cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Synchronization of beads on a ring

This paper analyzes a discrete-time algorithm to synchronize an even number of agents moving clockwise and counterclockwise on a boundary. Each agent or "bead" changes direction upon encountering another bead moving in the opposite direction. Communication is sporadic: only when two beads come sufficiently close they are able to exchange information. We propose a novel algorithm based on the distributed computation of dominance regions and common speed, as well as, on a careful balancing of accelerate/decelerate strategies outside of dominance regions. Our theoretical analysis relies upon consensus algorithms tools and upon the assumption that initially half of all agents move clockwise and the other half move counterclockwise.
Intracellular IL-1Ra type 1 inhibits IL-1-induced IL-6 and IL-8 production in Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells through inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and NF-κB pathways

Interleukin-1 (IL-1) plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IL-1 action is regulated in part by its naturally occurring inhibitor, the IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra). Four splice variants of IL-1Ra gene product have been described, one secreted (sIL-1Ra) and three intracellular (icIL-1Ra1, 2, 3). Although sIL-1Ra and icIL-1Ra1 bind to type I IL-1 receptor with equal affinity, icIL-1Ra1 may carry out unique functions inside cells. The goal of this study was to determine the role of icIL-1Ra1 in regulation of cytokine-induced IL-6 and IL-8 production in Caco-2 intestinal epithelial cells. icIL-1Ra1 inhibited IL-1-induced IL-6 and IL-8 production. IL-1 activated all three mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase family members: p38 MAP kinase, extracellular-regulated kinases (ERK), and c-Jun amino-terminal kinases (JNK). Specific inhibitors of each MAP kinase pathway decreased IL-1-induced IL-6 and IL-8 production. Overexpression of icIL-1Ra1 inhibited p38 MAP kinase phosphorylation, but had no effect on ERK and JNK phosphorylation. In addition, icIL-1Ra1 inhibited nuclear translocation of NF-kappaB after IL-1 stimulation. In conclusion, these data indicate that icIL-1Ra1, acting in the cytoplasm of Caco-2 cells, decreased IL-1-induced IL-6 and IL-8 production. This intracellular anti-inflammatory activity of icIL-1Ra1 was mediated through inhibition of p38 MAP kinase and NF-kappaB signal transduction pathways.
Metal migration from zeolites onto iron oxide : An alternative to hydrogen spillover

Abstract The reduction of physical mixtures of Fe 2 O 3 with transition metal-containing zeolites was studied. Two zeolites (Na-mordenite and Na-ZSM-5), each loaded with one of four metals (Pd, Rh, Co, Ni), were mixed with Fe 2 O 3 , ground, and subjected to various treatments. Temperature-programmed reduction of these mixtures was compared with that of Fe 2 O 3 onto which the transition metals had been deposited by wet impregnation. The extent by which the reduction of Fe 2 O 3 is enhanced in the mixtures depends on the pretreatment and the nature of the metal, while the zeolite structure has little effect. Reduced metal clusters do not show observable migration. Crucial is the migration of metal oxide clusters out of the zeolite onto Fe 2 O 3 . Mobility of PtO 2 is high on zeolite walls and the Fe 2 O 3 surface. PdO is rather immobile in the zeolite. Rhodium oxides, Rh 2 O 3 or RhO 2 , migrate through zeolite channels but appear rather immobile on the surface of Fe 2 O 3 . The arrival of Pt and Rh on Fe 2 O 3 has been detected by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray energy dispersive spectrometry. On reduction of the oxide particles on the Fe 2 O 3 surface at low temperature, H spillover and significant reduction enhancement of Fe 2 O 3 take place. No H spillover through zeolite channels has been detected.
Effects of Sodium Chloride Concentration on Firmness Retention of Cucumbers Fermented and Stored with Calcium Chloride

The firmness of cucumbers brined at 0.2% CaCl2 was retained during fermentation (1 month) and storage (12 months) when 2.6, 4.2 or 5.8% NaCl also was present. Firmness retention was not improved (P≥0.05) during storage by increase in NaCl concentration to 11.9% after fermentation. In the absence of added NaCI, cucumbers were firm after fermentation, but firmness was reduced during storage to 69% of initial for whole cucumbers, 64% for mesocarp tissue, and 32% for endocarp tissue. Addition of uncharacterized softening enzymes. extracted from debris collected at a cucumber grading operation, resulted in softening of cucumbers brined at 1.8% NaCl in the absence of added CaC12. Addition of CaCl2 reduced but did not eliminate softening by ths extract. Results indicated that the firmness of brined cucumbers could be retained at appreciably lower NaCl concentrations than those traditionally used but that the lower limit of NaCl required to prevent softening by possible contaminating enzymes is yet to be established.
An integrated approach to the development of continuous simulations

Abstract An integrated approach to the development of Forrester-style simulation models is described. The approach incorporates the concept of an interaction matrix to assist in the development of causal loop diagrams and Dynamo flow diagrams. The interaction matrix is derived from the fundamental notions of system dynamics. Premised upon the presumption that a computer-aided procedure for model formulation can expedite, systematize, and operationalize the model formulation process, the integrated approach utilizes the interaction matrix as a data structure within the computer. An algorithm designed to interface with a remote terminal (such as a CRT display) determines the interaction matrix by interrogating a user until sufficient information about the problem of interest has been obtained. This algorithm is also described in the paper. The interrogations both motivate and facilitate the determination of quantities to be included as well as couplings between the quantities. When a quantity or coupling is designated by a user, the algorithm “knows” its identity at the time of user origination. Both algorithm and matrix are illustrated through recourse to a text-book example and the paper concludes with a summarizing discussion of the possible contribution of such an approach.
Reproductive Hormones and Bone

Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulates secretion of pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which directly regulate ovarian function. Pituitary FSH can modulate osteoclast development, and thereby influence bone turnover. Pituitary oxytocin and prolactin effects on the skeleton are not merely limited to pregnancy and lactation; oxytocin stimulates osteoblastogenesis and bone formation, whereas prolactin exerts skeletal effects in an age-dependent manner. Cyclic levels of inhibins and estrogen suppress FSH and LH, respectively, and also suppress bone turnover via their suppressive effects on osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation. However, continuous exposure to inhibins or estrogen/androgens is anabolic for the skeleton in intact animals and protects against gonadectomy-induced bone loss. Alterations of one hormone in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis influence other bone-active hormones in the entire feedback loop in the axis. Thus, we propose that the action of the HPG axis should be extended to include its combined effects on the skeleton, thus creating the HPG skeletal (HPGS) axis.
Isolation and characterization of fatty acid binding protein in the liver of the nurse shark, Ginglymostoma cirratum.

Abstract 1. 1. A 14.5 kDa fatty acid binding protein was isolated from the liver of the nurse shark, Ginglymostoma cirratum . 2. 2. Purified shark liver FABP ( pI = 5.4) bound oleic acid at a single site with an affinity similar to that of mammalian FABP. 3. 3. The apparent size, pI and amino acid composition of shark liver FABP indicate a close structural relationship between this protein and mammalian heart FABP.
Spectral interference in a binaural detection task.

Several investigations suggest that sensitivity to changes in interaural disparities within select spectral regions may be degraded by the presence of energy at other, even remote, spectral regions. This study assessed whether similar degradations would be observed in an MLD paradigm. Detection thresholds were measured for NoSo and NoSπ. The signal, an 800-Hz tone (100-ms), was presented in continuous, broadband noise. Thresholds were also measured in the presence of a 400-Hz tone (the interferer) presented with an interaural phase disparity of 180° and gated simultaneously with the signal or presented continuously. NoSπ thresholds increased by about 7 dB with the gated interferer at 80 dB SPL. Smaller increases were observed with lower levels of the interferer. Presenting the interferer continuously reduced substantially its effect. NoSo thresholds were affected only slightly by the interferer. Reversing the roles of the signal and interferer (400-Hz signal, 800-Hz interferer) led to smaller, but reliable degradations in performance. Diotic interferers had, in general, smaller effects on performance. The possible relation between the mechanisms that produce interference and those that foster an ability to segregate sources of sound is discussed.
Revitalizing urban waterways

[1] Eleven U.S. federal agencies have joined together in a new initiative to protect and revitalize urban waterways and communities. The Urban Waters Federal Partnership, announced on 24 June, is focusing on seven pilot locations to help urban communities reconnect with and revitalize their waterways, according to Lisa Jackson, administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which launched the initiative. “Urban waters have the potential to support healthy environments, growing businesses, and educational and recreational activities. By bringing together the experience and expertise of multiple federal partners, we have a chance to reconnect local residents, young people, and community groups with the environmental resources all around them,” she said.
Toward Judicial Comity: Certification in the Courts

Certification is a procedure whereby federal courts may ask state courts of last resort to clarify an ambiguous provision of state law. This increasingly popular device of deference operates as an alternative to abstention and to the casual prediction of the meaning of state law. Certification is a permissive and discretionary mechanism; as such, it is neither universal in its usage nor uniform in its application. The thirty-eight states that authorize the procedure differ on which federal courts may participate and whether the answer to the certified question must determine, or resolve, the lawsuit. Our survey results indicate that federal and state judges alike praise certification for its contributions to intersystem harmony. It conserves judicial resources, advances litigant interests, minimizes interpretive misguesses, and avoids repetitive litigation.
YBa2Cu3O7−x prepared by a polymer-metal-complex precursor process: Morphology and superconducting transition properties

Abstract By careful control of calcination conditions for the preparation of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 7− x by a polymer-metal-complex process, X-ray pure samples having uniformly sized grains can be prepared. The electrical transport properties of samples with grain sizes in the range 0.5–10 μm have been measured as a function of temperature, density and magnetic field.
Which polymers can make nanoparticulate drug carriers long-circulating?

Abstract The protective effect of poly(ethylene glycol) and some other polymers on nanoparticulate carriers including liposomes is considered in terms of statistical behavior of macromolecules in solution, when polymer flexibility plays a key role. According to the mechanism proposed, surface-grafted chains of flexible and hydrophilic polymers form dense “conformational clouds” preventing other macromolecules from the interaction with the surface even at low concentration of protecting polymer. Using liposomes as an example, experimental evidence is presented of the importance of protecting polymer flexibility in liposome steric protection. Further possible applications of the suggested model are discussed. The possibility of using protecting polymers other than poly(ethylene glycol) is analyzed, and examples of such polymers are given based on polymer-coated liposome biodistribution data. General requirements for protecting polymers are formulated, and differences in steric protection of liposomes and particles are discussed. The scale of protective effect is interpreted as the balance between the energy of hydrophobic anchor interaction with the liposome membrane core or with the particle surface and the energy of polymer chain free motion in solution.
The Prayer in Daniel Ix

Many older commentators 2), as well as several modern ones 3), have said that Dan. ix 4-20 is a late interpolation. Others, such as James A. MONTGOMERY, prefer to say, "The second-century author may well have himself inserted such a prayer" 4). Among Englishlanguage commentaries the recent trend seems to be to agree with MONTGOMERY. The prayer has been accepted as an authentic part of chap. ix by JEFFERY, HEATON, and PORTEOUS 5). Among recent German commentaries, that of Otto PLOGER should be mentioned as one of the few that accepts the prayer 6). It should be noted, however, that with the exception of PORTEOUS, none of these men accepts the prayer with strong conviction. For example, HEATON says, "It is difficult to judge (and indeed it matters little)" 7). Admittedly there is reason for this hesitating acceptance; it is, after all,
The adverse effects of intensive treatment of chronic schizophrenia.

Abstract Patients with chronic schizophrenia are highly vulnerable to negative treatment effects. The authors argue that these are often due to intensive treatments and review the literature in four areas: individual psychotherapy, milieu and group therapy, pharmacotherapy, and family therapy. Intensive treatments that produce adverse effects are overstimulating and intrusive; they ignore the patient's need for support, education, and mastery; they attempt to effect rapid or profound changes and neglect long-term adjustment. Furthermore, intensive treatments are often based on psychiatric myths rather than current knowledge. The authors also offer several principles for providing non-intensive treatment.
A Domain‐Referenced Approach to Diagnostic Testing Using Generalizability Theory

This paper describes a four-step approach to constructing diagnostic test profiles that provide precise but practical information on students' instructional needs. The approach is based on the specification and analysis of a domain and uses generalizability theory to determine which skills within the domain need to be assessed to diagnose gaps in students' skills and to estimate score profiles. A 64-item test of pronoun use was constructed to represent 32 categories of usage defined by different combinations of five factors in the domain. Generalizability analyses were conducted to determine the optimal number of categories to be included in students' profiles and the number of items needed for each category, and to produce univariate and multivariate estimates of students' universe scores. Multivariate profiles of universe scores were the most accurate and differed substantially from observed score and univariate universe score profiles.
Effective Lagrangians with U(1) axial anomaly I

Abstract The effective lagrangian which includes the U(1) axial anomaly is discussed. The lagrangian describes the interaction of physical mesons of spin-zero and spin-one fields and an effective Kogut-Susskind four-vector anomaly field. The interactions are constructed which satisfy all the anomalous Ward identities for vertices which accommodate arbitrary amounts of chiral and SU(3) symmetry breaking consistent with U(3) × U(3) current algebra.
Differential response family assessments: listening to what parents say about service helpfulness

An increasing number of Child Protective Services (CPS) systems are implementing Differential Response (DR) approaches in which lower-risk families are served through a family assessment response that emphasizes a family centered approach and the provision of concrete and preventative services. Quantitative survey data collected from parents suggests that those who receive family assessments are more engaged, receive more concrete services, and have higher overall satisfaction than those who receive a traditional investigation; yet little is known about which services provided through a family assessment are most helpful to parents. This qualitative study sought input from 20 parents who received a DR family assessment response in order to provide an in-depth analysis of which aspects of their CPS experience they perceived as most helpful. Results suggest that a positive and emotionally supportive relationship with the caseworker was of utmost significance. Other caseworker-provided services were described as helpful, particularly those that helped parents establish or improve relationships with others, including advocacy with other service providers, mediation of family disagreements, and coaching on parenting or relationship skills. Material support, such as providing cash assistance for rent or furniture, was helpful when received but occurred less frequently and was sometimes a source of frustration when accompanied by lengthy waits for assistance. These findings have implications for CPS practice, including enhancing caseworkers' relationship-building and engagement skills through pre-service educational coursework and in-service trainings; allowing caseworkers adequate time to develop supportive relationships with parents; and reducing the institutional barriers that delay the provision of concrete support.
Consistent handedness of microtubule helical arrays in maize and Arabidopsis primary roots

The orientation of cortical microtubules in plant cells has been extensively studied, in part because of their influence on the expansion of most plant cell types. Cortical microtubules are often arranged in helical arrays, which are well known to occur with a specific pitch as a function of development or experimental treatment; however, it is not known if the handedness of helical arrays can also be specified. We have studied the handedness of helical arrays by using Vibratome sectioning of maize primary roots and confocal microscopy of Arabidopsis primary roots. In cortical cells of maize roots, the helical array was found to have the same handedness at a given position, not only for the cells of a single root, but also for the cells of more than one hundred roots examined. Quantification of angular distribution of apparent individual microtubules showed that defined regions of the root were composed of cells with highly uniform microtubule orientation. In the region between transverse and longitudinal microtubules (5–10.5 mm from the tip), the array formed a right-handed helix, and basal of cells with longitudinal microtubules (11.5–15 mm from the tip), the array formed a left-handed helix. Similarly, in epidermal cells of Arabidopsis roots right-handed helical arrays were found in the region between transverse and longitudinal microtubules. These results suggest that, in addition to the orientation of microtubules, the handedness of helical microtubule arrays is under cellular control.
Studies in macrolide antibiotic synthesis: the role of tethered alkoxides in titanium alkoxide-mediated regioselective reductive coupling reactions.

A convergent route to a C1−C15 fragment precursor for erythromycin-based macrolide antibiotics is presented. These studies define a role for tethered alkoxides in the control of site-selective carbon−carbon bond formation in titanium alkoxide-mediated coupling reactions of internal alkynes and chiral aldehydes.
THE SOCCER WARS: HISPANIC IMMIGRANTS IN CONFLICT AND ADAPTATION AT THE SOCCER BORDERZONE

Soccer is a worldwide sport with fervent fans across the United States, Mexico, and Central America. Recent Hispanic arrivals in the United States find common ground with U.S. American soccer fans, but social and cultural issues are still barriers to better relationships among Hispanics and non-Hispanic residents. Using the concept of “soccer borderzone,” I relate the ways in which futbol (soccer) is a mechanism by which immigrants from Latin America can relax and adapt to life in their new communities. This article discusses the underlying issues that bring together and divide soccer fans in the Research Triangle region of North Carolina (Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Durham). It also illustrates different cultural norms in the organization of league play. I use my eight-year experience as the president of a Hispanic Soccer League, La Liga de Raleigh, to explain the cultural norms of Hispanic participation in league play while feeling the effects of being an outsider in a new community. This article concludes by suggesting that in spite of common ground among soccer fans North and South, the recent spike in anti-immigrant rhetoric accompanied by the sinking of the American economy has slowed the process of integration within the soccer borderzone.
A method to remove synchrotron frequency from the spectrum of momentum-forced radial oscillations

Using the case of a storage ring for the resonance electric dipole moment (EDM) measurement, we demonstrate how to transform the frequency of forced radial oscillations from the frequency induced by the synchrotron oscillations of momentum, into a fraction of that frequency. This transformation, achieved through exploiting non-linearity, an oscillating external field, and destructive interference, cancels many parasitic spin resonances imitating the EDM.
THE CRYSTAL STRUCTURE OF trans-AZIDOBIS (ACETYLACETONATO)ETHYLENEDIIMINEPYRI-DINECOBALT(III)

Abstract Crystals of trans-azidobis(acetylacetonato)ethylenediiminepyridine-cobalt(III), C,17H23N6O2Co, are monoclinic with a., = 9.439(9), b = 16.518(13), c = 13.927(7) A and β= 118.95(2)°. The space group is P21 /c, with z. = 4. This yields a calculated density (V = 1898 A3) of 1.367 g/cm3 which compares to an observed density of 1.37 g/cm3. Intensity data were obtained with a CAD-4 automated counter diffractometer using the ⊘-2⊘ scan technique. The structure was solved by a combination of Patterson and Fourier methods (1854 reflections above background). Refinement by block-diagonal least squares procedures let to a final R of 0.045 and a weighted residual, Rw, of 0.039. The cobalt is six coordinate with the BAE ligand occupying the equatorial plane. The chelate rings are non-planar being twisted in opposite directions and folded towards the azide group. The azide group is linear (N-N-N = 176.6) with unequal bond lengths (1.186(8), 1.133(9)). The Co-N-N bond angle is 116.9°. Equatorial Co-N bonds avera...
A population of lymphocytes bearing a membrane receptor for antigen-antibody-complement complexes. I. Separation and characterization.

A population of lymphoid cells from several animal species, including man, was identified through a membrane receptor which binds sheep red blood cells treated with antibody and complement. When cells from different lymphoid organs were incubated with EAC at 37°C, only part of the lymphocytes (named CRL) bound EAC and formed rosettes, and this interaction was shown to be C3-dependent. Mouse lymphoid cells could be specifically depleted of CRL by allowing them first to interact with EAC and then submitting the mixture to ultracentrifugation in a gradient of BSA. After ultracentrifugation, a population of cells containing 95% or more of non-CRL were recovered from the upper layers of the gradient. In addition to their different abilities to bind EAC, CRL and non-CRL from mouse lymphoid organs could be distinguished by the following properties: (a) CRL adhered preferentially to nylon wool at 37°C in the presence of mouse serum. (b) After differential flotation in a gradient of BSA, a significantly higher proportion of CRL were recovered from the upper layers of the gradient. (c) The population of CRL contained most of the lymphocytes bearing immunoglobulin determinants on their membranes. (d) The distribution of CRL was quite different among lymphocytes obtained from various lymphoid organs, and they were never found in the thymus. (e) The membrane receptor for EAC was not detected in plaque-forming cells of mice which had been previously immunized with burro red cells. CRL and non-CRL could not be distinguished by their life span, as they were found in similar proportions among long-lived and short-lived lymphocytes from mouse peripheral lymph nodes. The function of this receptor on the membrane of certain lymphoid cells may be related to (a) the trapping and localization of antigen in lymphoid organs or (b) the localization of lymphoid cells in inflammatory sites.
Orogenic Propagating Precipitation Systems over the United States in a Global Climate Model with Embedded Explicit Convection

Intheleeofmajormountainchainsworldwide,diurnalphysicsoforganizedpropagatingconvection project onto seasonal and climate time scales of the hydrologic cycle, but this phenomenon is not represented in conventional global climate models (GCMs). Analysis of an experimental version of the superparameterized (SP) Community Atmosphere Model (CAM) demonstrates that propagating orogenic nocturnal convection in the central U.S. warm season is, however, representable in GCMs that use the embedded explicit convection model approach [i.e., multiscale modeling frameworks (MMFs)]. SP-CAM admits propagating organized convective systems in the lee of the Rockies during synoptic conditions similar to those that generate mesoscale convective systems in nature. The simulated convective systems exhibit spatial scales, phase speeds, and propagation speeds comparable to radar observations, and the genesis mechanism in the model agrees qualitatively with established conceptual models. Convective heating and condensate structures are examined on both resolvedscales in SP-CAM, and coherently propagating cloud ‘‘metastructures’’ are shown to transcend individual cloud-resolving model arrays. In reconciling how this new mode of diurnal convective variabilityis admittedin SP-CAMdespite thesevereidealizations in the cloud-resolvingmodel configuration, an updated discussion is presented of what physics may transcend the re-engineered scale interface in MMFs. The authors suggest that the improved diurnal propagation physics in SP-CAM are mediated by large-scale first-baroclinic gravity wave interactions with a prognostic organization life cycle, emphasizing the physical importance of preserving ‘‘memory’’ at the inner resolved scale.
The epigenome as a potential mediator of cancer and disease prevention in prenatal development

Epigenetic events establish a particular gene expression signature for each cell type during differentiation and fertilization. Disruption of these epigenetic programs in response to environmental stimuli during prenatal exposure dysregulates the fetal epigenome, potentially impacting susceptibility to disease later in life (the fetal basis of adult disease). Maternal dietary modifications during gestation and lactation play a pivotal role in the period of fetal (re)programming. Recently, many studies have demonstrated the impact of maternal nutrition on the fetal epigenome. This review discusses the complex interplay among various environmental factors and epigenetic mechanisms that have been found to affect offspring in human and animal models. Further, it summarizes the impact of various dietary phytochemicals capable of modulating the epigenome with regard to diverse human cancers and childhood cancer, specifically those with potential environmental etiology through maternal consumption during pregnancy and lactation. Other dietary agents that are still untested as to their effectiveness in transplacental studies are also discussed. The recent developments discussed herein enhance current understanding of how chemopreventive agents act and their potential to impact the prenatal epigenome; they may also aid efforts to identify dietary interventions that can be beneficial in treating and preventing disease.
Intracellular and Intercellular Transport of Viroids

Viroids are small, noncoding and nonencapsidated RNAs that infect plants. To establish systemic infection, viroid genomes or their derivatives must interact directly with cellular factors. There is increasing evidence that subcellular localization and systemic trafficking of viroid RNAs are regulated, likely via interactions between viroid RNA cis elements and specific cellular proteins. Here we summarize recent progress on the characterization of viroid structures and host proteins that may play important roles in trafficking. We also discuss critical issues that need to be addressed in future investigations.
Simulation and analysis of RF feedback systems on the SLC Damping Rings

The RF system of the SLC Damping Rings has evolved since tighter tolerances on beam stability are encountered as beam intensities are increased. There are now many feedback systems controlling the phase and amplitude of the RF, the phase of the beam, and the tune of the cavity. The bandwidths of the feedback loops range from several MHz to compensate for beam loading to a few Hz for the cavity tuners. To improve our understanding of the interaction of these loops and verify their expected behavior, we have simulated their behavior using computer models. A description of the models and the first results are discussed. >
A generic task-farming framework for reservoir analysis in a grid environment

The vast majority of research projects involving grid computing have focused on the development and standardization of the middleware that allows grids to function. Despite the maturity of the middleware as the grid core, the actual application of grids to solving concrete problems is far from being a common practice, much less a standard one. In this context, we present ResGrid, a grid-aware toolkit for reservoir uncertainty analysis. With the help of ResGrid, a reservoir engineer can transparently take advantage of grid resources and services for compute-intensive and data-intensive uncertainty analysis while achieving a better understanding of multiphase reservoir modeling. ResGrid improves the efficiency of reservoir analysis, and its flexible architecture allows its utilization by other application areas such as coastal modeling and climate simulations. ResGrid is our first step towards developing generic grid-aware toolkits that could be applied to any science in a cost-and time-efficient manner.
Characterization of a micromachined planar patch clamp for cellular electrophysiology

We have fabricated planar patch-clamp substrates suitable for use in cellular electrophysiology. The substrates are a base component of a larger automated dose-response measurement system. Substrates with cell-patch-site apertures ranging from 0.5 /spl mu/m to 11 /spl mu/m were fabricated using standard MEMS techniques. The resistance of the cell-patch-site apertures and substrate capacitance were measured using impedance spectroscopy. The resistance of the cell-patch sites ranged from 0.2 M/spl Omega/ to 47 M/spl Omega/ for apertures ranging from 12 /spl mu/m to 0.75 /spl mu/m. The substrate capacitance was 17.2 pF per mm/sup 2/ of fluid contact area for substrates with a 2-/spl mu/m thick layer of silicon dioxide. It was found that the electrical properties of the substrates are acceptable for use in electrophysiological applications.
A system-theoretic formulation of the bunch train cavity interaction

The bunch train cavity interaction is an accelerator physics problem, for which a system-theoretic model is lacking. A form of modal analysis has been used to characterize the system dynamics, and this model has been used for control system design. Correspondingly, control design has been done using input-output classical frequency-domain-based control, including several nested loops. Several shortcomings of this control-design method are highlighted, all of which are remedied by a new time-domain, system-theoretic model developed herein. The new formulation is a periodic, discrete-time system, amenable to state-space control-design methods.
MASAA: a case study in building a distributed integrated media database

The possibility of immersing a user into a virtual environment is quickly becoming a reality. At the Integrated Media Systems Center (IMSC) we are exploring the unique challenges presented by such systems in the context of our own implementation, the Media Immersion Environment (MIE). A challenging aspect of immersive environments is the persistent storage of vast amounts of heterogeneous data. The authors present their efforts and experience in building a storage infrastructure for the MIE. The different characteristics, requirements, and heterogeneity of the encountered data present new challenges for their acquisition, storage, access, and analysis. In the context of a sample application, collaborative immersipresence, hosted on the MIE, we investigated these challenges in a realistic setting to build the current version of the MIE storage infrastructure. We report on our progress so far and describe remaining challenges, extensions, and future research directions.
What Role for Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibition in Contemporary Coronary Intervention?

Improved antithrombotic therapies have remarkably enhanced the safety and efficacy of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Although rates of short-term ischemic complications were as high as 10% to 13% in patients receiving only aspirin and intraprocedural heparin during PCI, addition of
Pivotal role of AKAP121 in mitochondrial physiology.

In this Perspective, we discuss some recent developments in the study of the mitochondrial scaffolding protein AKAP121 (also known as AKAP1, or AKAP149 as the human homolog), with an emphasis on its role in mitochondrial physiology. AKAP121 has been identified to function as a key regulatory molecule in several mitochondrial events including oxidative phosphorylation, the control of membrane potential, fission-induced apoptosis, maintenance of mitochondrial Ca2+ homeostasis, and the phosphorylation of various mitochondrial respiratory chain substrate molecules. Furthermore, we discuss the role of hypoxia in prompting cellular stress and damage, which has been demonstrated to mediate the proteosomal degradation of AKAP121, leading to an increase in reactive oxgyen species production, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ultimately cell death.
Man's best friend: How humans can develop Dirofilaria immitis infections

Canine heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis, is a nematode parasite that infects dogs by way of mosquito bite. Rarely, humans play accidental hosts to this parasite and are not a suitable environment for the nematode to live. As the parasite dies in the pulmonary vessels it embolizes the vessels causing infarction and eventual nodule formation in the lungs. In the right clinical context, a nodule can be considered malignant prompting invasive tissue sampling. We describe a case of a 48-year-old man who was found to have multiple asymptomatic scattered pulmonary nodules during imaging workup for an insulinoma. Fine needle biopsy of the largest nodule revealed a necrotic granuloma, lab testing and culture ruled out fungal and bacterial causes. Clinically, this picture was consistent with D. immitis infection.
Bone Fracture Pre-Ischemic Stroke Exacerbates Ischemic Cerebral Injury in Mice

Ischemic stroke is a devastating complication of bone fracture. Bone fracture shortly after stroke enhances stroke injury by augmenting inflammation. We hypothesize that bone fracture shortly before ischemic stroke also exacerbates ischemic cerebral injury. Tibia fracture was performed 6 or 24 hours before permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) on C57BL/6J mice or Ccr2RFP/+Cx3cr1GFP/+ mice that have the RFP gene knocked into one allele of Ccr2 gene and GFP gene knocked into one allele of Cx3cr1 gene. Behavior was tested 3 days after pMCAO. Infarct volume, the number of CD68+ cells, apoptotic neurons, bone marrow-derived macrophages (RFP+), and microgila (GFP+) in the peri-infarct region were quantified. Compared to mice subjected to pMCAO only, bone fracture 6 or 24 hours before pMCAO increased behavioral deficits, the infarct volume, and the number of CD68+ cells and apoptotic neurons in the peri-infarct area. Both bone marrow-derived macrophages (CCR2+) and microglia (CX3CR1+) increased in the peri-infarct regions of mice subjected to bone fracture before pMCAO compared to stroke-only mice. The mice subjected to bone fracture 6 hours before pMCAO had more severe injury than mice that had bone fracture 24 hours before pMCAO. Our data showed that bone fracture shortly before stroke also increases neuroinflammation and exacerbates ischemic cerebral injury. Our findings suggest that inhibition of neuroinflammation or management of stroke risk factors before major bone surgery would be beneficial for patients who are likely to suffer from stroke.
A prospective cohort study on the relationship of abnormal ST-T on electrocardiogram with death, coronary and cerebrovascular events

Objective To evaluate the influence of ST T abnormalities on electrocardiogram (ECG) to death, coronary and cerebrovascular events in long term prospective cohorts of Chinese population. Methods An analysis on the baseline and follow up data of the PRC USA collaborative epidemiology study on cardiovascular disease from 1983/1984 through 2000 was performed,which covered 9260 participants aged 35 54 in Beijing and Guangzhou, excluded cases with angina pectoris, myocardial infarction and stroke history. ECG tracings from the baseline were coded with Minnesota Code and the follow up end points included all cause death or first attack of coronary or cerebrovascular event. Survival analysis and proportional hazards were employed. Results The frequencies of ECG ST T abnormalities were higher in Guangzhou, rural and women than those in Beijing, urban and men respectively. T wave abnormalities were much more than ST segment. In abnormal ST T group, the mortality and the incidence of coronary event were 759 18/100 000 and 134 97/100 000, higher than those in normal group 538 53/100 000 and 57 93/100 000( P 0 05)respectively. The average survival time was 193 8 months and the time to first attack of coronary event was 166 6 months in abnormal group, both were shorter than those in normal group ( P =0 023 and 0 018). The time to first cerebrovascular attack in abnormal group was also shorter than that in normal group but without statistical significance. The Cox proportional hazards odds ratio of death and coronary event in abnormal ST T group were 1 6 and 5 34 times higher than those in normal group respectively( P =0 009 and 0 000);that of cerebrovascular event was 1 49 times but with no statistical significance ( P =0 143).The impact of ST abnormality was stronger than that of T wave. Conclusions ECG ST T abnormalities may also increase the all cause death rate, the incidence and the risks of coronary and cerebrovascular events in Chinese population who was relative lower epidemic of coronary heart disease. It shortens the survival time and the time to first attack of coronary and cerebrovascular events.
The impact of hospital volume on the number of nodes retrieved and outcome in colorectal cancer.

We sought to examine the impact of hospital surgical volume on the number of nodes harvested and survival in colorectal cancer (CRC). Between January 1994 and December 2004, a total of 8567 patients with Tl, 2, 3, and 4 primary tumors and NO, N1, or N2 disease were studied. Hospitals were stratified into very low volume (VLV) (<33 cases/year), low volume (LV) (33-56 cases/year), and medium volume (MV) (57-84 cases/year). Surgery for CRC was performed most commonly at VLV hospitals: 3488 (40.7%) VLV centers versus 2359 (27.5%) LV centers versus 2720 (31.7%) MV centers. The mean number of nodes retrieved for VLV centers was 8.6, for LV centers 9.4, and MV centers 10.2 (P < 0.0002). Actuarial 5-year survival for VLV centers was 71.4 per cent, for LV centers 75.6 per cent, and for MV 77.0 per cent (P < 0.00001). By Cox proportional hazards analysis, hospital volumes (P < 0.0011) and the number of lymph nodes harvested (P < 0.0034) remain significant predictors of disease specific survival. The number of nodes retrieved is impacted by hospital volumes. Hospital volumes impact survival in CRC. These findings cannot be attributed solely to improved staging due to increased node retrieval in VLV, LV, and MV hospitals.
Longing: A Patient and Caregiver Focused Clinical Diagnostic Validity (CDV) Study

PURPOSE To gather data from patients and caregivers about their personal experiences with longing. METHODS Using Fehring's Clinical Diagnostic Validity model, patients and caregivers were surveyed for their experiences with longing. The survey was developed based on two previous research projects (a content analysis and survey of expert nurses). Approval for the study was received from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Institutional Review Board. FINDINGS None of the 84 attributes met major criteria (weighted ratios ≥ 0.8), but 19 met minor (weighted ratios of 0.60–0.79) across patients, caregivers, and combined scores. The proposed definition was supported by the respondents. CONCLUSIONS The phenomenon of longing may exist. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE There is evidence justifying the submission to NANDA-I for a new nursing diagnosis for longing.
Genetic Control of Floral Architecture: Insights into Improving Crop Yield.

Selection of plants with traits that are beneficial for cultivation and consumption has been a common practice for thousands of years; however, combination of these traits can be detrimental too, for instance by leading to undesirable branching and yield loss in tomato. The findings from Soyk et al. in this issue of Cell help understand how to bypass such negative effects and improve crop productivity.
36-OR: PEPTIDE LIGANDS PRESENTED BY NON-PROGRESSOR-ASSOCIATED HLA B∗57:01 FOLLOWING HIV-1 INFECTION

Aim HIV eludes immune responses that directly target the virus. Previous work in our lab showed that HIV-1 infection leads HLA to present distinct host peptides. We hypothesize that, in the absence of effective HIV-1-specific epitope recognition, host-specific ligands uniquely presented on infected cells can be therapeutically targeted to block transmission of the virus. Our aim is to characterize epitopes presented by the non-progressor/protection-associated allele B∗57:01 and to generate antibodies with potential for anti-viral activity. Methods We utilized sHLA and mass spectroscopy to characterize the endogenous B∗57:01 ligands presented by infected cells. The SUPT1 human T cell line expressing soluble B∗57:01 was infected with HIV-1 and HLA-bound peptides from infected and uninfected cells were comparatively analyzed by mass spectrophotometry. Unique upregulated host ligands were identified in a number of host metabolic pathways that interact with HIV-1. Results At least five host derived, B∗57:01-specific peptide ligands are highly upregulated and/or unique to HIV infected SUPT1 T cells. These epitopes are derived from host proteins involved in chromosome cohesion, ER resident protein retention, and interferon regulation as well as virus propagation. Conclusions HIV utilizes a number of immune evasion tactics, including diminished presentation of viral peptides by the class I HLA of infected cells. We therefore discovered several endogenous targets that distinguish HIV-infected cells from healthy cells. Having validated these targets as unique to infected cells, monoclonal antibodies known as T cell receptor mimics (TCRm) specific for these B∗57:01/ligand complexes will be tested for their ability to distinguish and target virus infected cells.
Photothermal nanocomposite membranes for direct solar membrane distillation

Efficient utilization of renewable energy for desalination is critical to solving the world's water scarcity issues. In this manuscript, we report a novel direct solar membrane distillation (MD) process that utilizes a photothermal nanoparticle coating to capture sunlight and convert it to heat at the membrane surface, providing the thermal driving force for the MD process. This approach overcomes the major limitation of temperature polarization encountered in conventional MD processes and significantly increases the energy efficiency of MD. Membranes coated with carbon black nanoparticles or SiO2/Au nanoshells showed an increase of up to 33.0% in distillate flux when irradiated with simulated sunlight at 1 sun unit in a bench scale direct contact membrane distillation system, while the salt rejection and liquid entry pressure remained unchanged. These results demonstrate the potential of photothermal membranes for direct solar MD.
Adoptive Transfer of Ceramide Synthase 6 Deficient Splenocytes Reduces the Development of Colitis

Sphingolipids regulate critical cellular processes including inflammation. Ceramide, which serves a central role in sphingolipid metabolism, is generated by six ceramide synthases (CerS) that differ in substrate specificity. CerS6 preferentially generates C16-ceramide and its mRNA is highly expressed in immune tissues. In this study we analyzed how deficiency of CerS6 impacts on the development of colitis using an adoptive transfer model. Adoptive transfer of CerS6-deficient splenocytes, which have significantly decreased levels of C16-ceramide, showed that CerS6-deficiency protected against the development of colitis. However, adoptively transferred cells isolated from the lamina propria of the large intestine from wild type or CerS6-deficient groups showed no differences in the percentages of immune-suppressive regulatory T cells, pro-inflammatory Th17 cells, or their ability to express IL-17. In vitro polarization of wild type or CerS6-deficient splenocytes also revealed no defects in the development of T cell subsets. Our data suggest that protection from colitis following adoptive transfer of CerS6-deficient splenocytes maybe related to their ability to migrate and proliferate in vivo rather than subset development or cytokine expression.
Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt: A Literature Review:

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, or TIPS, is a procedure used to decompress the portal system resulting from portal hypertension. The technique was inadvertently discovered during a t...
Aerosol sampling in workplaces

Aerosol measurement in workplaces is carried out by industrial hygienists for a variety of different, but related reasons. The first is for the assessment of the workplace atmosphere so that aerosol concentrations there can be compared against the health-related exposure limits that are laid down, thus providing a basis for decisions on control action. The second is for the provision of valid measurements of worker exposure for the purposes of epidemiology. The third is for the measurement of aerosol concentrations in exhaust ventilation systems so that the effectiveness of emission control equipment can be assessed. In this chapter, the current state of aerosol science underpinning the first two of these is reviewed. This is followed by a discussion of some recent technical developments that have arisen, in particular in response to the recent emergence of the health-related particle size-selective criteria. Determination of aerosol exposure by sampling is not considered complete until the particles, which have been collected, have been quantified to provide an appropriate concentration.