cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Maternal rank influences the outcome of aggressive interactions between immature chimpanzees

For many long-lived mammalian species, extended maternal investment has a profound effect on offspring integration in complex social environments. One component of this investment may be aiding young in aggressive interactions, which can set the stage for offspring social position later in life. Here we examined maternal effects on dyadic aggressive interactions between immature (<12 years) chimpanzees. Specifically, we tested whether relative maternal rank predicted the probability of winning an aggressive interaction. We also examined maternal responses to aggressive interactions to determine whether maternal interventions explain interaction outcomes. Using a 12-year behavioural data set (2000–2011) from Gombe National Park, Tanzania, we found that relative maternal rank predicted the probability of winning aggressive interactions in male–male and male–female aggressive interactions: offspring were more likely to win if their mother outranked their opponent's mother. Female–female aggressive interactions occurred infrequently (two interactions), so could not be analysed. The probability of winning was also higher for relatively older individuals in male–male interactions, and for males in male–female interactions. Maternal interventions were rare (7.3% of 137 interactions), suggesting that direct involvement does not explain the outcome for the vast majority of aggressive interactions. These findings provide important insight into the ontogeny of aggressive behaviour and early dominance relationships in wild apes and highlight a potential social advantage for offspring of higher-ranking mothers. This advantage may be particularly pronounced for sons, given male philopatry in chimpanzees and the potential for social status early in life to translate more directly to adult rank.
Hybrid neural networks for tactical target recognition

Summary form only given, as follows. Artificial neural network topologies which use both self-organization and supervised learning are discussed. Aberrations in counterpropagation are shown. A hybrid-network is developed and shown to be more efficient than backward error propagation alone for the tactical target recognition problem considered. The hybrid network is demonstrated as an effective tool for solving pattern recognition problems involving ambiguous decision regions. Tactical target data sets are classified using hybrid propagation and the results are compared to conventional backpropagation networks. >
Identification of Acidic Residues in the Extracellular Loops of the Seven-transmembrane Domain of the Human Ca2+ Receptor Critical for Response to Ca2+ and a Positive Allosteric Modulator

We investigated the role of the eight acidic residues in the extracellular loops (exo-loops) of the seven-transmembrane domain of the human Ca2+ receptor (hCaR) in receptor activation by Ca2+ and in response to a positive allosteric modulator, NPS R-568. Both in the context of the full-length receptor and of a truncated receptor lacking the extracellular domain (Rho-C-hCaR), we mutated each acidic residue to alanine, singly and in combination, and tested the effect on expression of the receptor, on activation by Ca2+, and on NPS R-568 augmentation of sensitivity to Ca2+. Of the eight acidic residues, mutation of any of three in exo-loop 2, Asp758, Glu759, and Glu767, increased the sensitivity of both the full-length hCaR and of Rho-C-hCaR to activation by Ca2+. Mutation of all five acidic residues in exo-loop 2, whether in the full-length receptor or in Rho-C-hCaR, impaired cell surface expression of the mutant receptor and thereby largely abolished response to Ca2+. Mutation of Glu837 in exo-loop 3 to alanine did not alter Ca2+ sensitivity of the full-length receptor, but in both the latter context and in Rho-C-hCaR, alanine substitution of Glu837 drastically reduced sensitivity to NPS R-568. Our data point to a key role of three specific acidic residues in exo-loop 2 in hCaR activation and to Glu837 at the junction between exo-loop 3 and transmembrane helix seven in response to NPS R-568. We speculate on the basis of these results that the three acidic residues we identified in exo-loop 2 help maintain an inactive conformation of the seven-transmembrane domain of the hCaR.
Low-energy meson-nucleon scattering analysis in the P -matrix formalism

We analyze the low-energy $S$-wave scattering of pseudoscalar mesons by nucleons in the $P$-matrix formalism recently proposed by Jaffe and Low. We find from the data clear evidence for the predicted bag-model ${Q}^{4}\overline{Q}$ states in all the exotic and nonexotic channels we analyze.
Microelastic wave field signatures and their implications for microstructure identification

Abstract This work combines closed-form and computational analyses to elucidate the dynamic properties, termed signatures, of waves propagating through solids defined by the theory of elasticity with microstructure and the potential of such properties to identify microstructure evolution over a material’s lifetime. First, the study presents analytical dispersion relations and frequency-dependent velocities of waves propagating in microelastic solids. A detailed parametric analysis of the results show that elastic solids with microstructure recover traditional gradient elasticity under certain conditions but demonstrate a higher degree of flexibility in adapting to observed wave forms across a wide frequency spectrum. In addition, a set of simulations demonstrates the ability of the model to quantify the presence of damage, just another type of microstructure, through fitting of the model parameters, especially the one associated with the characteristic length scale of the underlying microstructure, to an explicit geometric representation of voids in different damage states.
Effect of certain systemic insecticides on the incidence of verticillium wilt and the yield of Russet Burbank potato

Di-Syston granules or spray, and Systox spray, delayed Verticillium wilt vine symptoms on Russet Burbank potato, and significantly increased the total yield at the 1% level. A similar yeild response was obtained from Bayer 37289 granules. In most instances, the highest-yielding treatments produced the greater number of tubers. The treatments yielding the most had the highest average tuber weights. An exception to this was Phosphamidon 8 spray. The treatments resulted in no definite trends with respect to percentage of U.S. No. 1 tubers and specific gravity. It appears that the increased yields, as a result of certain systemic insecticides, were due to factors other than foliar insect control. SPECIAL NOTE: The systemic insecticides used in this experiment have not been registered for use as fungicides. Unless and until any one of these substances is registered for use as a fungicide for the control of the fungus causing Verticillium wilt, it must not be recommended for that purpose.
An assessment of customers' e-service quality perception, satisfaction and intention

This study examines the dimensions of web service quality based on e-customer's, expectations and perceptions. We develop operationalized web service quality constructs, and analyze, their relationships with customer satisfaction and behavioral intentions in an e-business environment. The three identified dimensions of web service quality are perceived risk, web content and service, convenience. One of the major findings of this study is that although less perceived risk may lead to a favorable perception of web service quality, it does not necessarily translate to customer satisfaction, or positive behavioral intentions. Individual PC skill sets may affect perception of service convenience, but seems to have no influence on how customers assess web service quality, customer satisfaction or, behavioral intentions to use the e-service. The indirect or mediating influence of satisfaction on web, service quality and behavioral intentions is indeed stronger than the direct influence of web service, quality on behavioral intentions.
Multiple courses of indomethacin and neonatal outcomes in premature infants.

The objective of this retrospective cohort study was to determine patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure rate with multiple short courses (three doses) of postnatal indomethacin and compare neonatal outcomes in infants who received two versus three courses of indomethacin for PDA closure. Infants <34 weeks’ gestational age born between January 2000 and December 2004 at the University of Maryland Medical Center and who received two or more short courses of indomethacin were included. Outcome measures were ductal closure rate and neonatal outcomes. Of 61 infants who were identified to have received two or more courses of indomethacin, 26 infants closed their ductus after the second course (response rate, 42%). Of the 35 infants who failed ductal closure after two courses, 11 infants had their ductus ligated and 23 received a third course of indomethacin. Of 23 who received a third course, 10 closed their ductus (response rate, 43%). There was no significant difference in the incidence of chronic lung disease, severe retinopathy of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitis, renal function, or mortality between infants who received two and those who received three courses of indomethacin. Infants exposed to three courses of indomethacin had a statistically nonsignificant increased incidence of periventricular leukomalacia (p = 0.08; adjusted odds ratio = 4.8; 95% CI, 0.8–30) and remained in the hospital for a longer duration (p = 0.02) compared to infants exposed to two courses of indomethacin. We conclude that multiple courses of indomethacin may be associated with a ductal closure. However, the requirement for a third course may be associated with an increased risk of periventricular leukomalacia.
Large-scale structural changes in the sarcoplasmic reticulum ATPase appear essential for calcium transport.

Model refinement calculations utilizing the results from time-resolved x-ray diffraction studies indicate that specific, large-scale changes (i.e., structural changes over a large length scale or long range) occur throughout the cylindrically averaged profile structure of the sarcoplasmic reticulum ATPase upon its phosphorylation during calcium active transport. Several physical-chemical factors, all of which slow the kinetics of phosphoenzyme formation, induce specific, large-scale changes throughout the profile structure of the unphosphorylated enzyme that in general are opposite to those observed upon phosphorylation. These results suggest that such large-scale structural changes in the ATPase occurring upon its phosphorylation are required for its calcium transport function.
Proteolytically Derived Endogenous Angioinhibitors Originating from the Extracellular Matrix

Angiogenesis, a neovascularization process induced from the existing parent blood vessels, is a prerequisite for many physiological and pathological conditions. Under physiological conditions it is regulated by a balance between endogenous angioinhibitors and angioactivators, and an imbalance between them would lead to pathological conditions such as cancer, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, cardiovascular diseases, etc. Several proteolytically generated endogenous molecules have been identified which exhibit angioinhibition and/or antitumor activities. These angioinhibitors interact with endothelial and tumor cells by binding to distinct integrins and initiate many of their intracellular signaling mechanisms regulating the cell survival and or apoptotic pathways. The present review will focus on the extracellular matrix derived angioinhibitors, and their mechanisms of actions that point to the clinical significance and therapeutic implications.
An investigation in vitro of the chromosomal effects of misonidazole

Abstract A range of endpoints relating to the DNA damaging effect of misonidazole have been examined in mouse C3H10T12 cells with the aim of assessing long term potential deleterious effects on normal cells. Sister chromatid exchanges, chromosomal aberrations, mitotic indices, cell doubling times, and cell inactivation are only dramatically effected at misonidazole concentrations above 3 mM and at comparatively long contact times (greater than 24 hours). At a concentration of 1 mM there is a near linear increase in the frequency of oncogenic transformation up to 6 days contact time. At a 1 mM drug concentration and 24 hour contact time, a regime which may represent the maximum that is clinically achievable, there are 0.02% transformations, sister chromatid exchanges are 5% over control level, over 90% of cells are both free of chromosomal aberrations and are survivors, and there is no difference from control in the rate of progression through the cell cycle. These effects are comparatively trivial in relation to the effects of chemotherapeutic agents that are known carcinogens, however, the 0.02% transformation is equivalent to that which can be achieved in vitro after 80–100 rad low LET radiation, hence caution is still advised when considering the long term effects of misonidazole in clinical useage.
Stability of perfluorocarbon blood substitutes determined by sedimentation field-flow fractionation.

Abstract It is shown that the method known as sedimentation field-flow fractionation, which has been applied to the separation and characterization of many industrial and biological particles and recently to emulsions, can be used to obtain high-resolution droplet diameter profiles for perfluorocarbon blood substitutes. Following a description of the methodology, experiments are described for two commercial perfluorocarbon emulsions, Fluosol-DA 20% and Fluosol-43. The droplet diameter profiles for both of these blood substitutes are shown to shift to noticeably higher diameter values in less than 2 months. The diameter at the profile peak for Fluosol-DA 20%, for example, shifts from 0.19 to 0.27 μm in 56 days.
Effects of Differentially Time-Consuming Tests on Computer-Adaptive Test Scores

Time limits on some computer-adaptive tests (CATs) are such that many examinees have difficulty finishing, and some examinees may be administered tests with more time-consuming items than others. Results from over 100,000 examinees suggested that about half of the examinees must guess on the final six questions of the analytical section of the Graduate Record Examination if they were to finish before time expires. At the higher-ability levels, even more guessing was required because the questions administered to higher-ability examinees were typically more time consuming. Because the scoring model is not designed to cope with extended strings of guesses, substantial errors in ability estimates can be introduced when CATs have strict time limits. Furthermore, examinees who are administered tests with a disproportionate number of time-consuming items appear to get lower scores than examinees of comparable ability who are administered tests containing items that can be answered more quickly, though the issue is very complex because of the relationship of time and difficulty, and the multidimens,ionality of the test. The Graduate Record Examination General Test (GRE) is a computer-adaptive test (CAT) of verbal, quantitative, and analytical reasoning skills. Unlike some CATs, the GRE has a fixed number of questions and strict time limits on each section. According to the GRE Technical Manual (Briel, O'Neill, & Scheuneman, 1993) "GRE General and Subject Tests are not intended to be speeded" (p. 32). When the CAT version of the GRE was first introduced, "time limits were set with the intention that almost all examinees would have sufficient time to answer all items" (Schaeffer et al., 1995, p. 18). Nevertheless, fairly strict time limits were imposed in order to maintain comparability with the existing paper-and-pencil forms (and a linear computer-based test), which were somewhat speeded tests. Research on the linear computer-administered analytical section of the GRE General Test (GRE-A) suggested that, although completion rates were reasonably high, many students had to make random guesses at the end in order to finish (Schnipke & Scrams, 1997). Because the GRE is a CAT, different examinees receive different sets of questions. The three parameter logistic scoring model takes account of the difficulty differences in these questions. Examinees who get difficult questions are not disadvantaged relative to examinees who get easier questions, but unidimensional scoring models do not take into account differences in the amount of time it takes to respond to different questions (Hambleton & Swaminathan, 1985). A fair assessment on a speeded test would seem to require that no examinee should, by chance, receive a set of items that takes longer to answer than the items given to another examinee. Bridgeman and Cline (2000) presented evidence that some questions on the quantitative and analytical sections of the GRE CAT could be answered more quickly than others. Much of
Far-Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Analyses of Four Central Stars of Planetary Nebulae*

We analyze the far-UV/UV spectra of four central stars of planetary nebulae (CSPNs) with strong wind features—NGC 2371, A78, IC 4776, and NGC 1535—and derive their photospheric and wind parameters by modeling high-resolution FUSE (Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer) data in the far-UV and HST (Hubble Space Telescope) STIS and IUE data in the UV with spherical, non-LTE, line-blanketed model atmospheres. A78 is a hydrogen-deficient transitional [WR]-PG 1159 object, and we find NGC 2371 to be in the same stage, both migrating from the constant-luminosity phase to the white dwarf cooling sequence, with Teff 120 kK, 5 × 10-8 M☉ yr-1. NGC 1535 is a "hydrogen-rich" O(H) CSPN, and the exact nature of IC 4776 is ambiguous, although it appears to be helium-burning. Both objects lie on the constant-luminosity branch of post-AGB evolution and have Teff 65 kK, 1 × 10-8 M☉ yr-1. Thus, both the H-rich and H-deficient channels of PN evolution are represented in our sample. We also investigate the effects of including higher ionization stages of iron (up to Fe X) in the model atmosphere calculations of these hot objects (usually neglected in previous analyses) and find iron to be a useful diagnostic of the stellar parameters in some cases. The far-UV spectra of all four objects show evidence of hot (T ~ 300 K) molecular hydrogen in their circumstellar environments.
Tightropes and tragedies: 25 years of Tarasoff.

In 1976 the California Supreme Court decided the case of Tarasoff v Regents of the University of California. That case has had very significant effects on psychiatric practice on both sides of the Atlantic, and its very name is instantly recognizable to most psychiatrists. Yet the details of the case are often misunderstood or misquoted; as a legal precedent it was rapidly superceded, and is now largely redundant. Twenty-five years on it seems appropriate to revisit the case itself, and its impact on contemporary psychiatric practice. English law has yet to impose a similar duty, but two leading cases raising similar issues are also described.
Metals, Semiconductors, and Alloy Nanowires on DNA Scaffolds: Synthesis and Device Applications

In this presentation, we will demonstrate fast and electroless UV-photo activation techniques to synthesize electrically conductive metals (Pd), semiconductors (CdS), and alloy (Au-Ag) nanowires of diameter ∼10–180 nm on DNA. The electrical characterization showed that DNA nanowires are either exhibiting Ohmic or semiconducting behavior having low contact resistance with the electrodes. The nanowires are about 1–10 micrometers long and the length depends on the molecular weight of DNA. Highly selective deposition on DNA is obtained by specific complexation between the metal ions and DNA, followed by the growth of nanoclusters in DNA chain to form the corresponding nanowires. The eventual diameter of the nanowires obtained in our experiments is over 10 nm that is significantly larger than the ∼1–2 nm diameter of the double helix DNA. The DNA nanowires orchestrated with semiconducting Si nanowires, carbon nanotubes, or co-deposited with metal nanoparticles can potentially lead to avenues for making complex single electron devices and Schottky nanodevices.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Calculating basal thermal zones beneath the Antarctic ice sheet

A procedure is presented for using a simple flowline model to calculate the fraction of the bed that is thawed beneath present-day ice sheets, and therefore for mapping thawed, frozen, melting and freezing basal thermal zones. The procedure is based on the proposition, easily demonstrated, that variations in surface slope along ice flowlines are due primarily to variations in bed topography and ice-bed coupling, where ice-bed coupling for sheet flow is represented by the basal thawed fraction. This procedure is then applied to the central flowlines of flow bands on the Antarctic ice sheet where accumulation rates, surface elevations and bed topography are mapped with sufficient accuracy, and where sheet flow rather than stream flow prevails. In East Antarctica, the usual condition is a low thawed fraction in subglacial highlands, but a high thawed fraction in subglacial basins and where ice converges on ice streams. This is consistent with a greater depression of the basal melting temperature and a slower rate of conducting basal heat to the surface where ice is thick, and greater basal frictional heat production where ice flow is fast, as expected for steady-state flow. This correlation is reduced or even reversed where steady-state flow has been disrupted recently, notably where ice-stream surges produced the Dibble and Dalton Iceberg Tongues, both of which are now stagnating. In West Antarctica, for ice draining into the Pine Island Bay polynya of the Amundsen Sea, the basal thawed fraction is consistent with a prolonged and ongoing surge of Pine Island Glacier and with a recently initiated surge of Thwaites Glacier. For ice draining into the Ross Ice Shelf, long ice streams extend nearly to the West Antarctic ice divide. Over the rugged bed topography near the ice divide, no correlation consistent with steady-state sheet flow exists between ice thickness and the basal thawed fraction. The bed is wholly thawed beneath ice streams, even where stream flow is slow. This is consistent with ongoing gravitational collapse of ice entering the Ross Sea embayment and with unstable flow in the ice streams.
Iterative method for the design of SLM realizable minimum average correlation energy (MACE) filters

Design of optical pattern recognition filters taking into account the nonideal characteristics of the spatial light modulators on which the filters are implemented is an important research problem. In this paper, an iterative method is developed for the design of SLM constrained minimum average correlation energy (MACE) filters. The algorithm uses a relaxation algorithm in conjunction with Juday's minimum euclidean distance (MED) mapping technique in an iterative manner. The performance of the filter designed using this method was evaluated using computer simulations and the results are compared with a constrained MACE filter designed using a software based on a simulated annealing technique. The new software requires much less computer time than the simulated annealing based software providing comparable response. The time taken by the new algorithm is more than that for the MED mapped design; but, the new algorithm provides less deviation from the specified response for training images than the MED mapped design.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Determinants of 4-repeat tau expression. Coordination between enhancing and inhibitory splicing sequences for exon 10 inclusion.

Mutations in the tau gene are pathogenic causing autosomal dominant frontotemporal dementia with Parkinsonism-chromosome 17 type (FTDP-17). Some mutations intau exon 10 (E10) and immediately adjacent sequences cause disease by altering E10 splicing. To determine the mechanism of normal E10 splicing regulation and how FTDP-17 mutations alter splicing, mutational analysis of E10 was performed. The results show that E10 contains a complex array of both enhancer and inhibitorcis-acting elements that modulate usage of a weak 5′ splice site. The 5′ end of E10 contains a previously unrecognized multipartite exon splicing enhancer (ESE) composed of an SC35-like binding sequence, a purine-rich sequence, and an AC-rich element. Downstream of this ESE is a purine-rich exon splicing inhibitor. Intronic sequences immediately downstream of E10 also are inhibitory. The results support an alternative model in which I10 inhibitory sequences appear to function as a linear sequence. The cis-elements described are not redundant, and all appear required for normal E10 splicing. Results with double mutations demonstrate that the ESE and the intronic inhibitory element collaborate to regulate splicing. Thus splicing oftau E10 is regulated by a complex set ofcis-acting elements that span nearly the entire exon and also include intronic sequences.
Near-pseudoinverse control of kinematically redundant manipulators with the constraint of repeatability

The issue of repeatability for a particular redundant manipulator is considered. The manipulator considered is a planar three-link manipulator with two orthogonal, prismatic joints and a third revolute joint. It can be thought of as a mobile robot with one revolute joint. It is shown that pseudoinverse control has no stable surfaces for this robotic manipulator. A class of repeatable inverses is then derived. The repeatable inverse which is closest in an integral norm sense to the pseudoinverse is found from this class. >
Corporate hedging and the cost of debt

Abstract For a large sample of U.S. firms from 1994 to 2009, we empirically examine the impact of corporate hedging on the cost of public debt. We find strong evidence that hedging is associated with a lower cost of debt. The negative effect of hedging on the cost of debt is consistent across industries, and remains economically and statistically significant under various controls and econometric specifications. A cross-sectional analysis based on propensity score matching suggests that hedging initiation firms experience a drop in cost of debt, while suspension firms sustain a jump. We confirm our findings after employing an extensive array of models to address potential endogeneity. The influence of hedging on cost of debt is mainly through the lowering of bankruptcy risk and agency cost, and the reduction in information asymmetry. Finally, hedging mitigates the negative effect of rising borrowing costs on capital expenditure and firm value.
Simplified VISAR system

A simplified rugged system called VISAR (Velocity Interferometer System for Any Reflector) has been developed using a non-removable delay element and an essentially non-adjustable interferometer cavity. In this system the critical interference adjustments are performed during fabrication of the cavity freeing the user from this task. Prototype systems are easy to use and give extremely high-quality results. 1.
Schizophrenia throughout life: sex differences in severity and profile of symptoms

Background: The impact of aging and of gender has been examined in health and disease, but has received limited attention in schizophrenia. A lifespan perspective of gender differences can contribute to an understanding of clinical features and their underlying neurobiological processes. Method: A prospective sample of 272 patients with schizophrenia, divided into four age groups: 85, was assessed with standardized procedures to measure the composition and severity of symptoms. Results: Aging was associated with increased severity of symptoms and gender differences were noted. Negative symptoms increased in severity, while some positive symptoms ameliorated with aging. Women were characterized by reduced negative symptoms, and this remained evident until the eighth decade. Conclusions: Aging and gender moderate the clinical features of schizophrenia in specific symptom clusters. These effects may give insight into neurobiological substrates of the illness.
Photocatalytic water oxidation by Nafion-stabilized iridium oxide colloids

A photosystem composed of colloidal IrO2·xH2O stabilized by soluble Nafion, tris(2,2′-bipyridyl)ruthenium(II), and persulfate efficiently oxidizes water to oxygen under visible light.
Creating an Oriental Feindbild

One of the first things that Hans Castorp, the protagonist of Thomas Mann's The Magic Mountain, learned upon his arrival at Berghof Sanitarium in Davos, was that there was a “good” Russian table and a “bad” Russian table. The bad Russians were characterized as barbarians, more or less uncivilized. Even the good Russians, while more polite, were considered to be an exotic and alien presence, quite different from anything that Castorp, the model of the German bourgeois class, had ever experienced. As Larry Wolff has noted, Russia was a place connected to the rest of Europe by postal routes, but which few Germans ever visited.
Chromium as an Essential Nutrient for Humans

Chromium is an essential nutrient required for sugar and fat metabolism. Normal dietary intake of Cr for humans is suboptimal. The estimated safe and adequate daily dietary intake for Cr is 50 to 200 microg. However, most diets contain less than 60% of the minimum suggested intake of 50 microg. Insufficient dietary intake of Cr leads to signs and symptoms that are similar to those observed for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Supplemental Cr given to people with impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes leads to improved blood glucose, insulin, and lipid variables. Chromium has also been shown to improve lean body mass in humans and swine. Response to Cr is dependent upon form and amount of supplemental Cr. Chromium is a nutrient; therefore, it will only be of benefit to those who are marginally or overtly Cr deficient. Trivalent Cr has a very large safety range and there have been no documented signs of Cr toxicity in any of the nutritional studies at levels up to 1 mg per day.
NUMERICAL SOLUTION FOR FULLY DEVELOPED, LAMINAR PULSATING FLOW IN CURVED TUBES

A numerical solution is presented for laminar, fully developed pulsatile flow in curved tubes of circular cross section. The governing equations are written to take care of small as well as large curvature ratios. Results for a moderately wide range of parameters (Dean number and frequency of pulsation) are presented. The average peripheral and unsteady wall shear stress variations are calculated. The alternating direction implicit method is used as described by Peaceman and Rachford.
Radial Slot Jet Impingement Flow and Heat Transfer on a Cylindrical Target

To better understand and facilitate design of an impinging jet device, the heat transfer on a cylindrical target exposed to radial impinging slot jets was investigated using numerical methods. Numerical models were created to test the performance of the shear stress transport, standard and realizable k-e, v 2 f, and Reynolds stress model turbulence models vs published test data. Based on the validation study, the v 2 f model was ultimately selected for further work. Models were then constructed to simulate a cylinder exposed to a radial array of slot jets. Parametric variations were conducted to produce information about the influence of jet speed, number of nozzles, and other independent design variables, upon heat transfer. The number of nozzles was varied from 2 to 8, jet Reynolds number Re from 5,000 to 80,000, and target diameter from 5 to 10 times the nozzle hydraulic diameter. The physics of the flows are discussed, finding, for example, that interaction of adjacent opposed wall jets caused a static pressure rise and resulted in flow separation on the surface of the cylindrical target. This separation and the fountain flow between the two wall jets greatly influenced the local heat transfer, causing a rise in Nusselt number Nu of an order of magnitude. The resulting average Nu values varied from 19 to 217 and were condensed into a correlation equation incorporating the ratio of nozzle width to target diameter, number of nozzles, Reynolds number, and Prandtl number.
An empirical study of active networks

The bandwidth capabilities of computer networks has increased extensively over the past decade, driven mainly by the need expressed by end-user applications. The network uses call admission algorithms to allocate its resources before it allows a call to start transmitting packets through the network. As part of this admission process, the network should be able to provide a certain QoS (Quality of Service) guarantee for the call. The traffic generated by the different calls using the same links tends to be bursty, leading to congestion problems in the network. Congestion is primarily noticed when packets arrive at a node and occupy all the available buffer spaces. Newly arriving packets finding a buffer full have to be discarded. These dropped packets increase the probability of blocking of packets for the individual calls, violating their start up QoS guarantees. In this paper, we study how we could use an Active Network model to minimize the congestion at a network node. Processors attached to a node select certain packets in the buffer and employ a compression algorithm in order to decrease their size. This processing of packets allows for more space to be freed in the buffer thus helping alleviate the congestion problem. We present a simulation study of an active network node model, proposed by McKinnon et al. The results show that under certain fixed conditions when the processor rate and the service rate are equal, increase in the compression ratio does not lead to significant gains in network performance. An intuitive explanation of this result is also provided.
The helical hydrophobic moments and surface activities of serum apolipoproteins

Abstract The mean helical hydrophobic moments (μ h ) have been used to compare the amphipathic helices of several apolipoprotein classes with the helices in membrane proteins, water-soluble globular proteins and surface-active peptides. The amphipathic helices in serum apolipoproteins have similar μ H and mean hydrophobicities to helices in water-soluble globular proteins. The intrinsic surface activities of proteins and peptides, as determined by surface pressure at the air/water interface, correlate with the product (− μ H · F ) where −μ H is the average value of μ H for all helices in the molecule, and F is the fraction of α-helix structure in the protein.
Asymmetric induction in [1+4] cycloadditions of vinyl isocyanates with chiral nucleophilic carbenes

Abstract Several chirally-modified nucleophilic carbenes afford useful levels of asymmetric induction during [1+4] cycloaddition with vinyl isocyanate reaction partners. Carbenes derived from the 1,2-aminoalcohols (1R,2S)-ephedrine and (1R,2S)-methylaminoindanol proved to be the most effective for delivering high levels of asymmetric induction.
Calmodulin-Sensitive and Calmodulin-Insensitive Components of Adenylate Cyclase Activity in Rat Striatum Have Differential Responsiveness to Guanyl Nucleotides

: The interaction between the Ca2+-binding protein, calmodulin, and guanyl nucleotides was investigated in a rat striatal paniculate fraction. We found that the ability of calmodulin to stimulate adenylate cyclase in the presence of guanyl nucleotides depends upon the type and concentration of the guanyl nucleotide. Adenylate cyclase activity measured in the presence of calmodulin and GTP reflected additivity at every concentration of these reactants. On the contrary, when the activating guanyl nucleotide was the nonhydrolyzable analog of GTP, guanosine-5′-(3,7-imido)triphosphate (GppNHp), calmodulin could further activate adenylate cyclase only at concentrations less than 0.2 p.M GppNHp. Kinetic analysis of adenylate cyclase by GppNHp was compatible with a model of two components of adenylate cyclase activity, with over a 100-fold difference in sensitivity for GppNHp. The component with the higher affinity for GppNHp was competitively stimulated by calmodulin. The additivity between calmodulin and GTP in the striatal particulate fraction suggests that they stimulate different components of cyclase activity. The cal-modulin-stimulatable component constituted 60% of the total activity. Our two-component model does not delineate, at this point, whether there are two separate catalytic subunits or one catalytic subunit with two GTP-binding proteins. The finding that GTP was unable to activate the calmodulin-sensitive component suggests that this component has either a different mode of binding to a GTP-binding protein or inherently higher GTPase activity than has the calmodulin-insensitive component. The results suggest there are two components of adenylate cyclase activity that can be differentiated by their sensitivities to calmodulin and guanyl nucleotides.
How does protein architecture facilitate the transduction of ATP chemical-bond energy into mechanical work? The cases of nitrogenase and ATP binding-cassette proteins.

Transduction of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) chemical-bond energy into work to drive large-scale conformational changes is common in proteins. Two specific examples of ATP-utilizing proteins are the nitrogenase iron protein and the ATP binding-cassette transporter protein, BtuCD. Nitrogenase catalyzes biological nitrogen fixation whereas BtuCD transports vitamin B12 across membranes. Both proteins drive their reactions with ATP. To interpret how the mechanical force generated by ATP binding and hydrolysis is propagated in these proteins, a coarse-grained elastic network model is employed. The analysis shows that subunits of the proteins move against each other in a concerted manner. The lowest-frequency modes of the nitrogenase iron protein and of the ATP binding-cassette transporter BtuCD protein are found to link the functionally critical domains, and these modes are suggested to be responsible for (at least the initial stages) large-scale ATP-coupled conformational changes.
Enrichment of Carbon-13 by Chemical Exchange of Carbon Dioxide with Amine Carbamates in Nonaqueous Solvents

Abstract Enrichment of 13C by the exchange of carbon dioxide with its amine carbamates in nonaqueous solvents has been further studied. Optimum operating conditions for the fractionation of 13C in a packed countercurrent column have been determined. A comparison of the method with other competitive methods indicates that the process is fairly attractive at its present stage of development.
Respiratory retention and acute toxicity of furan

The respiratory tract retention of furan has been studied in dogs as part of a broad investigation of compounds found in the vapor phase of cigarette smoke. The LD50 of furan has also been determined in mice and rats and the LC50 in mice. Respiratory uptake of furan was between 90 and 95%, varying inversely with the ventilatory rate. Retention was not affected by tidal volume changes but was directly related to concentration inhaled. Intraperitoneal LD50 values were 5.2 mg/kg for rats and 7.0 mg/kg formice. The LC50 for mice was 0.12 /µg/mL. These results indicate the high toxicity of furan and that it is readily absorbed by the inhalation route.
Aircraft and ship observations of the mean structure of the marine boundary layer over the Arabian Sea during MONEX 79

Analysis of the mean wind, equivalent potential temperature and virtual potential temperature profiles observed by the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Electra aircraft and obtained from dropwindsondes and ship-launched radiosondes were made in conjunction with synoptic observations to study the structure of the monsoon boundary layer over the Arabian Sea during MONEX 79. Comparison of mean profiles indicates the monsoon boundary layer to be much different from the trade wind boundary layer. Results confirm the existence of a boundary-layer jet known as East African or Somali Jet. Regions of multiple cloud layers at roughly the height of the capping inversion layer were associated with the jet. Regions in which a more well-mixed layer was observed showed a jet structure depressed in height. A free-jet surface-layer model appears to describe the mean wind structure of this jet observed during the present study and by others. An approximate balance of forces was found in the monsoon boundary layer between friction, advective acceleration, Coriolis and pressure gradient forces. Friction and advective acceleration terms were significant in the lower levels of the boundary layer. Forces in a typical trade wind boundary layer were found to be approximately one order of magnitude smaller than those observed in the monsoon boundary layer.
Time-dependent hydroelastic analysis of cavitating propulsors

Abstract A 3-D potential-based boundary element method (BEM) is coupled with a 3-D finite element method (FEM) for the time-dependent hydroelastic analysis of cavitating propulsors. The BEM is applied to evaluate the moving cavity boundaries and fluctuating pressures, as well as the added mass and hydrodynamic damping matrices. The FEM is applied to analyze the dynamic blade deformations and stresses due to pressure fluctuations and centrifugal forces. The added mass and hydrodynamic damping matrices are superimposed onto the structural mass and damping matrices, respectively, to account for the effect of fluid–structure interaction. The problem is solved in the time-domain using an implicit time integration scheme. An overview of the formulation for both the BEM and FEM is presented, as well as the BEM/FEM coupling algorithm. Numerical and experiment validation studies are shown. The effects of fluid–structure interaction on the propeller performance are discussed.
Nonlinear Optical Characterizations of Chalcogenophosphino- and Phosphonato-substituted Oligothiophenes

We developed a library of novel chalcogenodiphenylphosphino- and phosphonato-substituted oligothiophenes exhibiting strong nonlinear optical (NLO) absorption in the violet-blue spectrum. Open-aperture Z-scans and multi-level modeling were performed to quantify the NLO absorption of these materials.
Calcium alone does not fully activate the thin filament for S1 binding to rigor myofibrils

Skeletal muscle contraction is regulated by calcium via troponin and tropomyosin and appears to involve cooperative activation of cross-bridge binding to actin. We studied the regulation of fluorescent myosin subfragment 1 (fS1) binding to rigor myofibrils over a wide range of fS1 and calcium levels using highly sensitive imaging techniques. At low calcium and low fS1, the fluorescence was restricted to the actin-myosin overlap region. At high calcium and very low fS1, the fluorescence was still predominantly in the overlap region. The ratio of nonoverlap to overlap fluorescence intensity showed that increases in the fS1 level resulted in a shift in maximum fluorescence from the overlap to the nonoverlap region at both low and high calcium; this transition occurred at lower fS1 levels in myofibrils with high calcium. At a fixed fS1 level, increases in calcium also resulted in a shift in maximum fluorescence from the overlap region to the nonoverlap region. These results suggest that calcium alone does not fully activate the thin filament for rigor S1 binding and that, even at high calcium, the thin filament is not activated along its entire length.
Interleukin-6 Production by Human Bladder Tumor Cell Lines is Up-Regulated by Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Through Nuclear Factor-κB and Ap-1 Via an Immediate Early Pathway

Purpose: The expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) by normal and malignant urothelium in response to bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) may have direct and indirect effects on the antitumor activity of BCG. We evaluated the molecular signaling pathway through which BCG induces IL-6 expression in human transitional cell carcinoma lines.Materials and Methods: We evaluated IL-6 messenger RNA and protein expression by human transitional carcinoma cell lines in response to BCG. Pharmacological inhibition of protein synthesis was used to determine if BCG mediated IL-6 induction occurred via an immediate-early or delayed pathway. We used 5′ deletion analysis and site directed mutagenesis to identify BCG responsive regions in the human IL-6 promoter. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays were done to assess nuclear translocation of the putative signaling proteins AP-1 and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) in response to BCG.Results: BCG increased IL-6 messenger RNA and protein in a time and dose dependent manner. IL-6 induction...
The rovA mutant of Yersinia enterocolitica displays differential degrees of virulence depending on the route of infection.

Yersinia enterocolitica is an invasive enteric pathogen that causes significant inflammatory disease. Recently, we identified and characterized a global regulator of virulence (rovA). When mice are infected orally with the rovA mutant they are attenuated by 50% lethal dose (LD(50)) analysis and have altered kinetics of infection. Most significantly, mice orally infected with the rovA mutant have greatly reduced inflammation in the Peyer's patches compared to those infected with wild-type Y. enterocolitica. However, we present data here indicating that when the rovA mutant bacteria are delivered intraperitoneally (i.p.), they are significantly more virulent than when delivered orally. The i.p. LD(50) for the rovA mutant is only 10-fold higher than that of the wild-type Y. enterocolitica, and there are significant inflammatory responses to the rovA mutant that are evident in the liver and spleen. Altogether, these data suggest that the RovA regulon may be required for the early events of the infection that occur in the Peyer's patches. Furthermore, these data suggest that the RovA regulon may be dispensable for Y. enterocolitica systemic disease and inflammatory responses if the Peyer's patches are bypassed.
Metabotropic glutamate receptor 5-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase in astrocytes depends on transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor.

G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) induce the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase by actions on any of a number of signal transduction systems. Previous studies have revealed that activation of the Gq-coupled metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) induces phosphorylation of the MAP kinase extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 (ERK2) in cultured rat cortical astrocytes. We performed a series of studies to determine the mechanisms underlying mGluR5-induced phosphorylation of MAP kinase in these cells. Interestingly, our studies suggest that mGluR5-mediated ERK2 phosphorylation is dependent on the activation of Gαq but is not mediated by the activation of phospholipase Cβ1, activation of protein kinase C, or increases in intracellular calcium. Studies with peptide inhibitors suggest that this response is not dependent on Gβγ subunits. However, the activation of ERK2 was dependent on activation of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor and activation of a Src family tyrosine kinase. Furthermore, activation of mGluR5 induced an association of this receptor and the EGF receptor, suggesting the formation of a signaling complex involved in the activation of ERK2. These data suggest that mGluR5 increases ERK2 phosphorylation in astrocytes by a novel mechanism involving the activation of Gαq and both receptor and nonreceptor tyrosine kinases but that is independent of the activation of phospholipase Cβ1.