cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Silencing of D4-GDI Inhibits Growth and Invasive Behavior in MDA-MB-231 Cells by Activation of Rac-dependent p38 and JNK Signaling

The Rho GDP dissociation inhibitor D4-GDI is overexpressed in some human breast cancer cell lines (Zhang, Y., and Zhang, B. (2006) Cancer Res. 66, 5592–5598). Here, we show that silencing of D4-GDI by RNA interference abrogates tumor growth and lung metastasis of otherwise highly invasive MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Under anchorage-independent culture conditions, D4-GDI-depleted cells undergo rapid apoptosis (anoikis), which is known to hinder metastasis. We also found that D4-GDI associates with Rac1 and Rac3 in breast cancer cells, but not with other Rho GTPases tested (Cdc42, RhoA, RhoC, and TC10). Silencing of D4-GDI results in constitutive Rac1 activation and translocation from the cytosol to cellular membrane compartments and in sustained activation of p38 and JNK kinases. Rac1 blockade inhibits p38/JNK kinase activities and the spontaneous anoikis of D4-GDI knockdown cells. These results suggest that D4-GDI regulates cell function by interacting primarily with Rac GTPases and may play an integral role in breast cancer tumorigenesis. D4-GDI could prove to be a potential new target for therapeutic intervention.
Polymer gel electrolytes based on oligomeric polyether/cross-linked PMMA blends prepared via in situ polymerization

Abstract Very-low-vapor-pressure oligomeric polyether electrolytes blended with and dimensionally stabilized by cross-linked poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) are prepared via in situ polymerization. The synthesized polymer gel electrolytes (PGEs) are freestanding films with excellent dimensional stability, mechanical integrity and strength. They exhibit high ionic conductivity at room temperature reaching 4.3 × 10 −4 S/cm for the highest conducting sample and exceptional thermal stability. The oligomeric polyether and PMMA appear to have molecular level interaction in the blends and the PGEs remain a single phase from at least −50 to 200 °C, potentially enabling their application in advanced batteries in wide temperature ranges. The novel in situ polymerization process allows precise control of the composition of the PGEs and can enable in situ fabrication of advanced cells.
STUDIES ON THE ETIOLOGY OF PRIMARY ATYPICAL PNEUMONIA II. PROPERTIES OF THE VIRUS ISOLATED AND PROPAGATED IN CHICK EMBRYOS

Experiments to determine the optimum conditions for propagation of the virus of atypical pneumonia in chick embryos are described. Variations in the activity of infected chick embryo material were investigated. The highest dilution of chick embryo suspension producing pulmonary lesions in hamsters and cotton rats is not over 10(-3). Dilutions of 10(-4) infect chick embryos. The virus is unstable at room temperature and also loses activity when stored in a dry-ice refrigerator unless the suspensions are kept in sealed glass tubes. Filtration experiments indicate a maximum particle size of 180 to 250 mmicro. The virus propagated in chick embryos produces pulmonary lesions in hamsters and cotton rats which have been immunized to their own non-bacterial agents inducing pulmonary lesions. Of these, the pneumonia virus of hamsters most frequently causes intercurrent respiratory infections, and methods of controlling epizootics due to this agent are described.
Bedside urinary chloride measurement: assessment in the acute setting.

Abstract In 100 random urine samples from hospitalized patients, the results of a rapid bedside test for urinary chloride (Quantab ® chloride titrators) were compared with those of the hospital laboratory. Renal chloride retention ( 20 mEq/L by laboratory analysis. The titrator strips should aid in rapid diagnosis of conditions in which the recognition of renal salt retention is important.
Investigation of a polarization controller in Ti:LiNbO3 near 1530 nm wavelength

Abstract The results of analytical and experimental investigations for an electro-optic polarization controller are reported. A device configuration composed of two polarization converters with a phase shifter centered between them and all integrated over a single Ti diffused channel waveguide on LiNbO3 is used. Polarization control is achieved by applying voltages on the three integrated elements independently to adjust the phase difference between orthogonal TE and TM components of a guided optical wave as well as their relative strength. Experimental results agree with analytical predictions. For arbitrary incident polarization, endless polarization transformation can be realized at the output.
Nuclear interactions of wild type and variant glucocorticoid receptors.

Nuclease digestion of nuclei from glucocorticoid sensitive and resistant lymphoma cell lines was used to study the nuclear compartmentalization of wild type and variant glucocorticoid receptors. In comparison with wild type, the variant line (S49 143r) had an increased capacity to translocate to the nucleus (nti), but was more completely released from nuclei by nuclease digestion. Approximately 20% of the receptor in wild type nuclei was resistant to release by DNase I digestion, while only < 5% of the receptor from nti nuclei was retained under the same conditions. Studies with wild type nuclei show that the nuclease resistant portion of receptors was also more resistant to release by increased ionic strength.
The fate of nitrogen in a moderately alkaline and calcareous soil amended with biosolids and urea

The determination of nitrogen (N) based loading rates for land application of biosolids is challenging and site specific. Over loading may contribute to environmental, agricultural, or human health problems. The objective of this study was to monitor N mineralization and losses in a moderately alkaline and calcareous desert soil amended with either anaerobically digested (AN) or lime-stabilized (LS) biosolids, and irrigated with and without urea enriched water. For Experiment 1, N inputs, leaching and residuals in soil were evaluated in an open soil column system. For Experiment 2, ammonia (NH3) emissions were evaluated in a closed soil column system. In Experiment 1, AN and LS biosolids increased soil ON (organic N) by three and two fold, respectively. Respective net N mineralization of ON from biosolids alone was 90% and 62% without urea, and 71% and 77%, respectively with added urea. Nitrogen leaching losses and residuals in amended soil did not account for all N inputs into the soil/biosolids system. In Experiment 2, NH3 emissions were not significantly different among treated soils with or without added urea, except LS amended soil receiving urea. Ammonia losses did not account for unaccounted N in Experiment 1. We concluded that deep placement and rapid mineralization of AN biosolids promoted anaerobic soil conditions and denitrification, in addition to the high denitrification potential of desert soil. LS biosolids showed greater potential than AN biosolids for safe and beneficial land application to desert soils regardless of biosolids placement and the inclusion of N rich irrigation water.
Necessary and Sufficient Conditions for Oscillation of a Mixed Neutral Equation

Abstract Consider the neutral differential equation with mixed arguments d dt [y(t) + py(t − τ)] + q 1 y(t − σ 1 ) + q 2 y(t + σ 2 ) = 0 (1) where p , q 1 , q 2 , τ, σ 1 , σ 2 are positive real numbers. We prove that every solution of Eq. (1) oscillates if and only if the characteristic equation λ + λpe −λτ + q 1 e −λσ 1 + q 2 e λσ 2 = 0 has no real roots.
Analytic spread modulo an element and symbolic rees algebras

Let (T, N) be a d-dimensional regular local ring, P a prime ideal of T having height equal d 1, and f~ P. Within this setting we are interested in computing the analytic spread of P/f T. We have two reasons for seeking this analytic spread. The first is to identify prime ideals in local hypersurface rings whose analytic spreads and heights are the same. The second is to aid in a better understanding of the symbolic Rees algebra, @ P’“‘t”, of P (the ideal Pen) is the nth symbolic power of P). Our interest in hypersurface rings essentially originated in [HUG]. There we were interested in determining when powers and symbolic powers are equal for a prime ideal in a local hypersurface ring. For a prime ideal q adjacent to the maximal ideal (i.e., height (M/q) = l), the only time such an equality can occur for all large powers is when the analytic spread of q equals the height of q. Equality does not, however, necessarily occur under this analytic spread condition (cf. [Hu2, Example 2. lo]). In order to force equality for all powers, one must make additional assumptions on the associated graded ring of P/f T= q (cf. [Hu2, Theorem 2.11). Section 2 of the present article contains some general methods for recognizing the analytic spread of P/f T, and Section 3 contains some illustrative examples where the analytic spread of P/f T equals the height of P/f T, The Noetherian property of the symbolic Rees algebra has created recent interest due to a question of Cowsik. In connection with his result in [C] that @ P’“‘t” Noetherian implies P is a set-theoretic complete intersection when T is a regular local ring and dim( T/P) = 1, Cowsik asked whether @ P(“)t” is Noetherian for every prime ideal in a regular local ring. An example due to P. Roberts [Ro] showed the answer is no in general, but the question has continued to draw attention [Hl, H2, KR, 0, E]. The
Extracellular calcium and potassium changes in hippocampal slices

Ca2+ and K+ ion sensitive microelectrodes were used to measure changes in ionic activities in the CA1 region of hippocampal slices during orthodromic (stratum radiatum) stimulation. Baseline levels of [K+]o and [Ca2+]o were those of the bathing medium which contained 5 mM K+ and 2.0 mM Ca2+. During stimulation [K+]o rose to maximal levels of 12 mM while [Ca2+]o decreased to as low as 1.4 mM. Systematic alterations in extracellular field potentials in stratum pyramidale accompanied the ionic shifts. Following stimulation K+ undershoots occurred. An active K+ uptake mechanism was demonstrated using iontophoretic K+ pulses. [K+]o and [Ca2+]o changes occurred in parallel and in a laminar distribution with maximal changes recorded in stratum pyramidale. Maximal [K+]o changes occurred from baselines of 5 mM and declined progressively at higher baseline levels. During epileptiform activity produced by exposure of slices to penicillin, larger ionic shifts with a more rapid onset occurred. The alterations in [K+]o and [Ca2+]o in the hippocampal slice are similar in some respects to those obtained by stimulation in vivo, making this preparation a potentially useful one for determination of mechanisms and effects of alterations in the ionic microenvironment.
A human ecological analysis of organizational response to changes in public education policy

Abstract This article describes research on the response of environmental education centers, such as nature centers, zoos, and museums to recent changes in public education policy in Texas. These changes had the potential to reduce public school field trips to off-campus educational facilities. Five hypotheses are derived from human ecological theory that focus on organizational function, hierarchical integration, resource competition, and organizational capacity as determinants of response to the policy changes. A probit analysis indicated that off-campus environmental education centers were more likely to adapt to the changes if their “key” function was education, if they had a pattern of relatively extensive interaction with other local units, and if they were characterized by higher levels of “excess capacity.”
A Common Miscitation of William Gilbert

Dozens of scientific textbooks [e.g., Spaldin, 2011, p. v; Krijgsman and Langereis, 2009, p. 252; Prolls, 2004, p. 211; Merrill et al., 1996, p. 7; Livingston, 1996, p. 27; Blakely, 1996, pp. xiv, 154; Gillmor, 1990, p. 9] attribute the famous dictum magnus magnes ipse est globus terrestris (“the terrestrial globe is itself a big magnet”) to the English physician and scientist William Gilbert (1544–1603). It is repeatedly claimed that these words were contained in the title of Gilbert's book or one of his chapters [e.g., Carlowicz and Lopez, 2002, n.p.; Courtillot, 2002, pp. 26, 49; Lang and Whitney, 1991, p. 120]. Certainly, they convey the thrust of Gilbert's De Magnete, in which it was argued for the first time that the Earth sustains its own magnetic dipole field, on the basis of experimentation on magnets.
Square principles with tail-end agreement

This paper investigates the principles $${\square^{{{\rm ta}}}_{\lambda,\delta}}$$ � � , � ta , weakenings of $${\square_\lambda}$$ � � which allow $${\delta}$$ � many clubs at each level but require them to agree on a tail-end. First, we prove that $${\square^{{\rm {ta}}}_{\lambda,< \omega}}$$ � � , < � ta implies $${\square_\lambda}$$ � � . Then, by forcing from a model with a measurable cardinal, we show that $${\square_{\lambda,2}}$$ � � , 2 does not imply $${\square^{{\rm{ta}}}_{\lambda,\delta}}$$ � � , � ta for regular $${\lambda}$$ � , and $${\square^{{\rm{ta}}}_{\delta^+,\delta}}$$ � � + , � ta does not imply $${\square_{\delta^+,< \delta}}$$ � � + , < � . With a supercompact cardinal the former result can be extended to singular �, and the latter can be improved to show that $${\square^{{\rm {ta}}}_{\lambda,\delta}}$$ ? ? , ? ta does not imply $${\square_{\lambda,< \delta}}$$ ? ? , < ? for $${\delta < \lambda}$$ ? < ? .
The problem with brain GUTs: Conflation of different senses of “prediction” threatens metaphysical disaster

Clark appears to be moving toward epistemic internalism, which he once rightly rejected. This results from a double over-interpretation of predictive coding's significance. First, Clark argues that predictive coding offers a Grand Unified Theory (GUT) of brain function. Second, he over-reads its epistemic import, perhaps even conflating causal and epistemic mediators. We argue instead for a plurality of neurofunctional principles.
An alpha particle instrument with alpha, proton, and X-ray modes for planetary chemical analyses

The interaction of alpha particles with matter is employed in a compact instrument that could provide rather complete in-situ chemical analyses of surfaces and thin atmospheres of extraterrestrial bodies. The instrument is a miniaturized and improved version of the Surveyor lunar instrument. The backscattering of alpha particles and (alpha, p) reactions provide analytical data on the light elements (carbon-iron). An X-ray mode that detects the photons produced by the alpha sources provides sensitivity and resolution for the chemical elements heavier than about silicon. The X-rays are detected by semiconductor detectors having a resolution between 150 and 250 eV at 5.9 keV. Such an instrument can identify and determine with good accuracy 99 percent of the atoms (except hydrogen) in rocks. For many trace elements, the detecting sensitivity is a few ppm. Auxiliary sources could be used to enhance the sensitivities for elements of special interest. The instrument could probably withstand the acceleration involved in semi-hard landings.
Simulation of ice cover melting in turbulent flow

In Northern Regions, ice covers that form on rivers, streams, and lakes with the onset of winter, cause various problems related to winter navigation and pollution dispersion among others. Warm water, from industrial plants, discharged into these rivers cause partial or total melting of the ice cover over considerable distances. The present work investigates the melting of a thin non‐uniform ice cover subject to varying water and air temperatures under turbulent flow conditions. A two‐dimensional depth averaged turbulence model coupled with a heat transfer model is used to simulate laboratory conditions of ice cover melting. Computational results were compared with experimental investigations. The average melting of the ice cover was found to be in close agreement with the experimental measurements with the exception of the leading edge region.
Evaluation of an air bubbler to mitigate fish impingement at an electric generating plant

To determine whether fish impingement at an electric generating plant was significantly reduced during the operation of an air bubbler, impingement monitoring data was subjected to statistical analysis. Daily impingement rates were calculated for total fish collections and for three impinged species, and associated with water chemistry conditions and air curtain operation during impingement periods. Analysis for each species by season indicated that the air curtain was not an effective fish deterrent.
Precision accelerator voltage measurements with a generating voltmeter

Abstract An investigation has been made of the feasibility of using a precision AC digital voltmeter with a generating voltmeter for direct reading measurements of the terminal voltage of Van de Graaff accelerators. The system is found to be linear from 0.5 to 4.0 MeV, insensitive to changes in operating conditions of the accelerator, and reproducible within a few kilovolts for periods of several days. The linearity curve extrapolates to ⋍16 kV plus source extraction voltage at zero energy, and it is therefore necessary to calibrate at two reaction energies. A number of modification are described to increase the stability and reliability of such a system.
The Cosmic Infrared Background at 1.25 and 2.2 Microns Using DIRBE and 2MASS: A Contribution Not Due to Galaxies?

Using the 2MASS second incremental data release and the zodiacal subtracted mission average maps of COBE/DIRBE, the authors estimate the cosmic background in the J (1.25 mu m) and K (2.2 mu m) bands using selected areas representing ~550 deg/sup 2/ of sky.
Polymeric micelles and nanoemulsions as tumor-targeted drug carriers: Insight through intravital imaging

Intravital imaging of nanoparticle extravasation and tumor accumulation has revealed, for the first time, detailed features of carrier and drug behavior in circulation and tissue that suggest new directions for optimization of drug nanocarriers. Using intravital fluorescent microscopy, the extent of the extravasation, diffusion in the tissue, internalization by tissue cells, and uptake by the RES system were studied for polymeric micelles, nanoemulsions, and nanoemulsion-encapsulated drug. Discrimination of vascular and tissue compartments in the processes of micelle and nanodroplet extravasation and tissue accumulation was possible. A simple 1-D continuum model was suggested that allowed discriminating between various kinetic regimes of nanocarrier (or released drug) internalization in tumors of various sizes and cell density. The extravasation and tumor cell internalization occurred much faster for polymeric micelles than for nanoemulsion droplets. Fast micelle internalization resulted in the formation of a perivascular fluorescent coating around blood vessels. A new mechanism of micelle extravasation and internalization was suggested, based on the fast extravasation and internalization rates of copolymer unimers while maintaining micelle/unimer equilibrium in the circulation. The data suggested that to be therapeutically effective, nanoparticles with high internalization rate should manifest fast diffusion in the tumor tissue in order to avoid generation of concentration gradients that induce drug resistance. However an extra-fast diffusion should be avoided as it may result in the flow of extravasated nanoparticles from the tumor to normal organs, which would compromise targeting efficiency. The extravasation kinetics were different for nanodroplets and nanodroplet-encapsulated drug F-PTX suggesting a premature release of some fraction of the drug from the carrier. In conclusion, the development of an "ideal" drug carrier should involve the optimization of both drug retention and carrier diffusion parameters.
Optical coherent tomography measurements of the diffusion rate of water and drugs in an isolated and whole cornea

The passive diffusion of drugs through the epithelial surfaces of an eye (the most widespread method for medical treatment of various diseases) is considered. The permeability of water and drugs through rabbit cornea was measured in the isolated cornea (separate from an eye) and in the whole cornea. The permeability coefficients of water and dexamethasone were estimated by the method of optical coherence tomography (OCT). Because multiple photon scattering introduces noise and distortions to the OCT signal, measurements were performed at depths up to 500 μm where most likely single scattering of light occurs in cornea. It is shown that the permeability coefficients in the isolated and whole cornea strongly differ from each other. For example, the water permeability in the isolated and whole cornea is (7.09±0.12)×10-5 and (1.71±0.51)×10-5 cm s-1, respectively.
Impact versus internal origins for mesosiderites

The textures, mineral compositions, and thermal history of mesosiderites are examined to see whether they are compatible with any kind of impact process or internal process which might produce stony-iron breccias. It was proposed that cratering by metal projectiles is not an adequate origin mechanism since it would not deposit enough metal in the stony-iron breccias. It was also proposed that such mechanisms as accretion of differentiated planitesimals must be considered for mesosiderite origins. But no single model for origins is fully satisfactory. Disruption and reassembly of two colliding bodies could form stony-iron breccias at depth, but, as with the previous models, the easiest way to explain the low olivine of mesosiderites is to postulate derivation from olivine-poor chondritic material. Turbulent metal-crust mixing during core formation and crustal blocks sinking into the core withhold olivine from the breccia but do not explain how the silicate and metal liquids in subgroup IV could have failed to segregate.
Intracavity resonant quantum-well photodetection of a vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser

The authors demonstrate the first intracavity quantum-well photodetector within a VCSEL. Minimal spontaneous emission is detected by the internal detector. The effective responsivity is as high as 9 A/W; the dark current is <1 nA, limited by the noise floor of the instruments used.
Ultra-low phase noise frequency synthesis from optical atomic frequency standards

We discuss frequency synthesizer needs and recent phase noise results of a multi-level frequency divider that are consistent with the phase noise of new high-accuracy optical atomic standards. Optical atomic standards achieve extremely low frequency uncertainties in less than hundreds of seconds due to their unprecedented phase stability and accuracy. The desire for low white-FM noise that ordinarily required days of averaging for laboratory standards to attain full accuracy has been shifted to a need for low flicker-FM noise to maintain long-term frequency uncertainty with only seconds of averaging. This imposes new requirements for low levels of phase noise realizable by laser stabilization by a hi-Q optical cavity of a phase-coherent optical frequency comb. The multi-level frequency divider serves as a tool for synthesizing many low-phase noise frequencies.
Citizen Demand for Exposure to Street Crime

If individuals gain utility from activities which expose them to the risk of being a victim of crime, then a higher risk of victimisation per unit of time exposed to crime should imply a lower quantity of exposure. This hypothesis leads to the distinction between the 'real' crime rate (probability of victimisation per unit of exposure time) and the 'nominal' crime rate (crimes per capita). Empirical evidence is presented which indicates that some dimensions of exposure are negatively related to proxies for the real crime rate.
A structural equation modeling of internet bookmark organizations

The current study examined the impact of age, Web experience and Web ability across the adult's life span on the ways users managed their Internet bookmarks. It was hypothesized that Web ability would mediate the effect of age and Web experience on how the users managed their bookmarks. Six hundred surveys, sampled from the Project 2000 data, were used to examine this model. Using structural equation modeling technique, it was found that the effect of age on bookmark organization was fully mediated by Web ability. However, the effect of Web experience was not fully mitigated by Web experience.
A multiscale representation including opponent color features for texture recognition

We introduce a representation for color texture using unichrome and opponent features computed from Gabor filter outputs. The unichrome features are computed from the spectral bands independently while the opponent features combine information across different spectral bands at different scales. Opponent features are motivated by color opponent mechanisms in human vision. We present a method for efficiently implementing these filters, which is of particular interest for processing the additional information present in color images. Using a data base of 2560 image regions, we show that the multiscale approach using opponent features provides better recognition accuracy than other approaches.
Short-Flagella Mutants of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

Six short-flagella mutants were isolated by screening clones of mutagenized Chlamydomonas for slow swimmers. The six mutants identify three unlinked Mendelian genes, with three mutations in gene shf-1, two in shf-2 and one in shf-3. shf-1 and shf-2 have been mapped to chromosomes VI and I, respectively. Two of the shf-1 mutations have temperature-sensitive flagellar-assembly phenotypes, and one shf-2 mutant has a cold-sensitive phenotype. shf shf double mutants were constructed; depending on the alleles present they showed either flagellaless or short-flagella phenotypes. Phenotypic revertants of shf-1 and shf-2 mutants were isolated, and certain of them were found to carry extragenic suppressors, some dominant and some recessive. We suspect that the shf mutations affect components of a specific flagellar size-control system, the existence of which has been suggested by a variety of physiological experiments.
Role of positive selection in the retention of duplicate genes in mammalian genomes.

The question of how duplicate genes are retained in a population remains controversial. The duplication-degeneration-complementation model, which involves no positive selection, stipulates a higher retention rate of duplicate genes in a small population than in a large one. This model has been accepted by many evolutionists. However, we found considerably more retentions and fewer losses of duplicate genes in the mouse genome than in the human genome, although the population size of rodents is in general larger than that of primates. Indeed, in nearly every interval of synonymous divergence between duplicate genes, the number of gene retentions in mouse is larger than that in human. Our findings suggest a more important role of positive selection in duplicate retention than duplication–degeneration–complementation. In addition, certain functional categories show a higher tendency of lineage-specific expansion than expected, suggesting lineage-specific selection or functional bias in retained duplicates.
Characteristics of radiated power for various Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor regimes

Power loss studies were carried out to determine the impurity radiation and energy transport characteristics of various Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor (TFTR) operation and confinement regimes including low mode, detached plasma, co‐only neutral beam injection (energetic ion regime), and the enhanced confinement (‘‘supershot’’) regime. Combined bolometric, spectroscopic, and infrared photometry measurements provide a picture of impurity behavior and power accounting in TFTR. The purpose of this paper is to make a survey of the various regimes with the aim of determining the radiated power signatures of each.
Yield and Predictors of Epilepsy Surgery Candidacy in Children Admitted for Surgical Evaluation

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to identify preadmission variables that are prognostic of epilepsy surgical candidacy for children admitted into an epilepsy-monitoring unit. Methods This study is a retrospective review of patients 0-18 years who were admitted into the pediatric epilepsy-monitoring unit at Mayo Clinic between November 2010 and December 2013 to assess for surgery candidacy for medically intractable epilepsy. Demographic data, epilepsy details, treatments, electroencephalograph and imaging results, and the consensus notes of the epilepsy surgery conferences were collected. Results One hundred and forty eight children underwent inpatient, prolonged video-electroencephalograph monitoring for presurgical evaluation, of which 136 had their typical events recorded. Five recommended for callosotomy alone were excluded and 131 composed the study group. Of these 131, the epilepsy surgery conference consensus deemed that 69 were surgical candidates, of which 45 (65%) underwent resective surgery. Chi-square analysis found seven preadmission predictors of surgical candidacy: single semiology at seizure onset ( P P P P P P = 0.02), and normal development ( P = 0.04). Conclusions The presence of fewer than four predictors was suggestive of low likelihood of candidacy (
A new soft switching direct converter for residential fuel cell power system

In this paper a new soft switching direct converter suitable for residential fuel cell system is discussed. The proposed system consists of two power stages which are soft switching full bridge dc/dc converter and three phase voltage source inverter without dc link capacitors. A new PWM strategy (with different placement of the zero-vector) for the 3 phase inverter is presented to supply split 120 V/240 V single phase ac voltage. The proposed dc/dc converter switching is synchronized with the inverter zero-vector: i.e. during the zero-vector interval of the inverter (during which the dc link current is also zero), the dc/dc converter commutation is initiated. This method of control is shown to result in zero current switching (ZCS), zero voltage switching (ZVS), lower EMI and higher efficiency over a wide operating range. Further, due to the absence of bulky dc link capacitors higher power density and lower cost can be achieved. The operating principle of the proposed soft switching direct converter is analyzed and design consideration for clamp circuit is discussed. Experimental results on 3 kVA direct converter prototype are provided to verify its feasibility.
pH dependent salinity-boron interactions impact yield, biomass, evapotranspiration and boron uptake in broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.)

Soil pH is known to influence many important biochemical processes in plants and soils, however its role in salinity—boron interactions affecting plant growth and ion relations has not been examined. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the interactive effects of salinity, boron and soil solution pH on broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) growth, yield, consumptive water use and shoot-boron accumulation. A greenhouse experiment was conducted using a sand tank system where salinity-B-pH treatment solutions were supplemented with a complete nutrient solution. Sulfate-dominated irrigation waters, characteristic of groundwater in California’s San Joaquin valley (SJV), were tested at EC levels of 2, 5, 8, 11 and 14 dS m−1. Each salinity treatment consisted of two boron treatments (0.5 and 21 mg L−1) and each of those treatments was tested under slightly basic (pH 8.0) and slightly acidic (pH 6.0) conditions. Results included multiple salinity-boron-pH interactions affecting shoot biomass, head yield and consumptive water use. Broccoli fresh head yields were significantly reduced by salinity and boron, but the degree of yield reductions was influenced by pH. Relative head yields were substantially reduced in treatments with high pH and high B, particularly under low and high salinity where head yields were decreased by 89 % and 96 %, respectively, relative to those at low salinity and low boron. Intermediate levels of salinity were far less damaging. Increased salinity and boron reduced evapotranspiration (ET) and there were no salinity-boron associated interactions on ET. However, increased salinity and boron concentrations increased water use efficiency (shoot biomass/cumulative volume ET). Shoot B concentration increased with increased boron and was greater at pH 6 as compared to pH 8. Shoot boron concentration decreased with increasing salinity at both pH levels but particularly at the high substrate boron concentration. It is likely that different mechanisms, yet unknown, are responsible for severe head-yield reductions at low and high salinity in the presence of high boron under alkaline conditions. We found that boron in the shoot did not accumulate by a simple passive process. Rather as boron increased from 0.5 to 21 mg L−1, there was a restrictive mechanism where total shoot boron (mg plant−1) was reduced by 10 to 40 times the amount potentially supplied to the shoot by passive transport via mass flow perhaps involving complex interactions with membrane channels and B exporters. Total shoot boron concentration was a poor indicator of plant growth response.
Statistics of radar backscatter from wind waves

Measurements of wind wave scattering made by the Yscat ultra wide-band radar are used to study the statistics of the sea surface radar backscatter. As a comparison tool, a simple model based on composite Bragg scattering theory is developed and incorporated in a Monte Carlo simulation. The power and velocity distributions are computed from both empirical and simulated data. Comparison suggests that the composite scattering model accurately predicts the qualitative behavior of the radar return for incidence angles between 30/spl deg/ and 50/spl deg/ for both V and H polarization, but that other scattering mechanisms begin to influence the return at 20/spl deg/ and 60/spl deg/ incidence angles. While it has been postulated that additional scattering mechanisms (e.g. wave breaking and wedge scattering) may contribute to the total scattering, our results suggest that such scatterers do not significantly contribute to the total radar cross section for incidence angles between 30/spl deg/ and 50.
Verification and Validation of a Cold Gas Propulsion System for the TALARIS Hopper Testbed

The TALARIS (Terrestrial Artificial Lunar And Reduced gravIty Simulator) hopper is a small prototype vehicle currently being flight tested as an Earth-based testbed for guidance, navigation, and control algorithms that will be used to explore lunar and other planetary surfaces remotely. It has two propulsion systems: (1) a system of four electric ducted fans to offset 5/6 of the Earth’s gravitational force, and (2) a cold gas propulsion system which uses compressed nitrogen propellant to impulsively emulate the lunar propulsion system and flies in an environment dynamically similar to that of the Moon. This paper is a follow-up to the SPACE 2010 paper entitled “Development of a Cold Gas Spacecraft Emulator [CGSE] System for the TALARIS Hopper.” It focuses on the second of the aforementioned propulsion systems. This paper reviews the history and design of the CGSE, describes the testing characterization process, compares actual and predicted results, and discusses the CGSE performance in the context of closed-loop vehicle control. Special focus is given to emergent behaviors.
Effects of the loss of Atox1 on the cellular pharmacology of cisplatin.

Abstract Previous work has demonstrated that the copper (Cu) transporters Ctr1, Atp7a and Atp7b regulate the cellular pharmacology of cisplatin (CDDP) by mediating its uptake and efflux. It was also shown that, in the process of uptake by Ctr1, CDDP triggers the rapid proteasomal degradation of its own transporter. The current study examined the role of the metallochaperone Atox1 in the regulation of uptake, efflux and subcellular distribution of CDDP by using a pair of fibroblast cell lines established from Atox1+/+ and Atox1−/− mice. Atox1 is a metallochaperone that is known to play a central role in distributing Cu within the cells and was recently shown to act as a Cu-dependent transcription factor. Loss of Atox1 increased Cu accumulation and reduced efflux. In contrast, loss of Atox1 reduced the influx of CDDP and subsequent accumulation in vesicular compartments and in DNA. Loss of Atox1 was found to block the CDDP-induced down regulation of Ctr1. Ctr1 was found to be polyubiquitinated in an Atox1-dependent manner during CDDP exposure. In conclusion, Atox1 is required for the polyubiquitination of Ctr1 and the Ctr1-mediated uptake of CDDP.
Characterization of fiber accumulation fouling in fine pitched heat sinks

Fiber accumulation fouling of heat sinks is a growing issue within the electronics industry. Fouling can lead to significant decreases in cooling efficiency and may even cause equipment malfunction. Most existing dust studies focus on fine particle threats to human health or heavy machinery. Little attention is paid to the larger particles and fibers that human anatomy and heavy equipment typically filter out before they reach susceptible areas. This approach ignores many threats to electronic equipment. This paper characterizes examples of Fiber Accumulation Fouling from several sources
ALBANESE STANDARD AND ALBANESE EXOTIC VARIETIES

Smooth complete algebraic varieties defined over an algebraically closed field are divided into two classes according to the behaviour of the albanese map. Criteria are given for when a variety belongs to either class. The relationship with the Tate conjecture for abelian varieties is discussed.
Lagrangian Studies of Fluid Exchange between the Gulf Stream and Surrounding Waters

Abstract Between spring of 1988 and winter of 1990, 75 RAFOS floats were released east of Cape Hatteras near the center of the Gulf stream on the 26.8 σt surface, O (15°C). The purpose of this sequential deployment was to investigate the spatial and temporal characteristics of the meandering stream and the Lagrangian properties of fluid motion in the upper thermocline. These new observations were also intended to provide a database for comparative studies of fluid motion in the upper thermocline with similar observations made earlier (1984–85) in the middle and lower thermocline. Sixty-one of the 75 RAFOS float trajectories in the 13°–16°C layers have been analyzed from both a Lagrangian and Eulerian point of view. The results reconfirm the strong baroclinic structure of the Gulf Stream established earlier and reveal enhanced cross-stream motion with increasing depth and over the New England Seamounts, Float trajectories tend to be more convoluted east of the seamounts reflecting the large amplitude meand...
Using Environmental Indicators for Policy and Regulatory Decisions

We are here to talk about environmental progress and how to manage it. Coming from Washington, of course, we know all about progress—as you can tell from observing Congress and how our budget problems are being solved. A story along these lines is going around in Washington that suggests the immense credibility with which I stand before you today.
Prospective comparison of running injuries between shod and barefoot runners

Background Advocates of barefoot running suggest that it is more natural and may be a way to minimise injury risk. In contrast, opponents believe shoes are needed to adequately cushion and support the foot. However, to date, there have been no prospective studies of injury patterns in barefoot and shod runners. The purpose of this study was to compare the incidence and rate of injuries between shod and barefoot runners. Methods A prospective survey was conducted over the course of a year among 201 (107 barefoot and 94 shod) adult runners. Information regarding injuries and mileage was logged monthly using a custom, web-based database program. The number of injured runners, number of injuries per runner and injury rates were compared between habitual barefoot and habitual shod runners. Both musculoskeletal and plantar surface injuries were assessed. Results Statistically fewer overall, diagnosed, musculoskeletal injuries/runner were noted in the barefoot group. However, injury rates were not statistically different between groups due to significantly less mileage run in the barefoot group. As expected, barefoot runners sustained a statistically greater number of injuries to the plantar surface of the foot. The descriptive analysis suggests a greater number of calf injuries, but lower number of knee and hip injuries in the barefoot group. Additionally barefoot runners reported less plantar fasciitis than the shod group. Conclusions Barefoot running is associated with fewer overall musculoskeletal injuries/runner, but similar injury rates. A larger scale cohort is needed to more accurately assess differences in individual injuries between these two groups.
Examining communication and assertiveness as predictors of condom use: implications for HIV prevention.

The current study explored the relationship between communication and assertiveness in general and sexual contexts and examined each construct's differential ability to predict reported condom use among college students. The results suggest that the constructs are positively related to each other, but general communication does not predict sexual assertiveness. Although sexual assertiveness is a better predictor of condom use than general assertiveness, general communication, and sexual communication, it needs to be considered within the context of other variables (e.g., normative beliefs regarding condom use). HIV prevention programs and models of health behavior should incorporate individual characteristics such as sexual assertiveness. The results of this study suggest that sexual assertiveness, social norm perceptions of condom use, self-efficacy for HIV prevention, and condom attitudes are among the critical variables that should be examined in an integrated model of sexual health behavior.
RT-24EXTENT OF CEREBRAL RADIONECROSIS IN PATIENTS WITH NEWLY DIAGNOSED GLIOBLASTOMA (GBM) TREATED ON A CLINICAL TRIAL WITH HYPOFRACTIONATED INTENSITY-MODULATED RADIATION THERAPY (HYPO-IMRT) COMBINED WITH TEMOZOLOMIDE (TMZ) AND BEVACIZUMAB (BEV)

BACKGROUND: Hypofractionated RT schemes may result in increased occurrence of clinically-significant radionecrosis (CSRN), but this potentially might be mitigated by bevacizumab (BEV). METHODS: 30 patients received hypo-IMRT to the surgical cavity and residual tumor with a 1cm margin (PTV1) to a total dose of 60 Gy in 10 daily fractions and to the T2 abnormality with a 1cm margin (PTV2) to 30 Gy. Concurrent TMZ (75mg/m2 daily) and BEV (10mg/kg every 2 weeks) was administered followed by adjuvant TMZ and BEV for 6 months. CSRN was defined as progressive MRI changes not attributable to tumor progression resulting in neurological deficits. Differentiation from tumor progression was based on perfusion weighted imaging showing hypoperfusion in areas of MRI change. RESULTS: 16/30 developed CSRN at a median of 12.5 months. The median PTV1 volume in these patients was 131.0 cm3(range: 37.9-241.7), and the median PTV2 volume was 337.3 cm3 (range: 130.6-519.2.0). PTV1 and PTV2 volumes were not statistically different between those patients who developed CSRN and those who did not (p = .88, p = .40). Median OS of patients with CSRN was 18.4 months versus 16.9 months in those without (p = 0.05). Development of CSRN was not associated with MGMT methylation status (p = 0.66). Four patients underwent re-operation (showing 60-100% necrosis), 13 patients died, and 2/13 underwent autopsy. One patient (survival 10.1 months), showed predominantly RN with scant residual tumor cells, whereas the second (survival 17.5 months) manifested focal RN with extensive, residual, bulky leptomeningeal tumor at surrounding base of brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. CONCLUSIONS: CSRN was extensive in this cohort and not mitigated by BEV. Development of RN not only failed to prolong survival, but in at least one patient allowed development of known late complications of GBM, ie., distant spread beyond original tumor bed.
An Improved Particle Swarm Optimization to Settle Constrained Optimal Nonlinear Problem

In this paper,the particle swarm optimaziton handles are used to deal with constraint optimal problems.Owing to constraint conditions,searching space is not bulgy and particles are easy to be limited to local optimal.Therefore,we advance to the PSO of searching different scale gene in different phases during the searching process.Numerical results show that the improved PSO is feasible and can get more precise results than particle swarm optimization by using penalty functions and genetic algorithm and other optimization algorithms.
The Promise of Technology to Advance Rigorous Evaluation of Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Programs in American Indian and Alaska Native Tribal Communities.

The authors discusses the potential impact that technology might have on the process of evaluating the efficacy of adolescent pregnancy prevention programs in American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) tribal communities as of 2016, and it mentions the challenges that are associated with implementing rigorous evaluation designs and research programs involving members of AI/AN tribes. Online interventions for AI/AN youth and adolescents are examined, along with e-mail and text messages.
Effects of cell delivery route and BMP2 gene transduction on engraftment of autologous dermal fibroblasts and bone density in a rabbit model

Alicia L. Bertone has completed her DVM degree from Cornell University, Ph.D. from Colorado State University and postdoctoral studies from Harvard School of Medicine. She is the Director of the Comparative Orthopedics Research Laboratory, the Trueman Endowed Chair, and has appointments in the OSU College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine. She has published more than 150 original scientific papers in reputed journals and has presented research from her laboratory as senior author around the world. Effects of cell delivery route and BMP2 gene transduction on engraftment of autologous dermal fibroblasts and bone density in a rabbit model
Confrontation and collaboration in the course of the election debate

The study explores verbal conflict in an institutional context and examines how the election debate format and the moderators’ actions contribute to the emergence of confrontation between themselves and the debaters, what communicative practices the debaters use to resist an institutionally preferred form of interactivity, and how the moderators manage this situation. The findings show that conflict arises around face concerns and violations of the institutional order. The debaters make a number of moves to challenge the moderators and the debate format, such as addressing questions to the moderators, criticizing the moderators, disagreeing with them, refusing to respond to their questions, explicitly questioning the rules of the debate, and aligning with other candidates. The moderators manage conflict by giving the floor to another candidate, minimally acknowledging a candidate’s move, providing an account for their action, agreeing with a candidate, indicating a violation of institutional rules, and not responding to a candidate’s move.