cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Time-resolved resonance Raman anisotropy. Rotational motion studied by Raman spectroscopy

Abstract Time-resolved resonance Raman anisotropy (TRRRA) — a new approach to rotational motion — is described. The expressions of the time-dependent Raman susceptibility which are vibration-dependent have been derived and three Raman anisotropies analogous to fluorescence anisotropy have been obtained. The TRRRA can in principle provide more rotational information than fluorescence depolarization and linear dichroism.
Device design and signal processing for multiple-input multiple-output multimode fiber links

Multimode fibers (MMFs) are limited in data rate capabilities owing to modal dispersion. However, their large core diameter simplifies alignment and packaging, and makes them attractive for short and medium length links. Recent research has shown that the use of signal processing and techniques such as multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) can greatly improve the data rate capabilities of multimode fibers. In this paper, we review recent experimental work using MIMO and signal processing for multimode fibers, and the improvements in data rates achievable with these techniques. We then present models to design as well as simulate the performance benefits obtainable with arrays of lasers and detectors in conjunction with MIMO, using channel capacity as the metric to optimize. We also discuss some aspects related to complexity of the algorithms needed for signal processing and discuss techniques for low complexity implementation.
The latex agglutination test as a rapid serological assay forCorynebacterium sepedonicum

The latex agglutination test was evaluated for detection of the potato bacterial ring rot pathogen,Corynebacterium sepedonicum. The bacterium was detected in infected potato stems and tubers tested and in inoculated eggplant stems. Test reliability was confirmed using blind tests. A minimum of 106 bacterial cells/ml was requisite for observable agglutination. Nonspecific reactions were not observed from healthy extracts of plant tissues. Nonspecific reactions with other bacteria maintained in pure culture were eliminated by addition of bovine serum albumin to sensitized latex preparations.
Structure of the ribosome with elongation factor G trapped in the pretranslocation state

During protein synthesis, tRNAs and their associated mRNA codons move sequentially on the ribosome from the A (aminoacyl) site to the P (peptidyl) site to the E (exit) site in a process catalyzed by a universally conserved ribosome-dependent GTPase [elongation factor G (EF-G) in prokaryotes and elongation factor 2 (EF-2) in eukaryotes]. Although the high-resolution structure of EF-G bound to the posttranslocation ribosome has been determined, the pretranslocation conformation of the ribosome bound with EF-G and A-site tRNA has evaded visualization owing to the transient nature of this state. Here we use electron cryomicroscopy to determine the structure of the 70S ribosome with EF-G, which is trapped in the pretranslocation state using antibiotic viomycin. Comparison with the posttranslocation ribosome shows that the small subunit of the pretranslocation ribosome is rotated by ∼12° relative to the large subunit. Domain IV of EF-G is positioned in the cleft between the body and head of the small subunit outwardly of the A site and contacts the A-site tRNA. Our findings suggest a model in which domain IV of EF-G promotes the translocation of tRNA from the A to the P site as the small ribosome subunit spontaneously rotates back from the hybrid, rotated state into the nonrotated posttranslocation state.
Utilization of psychophysiological indices in behavioral assessment: Some methodological issues

Psychophysiological behavioral assessment generates basic measurement problems. Reliability must be estimated and recognition must be given to possible attenuation of correlation. Change scores may be correlated with baselines, requiring the use of regression methods. Corrections have also been used to compensate for different individuals having different ranges of scores. Multivariate approaches are often used, including discriminant analysis, multiple regression, and multivariate analysis of variance. Sample-specific covariances may require cross-validation techniques. Factor and cluster analysis and path analysis may be appropriately applied to correlational psychophysiological data. Because repeated measures are often taken, time-series analysis has also been recommended. Finally, attention is given to idiosyncratic psychophysiological patterns and methods for their description.
NASA web-accessible open Software as a Service framework

This paper discusses the modern approach of the implementation of Software as a Service (SaaS) for NASA as a way to reduce cost and increase efficiency. The Grid XML Datastore Framework is an extension of SaaS framework based on eXtensible Database technology (XDB). This is implemented to support the Innovative Partnership Program (IPP) for its Technology Transfer System (NTTS) project.
Stereoselectivity in the elution of sugars from columns of sephadex g-15

Abstract The gel-permeation characteristics of selected sugars and sugar derivatives were determined on a column of Sephadex G-15. The following observations were made: ( 1 ) the Sephadex G-15 column does not distinguish between enantiomeric saccharides, ( 2 ) a decrease in R g , value is observed on going from a methylene (deoxy) to a hydroxyl to a methoxyl group in monosaccharides, ( 3 ) methylation or reduction of a particular hydroxyl group affects the R g , values selectively, ( 4 ) the substituted (methyl or glucosyl) α anomer is retained on the column longer than the corresponding β anomer, and ( 5 ) sugars having either one or no axially attached hydroxyl group are eluted in the order (increasing R g value): axially attached hydroxyl groups at C-4, at no carbon atom, at C-2, and at C-3.
Suppression of self-stimulatory behavior of a profoundly retarded boy across staff and settings: An assessment of situational generalization

This study examined the direct and generalized effects of positive reinforcement and modified arm overcorrection upon the occurrence of appropriate play and self-stimulatory behaviors of a 17-year-old profoundly retarded boy. A multiple baseline design was employed to assess the effects of treatment across 10 teachers in two settings. Results indicated that the procedure directly increased play behavior and suppressed self-stimulation. However, there was no evidence of generalized changes in the subject's behavior across teachers and settings. The failure of the treatment program to produce such changes was examined with reference to the procedures employed.
Agent-based modeling, public choice, and the legacy of Gordon Tullock

The future of modeling in public choice may be glimpsed by examining its evolution in economics. For problems that are influenced by heterogeneity of actors, social networks, or emergence—the arising of a complex system from simple phenomena, such as Adam Smith’s “invisible hand”—economists increasingly are turning to agent-based modeling. Agent-based modeling is a form of computational analysis that focuses on agents rather than on aggregates. In his long career as a founding scholar of public choice, Gordon Tullock repeatedly followed the agent-oriented approach of methodological individualism. Many of Tullock’s models are thus highly amenable to further exploration using that method. As agent-based modeling becomes more and more popular, the importance of Tullock’s work will continue to grow.
Time evolution of a non-gaussian wave packet

Abstract The behavior of the one-dimensional Schrodinger free particle wave packet with form factor sech α( k - k 0 ) is obtained as a function of time.
Polymerization of Perfluoro Epoxides

Abstract Epoxidation of perfluoroolefins to perfluoroepoxides has made a new class of monomers available. Perfluoroepoxides undergo facile ring-opening reactions with nucleophiles which under the proper reaction conditions can lead either to poly-perfluoroethers or to other classes of fluorocarbons previously unavailable or available with great difficulty. The preparation of perfluoroepoxides is described.
Demonstration of Acid Phosphatase in Eimeria spp.: Partial Characterization of the Enzyme in E. vermiformis,

Sporozoite extracts of E. vermiformis, E. stiedai, and E. tenella are rich in acid phosphatase activity. They contain specific enzyme activities equal to or greater than those reported for other highly virulent protozoan parasites. The absolute amount of enzyme activity per oocyst dramatically increases during sporulation of E. stiedai and E. vermiformis. Partial characterization of the acid phosphatase activity of E. vermiformis indicates that sporozoites account for greater than 92% of the total activity in sporubted oocysts, that the enzyme is resistant to inhibition by tartrate, and that it can be separated into two forms by anion exchange chroma-tography.
GENDER ROLE IDENTITY AMONG ADOLESCENT MUSLIM GIRLS LIVING IN THE U.S.

Gender role identity is acquired through exposure to societal expectations and beliefs about behaviors and characteristics appropriate for males and females. This study examined influences on gender identity among ninety-six Muslim adolescent girls living in the U.S. and attending an Islamic high school. Over three-quarters of the sample characterized themselves as Middle-Eastern or Arab-American. Participants completed a survey in English or Arabic containing background questions, the Bern Sex Role Inventory (Bern, 1974), the Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure (Phinney, 1992), and a religiosity scale. These young women had comparable femininity scores, but higher masculinity scores than Bern's normative female samples. Results also indicated that those girls who had lived in the U.S. for longer periods reported more masculine attributes. Greater sense of belonging to one's ethnic group and greater religiosity were associated with greater femininity. Thus, identification with one's own culture, adherence to religious practices, and exposure to foreign cultural values were related to gender role identity.
Stimulated Brillouin Scattering (SBS) in Photonic Crystal Fibers (PCF)

We have investigated Stimulated Brillouin Scattering (SBS) in several different Photonic Crystal Fibers (PCF). We present results on a new Brillouin peak in these fibers and propose an explanation for its origin in those fibers.
Accident progression within the secondary containment boundary of large LMFBRs

Abstract There has been an emphasis, recently, on the calculation of potential hazards beyond the primary containment of LMFBRs. This study discusses a number of analyses which have been conducted in order to follow the progression of a highly-energetic core-disruptive accident from its inception to its consequences in secondary containment. An effort has been made to develop an integrated treatment of the accident sequence by extending the capability of primary containment codes, when necessary, to treat as broad a range of accident phenomena as possible. Beginning with the initiation phase, the release of energy to reactor internals and primary containment boundary is discussed. Emphasis must be placed on highly-energetic accidents if the intent is to generate such severe phenomena as missiles and sodium spillage. Characterization of energetic events is accomplished by deriving the work potential as a function of reactivity insertion in the reactor core. This source term is used for the primary containment analysis. Energy partitioning for HCDAs within the primary containment provides information concerning the system integrity and the potential for consequences which go beyond the primary containment boundary. The behavior of the reactor cover deserves special attention. During the slug impact phase, forces transmitted to the head would be the driving force for potential missiles and may open leak paths for sodium spillage. Current studies on missile generation and sodium spillage are discussed briefly to outline the methods used in estimating the potential effects on secondary containment. Uncoupled scoping calculations of generic missiles, generated by sodium slug impact loadings, are described as well as the coupled motion of an unrestrained reactor plug during the impact transient. Modelling of penetrations in the reactor cover for sodium spillage is discussed and results of spillage due to sodium impact on the reactor cover are presented.
Ecosystem metabolism and nutrient uptake in an urban, piped headwater stream

Piped streams, or streams that run underground, are often associated with urbanization. Despite the fact that they are ubiquitous in many urban watersheds, there is little empirical evidence regarding the ecological structure and function of piped stream reaches. This study measured ecosystem metabolism, nutrient uptake, and related characteristics of Pettee Brook—an urban stream that flows through several piped sections in Durham, New Hampshire, USA. Pettee Brook had high chloride and nutrient concentrations, low benthic biomass, and low rates of gross primary productivity (GPP), ecosystem respiration (ER), and nutrient uptake along its entire length during summer. Spring was a period of elevated biological activity, as increased light availability in the un-piped sections of the stream led to substantially higher GPP, ER, NH4 uptake, and PO4 uptake in these open reaches. Piped reaches of Pettee Brook were similar to open reaches in terms of water quality, dissolved O2 concentration, temperature, and discharge. Piped reaches did, however, have significantly less light, shallower sediments, and no debris dams. The absence of light inhibited autotrophic activity in piped reaches, resulting in the complete loss of GPP as well as a significant reduction in benthic AFDM and chlorophyll a biomass. Heterotrophic activity in piped reaches was not impaired to the same extent as autotrophic activity. Reduced ER was observed in piped reaches during the summer, but we failed to find significantly lower DOC or nutrient uptake rates in piped reaches than in open reaches. Carbon consumption in piped reaches, which do not have significant autochthonous or allochthonous carbon replenishment, must rely primarily on upstream inputs of organic matter. These results suggest that although ecological conditions in piped streams may be degraded beyond the extent of other urban stream reaches, piped reaches may still sustain some measurable ecosystem function.
Impact of esterified bacteriochlorophylls on the biogenesis of chlorosomes in Chloroflexus aurantiacus

A chlorosome is an antenna complex located on the cytoplasmic side of the inner membrane in green photosynthetic bacteria that contains tens of thousands of self-assembled bacteriochlorophylls (BChls). Green bacteria are known to incorporate various esterifying alcohols at the C-17 propionate position of BChls in the chlorosome. The effect of these functional substitutions on the biogenesis of the chlorosome has not yet been fully explored. In this report, we address this question by investigating various esterified bacteriochlorophyll c (BChl c) homologs in the thermophilic green non-sulfur bacterium Chloroflexus aurantiacus. Cultures were supplemented with exogenous long-chain alcohols at 52 °C (an optimal growth temperature) and 44 °C (a suboptimal growth temperature), and the morphology, optical properties and exciton transfer characteristics of chlorosomes were investigated. Our studies indicate that at 44 °C Cfl. aurantiacus synthesizes more carotenoids, incorporates more BChl c homologs with unsaturated and rigid polyisoprenoid esterifying alcohols and produces more heterogeneous BChl c homologs in chlorosomes. Substitution of phytol for stearyl alcohol of BChl c maintains similar morphology of the intact chlorosome and enhances energy transfer from the chlorosome to the membrane-bound photosynthetic apparatus. Different morphologies of the intact chlorosome versus in vitro BChl aggregates are suggested by small-angle neutron scattering. Additionally, phytol cultures and 44 °C cultures exhibit slow assembly of the chlorosome. These results suggest that the esterifying alcohol of BChl c contributes to long-range organization of BChls, and that interactions between BChls with other components are important to the assembly of the chlorosome. Possible mechanisms for how esterifying alcohols affect the biogenesis of the chlorosome are discussed.
Can Consumers be Segmented on the Basis of their Service Quality Expectations

Explores the segmentation by service marketers of the consumer market on the basis of service quality expectations. Measures consumer expectations and various quality dimensions for three commonly purchased professional and three non‐professional services. Evaluates the effect of various consumers′ demographic characteristics on service quality expectations. Concludes with a discussion of research and managerial implications.
Kinetic Simulation of a Centrifugal Bioreactor for High Population Density Hybridoma Culture

Demand for increasingly complex post-translationally modified proteins, such as monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), necessitates the use of mammalian hosts for production. The focus of this article is a continuous centrifugal bioreactor (CCBR) capable of increasing volumetric productivity for mAb production through high density hybridoma culture, exceeding 108 cells/mL. At these extreme densities, environmental conditions such as substrate and inhibitor concentrations rapidly change dramatically affecting the growth rate. The development of a kinetic model predicting glucose, mAb, lactate, and ammonium concentrations based on dilution rate and cell density is shown in this article. Additionally, it is found that pH affects both growth rate and viability, and a range of 6.9–7.4 is needed to maintain growth rate above 90% of the maximum. Modeling shows that operating an 11.4 mL CCBR inoculated with 2.0 × 107 cells/mL at a dilution rate of 1.3 h–1, results in a predicted growth rate 82% of the maximum value. At the same dilution rate increasing density to 6.0 × 107 cells/mL decreases the predicted growth rate to 60% of the maximum; however, by increasing dilution rate to 6.1 h−1 the growth rate can be increased to 86% of the maximum. Using the kinetic model developed in this research, the concentration of glucose, mAb, lactate, and ammonium are all predicted within 13% of experimental results. This model and an understanding of how RPM impacts cell retention serve as valuable tools for maintaining high density CCBR cultures, ensuring maximum growth associated mAb production rates. © 2009 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2009
Hemodynamic determinants of the peak systolic left ventricular-aortic pressure gradient in children with valvar aortic stenosis.

Abstract The peak systolic pressure gradient (the difference between peak left ventricular [LV] and peak aortic systolic pressures) has been used for many years as a primary measure of severity in children with valvar aortic stenosis (AS). 1–3 Reliance on the peak systolic pressure gradient in clinical decision-making was based on the practice of measuring the gradient at catheterization by withdrawing a single catheter from the left ventricle to aorta. In recent years it has become common, however, to measure LV and aortic pressures simultaneously with dual catheter techniques. 4 The time-honored peak systolic gradient does not actually exist in time, because peak LV pressure in AS occurs well before peak aortic systolic pressure. The pressure gradients that actually exist in real time between the left ventricle and aorta (the instantaneous gradients) vary throughout systole. These instantaneous pressure gradients, which include peak instantaneous gradient and mean systolic gradient (the integral of the systolic instantaneous gradients) can be estimated noninvasively, 5–7 unlike peak systolic gradient. Nevertheless, clinicians continue to rely on peak systolic pressure gradient as an important index of severity for clinical decision-making in children with valvar AS. The purpose of this study was to define, at cardiac catheterization, the relation between peak, mean and peak instantaneous systolic pressure gradients in children with valvar AS.
Synthesis of sn-1,2-diacylglycerols by monoacylglycerol acyltransferase from Manduca sexta fat body

The pathway for the synthesis of sn-1,2-diacylglycerol stimulated by the action of adipokinetic hormone (AKH) in the insect fat body is unknown. Previous results from this laboratory suggested that the hydrolysis of stored triacylglycerol to sn-2-monoacylglycerol followed by the stereospecific acylation of sn-2-monoacylglycerol catalyzed by a monoacylglycerol-acyltransferase (MGAT) could be the major route of AKH-stimulated sn-1,2-diacylglycerol synthesis. Thus, MGAT might represent a key enzyme of this pathway. In this study we characterized the MGAT activity from the Manduca sexta fat body. The activity, which was assayed by acylation of 2-monoolein using radioactive labeled palmitoyl-CoA, was found to be primarily a microsomal enzyme. The products of the acylation of 2-monoolein were 1,2-diacylglycerol (40-50%), 1,3-diacylglycerol (20-30%), and triacylglycerol (30-40%). The presence of triacylglycerol as a product revealed the presence of diacylglycerol-acyltransferase activity in the fat body microsomes. The pH optimum of MGAT activity was 7.0, and the dependence of the activity on the concentration of 2-monoolein showed saturation kinetics. An endogenous MGAT activity, which represented 20% of the maximal activity observed with added substrate, was detected. Optimal concentrations of palmitoyl-CoA ranged between 0.10-0.20 mM. The specific activity of MGAT, measured under optimal conditions, was about 0.6 nmol DG formed/min-mg protein. MGAT activity was greatest with 2-monoolein, and lower activity was observed when a saturated 2-monoacylglycerol was employed. The activity observed with sn-1-monoacylglycerol was lower than that observed with sn-2-monoacylglycerol. AKH did not stimulate MGAT activity, suggesting that either the enzyme is not under hormonal regulation or the monoacylglycerol pathway is not involved in the AKH-stimulated production of sn-1,2-diacylglycerol in the M. sexta fat body.
Why to market IT services and how to do it

Burgeoning IT budgets are competing for shrinking resources. Users have a bewildering array of support and technology options, many outside the traditional IT department. It's never been more important to justify the value of IT and to help users navigate their options, and marketing can be a critical tool. The speakers will explain the basics of marketing, which includes a set of research and communications techniques. Marketing can meet numerous objectives, including helping users understand how IT can help them, developing effective and useful services, promoting services & best practices, improving IT's reputation and determining how to price and package services. We will demonstrate the innovative marketing program at Yale University School of Medicine's IT department. Our marketing program includes a research initiative to enable us to understand our users' needs, evaluate our services, and examine the use of current services and the interest in new ones. We will present examples and give advice on designing and implementing an effective marketing research initiative. A communications initiative is the other component of our marketing program. We use a wide variety of communications media and techniques including mass and targeting emails; posters; brochures; an annual report; Web pages, sites and banner ads; events and presentations; plasma screen 'e-signs' in high traffic areas; videos; and personal contacts. We will provide examples of how we match these tools to a variety of communications needs and how a unified branding system provides coherence across media and messages. Finally, we'll discuss how we maintain our marketing program and the importance of wedding research with communications, drawing implications for IT service providers who wish to begin or improve their own marketing efforts.
In vitro continuous amperometry with a diamond microelectrode coupled with video microscopy for simultaneously monitoring endogenous norepinephrine and its effect on the contractile response of a rat mesenteric artery.

Continuous amperometry with a diamond microelectrode and video microscopy were used to record (in vitro) endogenous norepinephrine release simultaneously with the evoked contractile response of a mesenteric artery from a healthy Sprague Dawley rat. Norepinephrine (NE) is a vasoconstricting neurotransmitter released from sympathetic nerves that innervate the smooth muscle cell layers surrounding arteries and veins. Using these two techniques along with several drugs, the NE released at sympathetic neuroeffector junctions nearby the microelectrode was measured as an oxidation current. Key to the amperometric measurement was the use of a diamond microelectrode because of the response sensitivity, reproducibility, and stability it provided. NE release was elicited by electrical stimulation at frequencies between 1 and 60 Hz, with a maximum response seen at 20 Hz. Confirmation that the oxidation current was, in fact, associated with endogenous NE came from the results of several drugs. Tetrodotoxin (TTX, 0.3 μ...
Sliding manipulation of rigid bodies on a controlled 6-DoF plate

We model the full dynamics of a rigid part in three-point frictional sliding contact with a flat rigid six-degree-of-freedom (6-DoF) plate. When the plate moves periodically, we show the part's dynamics are well approximated by a first-order system represented by an asymptotic velocity field that maps part configurations in SE(2) to unique velocities (linear and angular) in â2. The form of the asymptotic velocity field depends on the plate's motion, the location and friction coefficient of each contact point, and the inertial properties of the part. Asymptotic velocity vectors in the field approximate the part's cycle-averaged velocity at each configuration and are independent of time or the system's initial state. For the special case of a rigid part with infinitesimal thickness, we prove that asymptotic velocities are always unique and well defined. With the ability to program arbitrary periodic plate motions, part manipulation reduces to finding plate motions that generate asymptotic velocity fields to accomplish desired tasks. Several fields useful for manipulation tasks (e.g. sensorless part alignment) are verified in simulation and experiment.
Loading sources for seismological investigations of near-Earth objects

Abstract Asteroids and comets that are near the orbit of the Earth are commonly called near-Earth objects (NEOs), and there is some concern that Earth might be struck by such a body. If a body were discovered on a collision course with Earth, the issue of mitigation arises. There are essentially two thoughts on mitigation: destroy it or move it out of the way. Both ideas on mitigation rely on knowledge of the composition and internal structure of the asteroid or comet. In particular, the density, strength, and cohesiveness of the body need to be known. Seismology is a way to determine such information. This paper explores both explosives and impactors as seismic sources, and quantifies the source through downward momentum and the moment in the perpendicular directions. Experiments were performed looking at explosive placement, and computations agreed well with the experimental results.
Proof of a generalized Robinson's theorem on beam damping.

A Robinson-type theorem concerning beam damping is proved, based directly on Liouville's theorem. The theorem so obtained is somewhat general: The radiating particles need not be relativistic, and they need not form a beam, the emitted radiation may be arbitrary (not necessarily electromagnetic), provided only that the emission process is short enough and not too violent. The proof makes no reference to transfer matrices, nor to properties of the guiding forces (which need not be electromagnetic), except that they are derivable from a Hamiltonian
Comparative Analysis of Histopathologic Effects of Synthetic Meshes Based on Material, Weight, and Pore Size in Mice

Background While synthetic prosthetics have essentially become mandatory for hernia repair, mesh-induced chronic inflammation and scarring can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility. Mesh propensity to induce such adverse effects is likely related to the prosthetic's material, weight, and/or pore size. We aimed to compare histopathologic responses to various synthetic meshes after short- and long-term implantations in mice. Material and Methods Samples of macroporous polyester (Parietex [PX]), heavyweight microporous polypropylene (Trelex[TX]), midweight microporous polypropylene (ProLite[PL]), lightweight macroporous polypropylene (Ultrapro[UP]), and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (DualMesh[DM]) were implanted subcutaneously in mice. Four and 12 wk post-implantation, meshes were assessed for inflammation, foreign body reaction (FBR), and fibrosis. Results All meshes induced varying levels of inflammatory responses. PX induced the greatest inflammatory response and marked FBR. DM induced moderate FBR and a strong fibrotic response with mesh encapsulation at 12 wk. UP and PL had the lowest FBR, however, UP induced a significant chronic inflammatory response. Although inflammation decreased slightly for TX, marked FBR was present throughout the study. Of the three polypropylene meshes, fibrosis was greatest for TX and slightly reduced for PL and UP. For UP and PL, there was limited fibrosis within each mesh pore. Conclusion Polyester mesh induced the greatest FBR and lasting chronic inflammatory response. Likewise, marked fibrosis and encapsulation was seen surrounding ePTFE. Heavier polypropylene meshes displayed greater early and persistent fibrosis; the reduced-weight polypropylene meshes were associated with the least amount of fibrosis. Mesh pore size was inversely proportional to bridging fibrosis. Moreover, reduced-weight polypropylene meshes demonstrated the smallest FBR throughout the study. Overall, we demonstrated that macroporous, reduced-weight polypropylene mesh exhibited the highest degree of biocompatibility at sites of mesh implantation.
Differential effects on GABAA receptor γ2-subunit messenger RNA by tolerance to and withdrawal from pentobarbital — an in situ hybridization study

Abstract The heterogeneity of the GABA A receptors has been confirmed structurally and functionally. The present study demonstrates the pharmacological heterogeneity of the GABA A receptors. Rats were rendered tolerant to pentobarbital by continuous intracerebroventricular infusion via osmotic minipumps and abruptly withdrawn from pentobarbital. In situ hybridization of mRNA coding for the GABA A receptor γ 2 -subunit showed decreases of mRNA levels in superior and inferior colliculus in pentobarbital tolerant rats compared to rats in withdrawal. In rats 24-hr after withdrawal from pentobarbital, increases of mRNA levels in neocortex, piriform cortex and in granular and Purkinje cell layers of the cerebellum were observed. These results indicate the fast adaptation of GABA synapses in response to abrupt withdrawal from chronic pentobarbital treatment. The differential responsiveness seen in different areas further confirms the pharmacological heterogeneity of the GABA A receptors. The observed increases and decreases of mRNA may underlie, at least in part, the previously reported changes in Bmax of GABA A receptor ligand binding sites.
Stainless steel capacitive pressure sensor for hostile environments: Sample-to-sample variability and reliability characterization

Assembly-type stainless steel (SS) pressure sensors are promising low-cost devices for high-pressure, corrosive-media applications. This report studies media compatibility, sample-to-sample variance, and reliability testing, as a step toward validating commercial viability of the technology. The sensor is realized from four main elements: a SS diaphragm die, a SS press plate, a tungsten carbide (WC) backing plate and a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) SS vacuum coupling radiation (VCR) pipe fitting that also serves as the package. Media compatibility tests with nitrogen gas, deionized (DI) water, 45% wt. potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution, and 10% wt. sodium chloride (NaCl) solution at pressures up to 1,000 psi showed a repeatability error as low as 0.7% full-scale (FS). Sample-to-sample variance for three dimensionally identical packaged sensors was determined to be 9% FS. The reliability tests have been encouraging, with a single packaged sensor tested for over 1 million cycles to date in nitrogen gas with a repeatability error of 6% FS.
Competing Political Theologies: Intra-Muslim Polemics on the Limits of Prophetic Intercession

This essay revolves around an analysis of a polemical exchange between two highly prominent Indian Muslim thinkers in Delhi, Shah Isma'il Shahid (d. 1831) and Fazl-i Haqq Khayrabadi (d. 1862), over the limits of the capacity of Prophet Muhammad to intercede (shafa'at) on behalf of sinners on the day of judgment. While focusing on this polemical moment, it explores the question of how this ostensibly theological debate on the limits of prophetic intercession connected to a much broader political debate surrounding the sociology of sovereignty under conditions of political change and transition. It argues that the opposing arguments on the limits of prophetic authority made centrally visible in this debate were intimately connected to larger questions surrounding the normative status of social hierarchies, distinctions and monarchical modes of being in early nineteenth-century India.
Synthesis of enzymes during the germination of fungus spores.

THE hypothesis that the development of an organism is mediated by alterations in its enzyme systems is generally accepted. Illustrative data, however, are scarce, though some changes in rat liver enzymes have been reported1,2. In the fungi, the development from the resting spore to an active growing mycelium is a very dramatic phenomenon. Usually, under proper conditions, the spore swells, produces a germ tube which elongates, branches, and forms a mature mycelium. If any marked changes in the enzyme content of the fungus occurs, one would expect such alterations at some period during germination, before the germ tube was fully formed. A change of this kind was thought to occur during the activation of ascospores of Neurospora crassa by heat3, but this effect could not later be confirmed4. Indirect evidence that the enzymes of a spore can be different from those of mature mycelium can be deduced from the catabolism by Tilletia caries of glucose variously labelled with carbon-14. The spores utilized glucose through the Entner Douderoff pathway, while the mycelium catabolized the sugar through the Embden, Meyerhof, Parnas system and hexose monophosphate shunt5. Results presented here show that in one fungus, Ustilago zeae, specific qualitative and quantitative changes in enzymes content occur during the germination of a spore.
Dynamic Shear Band Development in Plane Strain

Abstract : Plane strain compression of a rectangular block is used as a model problem to investigate the dynamics of shear band development from an internal inhomogeneity. The material is characterized as a von Mises elastic-viscoplastic solid, with a hardness function that exhibits a local maximum. Regardless of whether the material is hardening or softening, plastic strain development involves the evolution of finger-like contours emanating from the inhomogeneity at 45 degrees to the compression axis. Once a given strain contour crosses the specimen, it fans out about its initial direction of propagation. For a softening solid, this fanning out ceases for some strain level greater than the strain at the hardness maximum and further straining takes place in an ever narrowing band. Many of the qualitative features of shear band development under dynamic loading conditions are the same as under quasi-static loading conditions, but a significant retardation of shear band development due to inertial effects is found.
Determination of the Cis-Trans composition of methyl oleate and methyl elaidate by 13C NMR

Abstract Carbon-13 FFT NMR spectroscopy can be used to analyze a wide range of cis-trans mixtures of C-18:1 methyl esters. The accuracy of the method is ±0.4 mole % or better. The method is superior to existing NMR methods in that neither derivatization nor addition of lanthanide shift reagent is required.
The Vitamin Requirements of Growing Chickens

Abstract With several fairly recent demonstrations that the chicken can be raised successfully under laboratory conditions, and that its food requirements can be covered by the synthetic rations (composed largely of purified nutrients) that have heretofore been used only with rats and mice, the popularity and usefulness of this animal as an experimental subject is undoubtedly increasing. In laboratories primarily interested in the nutrition of farm animals, the chicken may be used, not only in the solution of general problems in nutrition, but also of problems in practical poultry husbandry. If the experimental work in such laboratories is to be the most widely appreciated, it is undoubtedly of great advantage to work with animals of economic importance on the farm. The chicken possesses many of the advantages of the rat as an experimental animal, in size, food consumption, rapidity of growth, etc., but it must be constantly borne in mind that . . .
Concussion-induced retrograde amnesia in rats

Abstract Three experiments were conducted to investigate the characteristics of retrograde amnesia (RA) induced by concussion in rats. In Experiment 1, rats receiving experimental concussion shortly after training in a single punishment trial exhibited severe forgetting on a retention test 48 h later. In the second experiment, rats receiving a concussion within 6 h after training showed severe RA, while those receiving concussion one day to five days after training exhibited progressively weaker amnesia. In Experiment 3, amnesic animals in one group received pretest noncontingent foot shock as a reminder treatment. This pretest cue significantly increased the cross-through latency, thus indicating a reduction in the memory deficit resulting from concussion. These results suggest that experimental concussion can be an effective method to induce retrograde memory loss in rats; that the RA caused by concussion is time-dependent; and that concussion-induced RA can be alleviated by a pretest cue,indicating that the underlying mechanism of concussion-induced RA is more likely to be a retrieval deficit than a consolidation failure.
A different perspective on financing university computing centers

During the past two years there has been increasing attention placed upon the problems associated with financing University Academic Computer Centers. This concern has been directly related to the great decrease in general funding from organizations such as the National Science Foundations. At the same time it is not clearly independent of the much broader picture relating to the financial conditions surrounding the University as a whole.
Seismic evidence for magma in the vicinity of Mt. Katmai, Alaska

P-wave traveltime delays of as much as 0.9 sec are consistently observed at one seismic station from local and regional earthquakes 70 to 150 km deep. This station is on the southwest flank of Mt. Trident, the most recently active volcano within Katmai National Park, Alaska. Delays from local shallow earthquakes are typically less than 0.3 sec, suggesting that most of the major delay results from anomalous material at depths of more than a few kilometers. This station is located near the center of a bowlshaped low in the Bouguer gravity field that is approximately 15 km in diameter and more than 25 mgals deep. These anomalies suggest, but do not prove, the presence of considerable amounts of magma in the shallow part of the crust that could have been the source for all magma erupted in the vicinity of Mt. Katmai and Mt. Trident this century.
‘If we say English, that means America’: Japanese students’ perceptions of varieties of English

This paper reports the results of a survey of 101 Japanese university students’ perceptions of different varieties of English using an open-ended questionnaire. Participants indicated their first impressions of varieties of English that they had named. This methodology allows participants themselves to provide the specific varieties as well as the evaluative categories and avoids problems associated with using voice stimuli while capturing the stereotypes of the countries they name, a method of research well-established in perceptual dialectology. There were consistent patterns of evaluation of Englishes not found in similar research such as characterisations of US English as authentic, the default variety, a familiar or easy variety. Typically, when evaluating varieties of English, respondents attribute higher status to UK English than US English. Capturing the attitudes of non-native speakers to varieties of English provides understanding of the influences on the shape of English as a global language as...
Single injection recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus vaccines protect ferrets against lethal Nipah virus disease.

Background Nipah virus (NiV) is a highly pathogenic zoonotic agent in the family Paramyxoviridae that is maintained in nature by bats. Outbreaks have occurred in Malaysia, Singapore, India, and Bangladesh and have been associated with 40 to 75% case fatality rates. There are currently no vaccines or postexposure treatments licensed for combating human NiV infection.
The role of Smad3 in the fibrotic phenotype in human vocal fold fibroblasts.

Objectives/Hypothesis To investigate the role of Smad3 as a regulator of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1-mediated cell activities associated with fibrosis in normal human vocal fold fibroblasts. We also sought to confirm the temporal stability of Smad3 knockdown via small inhibitor ribonucleic acid (siRNA). Vocal fold fibroblasts were employed to determine the effects of Smad3 knockdown on TGF-β1-mediated migration and contraction, as well as regulation of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). We hypothesized that Smad3 is an ideal candidate for therapeutic manipulation in vivo based on its role in fibrosis. Study Design In vitro. Methods Knockdown of Smad3 via siRNA was performed in our normal human vocal fold cell line. Three-dimensional collagen gel contraction and scratch assays were employed to determine the role of Smad3 on TGF-β1-mediated contraction and migration, respectively. The role Smad3 in the induction of CTGF was characterized via sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The effects of Smad3 signaling on Smad7 messenger (m)RNA and protein were also quantified. Results Smad3 knockdown was temporally-stable up to 72 hours (P < 0.001), diminished TGF-β1-mediated collagen gel contraction and migration, and blunted induction of CTGF, but it had no effect on TGF-β1-mediated Smad7 mRNA or protein induction. Conclusion Transforming growth factor-β1 stimulated profibrotic cell activities in our cell line and these actions were largely reduced with Smad3 knockdown. These data provide continued support for therapeutic targeting of Smad3 for vocal fold fibrosis because it appears to regulate the fibrotic phenotype. Level of Evidence N/A. Laryngoscope, 2015
Incremental clustering for dynamic document databases

Clustering of very large document databases is a necessity to reduce the space time complexity of retrieval operations. Continuous update of clusters is required owing to the dynamic nature of document databases. An algorithm for incremental clustering is introduced. Its complexity analysis and cost comparison with reclustering are provided. It is shown through empirical testing that the incremental clustering is as effective as the reclustering by producing clusters that are very similar. This similarity is then shown not to be by chance. In the experiments it is shown that the information retrieval effectiveness of the algorithm is compatible with the reclustering algorithm, which is known to have good retrieval performance. >
Amantadine partition and localization in phospholipid membrane: a solution NMR study.

Quantification of membrane partition potential of drug compounds is of great pharmaceutical interest. Here, a novel approach combining liquid-state NMR diffusion measurements and fast-tumbling lipid/detergent bicelles is used to measure accurately the partition coefficient Kp of amantadine in phospholipid bilayers. Amantadine is found to have a strong membrane partition potential, with Kp of 27.6 in DMPC and 37.8 in POPC lipids. Electrostatic interaction also plays a major role in the drugs affinity towards biological membrane as introduction of negatively charged POPG dramatically increases its Kp. Saturation transfer difference experiments in small bicelles indicate that amantadine localizes near the negatively charged phosphate group and the hydrocarbon chain of bilayer lipid. The approach undertaken in this study is generally applicable for characterizing interactions between small molecules and phospholipid membranes.
Stem Cell Transcriptional Loops Generate Precise Temporal Identity

Neuronal diversity is generated from small pools of progenitors whose fate potential changes over time. Recently in Cell, Baumgardt et al. (2009) showed that multiple, simultaneously activated transcriptional cascades regulate the timing and specification of distinct neurons from the lineage of a single embryonic Drosophila neural stem cell.
Max-Plus Stochastic Control

Max-plus stochastic processes are counterparts of Markov diffusion processes governed by Ito sense stochastic differential equations. In this framework, expectations are linear operations with respect to max-plus arithmetic. Max-plus stochastic control problems are considered, in which a minimizing control enters the state dynamics and running cost. The minimum max-plus expected cost is equal to the upper Elliott-Kalton value of an associated differential game.
A Barnes-Hut scheme for simulating fault slip

Abstract. To account for natural spatial and temporal complexity, large-scale, long-duration calculations are required for simulations of seismicity in fault zones that host large earthquakes. Without advances in computational methods, the rate of progress in "earthquake simulator" models and associated earthquake forecasts is limited by the rates at which computer speed and storage increase. To explore improvements in computational efficiency we develop the first implementation of the Barnes-Hut algorithm (Barnes and Hut, 1986) to calculate elastic interactions in a fault model. The Barnes-Hut method is an efficient, numerical scheme that treats local forces exactly and distant forces approximately. The approach is illustrated in example simulations of non-linear fault strength in plane strain. Rudimentary error analysis indicates that efficient calculations, where execution time scales with number of grid points (N) as N log N, can be conducted routinely with errors on the order of 0.1%. We expect the Barnes-Hut method to be well suited for conducting initial exploration of parameter space for fault simulations with non-linear constitutive equations, and for efficient calculations of stress interaction in complex fault systems.