cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Identification of a Motif in the Carboxyl Terminus of β-Arrestin2 Responsible for Activation of JNK3

Accumulating evidence indicates that the β-arrestins act as scaffold molecules that couple G-protein-coupled receptors to mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling pathways. Recently, we identified the c-Jun N-terminal kinase 3 (JNK3) as a β-arrestin2-interacting protein in yeast-two hybrid and co-immunoprecipitation studies. β-Arrestin2 acts as a scaffold to enhance signaling to JNK3 stimulated by overexpression of the MAP3 kinase ASK1 or by agonist activation of the angiotensin 1A receptor. Whereas β-arrestin2 is a very strong activator of JNK3 signaling, β-arrestin1 is very weak in this regard. The data also indicate that the specific step enhanced by β-arrestin2 involves phosphorylation of JNK3 by the MAP2 kinase MKK4. We reasoned that defining the region (or domain) in β-arrestin2 responsible for high level JNK3 activation would provide insight into the mechanism by which β-arrestin2 enhances the activity of this signaling pathway. Using chimeric β-arrestins, we have determined that sequences in the carboxyl-terminal region of β-arrestin2 are important for the enhancement of JNK3 phosphorylation. More detailed analysis of the carboxyl-terminal domains of the β-arrestins indicated that β-arrestin2, but not β-arrestin1, contains a sequence (RRSLHL) highly homologous to the conserved docking motif present in many MAP kinase-binding proteins. Replacement of the β-arrestin2 RRS residues with the corresponding KP residues present in β-arrestin1 dramatically reduced both JNK3 interaction and enhancement of JNK3 phosphorylation. Conversely, replacement of the KP residues in β-arrestin1 with RRS significantly increased both JNK3 binding and enhancement of JNK3 phosphorylation. These results delineate a mechanism by which β-arrestin2 functions as a scaffold protein in the JNK3 signaling pathway and implicate the conserved docking site in β-arrestin2 as an important factor in binding JNK3 and stimulating the phosphorylation of JNK3 by MKK4.
Atherosclerosis and hypertension: mechanisms and interrelationships.

Hypertension, dyslipidemia, and glucose intolerance cocluster in the population and act synergistically in increasing coronary artery disease risk. The mechanisms by which these risk factors interact in atherosclerosis are complex. First, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and altered insulin sensitivity may have a common pathophysiological basis. Activation of neurohormonal mechanisms may be implicated in many or all of these processes. In addition, underlying these processes may be common genetic and environmental influences. Second, these risk factors ultimately act on the blood vessel, thereby leading to atherosclerosis. Elevated serum lipids lead to vessel wall responses, including endothelial dysfunction, smooth muscle cell proliferation, lipid accumulation, foam cell formation, and, eventually, necrosis and plaque development. Hypertension may induce shear-related injury to the vessel. Endothelial injury (caused by hypertension) and vascular cell proliferation (induced by increased pressure and/or vasoactive substances) are effects that amplify the atherosclerotic process. In addition, diabetes and hyperinsulinemia can increase vascular tone, impair endothelial function, and stimulate vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. Control of these risk factors should prevent or attenuate the vessel wall responses. Emphasis is now being placed on pharmacological therapeutic modalities that decrease blood pressure and improve insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism. Identification of common links between risk factors, such as neurohormonal mechanisms (e.g., angiotensin), should lead to better therapeutic strategies.
How Can an Endosonographer Assess for Diagnostic Sufficiency and Options for Handling the Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine-Needle Aspiration Specimen and Ancillary Studies

Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) has become well established as a minimally invasive technique in diagnosing and staging various gastrointestinal, pancreaticobiliary, and retroperitoneal malignancies. The diagnostic accuracy of this procedure is significantly enhanced by the presence of on-site cytopathology. However, in many EUS centers, cytopathology is not readily available for on-site evaluation. This article is intended to assist the independent endosonographer in the assessment of diagnostic sufficiency and in specimen handling.
Comparison of the effects of drilling fluid on macrobenthic invertebrates associated with the seagrass, Thalassia testudinum, in the laboratory and field

The structure of a macrobenthic invertebrate community associated with the seagrass, Thalassia testudinum, was evaluated under laboratory and field conditions. The research focused on: (1) the effects of pollution stress from a representative drilling fluid used in off-shore oil and gas operations, and (2) a comparison of responses of the seagrass-invertebrate community in the laboratory and field. A series of 15·3 cm diameter cores of the seagrass-invertebrate community was collected from field sites for establishment and sampling of microcosms and in the sampling of field plots over time. Weekly exposures to drilling fluid were conducted in the laboratory microcosms at a mean total suspended matter concentration of 110·7 mg l−1 (± 17·7 SD), and in field plots by usage of acrylic exposure chambers at a mean concentration of 132·8 mg l−1 (±33·3 SD). Standing crop of T. testudinum was not affected by drilling fluid in the laboratory or field when measured after 6 and 12 week exposure periods. The numbers of macrobenthic invertebrates were suppressed by drilling fluid at both exposure periods in the laboratory, but inhibitory effects were absent in the field. Invertebrate densities in the field were similar among control and treated plots, and were much lower than densities occurring in the laboratory control. In most instances, species richness values were similar in the field and laboratory at the end of each 6 and 12 week period.
Epithelial sodium channel genes Scnn1b and Scnn1g are closely linked on distal mouse chromosome 7

The chromosomal localizations of Scnn1b and Scnn1g, genes corresponding to the {beta}- and {gamma}-subunits, respectively, of an epithelial non-voltage-gated amiloride-sensitive sodium channel, were determined by analyses of two sets of multilocus crosses using probes generated by polymerase chain reaction and a mouse kidney cortical collecting tubule cell line (M1). Scnn1b and Scnn1g were determined to be closely linked on distal mouse chromosome 7, showing no recombination with Zp2, whereas the gene for the {alpha}-subunit, Scnn1a, was confirmed to map to distal mouse chromosome 6. 26 refs., 1 fig.
Elastic moduli of single crystal and polycrystalline MgO

Abstract The elastic moduli of both single crystal and polycrystalline magnesia were determined in the kcps frequency range by a Forster-type resonance method. The values obtained at 25°C for single crystal are: c 11 = 28•92c 12 = 8•79 and c 44 = 15•46 × 1011 dynes per cm2. The calculated isotropic elastic moduli for polycrystalline MgO obtained from the single crystal compliances are in good agreement with experimental values measured on theoretical density (glass-free) MgO. The measured Young's modulus and shear modulus at zero per cent porosity are 30•50 and 12•90 × 1011 dynes per cm2, respectively. The results of the present work are compared with the earlier work in the mcps frequency range.
Serological surveillance of plague in dogs and cats, California, 1979–1991

Following natural infection both cats and dogs develop antibodies to plague which can be measured for several months after infection. Besides being helpful in the diagnosis of plague in domestic carnivores, the antibody titer has important implications in outbreak investigation and surveillance programs. We report the first serological survey for plague in domestic carnivores conducted in California between 1979 and 1991 in five different settings or programs. A total of 4115 dogs and 466 cats were tested for plague antibody by the passive hemagglutination test. 86 dogs (2.09%) and 15 cats (3.22%) had plague antibody titers > or = 1:16. The percentage of positive dogs and cats were respectively 3.96% and 0% on reservations, 3.27% and 1.39% on military bases, 0.74% and 1.25% in Los Angeles County and 0% and 4.61% in veterinary clinics, but 41.38% and 41.2% from outbreak investigations. Titers ranged from 1:16 to 1:4096 in dogs and cats, but were low in dogs and cats in the Los Angeles County survey and on the military bases. Serologic testing of pets during human case investigation or increased rodent mortality should be regularly implemented, as well as dog surveys on reservations. Surveys of pet dogs in veterinary clinics did not appear worthwhile, even if selected from plague endemic regions. Veterinarians should report suspect cases in cats to public health authorities, that will improve plague surveillance and reduce the risk of humans contracting the disease from their pets.
THE RELATIONSHIP OF REPORTED CARDIOVASCULAR FINDINGS TO HEIGHT OF THE T1‐WAVE IN THE ELECTROCARDIOGRAM

: The literature is replete with evidence to show that, with advancing age, distinct changes occur in the electrocardiogram. One of the most obvious is the progressive decrease in the height of the T1-wave. Because this change is so common, possibly it is part of the aging process. A study of 164 presumably healthy subjects revealed: 1) a statistically significant low negative correlation between age and the height of T1 (r = −0.181, P 0.05) between age and cardiovascular reported findings in subjects with relatively high (1.6–4.0 mm) T1 waves. Thus, within the limits of this study, reported cardiovascular findings increase with aging only in subjects whose electrocardiograms show relatively low T1 waves.
Mediated acquisition of a fear-motivated response and inhibitory effects of chlorpromazine.

A procedure for determining the effects of drug treatment on fearmotivated behavior is presented. Although basically similar to the conditioned avoidance response (CAR), this procedure separates training events so that drug effects on the conditioning process can be partially analyzed. An avoidance-escape type of response is established efficiently with minimal training. The response shows a sensitivity to inhibition by chlorpromazine comparable to that of the conventional CAR.
Fast 3D spatial EPR imaging using spiral magnetic field gradient

Electron paramagnetic resonance imaging (EPRI) provides direct detection and mapping of free radicals. The continuous wave (CW) EPRI technique, in particular, has been widely used in a variety of applications in the fields of biology and medicine due to its high sensitivity and applicability to a wide range of free radicals and paramagnetic species. However, the technique requires long image acquisition periods, and this limits its use for many in vivo applications where relatively rapid changes occur in the magnitude and distribution of spins. Therefore, there has been a great need to develop fast EPRI techniques. We report the development of a fast 3D CW EPRI technique using spiral magnetic field gradient. By spiraling the magnetic field gradient and stepping the main magnetic field, this approach acquires a 3D image in one sweep of the main magnetic field, enabling significant reduction of the imaging time. A direct one-stage 3D image reconstruction algorithm, modified for reconstruction of the EPR images from the projections acquired with the spiral magnetic field gradient, was used. We demonstrated using a home-built L-band EPR system that the spiral magnetic field gradient technique enabled a 4-7-fold accelerated acquisition of projections. This technique has great potential for in vivo studies of free radicals and their metabolism.
Grip strength and bone mineral density in older women

Most previous literature on muscle strength and bone density examined the association between specific muscle groups and adjacent bones. This study examined the association of grip strength with bone density at distant sites, such as the spine and hip, as well as at the wrist and radius. Subjects were 649 postmenopausal women aged 65 years and older. Bone mineral density was measured at the ultradistal wrist and midshaft radius in the nondominant arm using single-photon absorptiometry and at the lumbar spine and hip using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Grip strength was measured in both the dominant and nondominant hands using a dynamometer. Overweight women had significantly stronger grip strength in both hands (p < 0.01 for dominant hand, p < 0.05 for nondominant hand grip strengths). Exercises had significantly stronger grip strength in the nondominant hand than nonexercisers (p < 0.05). Women reporting arthritis had significantly weaker grip strength in both hands than women not reporting arthritis (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in grip strength by estrogen use, cigarette smoking, or thiazide use. Regression analyses adjusted for age, obesity, exercise, cigarette smoking, thiazide use, arthritis, years postmenopausal, and estrogen use indicated significant positive associations between grip strength and bone density at all sites. Regression analyses stratified by exercise indicated that only women who exercised had significant associations of grip strength with bone mineral density (all p < 0.05). In this cohort of older women, grip strength was an independent indicator of general bone density.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Deformation mechanism maps for superplastic materials

Abstract (i) sufficient experimental results are now available for the construction of deformation maps for two superplastic materials, Zn-22% Al and Pb-62% Sn, and (ii) when plotted in the form of grain size versus stress, the maps for these two alloys provide strong evidence that superplasticity only occurs at grain sizes sufficiently small that a stable subgrain structure is not formed during deformation.
X-Ray Band Spectra and Molecular-Orbital Structure of Rutile Ti O 2

A complete molecular-orbital energy-level diagram for Ti${\mathrm{O}}_{2}$ is empirically deduced from the combined $\mathrm{Ti}{L}_{\mathrm{III}}$, $\mathrm{Ti}K$, and $\mathrm{O}K$ x-ray emission and absorption band spectra. All of the occupied and vacant orbitals within 25 eV of ${E}_{F}$ are located on a relative energy scale. The titanium $3d$, $4s$, and $4p$ states and the oxygen $2s$ and $2p$ states all play important roles in the chemical bonding and all have specific influences on the x-ray bands. The deduced energy-level diagram is also shown to be compatible with the optical-absorption, photoconductivity, optical-reflectivity, and ultraviolet photoemission spectra.
CYTOGEOGRAPHIC EVIDENCE FOR THE EVOLUTION OF DISTYLY FROM TRISTYLY IN THE NORTH AMERICAN SPECIES OF OXALIS SECTION IONOXALIS

A B S T RA C T A survey of haploid chromosome numbers of 18 North American taxa of Oxalis section lonoxalis was initiated to determine the relationship between ploidal level, geographic distribution, and the occurrence of tristyly and distyly. Although chromosome numbers in the section are variable, the majority of tristylous populations are diploid. Among the distylous taxa a greater diversity of ploidal levels exists, with the higher chromosome numbers predominating. In section lonoxalis the majority of the tristylous taxa are geographically restricted endemics of southern Mexico, while the distylous taxa have more extensive distributions ranging to the north. The association of diploidy and geographic endemism in the majority of the tristylous taxa suggests that these species are relictual. A few widespread tristylous taxa are polyploid, and often somewhat weedy. The probable derivation of widespread polyploid species from the restricted diploid endemics of southern Mexico appears to have been accompanied by the evolution of distyly from tristyly. The frequent association of polyploidy and distyly in section lonoxalis has apparently resulted from the concurrence of two evolutionary trends: increase in ploidal level and the derivation of distyly from tristyly.
Multidimensional on-line bin packing: Algorithms and worst-case analysis

We consider the problem of packing rectangles into bins which are unit squares. We give an on-line algorithm that uses at most 3.25 times the optimal number of bins. We also prove a result for the case when the items to be packed are squares and discuss extensions to higher dimensions.
A new approach to conformationally restricted peptide analogs: Rigid β-bends. 1. Enkephalin as an example

Abstract A means of producing a peptide analogue that is permanently fixed in a β-bend conformation has been devised. These analogues are based on appropriately substituted derivatives of the ring system, 5H-6-oxo-2,3,4,4a,7,7a-hexahydropyrano [2,3,-b]pyrrole. The substituents are chosen to represent the relevant side chains of amino acids. The first analogue of this type of enkephalin has been synthesized and was found to have the same order of magnitude of activity in the guinea pig ileum assay as morphine.
Application of non-linear optical second harmonic generation and X-ray absorption and spectroscopies to defect related properties of Hf silicate and Hf Si oxynitride gate dielectrics

Three different Hf oxide based dielectrics have emerged as viable candidates for applications in advanced ULSI devices. This article focuses on two of these: (i) phase separated Hf silicates with (i) 70-85% nano-crystalline HfO"2 with a nano-grain size <2nm, and 15-30% ~2nm non-crystalline SiO"2 inclusions, and (ii) Hf Si oxynitride alloys, the most promising of which has a composition, (HfO"2)"0"."3(SiO"2)"0"."3(Si"3N"4)"0"."4 designated as 3/3/4 Hf SiON. X-ray absorption spectroscopy has been applied to identification of defect associated with vacancy structures in phase separated silicates, and network disruption defects in the Hf Si oxynitrides. Optical second harmonic generation is introduced in this article for the first time as a non-invasive approach for detecting macroscopic strain, that is shown to be absent in these low defect density dielectrics, the phase separated Hf silicates, and Hf Si oxynitrides, but present in HfO"2 films, and Hf silicates with lower HfO"2 content, e.g., the 40% HfO"2 film of this article.
Fermi-edge superfluorescence from a quantum-degenerate electron-hole gas

Nonequilibrium can be a source of order. This rather counterintuitive statement has been proven to be true through a variety of fluctuation-driven, self-organization behaviors exhibited by out-of-equilibrium, many-body systems in nature (physical, chemical, and biological), resulting in the spontaneous appearance of macroscopic coherence. Here, we report on the observation of spontaneous bursts of coherent radiation from a quantum-degenerate gas of nonequilibrium electron-hole pairs in semiconductor quantum wells. Unlike typical spontaneous emission from semiconductors, which occurs at the band edge, the observed emission occurs at the quasi-Fermi edge of the carrier distribution. As the carriers are consumed by recombination, the quasi-Fermi energy goes down toward the band edge, and we observe a continuously red-shifting streak. We interpret this emission as cooperative spontaneous recombination of electron-hole pairs, or superfluorescence (SF), which is enhanced by Coulomb interactions near the Fermi edge. This novel many-body enhancement allows the magnitude of the spontaneously developed macroscopic polarization to exceed the maximum value for ordinary SF, making electron-hole SF even more ‘‘super’’ than atomic SF.
A pathological approach to anomalies of the posterior fossa

BACKGROUND: Both clinical and postmortem diagnoses of posterior fossa anomalies remain difficult to make and to corroborate. This is particularly true for Dandy-Walker malformation and variant. Difficulties arise for a variety of reasons, including technical and methodological ones, but also because the conditions may overlap anatomically with others, most notably mega cisterna magna, Blake's pouch cyst, and posterior fossa (arachnoid) cysts. Family counseling is difficult and complicated not only by diagnostic uncertainties but by the highly variable prognosis. METHODS: In this study, a systematic pathologic approach to study of the posterior fossa is put forth. The benefits of postmortem imaging and in situ and ex situ examination of posterior fossa contents are demonstrated. RESULTS: Normative data for cerebellar width (transverse cerebellar diameter) and height and vermian width and height are derived for the fetal period. These data will help workers recognize changes in these structures, particularly hypoplasia. CONCLUSIONS: Basic morphologic definitions of posterior fossa anomalies are advanced, in the hopes that better agreement can be reached between clinical and pathologic diagnoses and that better patient and family care will result. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 76:674–684, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Role of Gap Junctions in Lung Neoplasia

Reduced gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC) has been noted in many types of neoplastic cells and may contribute to the neoplastic phenotype. This study assessed GJIC (by fluorescent dye-coupling) and gap junction protein (connexin) expression in mouse and human lung carcinoma cell lines and investigated whether reduced GJIC was involved in their neoplastic phenotype. Dye-coupling and connexin43 (Cx43) expression were much lower in most of the carcinoma lines (16 of 22) compared to nontransformed lung epithelial cells. Other connexins were not detected. A poorly communicating mouse lung carcinoma cell line (E9) was transfected with Cx43 or transduced with Cx32 and several stable clones were isolated that had 2- to 4-fold increased dye coupling. When evaluated for growth in vitro, the population doubling times were increased and the saturation densities were decreased in the clones. When assessed for tumorigenicity, the parental E9 cells formed tumors with a 100% incidence (6/6 mice), whereas ...
Properties of nonneutral plasma

We describe an apparatus for producing a magnetized column of nonneutral electron plasma which is many Debye lengths in radius. The plasma exhibits the linear and nonlinear electron-wave effects observed in neutralized plasmas.
Cultural values as determinants of executive attitudes on decision making: An empirical evaluation

This article presents an empirical, cross-cultural investigation of executive attitudes on decision making, risk taking, and executive courage. Twenty-nine Arab and 40 American executives participated in this study. Six hypotheses were tested, with the results showing significant differences between managers from the two business cultures. Recommendations and directions for future research are provided.
A myxobacterial S-motility protein dances with poles

Coordinated movement of packs of S-motile Myxococcus xanthus cells relies on extrusion and retraction of pili that are located at one cell pole. At regular intervals the pili switch their polar location and cells reverse direction. Recently, the FrzS S-motility protein was observed to localize predominantly to the piliated pole. In time, FrzS was redeployed to the opposite pole and its sequestration at the new site coincided with cell reversal. The C-terminal region of FrzS, a response regulator homolog, is rich in coiled-coil motifs and is required for dynamic localization and proper motility. These results raise the possibility that proper spatial control of FrzS has an important role in the regulation of cell reversal and S-motility.
An Impossible Undertaking: The Eradication of Bovine Tuberculosis in the United States

In 1917, after scientific breakthroughs allowed for the early detection of bovine tuberculosis, the USDA began a campaign to eradicate the disease. Agents inspected nearly every cattle farm in the country and condemned roughly 4 million reactors to slaughter without full compensation. This article analyzes how the eradication program functioned, how incentives were aligned to ensure widespread participation without excessive moral hazard problems, and why the United States led most European nations in controlling the disease. The U.S. campaign was a spectacular success, reducing human suffering and death and yielding benefits in the farm sector alone that exceeded ten times the cost.
Assessing the impact of atomic oxygen in the damage threshold and stress of Hafnia films grown by ion beam sputter deposition

Hafnium oxide (HfO2) is undoubtedly one of the most desirable high-index optical coatings for high power laser applications. One of the key goals in the fabrication of oxide films with high Laser Induced Damage Threshold (LIDT) is to minimize the number of film imperfections, in particular stoichiometric defects. For HfO2 films deposited by ion beam (reactive) sputtering (IBS) of a hafnium metal target, stoichiometry is controlled by the injection of molecular oxygen, either close to the substrate or mixed with the sputtering gas or some other combination. Good stoichiometry is important to reduce the density of unoxidized particles buried in the coatings, which affect the LIDT. This work evaluates the potential advantages of using pre-activation of oxygen in the IBS of HfO2, with special emphasis on its impact on LIDT and film stress. For the experiments, oxygen was activated by an independent plasma source and then introduced into a commercial IBS chamber. The optical properties of the films were characterized using spectrophotometry and ellipsometry. Their structural quality and composition were determined from x-ray diffraction and x-ray photoelectron emission spectroscopy. The stress was determined from interferometer measurements. For optimized conditions, 2.5 J/cm2 LIDT was measured on HfO2 films at λ=800 nm with 1 ps and 25 mJ pulses from a chirped amplification Ti:Sapphire laser. In the range of oxygen variations under consideration the effects on LIDT are shown to be minimal.
Stability and stabilizability of discrete event dynamic systems

A finite-state automaton is adopted as a model for Discrete Event Dynamic Systems (DEDS), Stabdity is defined as wslting a given set E mtinitely often. Stabilizability is defined as choosing state feedback such that the closed loop system is stable. These notions are proposed as properties of resiliency or error-recovery. An important ingredient in stability is shown to be a notion of transition- function-invariance. Relations between our notions of stability and invariance, and the notions of safety, fairness, hvelock, deadlock, etc., in computer science literature are pointed out. Connections are established between our notions of invariance and the classical notions of A -Invariance and (A. 11)-invariance of linear systems. Polynomial algorithms for testing stability and stabilizabdity, and for constructing a stabilizing control law are also presented.
Theoretical methods for computing electrical conditions in wire-plate electrostatic precipitators

Abstract A new semi-empirical, approximate theory for predicting electrical conditions is described. In the approximate theory, analytical expressions are derived for calculating voltage-current characteristics and electric potential, electric field, and space charge density distributions. Comparisons of numerical and approximate solutions over a wide range of possible precipitator geometries and electrical operating points indicates that for practical purposes the approximate theory can be used in lieu of the more rigorous numerical theory. This saves large amounts of computer time and makes possible hand calculator usage. Recent in situ gaseous ion mobility data which are needed in the models are presented. For coal fired power plants, the reduced effective ion mobility in positive corona is found to be 1.6 times that for negative corona. Approaches for describing particulate space charge effects in the gas and electrical conditions in the collected particulate layer are briefly discussed.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF THE FORMAL Ni(III) AND Cu(III) COORDINATION COMPLEXES OF THE NEW 1,2-DITHIOLENE, 1,4-BUTANEDIYLDITHIOETHYLENE-1,2-DITHIOLATE

Abstract The new 1,2-dithiolene, 1,4-butanediyldithioethylene-1,2-dithiolate, has been isolated. In addition, new monoanionic bis-complexes with nickel and copper have been prepared and isolated. The formal Ni(III) complex crystallizes in the orthorombic space group, Pbca, with a = 9.762(9), b = 12.53(2), and c = 23.166(3) A, with 4 molecules in the unit cell. The structure was refined to an R = 9.01% (Rw = 8.95%). The formal Cu(III) complex crystallizes in the monoclinic space group, C2/c, with a = 25.567(6), b = 8.011(3), c = 14.504(3) A, and β = 106.17(2)° with 4 molecules in the unit cell. The structure refined to R = 4.2% with R w = 4.3%. Comparisons to similar 1,2-dithiolenes suggest this ligand produces only modest structural and electronic differences when compared to the 1,3-propanediyldithioethylene-1,2-dithiolate complexes. The oxidation (to a neutral complex) and reduction (to a dianion) for the Ni(III) and Cu(III) complexes show large differences from those of maleonitriledithiolate. Other ph...
Dynamic Simulation of Blood Flow Effects on Flexible Manipulators During Intra-Cardiac Procedures on the Beating Heart

In this paper, we develop a numerical mixed flexible-rigid body model to take into account the effects of the external disturbances acting on a flexible manipulator secondary to the oscillatory transmitral blood flow in the left ventricle. The manipulator is made of a flexible rubber-like material to further extend the surgical robotic-based catheters’ degrees of freedom and steer-ability in beating-heart prosthetic aortic valve implantation procedure. Along with the developed numerical model, a detailed description of the catheter’s mechanical architecture and the actuation system is also provided. Necessity of employing such a model for the designed system is clearly justified using simulation studies.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Melt fracture in polymer thin films at strongly attractive surfaces

Ultra-thin film lubricants with nanoscale control of surface morphology are becoming increasingly important due to the recent push for miniaturization of electromechanical devices. In this letter, we report on an interesting phenomenon dubbed "melt fracture" when a high-viscosity film was allowed to dewet from a film of lower viscosity. We attribute this phenomenon to the shearing at polymer/polymer interface and pinning at the polymer/Si interface. Melt fracture occurs when the shear rate is faster than the natural reptation time of polymer chains. We show that the degree of melt fracture is a function of annealing time and polymer molecular weight. Furthermore, we demonstrate that screening of the substrate interactions, allowing the film to slip can reduce the degree of melt fracture.
Ontogeny of ionotropic glutamate receptor expression in human fetal brain.

Abstract Glutamate receptors have multiple roles in the central nervous system. Recent evidence suggests that the iontropic glutamate receptors are critical during brain development, particularly for corticogenesis, neuronal migration, and synaptogenesis. In this study, we examined subunit mRNA expression and binding sites of the NMDA, AMPA, and kainate receptors from gestational weeks 8–20 in human fetal brain. Expression of glutamate receptors was high during several periods in these brains. Different levels of expression of each NMDA, AMPA, and kainate receptor subunit transcripts were present during development, with a greater abundance of NR1, NR2B, NR2D, GluR7, and KA1 mRNA at most gestational ages. Binding sites for NMDA, AMPA, and kainate receptors were all detected, but each had a unique pattern of expression. These results demonstrate that glutamate receptors are expressed early in human brain development, and undergo complex changes over time consistent with their role in normal development.
The way to a more precise sheath blight resistance QTL in rice

Rice sheath blight (ShB), caused by Rhizoctonia solani, leads to severe yield losses in many rice production areas worldwide. Resistance to rice ShB is a typical quantitative trait controlled by quantitative trait loci (QTLs). To identify the QTLs responsible for ShB resistance, phenotypes for ShB resistance have been surveyed in different individuals/lines in various mapping populations. The 0–9 rating system, based on the percentage of plant height (PH) above the water line with ShB symptoms, is extensively used in the evaluation of ShB in rice communities. By reviewing previous ShB-QTL-mapping studies, we found that the ShB disease score attained using the 0–9 system was inevitably affected by PH and resulted in the colocalization of QTLs for PH and ShB resistance, i.e., some of the PH-QTLs were mistaken as “ShB-QTLs” and had pleiotropic effects. These colocalizing “ShB-QTLs” are irrelevant to physiological ShB resistance and should not be targeted for utilization. We analyzed the ways in which PH affects ShB resistance through the 0–9 rating system and suggest solutions for improving the accuracy of QTL mapping for rice ShB resistance. We also developed the first physical map of the ShB-QTLs and PH-QTLs detected since 1995. This map will be useful in the marker-assisted selection of ShB-resistant QTLs. Under current circumstances, we believe that conventional breeding remains an effective approach for developing ShB-resistant varieties.
EXPLAINING THE CONTEMPORARY SPATIAL STRUCTURE OF HIGH-TECHNOLOGY EMPLOYMENT IN TEXAS

The paper presents a snapshot of the current employment distribution of high-technology industry among Texas's major metropolitan areas and links the broad outlines of that distribution to the particular production context(s) that emerged in those cities during their formative years. High-technology employment is concentrated in four CMSAs. Dallas-Fort Worth has the largest and most diverse employment base. Employment in Houston, the second largest center, is concentrated in the petroleum and petrochemicals industries. Austin's focus is in computers and electronics, while San Antonio, the fourth largest high-technology center, has a number of minor clusters of high-technology employment but dominates in no individual industry. Industrialization developed in many of these cities simultaneously with initial growth. With varying degrees of effort and success, the early economic and political elites of each city attempted various strategies, particularly large civic infrastructural projects, to stimulate indi...
Physical Properties of Direct Acidified Mozzarella Cheese from Ultrafiltered Whole Milk Retentates

Abstract Retentates from ultrafiltration of pasteurized whole milk at three volume concentration ratios, 1.4:1, 1.7:1 and 2:1. were made into Mozzarella cheese by direct acidification with 10% glacial acetic acid. Excellent melting Mozzarella cheese was attained and increases in cheese yield were related directly to retentate concentration. Yield efficiency, based on casein recovery, was higher in retentate cheese than in controls. Cheese from ultrafiltered whole milk using low concentrated retentates generally showed improved physical properties over that of nonretentate control whole milks. Composition of direct acidified cheese from whole milk retentates when compared with federal standards of identity fitted those of low moisture Mozzarella rather than Mozzarella.
Comparing two neural networks for pattern based adaptive process control

An adaptation strategy based on an analysis of patterns exhibited in the recent controller error history is presented. The strategy is a two parameter adaptation, where the gain and time constant of the controller's internal model are adjusted to make the closed loop error response match a target pattern. Both a back-propagation network and a vector quantizer network (VQN) are compared as pattern analysis tools. This strategy is established for a number of model based controllers and is demonstrated here using the Generalized Predictive Control algorithm. Details of this set point tracking strategy are presented along with demonstrations on both simulated and real single loop processes that experience significant changes in process gain and time constant. Results show both networks to be equally capable at pattern recognition with the VQN's ease of training and implicit ability to assess the accuracy of the pattern match as deciding factors in network selection.
Monte Carlo simulation of single-cell irradiation by an electron microbeam

A model is presented for irradiation of a cellular monolayer by an electron microbeam. Results are presented for two possible window designs, cells plated on the vacuum-isolation window and cells plated on Mylar above the vacuum-isolation window. Even for the thicker dual-membrane window that facilitates tissue culture and allows the target cell to be centered relative to the electron beam, the majority of the calculated beam spreading was contained in a volume typical of the mammalian HeLa cell line. None of the 104 electrons simulated at 25 keV were scattered into the spatial region occupied by neighbors of the target cell. Dose leakage was largest at 50 keV where the mean energy deposited in all neighbors was 21% of that deposited in the target cell. This ratio was reduced to 5% at 90 keV, the highest beam energy simulated. Lineal energy spectra of energy deposition events scored in the nucleus of the target cell became progressively more like the gamma-ray spectrum as the electron beam energy increased. Hence, our simulations provide strong support for the feasibility of a low-LET, single-cell irradiator.
The epidemiology of surgically repaired aneurysms in the United States.

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the results of surgery for hospitalized cases of aneurysms in the United States, thereby providing a standard of comparison for new techniques proposed to treat aneurysms. Methods: Data on hospitalized aneurysm cases were collected from the National Hospital Discharge Survey, a comprehensive database of patients hospitalized in the United States for treatment from the years 1984 to 1994. The National Hospital Discharge Survey samples non-federal, acute-care hospitals with an average length of stay of less than 30 days. All the cases had a diagnosis of or a surgical procedure for a non-cerebral aneurysm. Results: In the year 1994, 51,949 non-cerebral aneurysms were repaired in the United States, and 75% of these procedures were abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) surgeries. The operative mortality rates for AAA were higher than previously reported from multi-institutional studies and were found to be 8.4% for elective repair and 68% for emergency AAA repair. The number of aneurysm surgeries per thousand population varied by region: surgery rates were more frequent in the Northeast and less frequent in the West. Surgical volume appeared to decrease for smaller hospitals and increase for larger hospitals for the period between 1990 and 1994. The overall mortality rates for all aneurysm surgeries diminished with hospital size. However, no significant difference was found for the rates of elective AAA repair between hospital sizes. The percentage of men with aneurysms who underwent surgery for repair was significantly higher than for women with aneurysms. In addition, the AAA repair rates increased for men from 1985 to 1994, and the number of women reported with repaired AAAs remained constant. Conclusion: The location of aneurysm, urgency of repair, region, sex, and hospital size are important factors related to patient treatment and outcome. These data provide a standard of comparison against which surgeons can compare their own results, and they provide a benchmark for the evaluation of interventional techniques proposed to treat aneurysms. (J Vasc Surg 1999;30:632-40.)
Antifungal effect of essential oils on southern yellow pine

Abstract Moisture management remains the most critical factor for controlling mold growth on wood and wood products during storage, construction, and while in service. When moisture management practices fail to adequately control moisture, plant extracts demonstrating antifungal properties may provide protection for these applications. The objective of this study was to evaluate the antifungal properties of natural plant extracts, such as essential oils, for use on wood. Seven essential oils were evaluated for their ability to inhibit growth of Aspergillus niger , Trichoderma viride , and Penicillium chrysogenum on southern yellow pine (SYP) stakes that were either dip treated or exposed to vapors of the test oils. Thyme and Egyptian geranium oil inhibited growth of all test fungi for 20 weeks. Likewise, dill weed oil vapors inhibited all test fungi for at least 20 weeks. Comparison of two mold test apparatuses—Petri dish test and tank test chambers—gave similar results for thyme oil. These findings support the application of essential oils for surface treatment or vapor exposure of wood to prevent mold infestation.
The Politics of Economics in Transit Planning.

Urban transportation planning is discussed as an object lesson demonstrating both the limits of economic reasoning as a guide to public policy, and the degree to which profes sional planners can conventionalize subjective judgments which are then insinuated into policy advice under the guise of hard-nosed realism. The implication is that our choice from among professional experts is intrinsically a political one.
Predicting the Resilient Modulus of Asphalt Concrete from the Dynamic Modulus

The NCHRP 1-37A Guide for Mechanistic-Empirical Design of New and Rehabilitated Design Structures introduces the dynamic modulus as the material property to characterize asphalt concrete. This is a significant change from the resilient modulus used in the previous AASHTO pavement design guide. This paper presents an analytical method of calculating the resilient modulus from the dynamic modulus. It involves the application of multiaxial linear viscoelastic theory to linear elastic solutions for the indirect tension test developed by Hondros. The prediction method is verified by using three 12.5-mm surface course mixtures with different aggregate shapes and binder types and one 25.0-mm base mixture. Results show that the predicted and measured resilient modulus values are in close agreement. The results provide a forward model for the potential back-calculation of the dynamic modulus from resilient modulus databases already available in highway agencies, such as the Long-Term Pavement Performance Materials...
A Process for the Critical Analysis of Instructional Theory.

Some have argued for a common language in the field of instructional design in an effort to reduce misunderstandings and simplify a multitude of synonymous terms and concepts. Others feel that this goal is undesirable in that it precludes development and flexibility. In this article we propose an ontology-building process as a way for readers to compare and analyze terms and concepts across theories. This process entails the development of categories that emerge from the literature, and the comparison of theories across categories. Such a process can reveal broader concepts that exist beyond specific theoretical terminology, differences in meanings behind common terms used by theorists, a greater understanding of the theorists’ intent, and discontinuities and gaps within the theoretical literature.
Substrate specificity and some properties of phenol sulfotransferase from human intestinal Caco-2 cells.

The phase II metabolic reactions, sulfation and glucuronidation, were studied in a human colon carcinoma cell line (Caco-2), which has been developed as a model of intestinal enterocytes. Phenol sulfotransferase (PST, EC 2.4.2.1) was isolated from Caco-2 cells cultured for 7, 14 and 21 days. The enzyme catalyzed the sulfation of both p-nitrophenol and catecholamines (e.g., dopamine) as well as most catecholamine metabolites. The affinity (Km) of PST for dopamine was much higher than for p-nitrophenol, and the specific activity of PST with both substrates increased with the age of the cells. The thermal stability of Caco-2 PST increased with cell age and was not dependent on the acceptor substrate used. The thermolabile PST from 7-day old cells was more sensitive to NEM than was the thermostable enzyme from 21-day old cells. No UDP-glucoronyltransferase (EC 2.4.1.17) activity was detected in 7-, 14- and 21-day old Caco-2 cells with any of the methods used.
Aircraft Autopilot Analysis and Envelope Protection for Operation Under Icing Conditions

The behavior of a typical autopilot structure is studied for flight under icing conditions. The study is based on aT win Otter aircraft model and focuses on the pitch attitude behavior. A quadratic stability analysis using linear matrix inequalities is conducted to show that the time-varying closed-loop system maintains quadratic stability under icing conditions. In addition, the problem of envelope protection in the presence of icing is considered; in particular, how to maintain the angle-of-attack within the stall limits which are time varying. Based on steady-state behavior, a practical envelope protection scheme is developed and tested via simulation. I. Introduction A IRCRAFT accidents continue to occur due to the formation of ice on aircraft in flight. The development of safer, more reliable and affordable aircraft must include better solutions for flight in icing and bad weather conditions. The primary cause of these accidents is the effect of ice accretion on the performance, stability, and control of the aircraft. 1 Accidents occur when aircraft are not properly protected against ice accretion either on the ground or in flight. As mentioned in Ref. 1, this situation may result from an inadequate ice protection system or aircraft operation outside of the iced aircraft flight envelope. Icing accidents can be prevented in two ways: 1) icing conditions can be avoided, and 2) the aircraft system can be designed and operated in an ice-tolerant manner. For all aircraft, ice avoidance is the desired goal for increased safety. However, for commercial aircraft, where revenues and schedules must be maintained, ice tolerance will continue to be the preferred method for all but the most severe icing conditions. Currently a project on developing smart icing systems (SIS) to deal with this problem of icing is being carried out by a group of researchers at the University of Illinois. 2 The goal of the SIS research is to improve the safety of operations in icing conditions. This paper is a result of this SIS research. It studies the effects of ice accretion on the autopilot stability and performance and also develops techniques for envelope protection (EP) with the autopilot in operation under icing conditions. Current practice recommendations dictate that the autopilot system be shut down immediately when ice accretion is reported during the flight. The research reported here aims at taking a step in the direction of developing an autopilot system that is reliable and robust to icing conditions. This autopilot system will be tested by integrating it into a high-fidelity real-time simulator platform, the Icing Encounter Flight Simulator (IEFS), 3 currently being developed at the University of Illinois.