liquid and vapor phases obtained from Gibbs ensemble simulation and from an isolated-molecule quantum DFT optimization are used to determine the effect of realistic conformation differences on COSMO-based properties predictions. In particular, the vapor pressure at the normal boiling temperature and the binary mixture VLE (vapor-liquid equilibrium) predictions obtained using different conformations are investigated. The results show that the sigma profile for 1-hexanol varies only slightly using the different conformations, while the sigma profile of 2-methoxy-ethanol s...
Preparation of deuterated arachidonic acid

Publisher Summary It is reported preparation of [ 2 H 8 ]arachidonic acid from the precursor tetraacetylene eicosatetraynoic procedures gave rise to substantial double-bond isomerization and isotopic scrambling, leading to mixtures that yielded after purification only small quantities of the desired product. This chapter presents new preparation of deuterated arachidonic acid. For preparation of [ 2 H 8 ]arachidonate, round-bottom flask is charged with methyl [ 2 H 8 ]arachidonate, dimethoxyethane, and LiOH. The mixture is flushed with N 2 , then stirred at 60 ° under an N 2 atmosphere. The reaction mixture was diluted with aqueous hydrochloric acid and extracted with CH 2 Cl 2 . The organic extracts were combined, dried over Na 2 SO 4 , filtered, and concentrated under vaccuum. The residue is taken up in methanol and chromatographed on a Waters μBondapak. Fractions are collected, and an aliquot of each was counted. The arachidonic acid usually appeared in fractions 52-64, with 95% recovery of applied radioactivity.
A new mathematical continuum theory of axoplasmic transport

Abstract The hypothesis is advanced that successive waves of apparent contraction-relaxation (due perhaps to filament sliding) propagate along the filamentous proteins that pierce axoplasm oriented parallel to the axon length. A mathematical continuum model is developed to characterize the flow that could result in the viscous fluid bathing the moving filamentous proteins. This flow is complicated and oscillatory in time and space, but, on the average, it yields a bi-directional drift of fluid. It would transport various substances riding in the fluid, soluble and particulate, at various distinct speeds both up and down the axon. The model can thus account qualitatively for many observed features of axoplasmic transport.
Parallel anti-symmetric waveguide bragg gratings

We theoretically demonstrate parallel anti-symmetric waveguide Bragg gratings within a two-mode waveguide with mode conversions. This is the functional equivalent of superimposed Bragg gratings in silica-on-silicon without requiring multi-level etches.
Effect of Smoking and Gender on Pulmonary Function and Clinical Features in Sarcoidosis

The effect of cigarette smoking on the clinical manifestations and progression of sarcoidosis is not well characterized. We sought to determine the effects of smoking in sarcoidosis patients and to evaluate for gender-specific differences. We examined the effects of cigarette smoking in 518 patients seen at the Sarcoidosis and Interstitial Lung Disease Center at Wayne State University using radiographic pattern, pulmonary function testing, and clinical features of the disease. We performed a separate analysis to evaluate for gender-specific differences based on smoking history. We found that smokers had significantly lower FEV1 and FEV1/FVC values. Total lung capacity was not significantly different between smokers and nonsmokers, but diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) was significantly reduced in smokers. Gender-based statistical analysis showed a marked decrease in DLCO values among female smokers. Smokers were also found to have a higher incidence of extrapulmonary involvement as multivariate regression analysis demonstrated that both smoking and female gender are significantly associated with the development of extrapulmonary manifestations. Our data indicate that both cigarette smoking and gender are important in shaping the clinical manifestations of sarcoidosis. The nature of the gender difference requires further study and may be related to differences in inflammatory response.
Preparation of metals for plating: Ring shear tests

Abstract Ring shear tests for measuring the adhesion of metal deposits were used to evaluate methods of preparing the following substrates for plating: beryllium—copper; SA 106 and 4130 steels; 17-4 PH, 405, 410 and 416 stainless steels; and thorium.
Techniques for generating uniform charged particles of hydrogen isotopes

Abstract An apparatus has been built which is capable of generating uniform charged particles of hydrogen isotopes. Two unrelated physical processes are used to produce charged jets of controlled size and current. The jets later break up into uniform sized charged droplets. In both processes, charging of the liquid is accomplished by placing a sharp electrode inside the liquid and by raising it to a high potential. The first process is to electrostatistically spray the charged liquid to form a fine jet of controlled size and current, whereas the second process is Rayleigh's method of uniform droplet production. This method consists of breaking up a smooth jet of predetermined size into uniform drops using an externally excited acoustic wave. Uniform charged particles with charges up to one-third of the Rayleigh limit were generated through the first process, while in the second process the maximum charge was approximately one-quarter of the Rayleigh limit. A wide range of sizes can be produced using either process.
Molecular Ordering in HIV-induced Apoptosis OXIDATIVE STRESS, ACTIVATION OF CASPASES, AND CELL SURVIVAL ARE REGULATED BY TRANSALDOLASE

Dysregulated apoptosis may underlie the etiology of T cell depletion by human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). We show that HIV-induced apoptosis is preceded by an exponential increase in reactive oxygen intermediates (ROIs) produced in mitochondria. This leads to caspase-3 activation, phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization, and GSH depletion. Since mitochondrial ROI levels are regulated by the supply of NADPH from the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), the effect of transaldolase (TAL), a key enzyme of PPP, was investigated. Jurkat and H9 human CD4+ T cells were transfected with TAL expression vectors oriented in the sense or antisense direction. TAL overexpression down-regulated glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities and GSH levels. Alternatively, decreased TAL expression up-regulated glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activities and GSH levels. HIV-induced 1) mitochondrial ROI production, 2) caspase-3 activation, 3) proteolysis of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, and 4) PS externalization were accelerated in cells overexpressing TAL. In contrast, suppression of TAL abrogated these four activities. Thus, susceptibility to HIV-induced apoptosis can be regulated by TAL through controlling the balance between mitochondrial ROI production and the metabolic supply of reducing equivalents by the PPP. The dominant effect of TAL expression on oxidative stress, caspase activation, PS externalization, and cell death suggests that this balance plays a pivotal role in HIV-induced apoptosis.
Determination of sources of lead in tap water by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)

We measured the concentrations of Pb and its isotope ratios in coconmittantly obtained tap water and plumbing materials by inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The Pb concentrations were determined by external calibration with209Bi as an internal standard. Isotope ratios were measured and mass discrimination corrected by normalization to NIST SRM-981 (common lead isotopic standard). Student/s t-test was used to compare the isotopic ratios of206Pb/207Pb,206Pb/208Pb, and207Pb/208Pb in the tap water with those in various plumbing materials. The comparisons revealed that the source of Pb in most of the tap water samples was derived from copper pipe or solder.
Federal control over education: Crisis, deception, and institutional change

Abstract This paper analyzes the emergence of two key statutes which first established comprehensive federal controls over education in the United States, the National Defense Education Act of 1958 and the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. The U.S. experience in establishing federal control over education is examined against a model of institutional change grounded in the economics of political transaction-cost manipulation. Detailed examination of relevant congressional documents shows the roles of real and feigned crisis and of deliberate deception in effecting acceptance of federal control over education.