cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Agonist binding and affinity state transitions in reconstituted nicotinic acetylcholine receptors revealed by single and sequential mixing stopped-flow fluorescence spectroscopies

The affinity state of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAcChoRs) reconstituted into either dioleoylphosphatidylcholine (DOPC) or a mixture of dioleoylphosphatidylcholine, dioleoylphosphatidic acid, and cholesterol (DOPC/DOPA/cholesterol) has been determined using single and sequential mixing stopped-flow fluorescence spectroscopies. These techniques have millisecond temporal resolution, permitting low- and high-affinity conformational states of the nAcChoR to be resolved following mixing with the fluorescent partial agonist Dns-C6-Cho from their characteristic Dns-C6-Cho dissociation rates. Our studies reveal that prior to agonist-induced affinity state conversion, nAcChoRs reconstituted into either DOPC or DOPC/DOPA/cholesterol are predominantly in a conformational state that has a low affinity for agonist. Prolonged exposure to Dns-C6-Cho converts nearly all DOPC/DOPA/cholesterol-reconstituted nAcChoRs to the high-affinity state. In contrast, Dns-C6-Cho converts only half of all DOPC-reconstituted nAcChoRs to the high-affinity state. The other half persists in a low-affinity state characterized by a Kd for Dns-C6-Cho of 0.61+/-0.07 microM. This Kd is similar to that previously reported for Dns-C6-Cho binding to low-affinity, resting-state nAcChoRs in native membranes. However, affinity state conversion of DOPC-reconstituted nAcChoRs may be facilitated by re-reconstituting them into bilayers composed of DOPC/DOPA/cholesterol. These results indicate that the lipid bilayer composition modulates nAcChoR agonist-induced affinity state transitions.
Source reconciliation of atmospheric dust causing visibility impairment in Class I areas of the western United States

[1] Aerosol data from the Interagency Monitoring of Protected Visual Environments (IMPROVE) network, air mass backward trajectories, land use maps, soil characteristics maps, diagnostic ratios of elemental composition, and multivariate linear regression were utilized as part of a semiquantitative analysis. The purpose of the analysis was to determine the types of dust-causing events that contribute to low visibility at a given site when the sum of extinction from coarse mass (CM) and fine soil (FS) was larger than any other aerosol component and the reconstructed aerosol extinction coefficient was among the 20% highest (calculated on a calendar year basis) for that site. For these “worst dust days,” the above tools were used to ascribe the cause of low visibility to one of the following types of events: (1) transcontinental transport of dust originating from Asia; (2) windblown dust events from sources located nearby the site and; (3) transport of windblown dust from sources upwind of the site. Depending on the weight of evidence, a low or high level of confidence was associated with the assignment of one of these three events. Absence of convincing evidence resulted in ascribing the worst dust day to “undetermined events.” Of the 610 worst dust days over the 2001–2003 period, 51% were associated with one of the three event types with high confidence and an additional 30% were accounted for with low confidence. Of the 496 worst dust days associated with an event (either low or high confidence), Asian dust was the assigned event on 55 days (for 2001–2002), locally generated windblown dust on 201 days, and transport from upwind source areas susceptible to wind erosion on 240 days. Events associated with windblown episodes from source areas in the United States and Mexico exhibited the highest dust concentrations. Asian dust events were associated with lower dust concentrations and a larger FS-to-CM ratio. Some variations between Asian dust and continental North American dust were observed in organic matter (OMC), black carbon (LAC), and nitrate (NO3−) content. None of the tools used in this study was adequate for identifying events associated with mechanically released dust by anthropogenic activities including, agriculture, construction and motor vehicle travel on paved and unpaved roads. Some of the worst dust days may have been caused by these types of activities, especially in central Arizona and northern and Southern California, where the fraction of undetermined events was higher than in other regions within the western United States. All in all, the methods and results of this study can help improve the performance of large-scale dust emission models and provide insight into the distribution of the types of events that cause dust resultant haze in relatively remote areas of the western United States.
Differences in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Black and White Young Adults: Comparisons among Five Communities of the CARDIA and the Bogalusa Heart Studies

Abstract PURPOSE: To examine community differences in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors among black and white young adults by combining data from two large epidemiologic studies. METHODS: Data are from participants aged 20–31 years in the Coronary Artery Risk Development In Young Adults (CARDIA) study (1987–1988; N = 4129) and the Bogalusa Heart study (1988–1991; N = 1884), adjusting for data collection differences prior to analysis. CARDIA includes four urban sites: Birmingham, Alabama; Chicago, Illinois; Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Oakland, California. Bogalusa is a semi-rural town in Southeastern Louisiana. CVD risk factors examined were smoking status, body habitus, and blood pressure. RESULTS: In Birmingham and Bogalusa, more white than black women were current smokers; no ethnic differences were observed among men. In Chicago, Minneapolis, and Oakland, more blacks were current smokers than were whites. For all sites, educational level was strongly inversely related to current smoking status; ethnic differences were more apparent among those with up to a high school education. Among white men and women, prevalence of obesity (body mass index > 31.1 kg/m 2 in men and 32.3 kg/m 2 in women) was greater in Birmingham and Bogalusa than in Chicago, Minneapolis, and Oakland. Mean systolic blood pressures were highest in Bogalusa, and the proportion of black men with elevated blood pressure (⩾ 130/85 mmHg) was higher in Bogalusa and Birmingham. CONCLUSIONS: Community and ethnic differences in CVD risk factors were observed among young adults in two large epidemiologic studies. Further studies may enhance our understanding of the relationship of geographic differences in CVD risk to subsequent disease.
Mechanical behavior of 30–50 nm thick aluminum films under uniaxial tension

Abstract We present uniaxial tensile test results for 30–50 nm thick freestanding aluminum films. Young’s modulus and ductility were found to decrease monotonically with grain size. Reverse Hall–Petch behavior was observed with no appreciable room temperature creep. Non-linear elasticity with small irreversible deformation was observed for 50 nm thick specimens.
Effects of instructions, biofeedback, reward, and cognitive mediation on the control of heart rate and the application of that control in a stressful situation

Abstract Subjects in Phase 1 of this experiment were (a) instructed to try to either increase or decrease their heart rate, (b) with or without the use of biofeedback, and (c) with or without the promise of money for successful performance, whereas no-treatment subjects were given no instructions, no biofeedback, and no promise of reward. Results indicated that (a) when simply instructed to do so, subjects could increase but not decrease their heart rates relative to no treatment controls, (b) the promise of money for good performance aided subjects in increasing but not decreasing heart rate, and (c) biofeedback did not aid subjects in either increasing or decreasing heart rate. Various cognitive strategies employed by subjects in controlling their heart rates are discussed. In Phase 2, subjects in a stress condition were told that they would receive a series of painful electric shocks, whereas subjects in a no stress condition were not told about shocks. All subjects were instructed to try to decrease their heart rates during the “shock” period. Heart rate and self report data revealed that (a) the manipulation was successful in increasing stress, and (b) previous training in decreasing heart rate, with or without biofeedback, did not aid subjects in decreasing their heart rates in the face of the stress.
Results of a survey of neurosurgical practice patterns regarding the prophylactic use of anti-epilepsy drugs in patients with brain tumors

Introduction: The American Association of Neurology issued guidelines discouraging the prophylactic use of anti-epilepsy drugs (AEDs) in patients with brain tumors. We surveyed neurosurgeons to evaluate practice patterns with regard to using AEDs in neurosurgical patients with brain tumors. Methods: The survey consisted of 18 questions. Two group email blasts containing an internet link to the survey were sent to members of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons with email addresses. Uni- and multi-variate analysis of the responses was performed using t-test, Fisher’s exact test, or chi-squared test, where appropriate. Results: The response rate was 15.5% (386/2491). The majority of respondents (270/386; 70.0%) had more than 5 years of experience in neurosurgery. Most respondents described their practices as general (224/379; 59.1%); about one-third were members of the Joint Section on Tumors (136/381; 35.7%). More than 70% of respondents reported routine use of AED prophylaxis for patients with intra-axial gliomas or brain metastases. AED prophylaxis was also routinely used for extra-axial benign tumors or stereotactic biopsies by 53.8% and 21.4%, respectively. On multivariate analysis, the number of years in practice of ABNS certified neurosurgeons was the strongest predictor for the use of AED prophylaxis. Conclusions: Routine use of AED prophylaxis in patients with brain tumors undergoing neurosurgical procedures remains the prevailing practice pattern among members of the AANS. Additional larger prospective studies with appropriate patient stratification culminating in development of neurosurgical guidelines on AED prophylaxis in brain tumor patients is warranted.
The effects of acute gastric distension on the pulmonary functions of asthmatic subjects: a preliminary study.

Chez 19 sujets asthmatiques, le fait de boire une grande quantite de liquide n'a pas provoque de gene respiratoire. Le debit expiratoire maximum a ete simplement diminue pendant le temps de la gene gastrique
Temperamental inhibition and activation: Hormonal and psychosocial correlates and associated psychiatric disorders

Abstract A 4-fold temperament typology was created by cross-classifying 4462 male US military veterans on MMPI indexes of behavioral inhibition and activation. Higher behavioral inhibition was associated with somewhat higher levels of cortisol, lower levels of social support, and a higher prevalence of lifetime generalized anxiety and major depressive disorders. Higher behavioral activation was associated with higher levels of testosterone, greater alcohol consumption and aggression, and higher prevalence of alcohol, substance abuse, and antisocial personality disorders. The most pervasive dysfunction was indicated for a “mixed” subtype with both high inhibition and high activation, as these persons showed higher levels of testosterone, aggression, hostility, and alcohol consumption, as well as higher levels of both internalizing (e.g. major depression) and externalizing (e.g. ASP) lifetime psychiatric disorders.
Direct measurement of He+ ions produced by Compton scattering between 2.5 and 5.5 keV.

The relative cross sections for Compton scattering have been measured between 2.5 and 5.5 keV. By measuring the number of ${\mathrm{He}}^{+}$ ions produced with near zero recoil energies it was possible to identify ions produced by Compton scattering from those produced by photoionization. The results have been placed on an absolute basis by normalization to recent calculations.
Deoxycytidine Transport and Metabolism in the Central Nervous System

The mechanisms by which deoxycytidine enters and leaves brain, choroid plexus, and CSF were investigated by injecting [3H]deoxycytidine intraarterially, intravenously, and intraventricularly. After intracarotid injection of deoxycytidine (1.0 microM) into rats, deoxycytidine did not pass through the blood-brain barrier at a faster rate than sucrose. [3H]Deoxycytidine, either alone or together with unlabeled deoxycytidine, was infused at a constant rate into conscious adult rabbits. At 130 min, [3H]deoxycytidine readily entered CSF, choroid plexus, and brain. In brain, approx. 60% of the nonvolatile radioactivity was attributable to [3H]deoxycytidine phosphates. The addition of 0.22 mmol/kg unlabeled deoxycytidine to the infusion syringe decreased the phosphorylation of [3H]deoxycytidine in brain by approx. 50%; the addition of 2.2 mmol/kg of unlabeled deoxycytidine to the infusion syringe decreased the relative entry of [3H]deoxycytidine into CSF and brain by approx. 50 and 75%, respectively. Two hours after the intraventricular injection of [3H]deoxycytidine, [3H]deoxycytidine was rapidly cleared from CSF, in part, to brain, where approx. 65% of the [3H]deoxycytidine was converted to [3H]deoxycytidine phosphates. The intraventricular injection of unlabeled deoxycytidine with the [3H]deoxycytidine decreased the phosphorylation of [3H]deoxycytidine in the brain significantly and also decreased the clearance of [3H]deoxycytidine from the CSF. These results were interpreted as showing that the entry of deoxycytidine from blood into CSF occurs by a saturable transport system within the choroid plexus. Once within the CSF, the deoxycytidine can enter brain, undergo phosphorylation to deoxycytidine phosphates, and subsequently be incorporated into DNA.
Upward bound: follicular stem cell fate decisions

Recent data suggest that heterogeneous compartments of the bulge display differential gene expression, and supply cells to different lineages within the pilosebaceous unit ([Jaks et al , 2008][1]; [Jensen et al , 2009][2]; [Snippert et al , 2010][3]). In particular, Lgr6 and Lrig1 are expressed above the CD34+ bulge region and Lgr6 expressing cells contribute primarily to the sebaceous gland ([Figure 1][4]). Thus, if and how the multipotent bulge cells give rise to cells to the sebaceous gland is not well understood. In this issue of The EMBO Journal , [Petersson et al (2011)][5] investigate how bulge cells contribute to the sebaceous gland in vivo using careful lineage tracing experiments and live bulge cell imaging in intact organ cultures. [1]: #ref-3 [2]: #ref-4 [3]: #ref-9 [4]: #F1 [5]: #ref-8
THE SEIBERG-WITTEN INVARIANTS AND SYMPLECTIC FORMS

(Note: There are no symplectic forms on X unless b and the first Betti number of X have opposite parity.) In a subsequent article with joint authors, a vanishing theorem will be proved for the Seiberg-Witten invariants of a manifold X, as in the theorem, which can be split by an embedded 3-sphere as X−∪X+ where neither X− nor X+ have negative definite intersection forms. Thus, no such manifold admits a symplectic form. That is,
Voice Communication Problems in Spacecraft and Underwater Operations

Abstract : Various problems in voice communication systems found in operations underwater and in outer space are considered. Since the production of speech is basic to these problems, the major part of the article is devoted to factors affecting vocal production. Examples are given of special problems which arise when the voice communication situation involves highly restrictive environmental factors such as those encountered by deep sea divers, swimmers, and personnel within under-the-sea habitats or space capsules. In addition to the effects on speech of varying ambient pressures, changes to the voice caused by different gas mixtures are described. Several ways of making helium-speech more intelligible are presented. Problems with the electronic link between the talker and listener are discussed. It is pointed out that the effectiveness of communication systems can be increased by proper circuit discipline, training to speak clearly, and utilization of vocabularies specific to the immediate operation. The need for improved coordination among behavioral and engineering efforts to solve problems of communication in space and underwater environments is emphasized.
Wavelet-Galerkin method for the Kolmogorov equation

It is well known that the Kolmogorov equation plays an important role in applied science. For example, the nonlinear filtering problem, which plays a key role in modern technologies, was solved by Yau and Yau [1] by reducing it to the off-line computation of the Kolmogorov equation. In this paper, we develop a theorical foundation of using the wavelet-Galerkin method to solve linear parabolic P.D.E. We apply our theory to the Kolmogorov equation. We give a rigorous proof that the solution of the Kolmogorov equation can be approximated very well in any finite domain by our wavelet-Galerkin method. An example is provided by using Daubechies D"4 scaling functions.
Indirect social influence: Change in judgmental process or anticipatory conformity?

Abstract In three experiments, subjects imposed sentence in a criminal case before and after reading the harsh sentence imposed by the trial judge. They then read and imposed sentence in another case. In one experimental condition the subjects anticipated learning the judge's sentence in Case 2; in the other condition they were told not to anticipate learning the judge's sentence. Control subjects made their judgments without ever seeing the judge's sentence. Direct influence was the change in sentences within cases; indirect influence was the difference between initial sentences in Cases 1 and 2. Though direct influence was minimal and not significant, indirect influence was substantial, and was greater in the anticipation than no-anticipation than control conditions, indicating that both modification of the judgmental process and anticipatory conformity were operating. Indirect influence may then reflect a change of either type, depending on a number of methodological and other factors.
Gel permeation chromatography. VIII. A study of the effect of column arrangement of resolution at normal and overloading concentrations

In the determination of molecular weight distributions by GPC, the traditional column arrangement is such that the fractionation process proceeds from a high-permeability limit to a low-permeability limit column. We report computer comparisons of data obtained from columns in their normal ordering (high- to low-permeability limit), reverse ordering, and random ordering. The columns had a permeability limit range from 1 × 106 A down to 1 × 103 A, and the polymers had a molecular weight range of 1.8 × 106 down to 2.1 × 103. The concentrations used varied from 0.05% up to 0.5%. The data show significantly different results, with the random arrangement the preferred ordering. A qualitative model for the separation mechanism is presented to account for the improvement in resolution. Additional data are presented which show that serious errors (as high as 45%, depending on concentration) will be encountered in GPC studies, unless the calibration curve is obtained at the same relative concentration as the samples, with definite overloading effects occurring at the higher concentrations. A new method of curve fitting was used in the higher molecular weight region to give meaningful calibration curves.
A Human Extrastriate Area Functionally Homologous to Macaque V4

Extrastriate area V4 is crucial for intermediate form vision and visual attention in nonhuman primates. Human neuroimaging suggests that an area in the lingual sulcus/fusiform gyrus may correspond to ventral V4 (V4v). We studied a human neurological patient, AR, with a putative V4v lesion. The lesion does not affect early visual processing (luminance, orientation, and motion perception). However, it does impair hue perception, intermediate form vision, and visual attention in the upper contralateral visual field. Form deficits occur during discrimination of illusory borders, Glass patterns, curvature, and non-Cartesian patterns. Attention deficits occur during discrimination of the relative positions of object parts, detection of low-salience targets, and orientation discrimination in the presence of distractors. This pattern of deficits is consistent with the known properties of area V4 in nonhuman primates, indicating that AR's lesion affects a cortical region functionally homologous to macaque V4.
Low-voltage fully differential switched current memory cell

A fully differential switched-current (SI) memory cell with a new common-mode feedback technique is presented. The cell achieves a lower voltage of operation (Vdd,min = Vt + 3Vds,sat) than that (Vdd,min = 2Vt + 4Vds,sat) of its conventional counterpart, by using a new common-mode current sensing technique.
The use of computerized tomography scanning in treatment planning for bladder carcinoma

Abstract Computerized tomography (CT) scans of the pelvis were performed in 50 patients with and without known pelvic malignancies at the Albert Einstein Medical Center, Northern Division, between September 1976 and September 1977. Each scan was reviewed systematically to determine size, location and interrelationship of pelvic structures as well as to evaluate the possible extent of tumor. For the 21 patients who were to receive radiation therapy for carcinoma of the bladder, the treatment plans, which were based on the patient contour and diagnostic studies, were compared to the information gained from the CT scan. Twenty nine per cent of the original treatment plans were altered after reviewing the CT scans. Ten patients with a diagnosis of bladder carcinoma underwent pre- and post-voiding scans. The area of the bladder at the level of the femoral heads which remained after voiding was on the average 69% of the original (range, 54–81%). The CT scan provided information which permitted better understanding of the dynamics of physiologic anatomy. It could replace the more invasive techniques presently used for localization in carcinoma of the urinary bladder.
Drift motions of auroral ionization

The research reported in this document has been sponsored by the Electronic Research Directorate of the Air Force Cambridge Research Center, Air Research and Development Command. (This thesis was submitted in July, 1957, to the University of Alaska in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.) ; Air Force Research Contract No. AF 19(604)-1859
Understanding and applying research results from over 13 case studies integrating DER from EPRI's Smart Grid demonstration initiative

The Electric Power Research Institutes (EPRI) seven-year Smart Grid Demonstration Initiative is obtaining a rich set of research results from numerous case studies conducted in 2012 and 2013. of the research project. The Initiative, which is as it entering its 6th year has 23 utilities from 5 countries collaborating on 15 demonstrations. This paper provides an overview of case studies from 2012 and 2013 that are contributing to the knowledge base resulting from the successes and challenges from real deployments from around the world. (3 pages)
The role of large-scale energy storage design and dispatch in the power grid: A study of very high grid penetration of variable renewable resources

We present a result of hourly simulation performed using hourly load data and the corresponding simulated output of wind and solar technologies distributed throughout the state of California. We examined how we could achieve very high-energy penetration from intermittent renewable system into the electricity grid. This study shows that the maximum threshold for the storage need is significantly less than the daily average demand. In the present study, we found that the approximate network energy storage is of the order of 186 GW h/22 GW (approximately 22% of the average daily demands of California). Allowing energy dumping was shown to increase storage use, and by that way, increases grid penetration and reduces the required backup conventional capacity requirements. Using the 186 GW h/22 GW storage and at 20% total energy loss, grid penetration was increased to approximately 85% of the annual demand of the year while also reducing the conventional backup capacity requirement to 35 GW. This capacity was sufficient to supply the year round hourly demand, including 59 GW peak demand, plus a distribution loss of about 5.3%. We conclude that designing an efficient and least cost grid may require the capability to capture diverse physical and operational policy scenarios of the future grid.
Mathematical modeling of opiate binding to mouse brain membrane

The heterogeneity of rat brain opiate receptors was examined by analyzing competition data. The binding of three prototypical tritiated opioid agonists, [3H]-dihydromorphine ([3H]-DHM), [3H]-D-ala2-D-leu5-enkephalin ([3H]-DADLE), and [3H]-ethylketocyclazocine ([3H]-EKC) was determined in the presence of varying concentrations of each of these unlabeled ligands, generating nine displacement curves. A computer program was then used to find the best fit of a model system to these data, assuming two, three or four independent binding sites. The best fit was a four-site model. One of these sites is specific for DHM; two are relatively selective for DHM and DADLE respectively, but also bind EKC. The remaining site binds only EKC with high affinity. These results, together with displacement data using naloxone, FK33824, and D-ala2-met5-enkephalinamide, are discussed in terms of current opiate receptor models.
Access of a Membrane Protein to Secretory Granules Is Facilitated by Phosphorylation

Peptidylglycine α-amidating monooxygenase (PAM), an integral membrane protein essential for the biosynthesis of amidated peptides, was used to assess the role of cytosolic acidic clusters in trafficking to regulated secretory granules. Casein kinase II phosphorylates Ser949 and Thr946 of PAM, generating a short, cytosolic acidic cluster. P-CIP2, a protein kinase identified by its ability to interact with several juxtamembrane determinants in the PAM cytosolic domain, also phosphorylates Ser949. Antibody specific for phospho-Ser949-PAM-CD demonstrates that a small fraction of the PAM-1 localized to the perinuclear region bears this modification. Pituitary cell lines expressing PAM-1 mutants that mimic (TS/DD) or prevent (TS/AA) phosphorylation at these sites were studied. PAM-1 TS/AA yields a lumenal monooxygenase domain that enters secretory granules inefficiently and is rapidly degraded. In contrast, PAM-1 TS/DD is routed to regulated secretory granules more efficiently than wild-type PAM-1 and monooxygenase release is more responsive to secretagogue. Furthermore, this acidic cluster affects exit of internalized PAM-antibody complexes from late endosomes; internalized PAM-1 TS/DD accumulates in a late endocytic compartment instead of thetrans-Golgi network. The increased ability of solubilized PAM-1 TS/DD to aggregate at neutral pH may play an important role in its altered trafficking.
Public Perception of Strategies for Increasing Participation in Recycling Programs

Abstract Public perception of selected strategies for increasing participation in city recycling programs was assessed. These strategies included increasing the level of knowledge about recycling, using effective channels to inform the community about recycling, increasing the convenience of recycling by placing recycling containers in accessible locations, and getting input from the public regarding changes that would induce full participation in recycling programs. The results indicate that those who design recycling programs should consider these strategies in their planning.
Untangling the Jungle of E-Journal Access Issues Using CRM Software

Librarians have been struggling for years with the variety of issues arising while troubleshooting access to electronic journals. This article outlines the advantages and disadvantages of using a Customer Relations Management (CRM) software, originally designed for a call center, to communicate with patrons and track access issues. Utilizing the e-mail software used by the Reference Department at the University of South Florida, we assign incidents, correspond with patrons and staff, write internal notes, maintain transactions, and pull statistics. Hopefully, library vendors will develop software oriented to the needs of libraries to assist in managing access problems for e-journals.
?Brachychampsa sealeyi, sp nov., (Crocodylia, Alligatoroidea) from the Upper Cretaceous (lower Campanian) Menefee Formation, northwestern New Mexico

ABSTRACT ?Brachychampsa sealeyi sp. nov. is a small alligatoroid based on a partial skull, associated partial mandible, and a dorsal? osteoderm from the Upper Cretaceous (lower Campanian) Menefee Formation, northwestern New Mexico. The holotype of ?B. sealeyi is the oldest of four documented Late Cretaceous alligatoroid skulls. ?Brachychampsa sealeyi differs from Brachychampsa montana, Albertochampsa langstoni, and other alligatoroids primarily in having an anteriorly tapering rostrum with a relatively reduced anterior dentition and smaller narial and incisive openings but relatively larger and more bulbous posterior teeth. The single associated osteoderm has a longitudinal keel and surfaces for articulation with overlapping osteoderms. Cladistic analysis suggests that ?B. sealeyi is a sister taxon to B. montana and supports the hypothesis that Brachychampsa and Albertochampsa form a monophyletic clade outside the Alligatoridae. Punctures on the mandible suggests that a bite was inflicted by another allig...
Inequalities for Eigenvalues of a System of Higher-Order Differential Equations

We establish some sharper inequalities for eigenvalues of a system of higher-order differential equations. Moreover, we present some sharper estimates for the upper bound of the (k +1)th eigenvalue and the gaps of its consecutive eigenvalues.
ON THE EFFECT OF APEX GEOMETRY ON WALL SHEAR STRESS AND PRESSURE IN TWO-DIMENSIONAL MODELS OF ARTERIAL BIFURCATIONS

There is strong evidence to support the hypothesis that vascular geometry plays an important role in the initiation and development of cerebral aneurysms (see e.g. Refs. 24, 40 and 41) as well as other vascular diseases (see e.g. Refs. 25, 31 and 35) through its influence on hemodynamics. Cerebral aneurysms are nearly always found at arterial bifurcations in and near the circle of Willis.42 It is commonly believed that the cause of initiation and development of cerebral aneurysms is at least indirectly related to the effect of hemodynamic wall pressure and shear stress on the arterial tissue at arterial bifurcations (see e.g. Refs. 24, 39–41 and 44). In this work, we use analytical and numerical approaches to investigate the hypothesis that local geometric factors can have a significant impact on the magnitude and spatial gradients of wall pressure and shear stress at the apex of arterial bifurcations. We consider steady flow of incompressible, Newtonian fluids. We find that sharp corners such as those at arterial bifurcations and the juncture between grafted vessels can be a source of localized high wall pressure and shear stress. In fact, it can be shown analytically that perfectly sharp corners (zero radius of curvature) will lead to unbounded magnitudes of shear stress and pressure.26 Significantly, the unboundedness of the pressure and shear stress at perfectly sharp corners is unrelated to the fluid inertia. Whereas for zero radius of curvature, both the maximum pressure and shear stress occur at the apex; for nonzero radius of curvature, the pressure maximum is found at the apex, the shear stress is zero at the apex, and the shear stress maximum shifts to the lateral sides of the bifurcation. These results show that arterial bifurcations should not be idealized as perfectly sharp for studies of initiation and development of cerebral aneurysms.
Effects of monovalent cations and ATP on erythrocyte AMP deaminase

Summary 1. Human erythrocytes contain an AMP deaminase (AMP aminolrydrolase, EC 3.5.4.6) which requires the presence of certain alkali cations. Since the activation of this enzyme from other tissues by ATP had been reported, the effects of ATP and alkali cations on the enzyme from human, dog and cat erythrocytes were studied. 2. The human erythrocyte enzyme could be activated by either K+ or NH4+. No activation by Na+, Li+, Rb+ or Cs+ could be shown. ATP alone did not affect the enzyme. However, in the presence of ATP the enzyme could be activated not only by K+ and NH4+, but also by Na+, Li+ and Rb+. Experiments suggested that ATP was not chemically altered. 3. The enzymes from cat and dog erythrocytes were activated by ATP alone. The alkali cations had no effect on these enzymes either in the presence or absence of ATP. 4. The results were interpreted in terms of a previous suggestion that the ATP-induced changes in protein charge could lead to changes in the nature of the counter-ions associated with the protein.
Charge measurements of stopping high-Z nuclei (6⩽Z⩽92) in nuclear emulsion

Abstract The technique of charge determination by measurements of track-width of stopping tracks in nuclear emulsion has been extended to uranium nuclei. The method utilizes the last 1 mm of residual range to estimate mean-track-widths, and has been applied to nuclear beams of Z = 6, 26, 57 and 92. A resolution in charge of σ(Z) = ≲2 units was obtained over the entire interval of charges 6 ⩽ Z ⩽ 92.
Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease

Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is important because it increases the chances of early treatment and may, in the future, enable pre-emptive and even preventative therapies. Groups at risk for Alzheimer’s disease include individuals with mild cognitive impairment, elderly people with subjective memory complaint, first-degree relatives of Alzheimer’s disease patients, people with Down’s syndrome and those who have had a serious traumatic brain injury. Populations with multiple cardiovascular risk factors and low educational attainment also appear to be more susceptible. Cognitive testing, neuroimaging and various blood and cerebrospinal fluid assays may help identify those individuals who are most at risk. At present, the only approved therapy for mild Alzheimer’s disease is the use of cholinesterase inhibitors, but additional therapeutic options for mild Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment, including proactive treatment strategies, are likely to be available in the future, making early...
Gravimetric determination of cobalt as presumed k3co(no2)6

Abstract The composition of 'potassium cobaltinitrite' precipitated under the usual conditions from a slightly acid solution containing a large excess of potassium nitrite, and finally dried at 110°, has been determined. When a relatively small quantity of cobalt is precipitated the dried precipitate consists of a mixture of anhydrous and hydrated K 3 Co(NO 2 ) 6 . With large amounts of cobalt the precipitate also contains a salt of cobalt(II) (probably K 2 Co(NO 2 ) 4 ) due to incomplete oxidation of the cobalt(II). Because the formula weight of K 2 Co(NO 2 ) 4 is smaller than that of K 3 Co(NO 2 ) 6 . whereas that of hydrated K 3 Co(NO 2 ) 6 is larger, the weight of the precipitate is actually not very different than if it were pure K 3 Co(NO 2 ) 6 . Quantities of cobalt from 40 to 300 mg can be determined with an error within ±1 % by weighing the dried precipitate as presumed K 3 Co(NO 2 ) 6 , and, if desired, the error can be decreased to a few tenths of a percent by employing an empirical factor. This simple method rivals in accuracy the more laborious electrogravimetric method.
Predictive Accuracy of SYNTAX Score for Predicting Long-Term Outcomes of Unprotected Left Main Coronary Artery Revascularization

The American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association recently updated recommendations for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of unprotected left main coronary artery (ULMCA) disease from class III to II(b) according to the results of the SYNergy between percutaneous coronary intervention with TAXus and cardiac surgery (SYNTAX) trial. The SYNTAX score is an angiographic tool using solely the coronary anatomy. We studied the effect of co-morbidities (Parsonnet's score) on the ability of the SYNTAX score to predict long-term outcomes in patients with ULMCA disease treated by revascularization. A total of 328 patients underwent revascularization of ULMCA from April 2003 to February 2007. Of the 328 patients, 120 underwent PCI (median follow-up 973 days) and 208 underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (median follow-up 1,298 days). The ability of the SYNTAX score to predict outcomes was assessed using the Cox proportional hazards model. The outcomes between the PCI and CABG groups were compared by propensity analysis. The median SYNTAX score was 26 in the PCI and 28 in the CABG group (p = 0.5). In the PCI group, greater quartiles were associated with worse survival (62.1% at SYNTAX score of ≥36 vs 82.4% at SYNTAX score of <36, p = 0.03) and all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular events, and target vessel revascularization-free (MACCE) survival (47.7%, SYNTAX score ≥20 vs 76.6%, SYNTAX score <20, p = 0.02). Using the Parsonnet score as a covariate, the SYNTAX score continued to be an independent predictor of MACCE and demonstrated a trend toward predicting mortality in the PCI group. In contrast, the SYNTAX score did not predict the outcomes for the CABG group. No difference was found in mortality between the PCI and CABG groups for ULMCA disease, regardless of coronary complexity; although greater SYNTAX scores were associated with increased MACCE rates with PCI compared to CABG. Both the coronary anatomy (SYNTAX score) and co-morbidities (Parsonnet's score) predicted long-term outcomes for PCI of ULMCA disease. In contrast, the SYNTAX score did not predict the outcomes after CABG. In conclusion, the ideal scoring system to guide an appropriate revascularization decision for ULMCA disease should take into account both the coronary anatomy and the co-morbidities.
Status of PAVER Implementation within the U.S. Air Force

Abstract : Regardless of how well conceived a pavement management system (PMS) is, unless well implemented and accepted by the end user its benefits cannot be realized. This paper seeks to estimate the present status of implementation within the U.S. Air Force of the pavement management system, PAVER. This work is based in part on an initial effort by Captain Timothy R. McLean who in 1984 wrote his graduate thesis on Improving PAVER Implementation. In his research he sought to determine the problems encountered in the field during the implementation of PAVER as well as recommendations from the field for improving or refining PAVER. He identified training, manpower, equipment, and top management support as key areas requiring attention to improve PAVER implementation. This work seeks to estimate and validate not only the present extent of these pre-identified problem areas, but also the current extent of PAVER's use and application. Example areas which the questionnaire addresses include an estimation of the following: the number of air bases which have partially or fully implemented PAVER, the accuracy of pavement distress and inventory data being used, the application of PAVER to project programming, the ranking of benefits from using PAVER, and preceptions of PAVER as an innovation which have been identified in various literature as factors influencing the diffusion of innovation.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE LINEAR GRIDLESS ION THRUSTER

The design of the Linear Gridless Ion Thruster, or LGIT, is presented in detail. The LGIT is a hybrid thruster that combines an ionization stage similar to those normally found on gridded ion engines with the acceleration mechanism of a Hall effect thruster. This thruster also features a linear geometry, which simplifies the design of the magnetic circuit while making the LGIT particularly well suited to future work on clustering and, perhaps, thrust vectoring by varying the magnetic fields in the acceleration zone. Initial testing with the thruster operating in a single-stage, unoptimized mode resulted in a specific impulse of 1400 seconds and an anode efficiency of 12%. The low efficiency is believed to be due in large part to operating the thruster in a single-stage mode, rather than the two-stage mode for which it was designed, and to setting the acceleration stage magnets to less than half their design value.
Model-based reconstruction of multiple circular and elliptical objects from a limited number of projections

We consider tomographic image reconstruction from a limited number of noisy projections. An efficient algorithm based on maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) is developed to reconstruct images of multiple discs with unknown locations and radii. The algorithm is successfully applied to images with signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) as low as 0 dB, using as few as 16 projections, and containing as many as twelve discs with widely varying radii. Experimental results show that our approach significantly outperforms conventional convolution back projection. The algorithm is successfully extended to the multiple ellipse case.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Sesquiterpene Lactones and Related Compounds

Some sesquiterpene lactones and related compounds were tested for anti-inflammatory activity in rodents. In the edema-induced carrageenan inflammation screen, the α-methylene-γ-lactone moiety of the sesquiterpene lactones was required for inhibitory activity. The 6-hydroxy group of helenalin also was required for potency. In the tenulin series, the 2,3-epoxy derivatives were marginally active. The same structure was required for inhibition of the writhing reflex. In the chronic adjuvant arthritic screen, compounds containing the cu-methylene-γ lactone moiety, the β-unsubstituted cyclopentenone ring. and the α-epoxy cyclopentenone system afforded significant inhibition at 2.5 mg/kg/day. The sesquiterpene lactones were marginally effective against induced pleurisy. The delayed hypersensitivity was suppressed by these agents whereas immunoglobulin synthesis was slightly stimulated. No deleterious side effects were observed with these agents from the limited testa performed.
Cost and efficacy comparison of integrated pest management strategies with monthly spray insecticide applications for German cockroach (Dictyoptera: Blattellidae) control in public housing.

The long-term costs and efficacy of two treatment methodologies for German cockroach, Blattella germanica (L.), control were compared in the public housing environment. The “traditional” treatment for German cockroaches consisted of monthly baseboard and crack and crevice treatment (TBCC) by using spray and dust formulation insecticides. The integrated pest management treatment (IPM) involved initial vacuuming of apartments followed by monthly or quarterly applications of baits and insect growth regulator (IGR) devices. Cockroach populations in the IPM treatment were also monitored with sticky traps. Technician time and the amount of product applied were used to measure cost in both treatments. Twenty-four hour sticky trap catch was used as an indicator of treatment efficacy. The cost of the IPM treatment was found to be significantly greater than the traditional treatment, particularly at the initiation of the test. In the first month (clean-out), the average cost per apartment unit was $14.60, whereas the average cost of a TBCC unit was $2.75. In the second month of treatment, the average cost of IPM was still significantly greater than the TBCC cost. However, after month 4 the cost of the two treatments was no longer significantly different because many of the IPM apartments were moved to a quarterly treatment schedule. To evaluate the long-term costs of the two treatments over the entire year, technician time and product quantities were averaged over all units treated within the 12-mo test period (total 600 U per treatment). The average per unit cost of the IPM treatment was ($4.06). The average IPM cost was significantly greater than that of the TBCC treatment at $1.50 per unit. Although the TBCC was significantly less expensive than the IPM treatment, it was also less effective. Trap catch data indicated that the TBCC treatment had little, if any, effect on the cockroach populations over the course of the year. Cockroach populations in the TBCC treatment remained steady for the first 5 mo of the test and then had a threefold increase during the summer. Cockroach populations in the IPM treatment were significantly reduced from an average of 24.7 cockroaches per unit before treatment to an average 3.9 cockroaches per unit in month 4. The suppressed cockroach populations (<5 per unit) in the IPM treatment remained constant for the remaining 8 mo of the test.
Evidence for local neuroendocrine signaling in ovarian prolactin regulation

s / Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 34 (2014) 108 108 winter or during the luteal phase. PRLr were richly distributed throughout luteal tissue of both summer and winter cycling ovaries. Luteal PRLr distributionwas uniform within the CL and did not vary between luteal stages. PRLr were also present in oocytes from all follicle stages and was detected in the ovulation fossa. No other ovarian structures contained PRLr IR product.
Driver responses to differing urban work zone configurations

This study reports the results of a simulator-based assessment of driver response to two different urban highway work zone configurations. One configuration represented an existing design which was contrasted with a second configuration that presented a reduced taper length prototype work zone design. Twenty-one drivers navigated the two different work zones in two different conditions, one with and one without a lead vehicle; in this case a bus. Measures of driver speed, braking, travel path, and collision frequency were recorded. Drivers navigated significantly closer to the boundary of the work area in the reduced taper length design. This proximity effect was moderated by the significant interaction between lead vehicle and taper length and such interactive effects were also observed for driver speed at the end of the work zone and the number of collisions observed within the work zone itself. These results suggest that reduced taper length poses an increase in risk to both drivers and work zone personnel, primarily when driver anticipation is reduced by foreshortened viewing distances. Increase in such risk is to a degree offset by the reduction of overall exposure to the work zone that a foreshortened taper creates. The benefits and limitations to a simulation-based approach to the assessment and prediction of driver behavior in different work zone configurations are also discussed.
Delegated despotism: frontiers of agrarian labour on a South African border farm.

How do labour regimes change as large-scale agriculture depends increasingly on temporary labour? The South African side of the Limpopo River, which marks its border with Zimbabwe, is populated with large-scale fruit and vegetable farms that are heavily dependent on temporary labour. Drawing on ethnographic research conducted on a border farm in 2009–10, the paper explores how Zimbabwean managers are central to the control of labour in this area. As the interface between the farm owner and the mass of temporary workers, managers are tasked with containing the instability attendant upon the employment of a highly fluid and disaffected workforce. The expansive and many-faceted role of black managers both disrupts and reproduces the circuits of paternalistic power. The potential for benevolence within paternalism is minimized, while the scope for arbitrary decision-making by owners and management remains largely intact.