cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On-line optimization of gas pipeline networks

Abstract Compressor stations in gas transmission systems consume significant amounts of energy. Currently, operating policies for these stations in the face of varying demand are established by trial and error using simulators. The control of these systems is a challenging task due to the systems' large dimensions, their non-linearity, and the operational constraint present. In addition, the number of measurements is small and the system states are not known. In this paper a general on-line optimization scheme for the operation of gas pipeline networks is presented. It is built around the dynamic simulator GANESI. This simulator is used to predict the behavior of the network when it is subject to any operating policy; a successive quadratic programming optimizer is used to compute the optimal of such operating policies. In order to correct for modelling errors, demand forecast errors and errors in the initial conditions, the on-line measurements are used in a state estimator and the optimization is carried out over a moving horizon. The optimization scheme has been tested in simulations on networks of medium complexity involving up to seven compressor stations. Energy savings of up to 20% over conventional operating policies were found even in cases with 10% demand forecast error.
The Infrared Spectrum of Solid Chlorotrifluoromethane

The infrared spectrum of solid chlorotrifluoromethane (CF3Cl) has been studied and compared with that of matrix-isolated CF3Cl. Crystal field splitting patterns of the strongest modes nu1 and nu4 suggest the crystal structure to be orthorhombic with a C(2v) factor group and two molecules per unit cell located on C(s) sites.
Molecular dynamics simulations of water with Ewald summation for the long range electrostatic interactions

Abstract The use of a partial charge version of the Ewald sum method to treat long range electrostatic interactions in molecular dynamics simulations of water has been investigated. The orientational structure and energetic properties of the liquid have been studied for several choices of Ewald sum parameters. The results, including the dielectric constant ϵ 0 , the radial-dependent Kirkwood factor G K ( r ), the orientational projection H Δ ( r ), and the average dipole interaction energy, are compared with those from molecular dynamics simulations of water using the reaction field method. While the orientational structure of the liquid obtained from simultaneous which treat long range interactions by Ewald summation is different from corresponding results obtained from simulations with a reaction field, consistent values are calculated for the dielectric constant. The sensitivity of the results to variations in the convergence parameter α, the real-space cutoff R c , and the number of vectors used in the reciprocal space sum was also analyzed.
Postnatal changes in oxygen-hemoglobin affinity and erythrocyte 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in piglets.

Postnatal Changes in Oxygen-Hemoglobin Affinity and Erythrocyte 2,3-Diphosphoglycerate in Piglets
Mendeley group as a new source of interdisciplinarity study: how do disciplines interact on mendeley?

In this paper, we studied interdisciplinary structures by looking into how online academic groups of different disciplines share members and followers. Results based on Mendeley online groups show clear interdisciplinary structures, indicating Mendeley online groups as a promising data source and a new perspective of disciplinarity and interdisciplinarity studies.
Quark coalescence based on a transport equation

Abstract We employ the Boltzmann equation for describing hadron production from a quark–gluon plasma (QGP) in ultrarelativistic heavy-ion collisions. We propose resonance formation in quark–antiquark scattering as the dominant meson-production channel, which, in particular, ensures that energy is conserved in the recombination process. This, in turn, facilitates a more controlled extension of hadronization to low transverse momenta ( p T ), and to address the experimentally observed transition from a hydrodynamic regime to constituent quark-number scaling (CQNS). Based on input distributions for strange and charm quarks with azimuthal asymmetries, v 2 ( p T ) , characteristic for RHIC energies, we recover CQNS at sufficiently high p T , while at low p T a scaling with transverse kinetic energy is found, reminiscent to experiment. The dependence of the transition regime on microscopic QGP properties, i.e., resonance widths and Q values in the q + q ¯ → M process, is elucidated.
Empathy and distress: Two distinct but related emotions in response to infant crying

This study examined a largely overlooked, yet potentially important, association between empathy and distress in cry responding. The cry stimulus included a 1-min-long video clip of a 4-week-old, crying, male infant. Participants reported their dispositional empathy and distress, perceived aversiveness of the cry stimulus, response emotions, and intention to intervene with the crying infant. Empathy and distress covaried positively both in disposition and in cry responding. Response empathy and distress were related to their corresponding dispositional emotions, but response empathy was also related to dispositional distress. Perceived aversiveness interacted with response distress in predicting response empathy. Both response empathy and distress appeared to be important determinants of intention to intervene. Overall, empathy and distress in response to infant crying appeared more closely related than previously thought. Implications concerning the regulation of emotions in cry responding are discussed.
Response to comment on Cefalu et Al. The alarming and rising costs of diabetes and prediabetes: a call for action! Diabetes care 2014;37:3137-3138.

We thank Yudkin and Montori (1) for their letter in response to our editorial (2). As outlined in the editorial, we feel a great deal of attention—perhaps too much—has been paid over the recent past to the fact that the ranges of impaired glucose tolerance, impaired fasting glucose, and A1C define different groups of people as being at risk, and that the individuals with dysglycemic levels at the lower ends of the glycemic ranges are at lower risk for progressing to diabetes than the individuals at the higher ends. We would agree that all of that has been well established. In fact, American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines expressly acknowledge these points, but we do not see the value in repeatedly and exhaustively making these observations. We can continue to argue over what the exact diagnostic cut points for each test should be, but …
Mental Health Problems in Young Children Investigated by U.S. Child Welfare Agencies

Objective To examine the prevalence/predictors of mental health (MH) problems and services use in 12- to 36-month-old children who had been investigated for maltreatment. Method Data came from the second National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being (NSCAW II), a longitudinal study of youth ages 0 to 17.5 years referred to U.S. child welfare agencies. These analyses involved 1117 children 12 to 36 months of age. Sociodemographic, social services, developmental and health data were collected on the children and caregivers. Outcomes were scores over the clinical cutoffs on the Brief Infant Toddler Social and Emotional Assessment (BITSEA) Scales for 12- to 18-month-olds and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) for 19- to 36-month-olds. Results In all, 34.6% of 12 to 18 month-olds scored high on the Problem Scale of the BITSEA, and 20.9% on the Competence Scale, whereas 10.0% of 19- to 36-month-olds scored over the CBCL clinical cut-off. Children of black ethnicity were less likely to have elevated scores on the BITSEA Problem Scale, whereas children who lived with a never-married caregiver were five times more likely to have elevated scores. Competence problems were associated with prior child welfare history. Elevated CBCL scores were associated with living with a depressed caregiver. Few children with identified MH problems, 2.2%, received an MH service. When we added parenting skills training that might be related to the treatment of child problems, 19.2% received a service. Conclusions Identifiable MH problems are common, but few children receive services for those problems. The lack of services received by these young, multi-challenged children is a services systems and social policy failure.
Optimal Mix of Penalties in a Principal-Agent Model under Different Institutional Arrangements

This is the publisher's version, also available electronically from http://www.mitpressjournals.org/doi/abs/10.1162/003465300558975#.VMZgUXvGp40
The distribution of Mn2+ in some carbonates by electron paramagnetic resonance

Abstract The results from the electron paramagnetic resonance (E.P.R.) spectra of maganese in fourteen natural and synthetic carbonate minerals show that manganese exists as Mn 2+ in highly ionic lattice sites which are isolated in the carbonate mineral and slightly distorted from octahedral symmetry. There are two lattice sites for Mn 2+ in dolomite and they are assigned as the Mg 2+ and Ca 2+ substitutional sites for Mn 2+ . The E.P.R. spectra show that the Mg-site is more populated than the Ca-site. From the results of the spectra of Mn 2+ in sedimentary and hydrothermally altered dolomites from the Leadville Formation of Colorado, it is found that the concentration ratio of Mn 2+ in the Mg-site to Mn 2+ in the Ca-site increased with alteration.
Investigations of binary lithium-zinc, lithium-cadmium and lithium-lead alloys as negative electrodes in organic solvent-based electrolyte

Abstract The thermodynamic properties of the binary LiZn, LiCd and LiPb alloy systems were investigated in an organic solvent-based electrolyte at ambient temperature. Titration curves showed several intermediate phases existing in each lithium alloy system. There was a wide composition range in Li y Cd (1.5 ⩽ y ⩽ 3), which showed a very low equilibrium potential (below 60 mV) against pure lithium. There was a longer potential plateau in the LiPb system corresponding to Li y Pb (1 ⩽ y ⩽ 3) at about 450 mV against pure lithium. The preliminary charge-discharge and polarization results showed rather fast kinetics for Li y Zn (0.67 ⩽ y ⩽ 1), Li y Cd (1.5 y y Pb (1 y
Adsorption behaviour of dihydrogen phosphate ions on mercury from constant ionic strength solutions

Abstract The adsorption behaviour of H 2 PO − 4 anions on mercury has previously been analysed from capacitance-potential relations at the interface of mercury with KH 2 PO 4 .It is not possible to determine unambiguously the adsorption characteristics of H 2 PO − 4 ions from single salt solution experiments because of the possible existence of a layer of water molecules between the electrode and the adsorbed ions. In this work, the adsorption behaviour of H 2 PO − 4 ions on mercury is analysed from experimental measurements of the capacitance as a function of potential at the interface of mercury with constant ionic strength solutions of compositions x M KH 2 PO 4 + (1 − x ) M KF. It is shown that the calculated amounts of adsorbed ions do not depend on the position of these ions relative to the solvent molecules. The double layer parameters were calculated taking into account the variations of activity coefficients of KH 2 PO 4 and KF with solution composition. In constant ionic strength solutions, the plot of adsorbed charge vs electrode charge exhibits a maximum due to competition between the adsorbed H 2 PO − 4 anions with the solvent or other ionic species. This result is shown to be important in determining the properties of the double layer characteristics in the presence of adsorbed H 2 PO − 4 ions.
Pulsed laser thin film growth of di-octyl substituted polyfluorene and its co-polymers

Matrix-assisted pulsed laser deposition (PLD) allows a controlled layer-by-layer growth of polymer films. Di-octyl substituted polyfluorene (PF8) and its copolymers were deposited as thin films using matrix-assisted PLD by employing a KrF excimer laser with a fluence of 125 mJ/pulses. The optical and structural properties of these films are compared with spincoated films via Raman spectroscopy, absorption and photoluminescence. The Raman spectra of both PLD and spincoated films are similar indicating that the polymer films deposited via PLD maintain their molecular structure. Both the spincoated and the PLD grown PF8 films that were cast from toluene show the presence of the β phase. Benzothiadiazole substituted PF8 (F8BT) and butyl phenyl-substituted PF8 (PFB) PLD grown films show a slightly broader emission compared to the spincoated films, which is attributed to an enhanced intermolecular interaction in the PLD grown thin films.
Bounds for a class of linear functionals with applications to Hermite interpolation

A general estimation theorem is given for a class of linear functionals on Sobolev spaces. The functionals considered are those which annihilate certain classes of polynomials. An interpolation scheme of Hermite type is defined inN-dimensions and the accuracy in approximation is bounded by means of the above mentioned theorem. In one and two dimensions our schemes reduce to the usual ones, however our estimates in two dimensions are new in that they involve only the pure partial derivatives.
Microbialite resurgence after the Late Ordovician extinction

Microbialites, including biogenic stromatolites, thrombolites and dendrolites, were formed by various microbial mats that trapped and bound sediments or formed the locus of mineral precipitation1. Microbialites were common and diverse during the Proterozoic2,3,4, but declined in abundance and morphological diversity when multicellular life diversified during the Cambrian Radiation. A second decline occurred during the Ordovician Radiation of marine animals, and from then until the present microbialites have been confined largely to high-stress environments where multicellular organisms are rare. The microbialite declines in the Phanerozoic are attributed to disruption of the mats by animals2,5,6. A resurgence of stromatolite abundance and size during reduced animal diversity after the Permian extinction7 has been documented anecdotally. Here we show, with statistical support, that a microbialite resurgence also occurred after the Late Ordovician extinction event in western North America. The resurgences were associated with loss of mat-inhibiting animals, providing insights into shallow-water community structures after extinction events.
Thrombosis of a spinal arteriovenous malformation after hemorrhage: case report.

BACKGROUND Thrombosis of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVM) and spinal dural arteriovenous fistulas following hemorrhage rarely have been reported. Rarer still is thrombosis of spinal AVMs following hemorrhage. CASE DESCRIPTION A 6-year-old boy presented with sudden low back and sciatic pain, bilateral leg weakness, and an intramedullary spinal cord hematoma. Spinal angiography demonstrated dilated feeding arteries without shunting, and no intervention was performed. Over time, these enlarged arteries reduced in caliber, and the patient recovered fully. CONCLUSIONS The rarity of spinal AVMs and AVM thrombosis make their coincidence in this case unique. Although surgical intervention would have enabled definitive diagnosis of the spinal AVM, it is not mandatory in the absence of arteriovenous shunting. What is mandatory, however, is continued angiographic surveillance, particularly in pediatric patients.
Gene duplication in fishes: Malate dehydrogenases of salmon and trout

Abstract Three forms of supernatant malate dehydrogenase occur in most salmon and trout. Dissociation and recombination experiments on the purified forms show that these three isoenzymes arise from the association of two types of subunits (A and B) into dimers. The A and B subunits are shown to be under the control of separate genes. The detection of duplicate genes for supernatant malate dehydrogenase provides additional support for the hypothesis that salmonid fishes are tetraploid.
Inhibition of Acyl-CoA Oxidase by Phenol and Its Implication in Measurement of the Enzyme Activity via the Peroxidase-Coupled Assay System

Yeast (Candida tropicalis) acyl-CoA oxidase catalyzes the oxidation of a variety of acyl-CoA substrates to their corresponding alpha-beta enoyl-CoA products, with concomitant reduction of the buffer-dissolved O2 to H2O2. By utilizing indolepropionyl-CoA as a chromogenic substrate, we could measure the enzyme activity either directly by monitoring formation of the reaction product indoleacryloyl-CoA (lambda(max) = 367 nm) or indirectly by measuring the formation of H2O2 via the oxidative-coupled assay system, involving 4-aminoantipyrine, phenol, and horseradish peroxidase. We compared the rates of the enzyme catalysis by the above two methods. The experimental data revealed that the rate measured via the direct method was about twofold higher than that measured by the coupled-assay system. The above difference was found to be due to the inhibition of the enzyme by phenol, one of the reagents of the coupled assay system. The inhibitory role of phenol is not unique for indolepropionyl-CoA as substrate, but is also evident with aliphatic acyl-CoA substrates of varied chain lengths. Since the magnitude of inhibition is dependent on the nature of the acyl-CoA substrate, it is suggested that the coupled-reaction conditions must be carefully standardized with individual substrates. Some tips on standardizing the reaction conditions for quantitative measurement of the acyl-CoA oxidase-catalyzed reaction are offered.
Developmental expression of rat brain mitogens for cultured astrocytes

Extracts prepared from prenatal, neonatal, and adult rat brain were examined for the presence of astrocyte mitogens. Extracts were characterized by molecular weight separation on Sephadex G-100. Two major peaks of mitogenic activity, at 80K and 23K daltons, were identified in the adult brain extract. Extract prepared from adult tissue also possessed the lowest specific activity. Extract prepared from neonatal rat brain exhibited four general peaks of activity at approximately 80K, 45K, 23K, and 17K daltons. This extract possessed the highest specific activity. Extract prepared from prenatal rat brain contained six general peaks of activity with unique peaks at 67K, 14K, and less than 10K daltons. In addition, this extract possessed a specific activity intermediate between the adult and postnatal extracts. Differences were also noted among the extracts in their requirement for "permissive" factors found in serum necessary for mitogenic activity. The data have implications for the normal development of astrocytes, as well as for the pathological process of gliosis.
REEVALUATION OF PROSTATE BIOPSY AFTER DEFINITIVE RADIATION THERAPY

We have previously reported (1987) that a positive biopsy from a clinically normal prostate eighteen months or more after interstitial Iodine 125 or external beam irradiation predicted disease progression. In the present study, all biopsies were reexamined by the same pathologist (LEL) and correlated with long-term patient status. Of twenty-six positive biopsy specimens, twenty-two were reconfirmed as positive and four were reassigned to a negative diagnosis (false positive = 15%). Seventy-two of seventy-seven negative specimens were available for reexamination and seventy were reconfirmed as negative while two were reassigned to a positive diagnosis (false negative = 2%). A statistically higher incidence of local and/or distant failure for patients with positive biopsy specimens compared with patients with negative biopsy specimens was again confirmed (p = < 0.001). However, there is a group of patients with a positive biopsy (17%) who remain clinically free of disease at greater than ten years of follow-up. Therefore, a positive biopsy is not an absolute indication of imminent failure. Our results demonstrate the technical difficulty and potential error in interpreting prostate biopsies after radiation therapy. Therapeutic decisions should be based not only on biopsy histology but must also weigh the patient's initial tumor stage and grade, current clinical examination, PSA level, age, and health.
Complete Genome Sequence of Highly Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCGM2.S1, a Representative Strain of a Cluster Endemic to Japan

We report the completely annotated genome sequence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa NCGM2.S1, a representative strain of a cluster endemic to Japan with a high level of resistance to carbapenem (MIC ≥ 128 μg/ml), amikacin (MIC ≥ 128 μg/ml), and fluoroquinolone (MIC ≥ 128 μg/ml).
REACTION OF ETHYLENE WITH CLEAN AND CARBIDE-MODIFIED MO(110) : CONVERTING SURFACE REACTIVITIES OF MOLYBDENUM TO PT-GROUP METALS

A comparative investigation of the surface reaction of ethylene with clean Mo(110) and carbide-modified Mo(110) has been carried out using high-resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS) and temperature programmed desorption (TPD). As typically observed for early transition metals, the clean Mo(110) surface interacts very strongly with ethylene, as indicated by the decomposition of ethylene to produce C2H2 surface species at temperatures as low as 80 K. The surface acetylene species further decompose to atomic carbon and hydrogen at higher temperatures. The strong reactivity of the Mo(110) surface can be modified by the formation of carbide. The surface reactivity is modified in such a way that the reaction mechanism of ethylene on C/Mo(110) is very similar to those typically observed on Pt-group metal surfaces: At 80 K, ethylene molecules bond to the C/Mo(110) surface in the di-σ bonded configuration; a new surface reaction intermediate, which can be best described as ethylidyne species, is d...
Effects of early age differential displacements on concrete–bar bond in the connections of staged constructions

Differential displacements are commonly induced between precast reinforced concrete members during construction such as in connections on staged bridge construction projects. The ultimate bond strength between reinforcing bars (rebar) and an embedment material used in the connections may be affected. A pullout test was devised to compare the early age ultimate bond strength developed in specimens with and without differential displacements. A range of different grout and concrete materials (embedment materials) used within typical connections were tested. Maximum relative displacements at right angles to #13M (13 mm diameter) rebar ranged from 2.5 to 0.13 mm (a bar diameter–displacement ratio ranging from 10 to 200). These displacements were imparted from casting until the embedment materials reached final set. Pullout testing on both static and displaced test specimens was subsequently performed at approximately 24 h after casting. When the rebar displaced 1.3 mm or more (a bar diameter–displacement ratio of 20 or less), reduced bond capacity was observed in all embedment materials tested. When the rebar displaced 0.25 mm or less (a bar diameter–displacement ratio of 100 or more), the results indicate insignificant variations in bond strength regardless of embedment material type. These results show that large displacements applied prior to final set of the embedment material can have a detrimental effect on the pure bond strength.
Stepping stones toward global space exploration

Abstract Several nations are currently engaging in or planning for robotic and human space exploration programs that target the Moon, Mars and near-Earth asteroids. These ambitious plans to build new space infrastructures, transport systems and space probes will require international cooperation if they are to be sustainable and affordable. Partnerships must involve not only established space powers, but also emerging space nations and developing countries; the participation of these new space actors will provide a bottom-up support structure that will aid program continuity, generate more active members in the space community, and increase public awareness of space activities in both developed and developing countries. The integration of many stakeholders into a global space exploration program represents a crucial element securing political and programmatic stability. How can the evolving space community learn to cooperate on a truly international level while engaging emerging space nations and developing countries in a meaningful way? We propose a stepping stone approach toward a global space exploration program, featuring three major elements: (1) an international Earth-based field research program preparing for planetary exploration, (2) enhanced exploitation of the International Space Station (ISS) enabling exploration and (3) a worldwide CubeSat program supporting exploration. An international Earth-based field research program can serve as a truly global exploration testbed that allows both established and new space actors to gain valuable experience by working together to prepare for future planetary exploration missions. Securing greater exploitation of the ISS is a logical step during its prolonged lifetime; ISS experiments, partnerships and legal frameworks are valuable foundations for exploration beyond low Earth orbit. Cooperation involving small, low-cost missions could be a major stride toward exciting and meaningful participation from emerging space nations and developing countries. For each of these three proposed stepping stones, recommendations for coordination mechanisms are presented.
Opposing functions of CREB and MKK1 synergistically regulate the geometry of dendritic spines in visual cortex.

Most excitatory inputs onto pyramidal neurons are made on dendritic spines. The geometry of dendritic spines modulates synaptic function; yet we know little regarding the molecular signals that regulate spine geometry. Here we report that neurons coordinately regulate the geometry of spines to compensate for variability in spine number, by a process requiring the transcription factor CREB and the kinase MKK1. We find that CREB function is induced, whereas MKK1 is inhibited, by activity blockade. To obtain evidence that CREB and MKK1 regulate dendritic spine geometry in vivo, we coexpressed green fluorescent protein and dominant negative CREB or MKK1 in pyramidal neurons of the intact rat visual cortex. Spines on apical dendrites of layer 3 neurons were then characterized by confocal microscopy. We find that CREB and MKK1 regulate spine geometry in opposite ways. MKK1 is required to reduce spine head size when spine density is high, whereas CREB is required to enlarge spines when spine density is low. Our data suggest that CREB and MKK1 might function as complementary negative feedback mechanisms to maintain synaptic drive within bounds. J. Comp. Neurol. 503:605–617, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Psychophysiologic responsivity in posttraumatic stress disorder: generalized hyperresponsiveness versus trauma specificity.

Abstract Background: Clinically, subjects with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are viewed as hyperresponsive to a variety of stimuli. Psychophysiologic studies, however, have demonstrated hyperresponsiveness only to stimuli that are closely related to the original trauma. Methods: This set of experiments uses a variety of stimuli that vary in trauma-relatedness, arousal level, sensory modality stimulated, and degree of cognitive processing demanded to assess the extent of generalization of physiologic responses. Heart rate (HR), frontal electromyogram (EMG), and skin conductance (EDG) responses were measured during presentation of each stimulus. Results: PTSD subjects ( n = 15) had an elevated baseline EDG and increased HR and EMG responses to the trauma-related stimulus (combat sounds) compared to normal control subjects ( n = 11) and combat control subjects ( n = 10). No significant differences were noted between PTSD and control groups in response to non–trauma-related arousing stimuli. Conclusions: These results suggest that the physiologic hyperresponsivity of PTSD subjects is limited to stimuli closely associated with the inciting trauma.
The Rise and Fall of Maya Civilization

Abstract. ‘Savages,’ as Europeans considered the Americans of ancient times, never built the great Mayan centers. The builders of great cities in Meso-America were a well-organized group with an adequate land base and a rather sophisticated technology. From 300 B.C. to 900 A.D. the Maya developed and perfected an agriculture-based economy with a well developed commerce, writing, art, science, religion and government, as well as an advanced architecture of monuments, palaces, temples and pyramids. Their civilization reached intellectual heights unique in the Western Hemisphere. What conditions caused its decline and fall? Interpreting the geographic and historical record in the light of the relevant social sciences, one can say a complex of circumstances: ecological abuse, exploitation of the working population, mismanagement, militarism, bad weather, famines, and epidemics.
Multiple conductance change associated with the slow excitatory potential in mammalian sympathetic neurons

When the membrane potential was manually clamped, the non-cholinergic excitatory potential was associated with either a sustained increase, an initial decrease followed by a prolonged increase or no apparent change in neuronal input resistance. In the majority of neurons studied, the amplitude of non-cholinergic depolarization was augmented upon conditioning hyperpolarization, whereas it was attenuated in a low Na solution. The results are consistent with the suggestion that the non-cholinergic depolarization may be generated by a change of multiple conductances that may include GNa activation and GK inactivation.
Sex differences in angiotensin II- induced hypertension

Sex differences in the development of hypertension and cardiovascular disease have been described in humans and in animal models. In this paper we will review some of our studies which have as their emphasis the examination of the role of sex differences and sex steroids in modulating the central actions of angiotensin II (ANG II) via interactions with free radicals and nitric oxide, generating pathways within brain circumventricular organs and in central sympathomodulatory systems. Our studies indicate that low-dose infusions of ANG II result in hypertension in wild-type male mice but not in intact wild-type females. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that ANG II-induced hypertension in males is blocked by central infusions of the androgen receptor antagonist, flutamide, and by central infusions of the superoxide dismutase mimetic, tempol. We have also found that, in comparison to females, males show greater levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species in circumventricular organ neurons following long-term ANG II infusions. In female mice, ovariectomy, central blockade of estrogen receptors or total knockout of estrogen a receptors augments the pressor effects of ANG II. Finally, in females but not in males, central blockade of nitric oxide synthase increases the pressor effects of ANG II. Taken together, these results suggest that sex differences and estrogen and testosterone play important roles in the development of ANG II-induced hypertension.
The Contribution of the Psychology of Sleep and Dreaming to Understanding Sleep-Disordered Patients

This article reviews the major psychologic functions occurring during sleep and the evidence that patients who present with disorders of sleep have specific psychologic dysfunctions related to the type and degree of their sleep disturbance. The study of sleep disorders provides insights into this regular nocturnal updating of the self program, and of the specific psychologic effects of interrupted sleep or abnormalities in the timing of the cycles. The application of these findings to understanding and treating these patients is discussed.
An equation for creep in terms of craze parameters

The creep curves of poly(chlorotrifluoroethylene) (PCTFE) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) were measured at temperatures near 78°K in nitrogen environments so that practically all the creep strain was produced by crazing. Data were obtained over a range of temperatures, stresses, and partial pressures of the nitrogen. It was found that all creep curves had the form, e1/3 = e + st, where e0 is the initial strain (∼10−4) and s is a constant which depends on the conditions of the test. The microparameters such as number, dimensions, and velocity of the crazes were measured in each speciman. A theoretical creep equation was derived in terms of these microparameters. There was good quantitative agreement between theory and the experiments.
In vivo and in vitro studies of anticancer actions of α-TEA for human prostate cancer cells

BACKGROUND Vitamin E analog, 2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2R-(4R,8R, 12-trimethyltridecyl) chroman-6-yloxyacetic acid, referred to as α-TEA induces apoptosis in a variety of human cancer cells in cell culture and reduces tumor burden and metastases in preclinical animal models of breast and ovarian cancer. The goal of this study was to determine in vivo anticancer efficacy of α-TEA against human prostate cancer cells and identify mechanisms of action. METHODS A PC-3-GFP xenograft model was used to assess the effects of α-TEA formulated in liposomes and administered orally on tumor burden and metastases. Tumor tissue was examined by immunohistochemical staining for percentage of cells undergoing apoptosis by TUNEL or cell proliferation by Ki-67. In vitro analyses of mechanisms employed western immunoblotting to examine effects of α-TEA-treatments in LNCaP and PC-3-GFP cells on levels of pro-survival and pro-death factors. Functional significance was determined using ectopically expressed constitutively active forms, inhibitors, or siRNA. RESULTS α-TEA significantly reduced tumor burden and metastases, increased apoptosis and decreased proliferation of tumor cells (P < 0.05). α-TEA treatment of both LNCaP and PC-3-GFP cells in vitro reduced levels of pAkt1, pAkt2; FOXO1, c-FLIP(L) and survivin. Constitutively active Akt1, Akt2, c-FLIP or survivin reduced α-TEA-induced apoptosis. PI3K inhibitor enhanced apoptosis. Constitutively active FOXO1 enhanced α-TEA induced Fas ligand expression; whereas, FOXO1 siRNA reduced α-TEA induced Fas ligand expression. CONCLUSIONS α-TEA is an effective anticancer agent for human prostate cancer cells. Downregulation of pro-survival and upregulation of pro-death factors play roles in α-TEA-induced apoptosis. Prostate 68:849–860, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Summarizing 25 Years of Research on Men's Gender Role Conflict Using the Gender Role Conflict Scale New Research Paradigms and Clinical Implications

This article reviews 232 empirical studies that used the Gender Role Conflict Scale (GRCS) over the past 25 years (1982-2007). The article introduces the gender role conflict (GRC) construct using past definitions and theoretical models. The research findings for diverse men are summarized and studies related to men's intrapersonal, interpersonal, and therapeutic lives are analyzed. The empirical support, criticism, and challenges to the gender role conflict research program are reviewed. A contextual research paradigm with seven domains is presented and 18 research questions and two research models are discussed to foster more moderation and mediation studies on men's GRC. A new diagnostic schema to assess men's GRC in therapy and during psychoeducational interventions is discussed. The research review concludes that GRC is significantly related to men's psychological and interpersonal problems and therefore an important construct for psychologists and other helping professionals.
Recent progress in attenuation counterpropagating optical phase-locked loops for high-dynamic-range radio frequency photonic links [Invited]

In order to achieve small size, light weight, and immunity to electromagnetic interference, it is desirable to replace bulky coaxial cables with optical fiber in advanced radar front-ends. Such applications require a large dynamic range that is beyond the reach of conventional intensity modulation–direct detection fiber-optic links. A coherent fiber-optic link employing an optical phase-locked loop (OPLL) phase demodulator has been proposed as a solution to this problem. The challenge is the practical realization of the OPLL demodulator that satisfies the stringent loop delay requirement. A novel attenuation counterpropagating (ACP) OPLL concept has been proposed and demonstrated as a solution. In this paper we review the recent progress in realizing chip-scale ACP-OPLL devices. In particular, we focus on the latest measurement results achieved using a hybrid integrated ACP-OPLL, as well as the design and performance potential of a monolithically integrated ACP-OPLL photonic integrated circuit.
Democracy.com: A Tale of Political Blogs and Content

The debate about the role of political blogs in politics generally and its effect on democracy and participation in particular has deepened since the 2008 U.S. presidential election. While some studies warn that the Internet may undermine deliberation, and replicate patterns of homophily and polarization among blogs with the same political inclination, other studies emphasize the potential of the Internet to strengthen cross-ideological discourse and participation. This paper suggests, using a hybrid theoretical framework which acknowledges homophily and the power law distribution among political blogs, and at the same time exhibits the use of the Internet also as a cross-participation platform and as strengthening participation. For that purpose, this paper looks at 83 videos that went viral during the 2008 election and examines patterns of behavior of the top 50 political blogs (conservative and liberal) in respect these videos over a period of two years.
Learning to Improve: Using Writing to Increase Critical Thinking Performance in General Education Biology

Increasingly, national stakeholders express concern that U.S. college graduates cannot adequately solve problems and think critically. As a set of cognitive abilities, critical thinking skills provide students with tangible academic, personal, and professional benefits that may ultimately address these concerns. As an instructional method, writing has long been perceived as a way to improve critical thinking. In the current study, the researchers compared critical thinking performance of students who experienced a laboratory writing treatment with those who experienced traditional quiz-based laboratory in a general education biology course. The effects of writing were determined within the context of multiple covariables. Results indicated that the writing group significantly improved critical thinking skills whereas the nonwriting group did not. Specifically, analysis and inference skills increased significantly in the writing group but not the nonwriting group. Writing students also showed greater gains in evaluation skills; however, these were not significant. In addition to writing, prior critical thinking skill and instructor significantly affected critical thinking performance, whereas other covariables such as gender, ethnicity, and age were not significant. With improved critical thinking skill, general education biology students will be better prepared to solve problems as engaged and productive citizens.
Magnetic particle enhanced microcantilever biosensor for rapid and Sensitive E. Coli detection

This paper presents a novel concept for integrating a magnetic microparticle sandwich assay onto a microcantilever beam, towards rapid and sensitive detection of E. Coli. The gold coated surface of the microcantilever beam and the surface of superparamagnetic microparticles are functionalized with anti-E. coli IgG so that they bind only in presence of and via the E. coli. An external magnetic field produced by an electromagnet is used to enhance the microcantilever deflection, and an optical lever method is used to sensitively detect it.
Normoxic Ventilation After Cardiac Arrest Reduces Oxidation of Brain Lipids and Improves Neurological Outcome

Background and Purpose—Increasing evidence that oxidative stress contributes to delayed neuronal death after global cerebral ischemia has led to reconsideration of the prolonged use of 100% ventila...
The potential role of the elastic fiber system in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

To assess its possible role in the etiology of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, the elastic fiber system of the ligamentum flavum was examined in twenty-three patients who had scoliosis and in five age-matched individuals who did not. Elastic fibers are composed of two components: the amorphous core of elastin and microfibrils, of which fibrillin is the primary element. Fresh-frozen histological specimens of ligamentum flavum removed at the time of an operation were examined by Verhoeff staining for elastic fibers and by immunohistochemical staining with use of a monoclonal antibody to fibrillin. Additionally, cultures of fibroblast cells from the ligamentum flavum were used to study the biosynthesis and secretion of fibrillin and its incorporation into the extracellular matrix in vitro. The specimens from one patient did not provide sufficient material for the histological studies; however, fibroblasts were harvested from this specimen. In five (23 percent) of the remaining twenty-two specimens from patients who had adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, Verhoeff staining of elastic fibers showed a marked decrease in fiber density (the number of fibers per unit area) and a non-uniform distribution of fibers throughout the ligament. Eighteen specimens (82 percent) exhibited abnormalities on immunohistochemical staining, including a marked disarrangement of the fibers and a difference in the density of staining, when compared with the control specimens from individuals who did not have adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. Studies of the biosynthesis and secretion of fibrillin and its incorporation into the extracellular matrix in vitro demonstrated that fibroblasts from four (17 percent) of the twenty-three specimens produced normal amounts of fibrillin and secreted it from the cell, but the fibrillin failed to bind to other macromolecules, to form a sedimentable complex, and to incorporate into the extracellular matrix. Collectively, the results suggest the potential role of the elastic fiber system as a component in the pathogenesis of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in some individuals.
Mid-Tertiary Conglomerate Deposition and Structural Implications, Southwestern Wind River Range, Wyoming: ABSTRACT

Study of a granule-to-boulder conglomerate of probable middle to late Eocene age provides evidence that the last pulse of uplift of the Wind River Range occurred along a fault or fault zone within the crystalline core of the range. The conglomerate is preserved on the northeast side of the Continental fault between Tabernacle Butte on the west and Horsetrack anticline on the east. It overlies rocks of the Bridger Formation (Eocene), locally overlies Precambrian crystalline rocks, and appears to be overlain by lower Miocene strata. The conglomerate consists of numerous coarse pebbles, cobbles, and boulders floating in a matrix ranging from coarse sand to granules. Many of the nonequidimensional pebbles and cobbles are imbricated and isolated, suggesting current scour on the upstream side of the pebbles, and are oriented with their long axes between transverse and longitudinal positions, indicating later reworking of orientations developed during initial high velocity flows. Thus, fabric indicates deposition in a fluvial system having highly variable current velocities. Distributary paleocurrent patterns, proximity to a major uplift, and the presence of large boulders suggest deposition on alluvial fans. These alluvial fans were characterized by deposition of moderately to poorly sorted coarse sand to boulder-size material in a braided stream environment. Although the conglomerate is matrix supported, deposition by fluvial processes is indicated by well-defined stratification, lenticularity of bedding, common scour surfaces, local cross-stratification, channel fills ranging up to 31 m (102 ft) wide, and fabric as noted above. Evidence of mass flows is very rare in this unit. Composition of pebbles and cobbles in the conglomerate is quite variable, indicating both the complex Precambrian geology and the erosion of Precambrian units within the core of the range as well as those exposed locally. The large amount of finer sediments (sand and granules) in the conglomerate at exposures near the Precambrian paleohighs suggests, at least in part, a distal source. Mapping of other Eocene sedimentary deposits in the Big Sandy Opening area suggests the presence of fluvial tributaries well within the crystalline core of the range. These characteristics suggest a middle or late Eocene pulse of uplift within the core of the range resulting in incision of tributary systems into the Precambrian rocks of the southwestern margin of the Wind River Range. A decrease in strea gradient at the southwestern limit of the uplifted crystalline rocks resulted in deposition of much of this core-derived sediment on basin-margin alluvial fans. This system was probably morphologically similar to but smaller in scale than, the modern Kosi fan system of northeastern India. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1331------------
Roles of Glucose in Photoreceptor Survival

Vertebrate photoreceptor neurons have a high demand for metabolic energy, and their viability is very sensitive to genetic and environmental perturbations. We investigated the relationship between energy metabolism and cell death by evaluating the metabolic effects of glucose deprivation on mouse photoreceptors. Oxygen consumption, lactate production, ATP, NADH/NAD+, TCA cycle intermediates, morphological changes, autophagy, and viability were evaluated. We compared retinas incubated with glucose to retinas deprived of glucose or retinas treated with a mixture of mitochondrion-specific fuels. Rapid and slow phases of cell death were identified. The rapid phase is linked to reduced mitochondrial activity, and the slower phase reflects a need for substrates for cell maintenance and repair.
Issues, Images, and Strategies in 2000 International Elections: Spain, Taiwan, and the Russian Federation

In the 1st year of the second millennium, the world paid witness to presidential election campaigns in numerous countries worldwide. For the first time ever in Spain's democratic history, a center right party, the Popular Party, won the election by an absolute majority. During the presidential campaign in 2000, the People's Republic of China also celebrated a first: the first time an opposition party beat the Kuo Ming Tang, the incumbent political party. In Russia, the people voted in their second ever democratic election and proved that expenditures for political advertising were not a popular trend during this important transition period. This article will examine major trends in each of the aforementioned countries; all of these trends were noted by individuals who personally witnessed these historic elections and who are intrigued by the political communication dynamic. The goal is to better understand the distinct strategies, venues, and techniques evident in the global presidential campaigns under study.