cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Heavy ion identification using a thin film scintillator detector

Abstract The application of a thin film scintillator detector (TFD) for the identification of heavy ion products from the well-known reactions 12C+16O, 12C+14N, 12C+12C and 12C+7Li has been made. The TFD was used to measure values proportional to specific luminescence and a solid state detector was used for incident and residual particle energy measurements. In parallel experiments the TFD was exposed to a range of monoenergetic ion beams of 16O, 14N, 12C and 7Li, as well as to alpha particles from a 228Th decay source, in order to establish calibration curves. These spectra were collated with as to alpha particles from a 228Th decay source, in order to establish calibration curves. These spectra were collated with two-parameter plots of coincident signals from the solid state and scintillator detectors for each reaction. Trends in specific luminescence as a function of ion energy-loss and luminescence efficiency vs. ion energy are also presented. Calculations based on two different models of specific luminescence production are shown to agree with the general behavior exhibited by the five ions.
Recent Trends in Metropolitan-Nonmetropolitan Fertility1

Although decline and convergence in metropolitan (metro) and nonmetropolitan (nonmetro) fertility levels are longterm trends, a detailed analysis of the period since 1970 shows a pattern of exceptions and conditions which underscore the need for giving continued attention to differences by residence. There was a divergence of metropolitan and nonmetropolitan fertility rates in the 1970–1980 decade, but the renewed convergence since 1980 has made an important contribution to the turnaround reversal of metropolitan-nonmetropolitan population change. This recent rate convergence is not a simple coming together of the age-specific rates, but the balancing of changes in opposite directions for younger and older women. Metro-nonmetro differences widened in favor of nonmetro for women 20–24 years of age and in favor of metro for women over 30 years of age. The apparent catching up of postponed first and second births is found primarily among metropolitan women over 30 years of age.
ErgoCAD: an ergonomic CAD system

Abstract E-CAFFS is a rule-based expert system for fixturing on a CAD system using flexible fixtures. It accomplishes the automatic layout of fixture models on a CAD/CAM system for given applications through an interative process. The final fixtured simulation is graphically represented as solid models on the screen of a computer-aided design system. This paper focuses on the fixturing of planar polyhedral workpieces for face-milling operations and predicts the feasibility of a generalized expert fixturing strategy on CAD systems. The software developed as a result of this research has decreased fixturing costs by a substantial amount and has successfully reduced fixturing down-time to a mere fraction.
The carrier state of Bacillus subtilis infected with the transducing bacteriophage SP101

Abstract Bacteriophage SP10 may infect Bacillus subtilis to form a carrier system. The infected bacteria give rise to infected organisms after six or more successive single-colony isolations. About 60% of the spores derived from such an infected culture yield clones that produce phage, and such spores retain their ability to produce phage even after treatment with antiserum and heating at 80°. Four hours' incubation of carrier spores in nutrient broth yields cultures having more than 10 infective centers per bacterium. Cultivation of infected organisms in medium containing SP10 antiserum leads to loss of phage and loss of immunity to phage infection. DNA with a density characteristic of viral DNA can be detected in infected bacteria. Extracts of infected bacteria contain a phage-induced deoxyribonuclease activity which attacks both phage and bacterial DNA in vitro. The phage-bacterial complex is therefore best described as a carrier state. The DNA of the phage and of B. subtilis are chemically different. Enzymatically prepared complementary virus RNA has no homology with bacterial DNA. The lack of homology of this transducing phage DNA with the DNA of its host and the failure to form a truly lysogenic relationship reinforce previous conclusions that transducing bacterial DNA is incorporated into the SP10 virus particle without any recombination between viral and bacterial DNA.
Constrained layer damping of tubular truss members

An efficient technique is developed to model tubular truss members with a variety of constrained layer damping treatments along its length. The truss member is divided into sections with distinct damping treatments. Each section consists of concentric layers of an outer tube, viscous layer, and inner tube. The equations of motion of a typical section are obtained by Hamilton's principle. An exact solution to the equations is obtained and used to develop the dynamic stiffness matrix for a typical section. A novel condensation and assembly scheme is used to develop a superelement for a truss member comprising multiple sections with the damping treatments. The superelement is verified by comparison of results with an analytical solution and with a conventional finite element model for internal and external constrained layer damping.
Extracellular Volume and Aldosterone Interaction in Chronic Kidney Disease

Since the advent of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, little attention has been given to the potential proinflammatory effects of aldosterone in high-volume s
Protective function of taurine in glutamate-induced apoptosis in cultured neurons.

Previously, we showed that taurine protects neurons against glutamate-induced excitotoxicity by inhibiting the glutamate-induced increase of [Ca 21 ]i. In this study, we report that taurine prevents glutamate-induced chromosomal condensation, indicating that taurine inhibits glutamate-induced apoptosis. We found that Bcl-2 was down-regulated while Bax was up-regulated by glutamate treatment, and these changes were prevented in the presence of taurine. We have also shown that taurine inhibits glutamate-induced activation of calpain. Furthermore, calpastatin, a specific calpain inhibitor, also prevented glutamate-induced cell death. Here we propose the mechanisms underlying glutamateinduced apoptosis and taurine’s inhibition of glutamateinduced apoptosis to be as follows: glutamate stimulation induces [Ca 21 ]i elevation, which in turn activates calpain; activation of calpain leads to a reduction of Bcl-2:Bax ratios; with decreased Bcl-2:Bax ratios Bax homodimers form, Bax homodimerization, and translocation to the mitochondria result in the release of cytochrome c; released cytochrome c in turn activates a downstream caspase cascade leading to apoptosis. The antiapoptotic function of taurine is due to its inhibition of glutamate-induced membrane depolarization. V C 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Electron beam stimulated changes in composition and electrical properties of CdS surfaces

Abstract Electron beam stimulated micro- and macroscopic phenomena are reported for CdS surfaces irradiated with a two keV electron beam. Microscopic effects - confined strictly to the irradiated area - were observed in the presence of water vapor of a partial pressure as low as 10 -9 Torr leading to: changes in surface composition, decrease in work function, and striking enhancement of the surface recombination velocity. Macroscopic effects were associated with irreversible changes in the electronic properties of the entire surface rather than of the irradiated regions only.
Mixed frequency small gain state feedback control with application to insulin pumps

This paper considers the state feedback control synthesis problem for linear continuous-time systems with small gain specifications in mixed frequency ranges. A new method for designing the state feedback controllers is developed in the framework of linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method in comparison with the available result is illustrated via an application to insulin pumps.
Debating Latin American Aesthetic Theory. Beatriz Sarlo on the Autonomy of Art

For quite some time, Beatriz Sarlo has been at the forefront of the debate over the possibility of ascertaining the aesthetic value of art. The Argentine critic's dismissal of value-neutral approaches to art has been often criticised as a repackaging of the aestheticist tradition inherited from the European Enlightenment. Using Sarlo's own critical practice – a selection of Sarlo's key texts on Argentine literature written since 1980 – as a testing ground for her theoretical insights I argue in favour of re-evaluating Sarlo's project as an aporetic discourse with positive implications for cultural politics that should be refined rather than abandoned.
Tolerance for ambiguity among medical students: Implications for their selection, training and practice

The practice of medicine has always been characterized by uncertainty. Yet, attempts to study tolerance for uncertainty in medicine have been few, and limited to its influence on specialty preferences and test-ordering behavior. In particular, studies have not investigated how the process of socialization into the medical profession affects tolerance for uncertainty. Based on the assumption that uncertainty and ambiguity are related concepts, a modified version of a tolerance for ambiguity scale was used to study Johns Hopkins medical students' (N = 386) tolerance for ambiguity (TFA) through 4 yr of medical school. In addition, using alcoholism as an example of a clinically ambiguous condition, the association between students' tolerance for ambiguity and their perceived role in diagnosing and treating alcoholism was also investigated. Results indicate that tolerance for ambiguity (1) does not change throughout medical school, (2) is lower among men, whites and students who are younger when they begin medical school, (3) is higher among prospective psychiatrists than surgeons, and (4) is lower among students who do not feel responsible for diagnosing and treating alcoholism. These findings suggest that tolerance for ambiguity may, indeed, affect practitioners' career choices and performance and that selection of medical students may be more important than medical training per se in influencing students' tolerance for ambiguity. If medical schools admitted students who possess a high tolerance for ambiguity, quality of care for ambiguous conditions might improve, imbalances in physician supply and practice patterns might be reduced, and the increasing ambiguity in medical practice might be better acknowledge and accepted.
CHILD Syndrome: Lack of Expression of Epidermal Differentiation Markers in Lesional Ichthyotic Skin

Congenital hemidysplasia with ichthyosiform erythroderma and limb defects (CHILD) syndrome is a rare genetic disorder. The epidermal abnormalities associated with the unilateral ichthyosis have previously been examined only by morphology. In order to describe these abnormalities more completely we analyzed the expression of markers of epidermal differentiation (keratins and filaggrin), grew keratinocytes in culture, and correlated the results with ultrastructural features. Expression of all differentiation markers was significantly reduced or absent, whereas keratins K5 and K14 and keratins K6 and K16 were strongly expressed in lesional epidermis, suggesting that basal cell keratin expression was not down-regulated as in normal epidermis and that lesional keratinocytes mature via an abnormal pathway. When removed from the tissue and grown in culture, keratinocytes from lesional and non-lesional biopsies had similar phase microscopic morphology as well as keratin and profilaggrin expression, in contrast to the extreme differences in vivo. Lesional keratinocytes also had similar contents of keratin filaments and keratohyalin, but showed abnormal accumulation of intercellular vesicles and debris and altered cell-cell and cell-substratum interaction. Comparison of the results in tissue and in culture suggests that systemic or dermal factors influence the abnormal structural protein expression and ichthyosiform epidermal differentiation seen in CHILD syndrome, but that lesional keratinocytes maintain abnormalities in the secretion and accumulation of extracellular material in vitro similar to the lesional tissue in vivo.
Halide Effects in the Formation of Four-Coordinate, Cationic Aluminum.

This work was conducted as part of a broad-based effort to determine the factors that affect cation formation for organometallic aluminum complexes. In this study the adduct species R2AlX·NH2tBu (R, X: Me, F (1); Me, Cl (2); Et, Cl (3); Me, Br (4)) and cationic complexes [R2Al(NH2tBu)2]X (R, X: Me, Br (5); Et, Br (6); Me, I (7)) were examined. These complexes demonstrate that the reaction of R2AlX with excess NH2tBu produces cationic complexes only when X = Br or I. All of the compounds were characterized by melting points, 1H NMR, IR, elemental analyses, and, in some cases, X-ray crystallography. X-ray data: 2, triclinic, P1, a = 6.277(3) A, b = 8.990(3) A, c = 10.393(3) A, α = 71.97(1)°, β = 80.25(3)°, γ = 81.97(3)°, V = 547.0(4) A3, Z = 2, 1032 reflections with F > 4.0 σ(F), R = 0.0520; 5, monoclinic, P21/c, a = 9.099(1) A, b = 10.292(1) A, c = 17.255(2) A, β = 104.81(1)°, V = 1562.1(3) A3, Z = 4, 1464 reflections with F > 4.0 σF, R = 0.0387; 6, monoclinic, P21/c, a = 14.122(2) A, b = 13.539(2) A, ...
A systematic review of cardiovascular effects of epinephrine on hypertensive dental patients

Abstract Objective. A systematic review was conducted to identify any additional risks of adverse cardiovascular outcomes to hypertensive individuals represented by use of epinephrine-containing anesthetic solutions and epinephrine-impregnated retraction cords. Study Design. Two searches identified 373 local anesthetic and 33 retraction cord reports; 6 local anesthetic reports met inclusion criteria. Results. Use of epinephrine in uncontrolled hypertensive patients was associated with small, nonsignificant increases in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. No adverse outcomes were reported. Only one study examined effects of epinephrine on controlled hypertensive patients, in whom additional risks due to interactions with antihypertensive medication are possible. Available studies did not address effects of gingival retraction cord on hypertensive patients. Conclusions. Although the increased risk for adverse events among uncontrolled hypertensive patients was found to be low and the reported occurrence of adverse events in hypertensive patients associated with the use of epinephrine in local anesthetics was minimal, the quantity and quality of the pertinent literature is problematic. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2002;93:647-53)
Production of double-sided targets by electrodeposition: initial evaluation and optimization of performance

The Detector for Advanced Neutron Capture Experiments (DANCE) located at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center is used to perform neutron capture cross-section measurements on radioactive and non-radioactive isotopes. Thin actinide targets for the DANCE detector are typically prepared by molecular deposition on thin titanium foils. For the preparation of double-sided deposits, a Teflon electrodeposition cell was constructed with two liquid chambers with a foil substrate in between, allowing electrodeposition on both sides of the foil. We have been studying the electrodeposition of uranium from isopropyl alcohol solutions using this cell. Effects of acid composition, uranium concentration, current, and deposition time will be described.
Non-Linear Dynamics in Entrepreneurial and Management Careers

Dramatic changes in 21st century careers have generated the need for a new set of theoretical lenses that view careers in a more dynamic, fluid way. Several characteristics of this new complexity lens that directly apply to dynamic career systems include discontinuities in career progression, non-proportionality of effects of effort, sensitive dependence on initial conditions, viewing a system in terms of constraints and triggers for change, and the impact of mutual causality of structural emergence. Two extensive case studies are presented and explained using these concepts, providing an expanded understanding of careers in management and in entrepreneurship.
Black–white differences in social mobility in the past 30 years: A latent-class regression analysis

Abstract This article presents an analysis of racial differences in intergenerational occupational mobility using a novel latent-class regression model. The model distinguishes mobility patterns by membership in four latent classes, which are labeled as the “stable middle” class, the “downwardly mobile” (DM) class, the “upwardly mobile” (UM) class, and the “stable working” (SW) class, and this distinction provides new substantive insights into mobility analysis. Compared with whites, blacks are shown to be disadvantaged in two of the three elements of mobility chances that the distinction of these four latent classes identifies: a disadvantage coming from their poor status backgrounds, and a disadvantage coming from a significantly smaller chance of experiencing upward mobility than whites. On the other hand, blacks are not significantly more likely than whites to experience downward mobility. Changes in the black–white differences in mobility chances are also analyzed.
Sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor activation: evidence for distinct chemokine compartments

Abstract Introduction: FTY720 is a sphingosine derived immunomodulator that causes T cell egress from peripheral blood and spleen to peripheral lymph nodes through a mechanism dependent on activation of the sphingosine 1-phosphate receptor and sensitization of the CCL19/CCR7 chemokine system. The purposes of this study were to determine if FTY720 enhances T cell migration to other chemokine systems and by what mechanism, and if a chemokine dependent compartmental model of FTY720 enhanced T cell migration exists. Methods: In vivo migration assays were performed with wild type or various knockout (KO) mice strains receiving FTY720 (0.3 mg/kg by gavage); thymus, peripheral blood, spleen, and peripheral lymph nodes were harvested after 18 hours; and T cell distribution was determined by flow cytometry. Control mice received water only. Adoptive transfer assays were performed with CSFE labelled wild type or KO splenocytes injected into wild type or various KO mice strains. All mice were transferred with 2.0 × 10 7 splenocytes; the experimental group received FTY720, the control group received water. Peripheral blood, spleen, and peripheral lymph nodes were harvested after 18 hours and T cell distribution was determined by flow cytometry. All experiments were performed 3 times with 3 mice per experimental and control groups. Standard deviations and p-values were calculated with Student’s t-test. Results: As shown in Figure 1, in wild-type but not CCR2 −/− , CCL2 −/− , or plt mice total T cell numbers were reduced in the thymus following FTY720 administration compared to controls. Peripheral blood total T cell numbers were significantly reduced in all mice strains but plt mice had statistically more total T cells then wild type, CCR2 −/− , or CCL2 −/− . Sequestration of T cells in LN occurred in wild type, plt, and CCL2 −/− but not CCR2 −/− mice compared to controls; T cell accumulation was significantly greater in wild type compared to plt or CCL2 −/− mice. T cell splenic egress was seen in wild type, plt, CCR2 −/− , and CCL2 −/− strains compared to controls. As shown in Figure 2, CCR2 −/− transferred T cells fail to accumulate in the LN in both wild type and plt recipients following FTY720 administration compared to controls and to B6 T cells transferred into the same strains. Conclusions: We conclude that FTY720 enhancement of thymic T cell egress is dependent on the CCR7 and CCR2 chemokine system. LN T cell sequestration is dependent on both CCR2 and CCR7 chemokine systems but also display a CCR7 and CCR2 independent method of T cell accumulation. FTY720 enhance T cell migration occurs in a compartmentalized fashion where the thymus, peripheral blood, peripheral lymph node, and spleen compartments appear to be independent of one another. Download high-res image (56KB) Download full-size image
The transformation of Frank Schofield (1889–1970): Opening Korea, a hermit nation in East Asia

The purpose of this study is to understand how the British Canadian Frank Schofield transformed himself into an established missionary scholar and nobleman in Korea. The study employs its framework from the structure of cultural exchange itself in its survey of Schofield's career. It examines the relevant aspects of Korean and Western cultures, and the characteristics of Schofield who linked them. The case, including themes significant both to Korean and Western cultures, such as the importance of spirituality, an emphasis on education, and the ideals of justice and love, explains reasons for his success as a cultural mediator between Korea and the West. It reveals that the flow of information and ideas between Koreans and Schofield illustrates the ability of intercultural contact to influence the initiating as well as receiving culture. It suggests that such a distinction between sender and receiver may carry little ultimate significance. Finally, it argues that individuals of different cultures can conv...
On the existence of long-wavelength shear-horizontal surface waves on the bcc (001) surface

Abstract Long-wavelength, low-frequency shear-horizontal surface waves are found to exist along 〈100〉, but not 〈110〉, directions of propagation on the (001) face for a simple but fairly realistic model of monatomic body-centered cubic crystals. This domain of existence contrasts with that found previously on the (001) face of monatomic simple cubic and both monatomic and rocksalt face-centered cubic structures, where such waves exist along 〈110〉, but not 〈100〉.
Covalent binding of folic acid to dimethylglycine dehydrogenase

Abstract Dimethylglycine dehydrogenase (EC 1.5.99.2) carries out the oxidative demethylation of dimethylglycine to sarcosine in liver mitochondria. In vivo , the enzyme uses tightly bound tetrahydropteroyl pentaglutamate (H 4 PteGlu 5 ) as an acceptor of the one-carbon group generated during the reaction. The purified enzyme can use, but does not require, H 4 PteGluB and under these conditions formaldehyde is the one-carbon unit produced. It is reported that folic acid may be covalently linked to dimethylglycine dehydrogenase in a specific and saturable manner so that only 1 mole of folic acid is bound per mole of enzyme. Covalently bound folic acid blocks the subsequent binding of H 4 PteGlu, and does not inhibit the rate of dimethylglycine dehydrogenase activity in vitro .
Positronium formation in polyethylene and nylon

Abstract Changes in the amounts of positronium formed in polyethylene and nylon 66 in the regions of phase transitions were studied by the two gamma angular correlation method. Results are compared with X-ray diffraction structure and crystallinity determinations.
Symptoms of Postpartum Depression Associated With Elevated Levels of Interleukin-1 Beta During the First Month Postpartum

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a devastating disorder that may carry lifetime consequences. Although several psychosocial risks for PPD have been identified, biological contributors are unclear. El...
An Application of a Markovian Model to the Prediction of the Reliability of Electronic Circuits

In this paper we describe how a model based on the theory of continuous-time Markov processes can be used to compute the reliability of electronic circuits, from data on the drift and failure of the individual components of the circuit. Specific examples of the method are given to show that useful results are obtained.
Crack growth rates of nickel alloy welds in a PWR environment.

A program is being conducted at Argonne National Laboratory to evaluate the resistance of Ni alloys and their welds to environmentally assisted cracking in simulated LWR coolant environments. This paper presents crack growth rate (CGR) results for Alloy 182 shielded-metal-arc weld metal in a simulated pressurized water reactor (PWR) environment at 320°C. Crack growth tests were conducted on 1–T compact tension specimens with different weld orientations from both double-J and deep-groove welds. The results indicate little or no environmental enhancement of fatigue CGRs of Alloy 182 weld metal in the PWR environment. The fatigue CGRs of Alloy 182 in the PWR environment are a factor of ≈5 higher than those of Alloy 600 in air under the same loading conditions. The stress corrosion cracking CGRs for Alloy 182 are close to the average growth rates of Alloy 600 in the PWR environment. The results from the present study are compared with the existing CGR data for Ni-alloy welds to determine the relative susceptibility of the specific Ni-alloy weld to environmentally enhanced cracking.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
A Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model of p,p′-Dichlorodiphenylsulfone

A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model of the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of p,p'-dichlorodiphenylsulfone (DDS) in male and female rats and mice is presented. Data used in constructing the model come from single-dose intravenous administration of DDS to male Fischer 344 rats (10 mg/kg, with data taken up to 504 h after administration), from single-dose gavage administration to male rats (10, 100, or 1000 mg/kg, with data up to 72 h after administration), and from chronic feed studies in male and female rats and male and female B6C3F(1) mice (studies of duration from 2 weeks up to 18 months, with feed concentrations of DDS up to 300 ppm). The model uses diffusion-limited kinetic for the distribution of the parent compound. Because fewer data are available for the metabolites of DDS (at least five of which are known to exist in the data), the model groups the metabolites into one metabolic pathway and uses simpler flow-limited kinetics for the metabolites. The data show that the kinetics of DDS are nonlinear. Possible sources of nonlinearity considered in the model were nonlinear (Michaelis-Menten) metabolism, nonlinear absorption of DDS from the gut, and induction by DDS of its own metabolism. A model using Michaelis-Menten metabolism was not found to give a significantly better fit than one using first-order linear metabolism, but omitting either of the other nonlinear effects was found to give a significantly poorer fit to the data. Because the data from mice are limited compared to those from rats, there is more confidence in the model's description of DDS kinetics in rats than in its description of kinetics in mice.
Bulk Density of Rocky Mine Soils in Forestry Reclamation

doi:10.2136/sssaj2011.0380 Received 7 Nov. 2011. *Corresponding author (jskousen@wvu.edu). © Soil Science Society of America, 5585 Guilford Rd., Madison WI 53711 USA All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Permission for printing and for reprinting the material contained herein has been obtained by the publisher. Bulk Density of Rocky Mine Soils in Forestry Reclamation Soil & Water Management & Conservation
Recent neuroendocrine facets of male reproductive aging.

Abstract We recently identified consistent attenuation of LH and testosterone secretory pulse amplitude and associated disruption of their orderly patterns of release in healthy older men. These dynamic changes emerge despite young–adult concentrations of LH and total testosterone. Moreover, we could document disruption of synchrony between LH secretion and oscillations in FSH, prolactin, sleep-stage and NPT (nocturnal penile tumescence), thus pointing to loss of coordinate neurohormone outflow. Such data suggest that CNS-hypothalamically based regulatory defects may be important in aging, as inferred indirectly in the old male rat and mouse more than 15 years ago. How such alterations are related to specific hypothalamic neurotransmitter changes in aging will be critical to unravel.
Mothers' milk feedings in the neonatal intensive care unit: accuracy of the creamatocrit technique.

OBJECTIVE: To establish the accuracy of the creamatocrit (CRCT) for estimating lipid and calories in a heterogeneous sample of own mothers' milk (OMM) in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), using a hematocrit reader, rather than fine vernier calipers. STUDY DESIGN: In this blinded study, CRCT techniques were performed on 32 fresh OMM samples (7 foremilk, 12 hindmilk, 13 composite milk) that were also analyzed for total lipid and caloric concentration. RESULTS: Mean lipid and caloric concentrations for the OMM samples were 50.87 g/l (28.3–86.5) and 703.96 kcal/l (477.2–1183.6), respectively. Results revealed a stronger linear relationship between CRCT and total lipid (r=0.94; p<0.001) than between CRCT and caloric density (r=0.76; p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The CRCT, using a hematocrit reader, is an accurate, inexpensive, and useful technique for estimating the lipid and caloric concentration of individual OMM samples in the NICU. The variability in lipid and calories in these 32 OMM samples underscores the utility of this technique.
Critical Behavioral Assumptions in Evacuation Time Estimate Analysis for Private Vehicles: Examples from Hurricane Research and Planning

For communities threatened by hurricanes, evacuation time estimate (ETE) computation requires developing sophisticated evacuation flow models through analysis. In the last 25 years, significant progress has been made in this area. Accurate assumptions about risk area population behavior is required for ETEs, however, but evacuation models developed by transportation engineers have been poorly integrated with population behavior research by social scientists. The authors describe available ETE model-relevant empirical data, principal behavioral variables affecting hurricane ETEs, and recommended future analytic research and methods to address the disparity.
The interaction of antibody with the major surface glycoprotein of vesicular stomatitis virus I. Analysis of neutralizing epitopes with monoclonal antibodies

Monoclonal antibodies reactive with the major surface glycoprotein (G-protein) of vesicular stomatitis virus serotypes Indiana and New Jersey (VSV-Ind, VSV-NJ) have been isolated and characterized. The reactivity of each monoclonal was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), competitive binding assay (CBA), and the ability to neutralize infectivity. It was found that the majority of the antibodies were of the IgG(2a) subclass. In the CBA, unlabeled monoclonal antibodies were used to compete for radiolabeled antibodies in binding to solid-phase immunoadsorbents. The VSV-NJ G-protein appears to contain four nonoverlapping epitopes by these analyses. However, the VSV-Ind G-protein is more complex since four epitopes were defined which exhibited varying degrees of overlap. In some cases, this overlap was defined by complete reciprocal competition between antibodies with different reactivity patterns. In other instances, partial or nonreciprocal competition between antibodies was observed. These results may indicate epitopes in close proximity or suggest allosteric modifications in the G-protein induced by antibody binding. A fifth epitope on the Ind G-protein was defined by a monoclonal antibody which could bind to the G-proteins of both VSV-Ind and VSV-NJ but could only neutralize infectivity of the VSV-Ind serotype.
Novel technologies for antiangiogenic drug delivery in the brain.

Antiangiogenic therapies aimed at inhibiting the formation of tumor vasculature hold great promise for cancer therapy, with multiple compounds currently undergoing clinical trials. As with many forms of chemotherapy, antiangiogenic drugs face numerous hurdles in their translation to clinical use. Many such promising agents exhibit a short half-life, low solubility, poor bioavailability, and multiple toxic side effects. Furthermore, when targeting malignant brain tumors the blood-brain barrier represents a formidable obstacle, preventing drugs from penetrating into the central nervous system (CNS). In this review, we discuss several pre-clinical antiangiogenic therapies and describe issues related to the unique conditions in the brain with regard to cancer treatment and neurotoxicity. We focus on the limitations of antiangiogenic drugs in the brain, along with numerous solutions that involve novel biomaterials and nanotechnological approaches. We also discuss an example in which modifying the properties of...
Inequality and happiness: Insights from Latin America

Inequality is a contentious topic in economics, and its effect on individual welfare remains an open question. We address this question from the perspective of a novel approach in economics – the study of happiness. In this discussion, we draw from our research on the topic, which is based on new empirical evidence from Latin America. We find several differences from studies conducted in the United States and Europe, especially regarding the role of perceptions of mobility and status. We find that inequality has negative effects on happiness in Latin America, where it seems to be a signal of persistent unfairness. Our research also examines the effects of several variables, including wealth, status, and reference group size, on the link between inequality and happiness, with the presumption that these variables can help us identify the channels through which inequality operates as a signaling mechanism.
Solution 1H NMR study of the heme cavity and folding topology of the abbreviated chain 118-residue globin from the cyanobacterium Nostoc commune.

The globin from the cyanobacterium Nostoc commune, abbreviated GlbN, which appears to serve as a part of a terminal oxidase rather than as a respiratory pigment, displays relatively normal O2 binding properties, despite the highly abbreviated polypeptide chain, (118 residues) relative to more conventional globins [Thorsteinsson, M. V., Bevan, D. R., Potts, M., Dou, Y., Eich, R. F., Hargrove, M. S., Gibson, Q. H., and Olson, J. S. (1999) Biochemistry 38, 2117−2126]. The nature of the heme cavity and the general folding topology of this cyanoglobin were investigated by solution 1H NMR to establish the extent to which, and the manner in which, this compact globin adheres to the standard globin fold. This represents by far the smallest globin subjected to structural analysis. The paramagnetic cyanomet derivative was selected because its characteristically large magnetic anisotropy imparts significant dipolar shifts which both improve resolution to greatly facilitate assignments and serve as indicators of the ...
Bioreactor engineering of stem cell environments

Stem cells hold promise to revolutionize modern medicine by the development of new therapies, disease models and drug screening systems. Standard cell culture systems have limited biological relevance because they do not recapitulate the complex 3-dimensional interactions and biophysical cues that characterize the in vivo environment. In this review, we discuss the current advances in engineering stem cell environments using novel biomaterials and bioreactor technologies. We also reflect on the challenges the field is currently facing with regard to the translation of stem cell based therapies into the clinic.
Disturbing the Dyson conjecture, in a generally GOOD way

Dyson's celebrated constant term conjecture [F.J. Dyson, Statistical theory of the energy levels of complex systems I, J. Math. Phys. 3 (1962) 140-156] states that the constant term in the expansion of Π1 ≤ i ≠ j ≤ n(1 - xi/xj)aj is the multinomial coefficient (a1 + a2 + ... + an)!/(a1!a2! ... an!). The definitive proof was given by I.J. Good [I.J. Good, Short proof of a conjecture of Dyson, J. Math. Phys. 11 (1970) 1884]. Later, Andrews extended Dyson's conjecture to a q-analog [G.E. Andrews, Problems and prospects for basic hypergeometric functions, in: R. Askey (Ed.), The Theory and Application of Special Functions, Academic Press, New York, 1975, pp. 191-224]. In this paper, closed form expressions are given for the coefficients of several other terms in the Dyson product, and are proved using an extension of Good's idea. Also, conjectures for the corresponding q-analogs are supplied. Finally, perturbed versions of the q-Dixon summation formula are presented.
KINETICS IN SOLIDS

▪ Abstract The kinetics of solid state reactions generally cannot be assumed to follow simple rate laws that are applicable to gas-phase reactions. Nevertheless, a widely practiced method for extracting Arrhenius parameters from thermal analysis experiments involves force fitting of experimental data to simple reaction-order kinetic models. This method can produce significant errors in predicted rates outside the experimental range of temperatures, and it is of limited utility for drawing mechanistic conclusions about reactions. In this review, we discuss how an alternative “model-free” approach to kinetic analysis, which is based on the isoconversional method, can overcome some of these limitations.
Demonstration and initial characterization of a latent collagenase secreted by human gingival fibroblasts.

Cultured human gingival fibroblasts secrete a latent collagenase (EC 3.4.24.7). This latent collagenase can be activated proteolytically by trypsin and chemically by the organomercurials, p-aminophenylmercuric acetate (APMA) or p-chloromercuribenzoate (PCMB). Under optimal activation conditions, the latent collagenase was activated to the same extent by either trypsin or the organomercurial, APMA. The activated fibroblast collagenase hydrolyzed 14C-collagen fibrils and cleaved Type I collagen in solution into three-quarter and one-quarter length cleavage fragments, which appeared identical to those produced by human gingival tissue collagenase obtained from organ culture. The fibroblast collagenase was inhibited by EDTA, 1,10–phenanthroline, cysteine, dithioerythritol, heparin, human serum, and α2-macroglobulin but not by phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride or N-ethylmaleimide. The pH optimum for this neutral metalloproteinase was between 7.5 and 9.0. In addition, the secretion of this latent collagenase by cultured fibroblasts can be stimulated by the endocytosis of either mycostatin or latex particles.
TRMT12 overexpression in breast cancer cells and its effect on the wybutosine biosynthetic pathway

2716 By combining the approaches of comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) using a high- resolution BAC array and a global expression analysis with a high density oligonucleotide array, we identified the overexpression of the TRMT12 (tRNA methyltransferase 12) gene in breast cancer cell lines. This gene is located on chromosome 8 in the 8q24 region, an area commonly amplified in many types of cancer. Seven out of eight breast cancer cell lines showed amplification at the genomic level in this region that extends from 125.5 Mb to 126.5 Mb. Within this region, the TRMT12 gene showed the highest expression across all the cell lines, and the correlation between the copy number and expression changes among the eight cell lines was significant. Validation by RT-qPCR using RNA from 30 breast tumors showed that the TRMT12 gene was overexpressed >2 fold in 87% (26/30) of the tumors. We have initiated studies to explore the consequence of overexpression of TRMT12 in cancer. The TRMT12 gene is homologous to the yeast TYW2, which is a tRNA methyltransferase that catalyzes the third step in the pathway that converts guanosine to a highly modified base, wybutosine (yW). This five-step pathway has been described for yW biosynthesis in yeast. Wybutosine is present only in phenylalanine tRNA (tRNA-Phe) at the 37th position, adjacent to the anticodon. This modification stabilizes the codon-anticodon interaction and functions to maintain the correct reading frame. It is likely that overexpression of the TRMT12 gene in cancer cells disrupts the yW biosynthetic pathway resulting in hypomodified tRNA-Phe. RT-qPCR using RNA from normal and mouse mammary tumor tissue showed that the TRMT12 gene was overexpressed (>20 fold) in the tumors. Preliminary results suggest that the major fraction of the tRNA-Phe from tumor lacks the fully modified yW base. Studies are underway to determine the exact modification status of the tRNA-Phe in mouse tumor samples. We also evaluated the expression of genes encoding enzymes catalyzing the remaining four steps of yW biosynthesis. The genes, TRM5, TYW1 and TYW2, encoding the enzymes for the first three steps are overexpressed in tumors, and those for the last two steps were unaltered. TRMT12 expression was brought down (77-95%) using three different siRNAs in a breast cancer cell line, SKBR3; global expression changes associated with this reduction in TRMT12 expression are being evaluated.
Collisional diffusion in a 2-dimensional point vortex gas

Abstract Simulations showing the effect of shear on the collisional diffusion of a 2D point vortex gas are compared to theory. For finite shear the diffusion is considerably smaller than previous zero-shear theories predict. Surprisingly, changing the sign of the applied shear changes the diffusion by an order of magnitude.
Disordered speech assessment using automatic methods based on quantitative measures

Speech quality assessment methods are necessary for evaluating and documenting treatment outcomes of patients suffering from degraded speech due to Parkinson's disease, stroke, or other disease processes. Subjective methods of speech quality assessment are more accurate and more robust than objective methods but are time-consuming and costly. We propose a novel objective measure of speech quality assessment that builds on traditional speech processing techniques such as dynamic time warping (DTW) and the Itakura-Saito (IS) distortion measure. Initial results show that our objective measure correlates well with the more expensive subjective methods.
Electronic design and modeling of an integrated plasma impedance probe

This paper describes the electronic design of a plasma impedance probe under development for microsatellite applications. The designs primary innovation is the integration of matched analog-to-digital converters on a single chip for sampling the probe's current and voltage signals. A fast fourier transform (FFT) is performed by an off-chip FPGA to compute the probe's impedance. This provides a robust solution for determining the plasma impedance accurately. The use of matched ADCs decreases the instrument's sensitivity to imprecision and variation in the probe stimulus waveform and the FFT reduces sensitivity to transient spikes that proved disruptive in previous instruments. The major analog errors and parametric variations affecting the PIP instrument and its effect on the accuracy and precision of the impedance measurement are also studied.
Parasite consumption and host interference can inhibit disease spread in dense populations.

Disease dynamics hinge on parasite transmission among hosts. However, canonical models for transmission often fit data poorly, limiting predictive ability. One solution involves building mechanistic yet general links between host behaviour and disease spread. To illustrate, we focus on the exposure component of transmission for hosts that consume their parasites, combining experiments, models and field data. Models of transmission that incorporate parasite consumption and foraging interference among hosts vastly outperformed alternatives when fit to experimental data using a zooplankton host (Daphnia dentifera) that consumes spores of a fungus (Metschnikowia bicuspidata). Once plugged into a fully dynamic model, both mechanisms inhibited epidemics overall. Foraging interference further depressed parasite invasion and prevalence at high host density, creating unimodal (hump-shaped) relationships between host density and these indices. These novel results qualitatively matched a unimodal density–prevalence relationship in natural epidemics. Ultimately, a mechanistic approach to transmission can reveal new insights into disease outbreaks.
Diabetes in the Elderly Population

Type 2 diabetes mellitus has emerged as an important condition of older patients in which both microvascular and macrovascular complications are a common cause of morbidity and mortality. In contrast to type 1 diabetes mellitus, this endocrinopathy is clustered in minority populations and has both strong genetic and environmental factors that influence disease manifestation. A number of physiological alterations of glucose metabolism including hepatic overproduction of glucose, and reduced glucose utilization by peripheral tissues as a result of insulin resistance contribute to the development of the metabolic manifestations of this disease. Ultimately, pancreatic failure and reduced insulin secretion lead to hyperglycemia and the diabetic state. Frequently, many of these metabolic manifestations, or what has been termed Syndrome X, antecede the development of overt diabetes by many years. This syndrome is manifest clinically by such cardiovascular risk factors as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and coagulation abnormalities. This abnormal metabolic milieu contributes to the high prevalence of macrovascular complications including coronary artery disease as well as more generalized atherosclerosis. Microvascular complications have only more recently been recognized as an important and frequent complication of type 2 diabetes. Among the elderly and minority populations, this has become the single most important cause of end-stage renal failure that necessitates renal replacement therapies. The outcome for these patients on hemodialysis, the modality most frequently selected, is poor, with the majority of these patients dying of cardiovascular causes. Unfortunately, interventional strategies to reduce or prevent the microvascular and macrovascular complications have only recently received the needed attention and will require considerable effort and resources to improve the clinical outcomes and life expectancies for these patients.
Re-Discovering the New World The Potential for an Expanded Economic Relationship between India and Brazil

With an intensification of globalization a vast majority of the under-developed states are experiencing a high level of economic growth due to their economic relationship with the developed states. At the same time there has been a lack of significant economic relationships between the developing countries. Therefore, this article explores the potential of a South-South economic relationship by evaluating the case studies of India and Brazil. I initially identify the causal factors that bought about a structural change within the economies of these two nations. Post this, I evaluate the changes in the global economy that have made such an economic cooperation more important now than ever before. Finally, I identify the areas in which these two states can expand their economic relationship and conclude with the potential of such an economic relationship for the future of the South-South Cooperation initiative.