cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
N-Glycosylation is required for secretion-competent human plasma phospholipid transfer protein

Human plasma phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) contains six potential N-glycosylation sites (Asn-X-Ser). To study the role of these sites on PLTP structure and function, seven variants in which asparagine (N) residues were converted to glycine (G) were prepared by site-directed mutagenesis. These were N47G, N77G, N100G, N126G, N228G, N381G and N47, 77, 100, 126, 228, 381G (NnullG). These variants and wild-type (WT) PLTP were expressed in COS-7 cells. Intracellular and secreted PLTP mass was analyzed by Western blots and quantitative enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; PLTP activities in cellular lysates and media were based on the transfer of [3H]dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine from phospholipid single bilayer vesicles to HDL. NnullG was not detected intracellularly. N381G was similar to WT PLTP with respect to specific activity and secretion efficiency. The specific activities of N47G, N77G, N100G, N126G, N228G and N381G were similar in cell lysate (range = 67–90% WT) and medium (range = 65–77% WT). Intracellular masses of these PLTP variants were similar to that of WT (Mean = 103% WT); mean secreted mass was 88% WT. These results suggest that secretion-competent PLTP requires glycosylation but that no single glycosylation site is required.
Activated Akt promotes increased resting T cell size, CD28-independent T cell growth, and development of autoimmunity and lymphoma

The mechanisms that regulate basal T cell size and metabolic activity are uncertain. Since the phosphatidylinositol-3 phosphate kinase (PI3 K) and Akt (PKB) pathway has been shown in model organisms to regulate both cell size and metabolism, we generated transgenic mice expressing a constitutively active form of Akt (myristoylated Akt, mAkt) in T cells. Naive transgenic T cells were enlarged and had increased rates of glycolysis compared to control T cells. In addition, mAkt transgenic T cells resisted death-by-neglect upon in vitro culture. Upon activation, mAkt-transgenic T cells were less dependent than control cells on costimulation through CD28 and could both grow rapidly and secrete cytokines in the absence of CD28 ligation. In addition, transgenic expression of mAkt led to the accumulation of CD4 T cells and B cells with age. Many aged mAkt-transgenic mice also developed autoimmunity with immunoglobulin deposits on kidney glomeruli and displayed increased incidence of lymphoma. Together, these data show that Akt activation is sufficient to increase basal T cell size and metabolism. Enhancement of T cell metabolism by Akt and more rapid CD28-independent T cell growth may contribute to the accumulation of excess immune cells and the development of lymphoma and autoimmunity.
Cervical vertebral fracture in a Thoroughbred filly with minimal neurological dysfunction

Summary Vertebral fractures in horses are relatively common and often occur due to trauma. Clinical signs may range from neck pain and mild neurological dysfunction to tetraplegia and death. Severity of signs and prognosis depends on extent of damage to the spinal cord. In this Case Report, serial radiographs, which track the bony changes associated with fracture healing, were performed over one year. Although surgical techniques have been described to repair fractures to the vertebrae, patients with minimal neurological deficit may have a favourable outcome with conservative medical management, as in this case.
MEF2C, a MADS/MEF2-family transcription factor expressed in a laminar distribution in cerebral cortex.

Abstract We have cloned cDNA encoding a human transcription factor that belongs to the MEF2 (myocyte-specific enhancer-binding factor 2) subfamily of the MADS (MCM1-agamous-deficiens-serum response factor) gene family. This factor, which we have named MEF2C, binds specifically to the MEF2 element and activates transcription via this element. Specific isoforms of this factor are found exclusively in brain and are robustly expressed by neurons in cerebral cortex. In situ hybridization indicates that the factor is expressed preferentially in certain neuronal layers of cortex and that expression declines during postnatal development. The unusual pattern of expression in brain suggests that this transcription factor may be important in the development of cortical architecture.
Attenuation of high-frequency earthquake waves in South America

Earlier attenuation studies for the South American continent indicate that for Sn and Lg waves there is low attenuation in the shield region east of the Andes, whereas in the west of South America, with some exceptions, there is high attenuation. Those studies, however, were nonquantitative. In this study theQ 0 (1-Hz values) for Lg waves for South America are presented, based on a scattering model ofAki (1969) as extended byHerrmann (1980) for the coda waves of shallow local and near-regional earthquakes. The results of the codaQ method are compared with those obtained byNuttli's method (1973). TheseQ 0 values are in good agreement with the apparentQ 0 of Lg waves obtained by the latter method. The data were obtained from over 100 local and regional earthquakes recorded by 12 WWSSN stations throughout continental South America. They provided a range of frequencies from 0.4 to 1.4 Hz, for which the frequency dependence ofQ was investigated by assumingQ=Q 0(f/f 0)ζ. The observed data indicate that the tectonic region of western South America is characterized by lowQ 0 and a large frequency-dependent factor ζ, the values ranging from 150 to 350 and 0.4 to 0.7, respectively. TheQ 0 values increase in the shield region east of the Andes, but frequency dependence decreases. The average crustalQ 0 for north and central Argentina ranges from 420 to 580, and ζ ranges from 0.2 to 0.3. TheQ 0 is larger in the Brazil region, ranging from 580 to 980, and ζ varies from 0.0 to 0.2. In the lower-attenuation region of eastern South America higher values of attenuation correlate with greater thickness of the sedimentary layers.
Growth and characterization of heteroepitaxial zinc selenide

Abstract ZnSe has been heteroepitaxially deposited on GaAs substrates by vapor transport using hydrogen in an open tube reactor. A quasi-equilibrium model explains quantitatively the source transport reaction over the temperature range studied. It is shown that the substrate surface processes limit the growth rate in the deposition region. The activation energy for the surface reaction is 26 kcal/mole. Capacitance—voltage measurements on ZnSe/GaAs heterojunctions indicated that the layers are homogenously doped and an abrupt heterojunction is observed.
Effect of cyproheptadine administration on insulin secretion in acromegalic, diabetic and normal subjects.

The effect of cyproheptadine (Cypro) and Placebo administration on insulin secretion and glucose utilization following i.v. glucose (IVGTT) was evaluated in 8 normal, 7 diabetic and 8 acromegalic subjects. Five of the diabetic subjects had overt diabetes and two of the diabetic subjects had "chemical" diabetes (oral GTT). One of the acromegalic subjects had overt diabetes, while one had borderline glucose tolerance and six had normal glucose tolerance (oral GTT). Cypro increased insulin secretion in the acromegalic but not in the diabetic or normal subjects. Methysergide (Methyl) increased insulin secretion in acromegalic and diabetic subjects but not in normal subjects. Methy and Cypro both increased insulin secretion in the same acromegalic subjects. None of the three groups of subjects had a modification in insulin secretion following Placebo administration. Neither Placebo, Cypro or Methy altered the glucose utilization rate contant (KG). There was no change in insulin half life or tissue sensitivity to insulin from Cypro (normal and acromegalic subjects) or Methy (normal subjects) administration. Despite their increase in insulin secretion in response to serotonin antagonists, acromegalic subjects have normal urinary 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid excretion and normal serum serotonin concentrations. Their response cannot therefore be attributed to a generalized overproduction of serotonin.
Cationic lipid nanoparticles for therapeutic delivery of siRNA and miRNA to murine liver tumor

Abstract miR-122, a liver-specific tumor suppressor microRNA, is frequently down-regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). LNP-DP1, a cationic lipid nanoparticle formulation, was developed as a vehicle to restore deregulated gene expression in HCC cells by miR-122 delivery. LNP-DP1 consists of 2-dioleyloxy-N,N-dimethyl-3-aminopropane (DODMA), egg phosphatidylcholine, cholesterol and cholesterol-polyethylene glycol. In vitro , LNP-DP1-mediated transfection of a miR-122 mimic to HCC cells down-regulated miR-122 target genes by >95%. In vivo , siRNAs/miRNAs encapsulated in LNP-DP1 were preferentially taken up by hepatocytes and tumor cells in a mouse HCC model. The miR-122 mimic in LNP-DP1 was functional in HCC cells without causing systemic toxicity. To demonstrate its therapeutic potential, LNP-DP1 encapsulating miR-122 mimic was intratumorally injected and resulted in ~50% growth suppression of HCC xenografts within 30days, which correlated well with suppression of target genes and impairment of angiogenesis. These data demonstrate the potential of LNP-DP1-mediated microRNA delivery as a novel strategy for HCC therapy. From the Clinical Editor In this study, LNP-DP1 –a cationic lipid nanoparticle formulation –is reported as a vehicle to restore deregulated gene expression in hepatic carcinoma cells by siRNA and miRNA delivery using a mouse model. Further expansions to this study may enable transition to clinical trials of this system.
The potential for early generation selection to identify potato clones with resistance to Verticillium wilt

Verticillium wilt (VW) of potato, caused primarily by the fungus Verticillium dahliae, results in yield loss and is therefore an important soil-borne disease. Resistance to VW exists in potato germplasm and is used by breeders during cultivar development. Breeders could make more rapid progress toward the development of VW resistant clones if they had an effective early generation selection strategy. The purpose of this study was to determine whether selection for VW resistance could be carried out in the first tuber generation on single hills. One hundred and fifty-two clones from 19 families were planted as single hills on a V. dahliae-infested field. Each plant was scored for vine maturity, VW symptom expression, yield, stem colonization (colony forming units (cfu), in dried basal stem segments) and incidence (percent infected stems). In the second clonal generation, which consisted of replicated four-hill plots, stem colonization scores and incidence values were used to identify clones which were more resistant than a moderately resistant cultivar and others which were more susceptible than a susceptible cultivar. The efficiency and reliability of the single-hill selection strategy, based on symptoms and yield, was then determined by comparison to the four-hill results. We determined that the best single-hill selection strategy was negative selection (discard clones with the lowest performance) with low stringency, based on yield.
Pushing multiple patterning in sub-10nm: are we ready?

Due to elongated delay of extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUVL), the semiconductor industry has been pushing the 193nm immersion lithopgrahy using multiple patterning to print critical features in 22nm/14nm technology nodes and beyond. Multiple patterning lithography (MPL) poses many new challenges to both mask design and IC physical design. The mask layout decomposition problem has been extensively studied, first on double patterning, then on triple or even quadruple patterning. Meanwhile, many studies have shown that it is very important to consider MPL implications at early physical design stages so that the overall design and manufacturing closure can be reached. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive overview on the state-of-the-art research results for MPL, from synergistic mask synthesis to physical design. We will also discuss the open problems as to pushing multiple patterning in sub-10nm.
China's Search for a Modern Air Force

For more than fortyeight years, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has sought to build a combat-ready air force.1 First in the Korean War (1950–53) and then again in 1979, Beijing’s leaders gave precedence to this quest, but it was the Gulf War in 1991 coupled with growing concern over Taiwan that most alerted them to the global revolution in air warfare and prompted an accelerated buildup. This study brieoy reviews the history of China’s recurrent efforts to create a modern air force and addresses two principal questions. Why did those efforts, which repeatedly enjoyed a high priority, fail? What have the Chinese learned from these failures and how do they deane and justify their current air force programs? The answers to the arst question highlight changing defense concerns in China’s national planning. Those to the second provide a more nuanced understanding of current security goals, interservice relations, and the evolution of national defense strategies. With respect to the arst question, newly available Chinese military writings and interviews with People’s Liberation Army (PLA) ofacers on the history of the air force suggest that the reasons for the recurrent failure varied markedly from period to period. That variation itself has prevented the military and political leaderships from forming a consensus about the lessons of the past and the policies that could work. In seeking to answer the second question, the article examines emerging air force and national defense policies and doctrines and sets forth Beijing’s rationale for the air force programs in light of new security challenges, particularly those in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. In the 1990s, the air force has fashioned both a more realistic R&D (research and development) and procurement policy and a more comprehensive strategy for the PLA Air Force (PLAAF) in future warfare. We conclude that this strategy is recasting time-
An Energy Approach to the Dynamic Stability of Arches

Concentrated static and step loading were applied to circular arches with geometric parameters 7 < γ < 20. The static equilibrium path and the dynamic response at the loading position were recorded. Dynamic buckling is distinct. Supercritical and subcritical response were separated by 0.5 percent of the total load. The sensitivity of the arch to off set loading was studied. The effect was pronounced in the static tests but moderate in the dynamic case. An energy approach was used to determine the lower, and upper bound for the critical step load. The lower bound agrees well with the experimental results.
A lower bound on the complexity of approximate nearest-neighbor searching on the Hamming cube

We consider the nearest-neighbor problem over the d-cube: given a collection of points in {0, 1}d, find the one nearest to a query point (in the L1 sense). We establish a lower bound of Ω(log log d/ log log log d) on the worst-case query time. This result holds in the cell probe model with (any amount of) polynomial storage and word-size d O(1) . The same lower bound holds for the approximate version of the problem, where the answer may be any point further than the nearest neighbor by a factor as large as \( 2^{\left\lfloor {(\log d)^{1 - \varepsilon } } \right\rfloor } \) , for any fixed e > 0.
Porous media approaches to studying simultaneous heat and mass transfer in food processes. II: Property data and representative results

A more general multiphase porous media model is shown to effectively describe a number of heat and mass transfer processes in foods, particularly processes involving internal evaporation. Results from application of such a model to convective heating, baking (with and without volume change), frying and microwave heating are included. Limitations of such models in applying to foods include lack of availability of input parameters to such models and the lack of implementation in commercially available software.
Prolonged organophosphate toxicity in a twenty-six-month-old child

The signs and symptoms of acute organophosphate toxicity general ly appear shortly after exposure to the pesticide: within minutes af ter an ingestion, or within 12 hours af ter a dermal exposure) ,~ The maximal toxic effects of these agents are usually observed within 24 hours, and symptoms are usually well Controlled with intravenous adminis t ra t ion of atropine. Relapses are infrequent) ,4 The development of newer, more lipophilic organophospha te pesticides may greatly delay the onset of symptoms and prolong the toxic manifesta t ions caused by these agents2 ,5 We describe a child poisoned with a highly lipophilic organophosphate , fenthion.
Selected elastic moduli and their temperature derivatives for olivine and garnet with different Mg/(Mg+Fe) contents: Results from GHz ultrasonic interferometry

Selected P-wave acoustic travel times through single crystal samples of olivine and garnet with different Mg/(Mg+Fe) ratios were measured at elevated temperatures (from 293 K to 363 K) using a newly developed GHz ultrasonic interferometer. These high precision data allow us to examine aspects of the elasticity-composition systematics of olivine (forsterite-fayalite) and garnet (pyrope-almandine) solid solution series. For every 10% decrease in the Mg/(Mg+Fe) content, the P-velocity of olivine along the b-axis decreases about 3% and ∂lnC22/∂T decreases about 7%; for garnet ∂ln⌊C44 + (C11 + C12) / 2⌋/∂T decreases about 6%. If such velocity-composition systematics are typical and hold at the P-T regime of the mantle, only a 3–4% variation in the Mg/(Mg+Fe) content of olivine is required to explain the lateral seismic velocity variation in the upper portion of the mantle within one tectonic region (dlnVp∼l%), and 7–8% variation in the Mg/(Mg+Fe) content to explain the 2% lateral seismic velocity variation of the upper mantle globally.
Focal fatty infiltration of the liver: demonstration by magnetic resonance imaging

Focal fatty infiltration of the liver is a recently recognized yet poorly understood entity, which has become more apparent since the onset of widespread computed tomographic (CT) scanning. Recent reports have suggested that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may not be sensitive in the evaluation of diffuse fatty liver. A case is presented in which MRI was as sensitive as CT and sonography in the demonstration of focal fatty change within the liver.
Social Dominance and Forceful Submission Fantasies: Feminine Pathology or Power?

This study addresses forceful submission fantasies in men and women. Although many approaches implicitly or explicitly cast women's force fantasies in a pathological light, this study seeks to explore the associations of such fantasy to female power. By adopting an evolutionary meta-theoretical perspective (and a resource control theory perspective), it was hypothesized that highly agentic, dominant women prefer forceful submission fantasies (more than subordinate women) as a means to connect them to agentic, dominant men. In addition, it is suggested that dominant women would ascribe a meaning to the object of the fantasy different from that assigned by subordinate women (i.e., "warrior lover" vs. "white knight"). Two studies were conducted with nearly 900 college students (men and women) from a large Midwestern university. Hypotheses were largely supported. Analysis of meaning supports theoretical perspectives proposing that forceful submission reflects desires for sexual power on behalf of the fantasist. Implications for evolutionary approaches to human mate preferences are discussed.
Neurophysiological refinement of subthalamic nucleus targeting.

OBJECTIVE: Advances in image-guided stereotactic surgery, microelectrode recording techniques, and stimulation technology have been the driving forces behind a resurgence in the use of functional neurosurgery for the treatment of movement disorders. Despite the dramatic effects of deep brain stimulation (DBS) techniques in ameliorating the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, many critical questions related to the targeting, effects, and mechanisms of action of DBS remain unanswered. In this report, we describe the methods used to localize the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and we present the characteristics of encountered cells. METHODS: Twenty-six patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease underwent simultaneous, bilateral, microelectrode-refined, DBS electrode implantation into the STN. Direct and indirect magnetic resonance imaging-based anatomic targeting was used. Cellular activity was analyzed for various neurophysiological parameters, including firing rates and interspike intervals. Physiological targeting confirmation was obtained by performing macrostimulation through the final DBS electrode. RESULTS: The average microelectrode recording time for each trajectory was 20 minutes, with a mean of 5.2 trajectories/patient. Typical trajectories passed through the anterior thalamus, zona incerta/fields of Forel, STN, and substantia nigra-pars reticulata. Each structure exhibited a characteristic firing pattern. In particular, recordings from the STN exhibited an increase in background activity and an irregular firing pattern, with a mean rate of 47 Hz. The mean cell density was 5.6 cells/mm, with an average maximal trajectory length of 5.3 mm. Macrostimulation via the DBS electrode yielded mean sensory and motor thresholds of 4.2 and 5.7 V, respectively. CONCLUSION: The principal objectives of microelectrode recording refinement of anatomic targeting are precise identification of the borders of the STN and thus determination of its maximal length. Microelectrode recording also allows identification of the longest and most lateral segment of the STN, which is our preferred target for STN DBS electrode implantation. Macrostimulation via the final DBS electrode is then used primarily to establish the side effect profile for postoperative stimulation. Microelectrode recording is a helpful targeting adjunct that will continue to facilitate our understanding of basal ganglion physiological features.
Size of sentinel node metastases predicts other nodal disease and survival in malignant melanoma.

Abstract Background A positive sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy is an indication for completion lymph node dissection (CLND) in malignant melanoma; however, most CLNDs are negative. We hypothesized SLN metastatic size of ≤2 mm would predict CLND status and prognosis. Methods We evaluated 80 consecutive patients undergoing CLND for positive SLNs over a 10-year period. Incidence of positive nonsentinel nodes and survival were compared for patients with SLN metastases ≤2 mm and >2 mm. Results Of 504 patients undergoing SLN biopsy, 49 patients had SLN deposits ≤2 mm and a 6% incidence of positive CLNDs. Five-year survival was 85%, essentially the same as negative SLN biopsies. In contrast, 31 had SLN metastases >2 mm, a 45% incidence of addition disease at CLND, and 5-year survival of 47% ( P Conclusion An SLN metastatic cut point of 2 mm is an efficient predictor of CLND status and survival in malignant melanoma.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of iron doped zinc oxide nanowires for water decontamination

Abstract Zinc oxide (ZnO) and iron doped zinc oxide (ZnO/Fe) nanowires were synthesized on glass substrates through a conventional hydrothermal method and the nanowires were characterized by UV–visible spectrum, scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy techniques, respectively. Photocatalytic activities of ZnO and ZnO/Fe nanowires were investigated in both UV and white light for degradation of organic contaminants (1, 2-dichlorobenzene ‘DCB’ and methyl orange ‘MO’) in water. The ZnO/Fe nanowires exhibit an improved photocatalytic activity compared to ZnO nanowires. The photocatalytic performance of the nanowires is also compared to P25 titanium oxide (TiO2) for degradation of DCB and MO. Interestingly, ZnO/Fe nanowires show superior photocatalytic activity than TiO2 in white light and a similar activity level under UV light. The results indicate that this photocatalyst is suitable for the decontamination of organic materials under solar radiation.
A precisely controlled DNA biped walking device

We present an experimental realization of a molecular walking motor built from DNA. The device consists of a biped and a well-defined track where it walks. Input DNA strands act as a convenient interface to allow precise control of the biped walking forward or backward. Psoralen molecules are attached to the ends of the feet in synthesis. When irradiated, the psoralen molecules cross-link strands covalently, allowing unambiguous determination of the state of the walker.
Ultrasonic Sensor for High Temperature Gas Filled Vessels

The focus of this paper is an Ultrasonic Position Indication System (UPIS) that is capable of determining one-dimensional target location in a high temperature steel-container with gaseous medium. The combination of the very high acoustical impedance of steel (45.4MRayl) and the very low impedance of air (0.0004MRayl) causes extremely high-energy losses upon transmission. In addition to the energy loss, propagation through a steel plate produces many internal reflections in the plate. The strategy of this investigation was to develop a self-contained ultrasonic transducer that is capable of replacing a small portion of a high temperature-pressure boundary. In building such a transducer, sufficient acoustic matching layers for the steel-gas interface, a mechanically and acoustically competent housing, a sufficient piezoelectric element, and backing materials are all developed and tested. The results include a successful housing design, high-temperature acoustic matching layers, and subsequent successful waveforms. Target location through 9.6” (24.5cm) of ambient air was successful, with a steel pressure boundary 0.4566” (1.1598cm) thick, and using one matching layer. In addition to the experimental results, this investigation includes numerical simulations. Sample waveforms were predicted one-dimensionally with the Mason model using MatLab, and two-dimensionally with a Coupled Acoustic Piezoelectric Finite Element Method (CAPA) program. The Mason model program predicts waveform changes as the wave travels through various interfaces. CAPA is a finite element program that predicts waveforms based on the equations for ultrasonic wave propagation.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Salvage by volume reduction of chronic allograft rejection in emphysema.

Abstract Background We hypothesized that native lung volume reduction surgery (LVRS) would improve respiratory function in patients who had previously undergone single lung transplantation for emphysema and who were disabled by obliterative bronchiolitis. Methods Seven single lung transplant recipients who had advanced bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS grade 3b), absence of active infection, and suitable anatomy underwent native LVRS. Mean time from lung transplantation to LVRS was 39 ± 17 months. Results Mean FEV1 rose from 684 ± 164 ml before LVRS to 949 ± 219 ml at 3 months after LVRS, an increment of 40% ( p = .002). Mean 6-minute walk rose from 781 ± 526 ft before LVRS to 887 ± 539 ft at 3 months after LVRS ( p = .031), and mean dyspnea index declined from 3.1 ± 1.1 before LVRS to 1.6 ± 0.5 at 3 months after LVRS ( p = .010). Mean native lung volume declined from 2956 ± 648 ml before LVRS to 2541 ± 621 ml at 3 months after LVRS, but the change was not statistically significant ( p = .12). Mean transplant lung volume was little changed before and after LVRS (2099 ± 411 ml and 1931 ± 607 ml, respectively, p = NS). There was also a trend toward increased ventilation and perfusion of the native lung and reduction in ventilation and perfusion of the transplant lung, but these changes did not achieve statistical significance. By six months after LVRS, three patients died (two as a consequence respiratory failure), and survivors began to show evidence of deteriorating spirometry. Conclusions LVRS is capable of salvaging respiratory function in chronic allograft rejection in emphysema by reducing native lung hyperinflation. These benefits, however, appear to be limited in magnitude and duration by the severity of the underlying allograft dysfunction.
Beta-exposure in a neutron activation laboratory

In virtually all neutron activation analysis laboratories, researchers are given film badges known as thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLD's) that are monitored on a monthly basis. Sometimes additional pocket dosimeters are worn to get a daily reading of exposure, while in other instances ring badges are worn to assess beta doses. However, more than often little consideration is given to beta-exposure rates that arise from the plethora of radionuclides produced in the many types of samples irradiated. A common mistake is to assess gamma-exposures of activated samples that rely on the use of a beta-shield on the survey meter. Our experimental results have shown that there are many high energy beta-particles from neutron activated samples that can easily penetrate the beta-shield and thus give an underestimation of the total beta-exposure.
Effect of carbonylcyanide m-chlorophenylhydrazone on the calcium-stimulated ATPase activity of erythrocyte ghosts

Incubation of etythrocyte ghosts with carbonylcyanide m-chlorophenyl-hydrazone (CCCP) plus Ca-2+ resulted in inactivation of the Ca-2+ -stimulated ATPase activity. Omission of Ca-2+ or lowering of the temperature below 25 degrees C eliminated the inhibitory effect, as also did the presence of ATP during the incubation. On the other hand, the addition of beta-mercaptoethanol did not influence the Ca-2+ -dependent inhibition by CCCP. Compared with the level of CCCP which uncouples oxidative phosphorylation, a rather high level (0.5 mM) of CCCP was required to inhibit the ATPase activity in ghosts. However, once the inhibition had been accomplished, almost all of the CCCP could be removed from the ghost membrane by washing with a Ca-2+ -containing solution, without affecting the inhibition of ATPase. If ethylene-glycol-bis(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N,N'-tetraacetic acid was included in the washing medium, the inhibition of ATPase was nearly completely reversed by washing. The results indicate that only the Ca-2+ -stimulated, Mg-2+ -ATPase was inhibited by 0.5 mM CCCP, while the remaining components of the ATPase activity were slightly inhibited by higher levels of the uncoupler. Low levels of CCCP (0.1 mM) stimulated the Mg-2+ -ATPase slightly. CCCP was much more specific for the Ca-2+ -stimulated ATPases than N-(1-naphthyl)maleimide, an unusually effective sulfhydryl reagent, and the requirement of Ca-2+ for inactivation was also quite specific.
Rapid on-line chromatographic determination of trace-level munitions in aqueous samples

Abstract An on-line trace enrichment system is described that combines a divinylbenzene-vinylpyrrolidone co-polymer precolumn with a reversed-phase C18 HPLC analytical column. This arrangement allows quantitative preconcentration of munitions on the resin sorbent, followed by complete transfer of analyte to the analytical column for separation, followed by UV absorbance detection at 254 nm. Detection limits were approximately 0.10 ng/ml for TNT and RDX when 10 ml of sample was analyzed. The feasibility of increasing sample volume (up to 50 ml) to obtain detection limits down to 20 pg/ml was also demonstrated for TNT. Analyses of aquifer samples collected in the vicinity of a military installation are presented to show system utility.
Connecting Complex Processes: A Decade of Research on Immigrant Families

This review examines research on immigrant families in the United States from the past decade from multiple disciplinary perspectives. This work has used variations on assimilation and acculturation perspectives. In the case of the assimilation perspectives, the focus has largely been on family formation, whereas research using acculturation perspectives has focused more on intrafamily relationships. But, over the course of the decade, an interesting integrative model has emerged to address interactions of attitudes and values with structural conditions in the receiving and sending communities. Some of this effort to integrate perspectives can be found in studies of transnational families. The review concludes with some suggestions for continuing this integration and expanding studies to include dynamics of migration and family processes simultaneously.
Young's modulus of unidirectional discontinuous-fibre composites☆

Abstract Young's modulus of a unidirectional discontinuous-fibre composite is derived in the present study by the use of a modified shear-lag model. To achieve this, correct determination of the stress transfer at the fibre ends and selection of the representative volume element in the analytical model are required. The present predicted stress distribution along the fibre length during uniaxial loading of the composite is in excellent agreement with that obtained from a finite-element analysis. Also, by a judicious choice of the representative volume element for the modified shear-lag model, the predicted Young's modulus of the composite is in excellent agreement with those predicted from the Halpin–Tsai semi-empirical equation, the Eshelby model, and numerical analyses. Comparison is also made with experimental measurements of Young's moduli of aligned particulate- or whisker-reinforced SiC/aluminum-alloy composites, and good agreement is obtained.
Role of inorganic oxide interlayers in improving the adhesion of sputtered silver film on PMMA

Large mirrors are used to concentrate sunlight for renewable power generation. The reflector materials that are used must be inexpensive and maintain high specular reflectance for extended lifetimes in severe outdoor environments. Polymer reflectors are lighter than glass mirrors, offer greater system-design flexibility, and have the potential for lower cost. The state-of-the-art commercial reflector is a silvered polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) polymer. Interlayer adhesion failure can limit the performance of the optical components used to convert solar energy into thermal or electric energy. Optically transparent, inorganic interlayers can improve adhesion in multilayer structures. We have evaluated interlayer adhesion in sandwich structures that are representative of solar mirrors and other devices. Experimental structures were fabricated by vacuum-sputtering thin layers onto substrates. The structures were evaluated for optical performance and for adhesion. Calculations show that the Lifshitz-van der Wa...
Temporal effects of progesterone domination on estrogen and oxytocin receptors in hamster uterus.

The purpose of this study was to determine whether progesterone (P)-induced down regulation of estrogen receptors (Re) and oxytocin receptors (ROT) changes with the time of P exposure. Ovariectomized hamsters were given s.c. Silastic implants of estradiol (E2) and P for 4, 8 and 16 days. Cytosol and nuclear Re were measured at low temperature with the pyridoxal phosphate exchange assay, and ROT was assayed in the membrane fraction by [3H] oxytocin binding. Nuclear Re and ROT were down regulated throughout the 16-day P exposure period, but cytosol Re (and total Re) increased progressively from 4 to 16 days indicating that the down regulation of cytosol Re escapes P control with time. This conclusion was supported by P withdrawal studies in which P implants were removed for 6 or 12 h. P withdrawal resulted in equivalent recovery responses of nuclear Re and ROT after 4, 8 and 16 days of P exposure. Although cytosol Re recovery to P withdrawal occurred at 4 and 8 days, no response was obtained after 16 days of P exposure. Uterine weight increased during steroid treatment, and morphometric analysis of the P-dominated uterus revealed significant increases in the cross sectional area of the endometrium and myometrium with time of P exposure. Cytological examination of the uterus showed prominent secretory changes in the epithelial compartment on day 16 with accumulation of secretion in the uterine lumen. These results demonstrate that P can chronically down regulate nuclear Re and ROT. However, the control of cytosol Re varies with the time of P exposure, and cytosol Re levels become refractory to P domination by 16 days. The present observations indicate that the escape of cytosol Re from P control may be associated with the proliferation of one of more uterine cell populations such as glandular and luminal epithelial cells.
Sensitivity analysis of low-speed melt spinning of isotactic polypropylene

Abstract Linearized sensitivity analysis of fiber spinning has been studied using a two-phase constitutive model that includes the effects of crystallization. The analysis focuses on sensitivity predictions for the low-speed melt spinning of isotactic polypropylene and comparison to the experimental results of Young and Denn [1989, Disturbance propagation in melt spinning. Chemical Engineering Science 44, 1807–1818]. Modifications in an earlier-developed two-phase model enable comparisons of two different constitutive equations for the melt phase, namely the Giesekus and extended pom-pom models. Comparisons with sensitivity data for low-speed spinning conditions demonstrate that the incorporation of crystallization effects leads to improved predictions of the magnitude and trends of the perturbation frequency dependence for both constitutive equations. At low spin speeds where flow-enhanced crystallization effects are negligible, the sensitivity is predicted to decrease with increasing cooling and this trend is also shown to be consistent with increased crystallinity.
Obesity in Pima Indians: large increases among post-World War II birth cohorts.

Several studies have shown secular increases in obesity during the past 35 years, and others have reported increases in dietary fat consumption during the same period. Here we report a dramatic increase in obesity among Pima Indians born after World War II that appears to be associated with increased exposure to Western customs and diet following 1945. We examined the body mass index (BMI = weight in kilograms/height2 in meters) of 1,128 male and 1,372 female Pima Indians aged 15–65 years who were born between 1901 and 1964 and were examined between 1965 and 1990. We found large increases in BMI among Pima Indian men and women in post-World War II birth cohorts (1945 and later). The parallel changes in body mass index, dietary fat, and exposure to Western culture following World War II suggest that culturally mediated changes in diet and level of physical activity associated with modern industrialized society may have led to the large increases in obesity in the Pima Indians and to smaller parallel changes observed worldwide in westernized countries. © 1993 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Pressure influences the rate of fibrin polymerization: decompression accelerates, compression decelerates

Abstract We report here that the rate of fibrin polymerization is accelerated by decompression: the rate is essentially doubled by reducing the pressure by one-half (380 torr, 14.7 PSI or 1/2 ATM) and increased by 3.6 times with respect to the control at 25 torr (0.48 PSI or 1/30th ATM). We also report here that the rate of fibrin polymerization is decelerated by compression; at 5.2 × 105 torr (10,000 PSI or 680 ATM) polymerization is inhibited and/or reversed.
Bestimmung der Struktur, Zusammensetzung und Dynamiken molekularer Oberflächen unter Reaktionsbedingungen bei hohen Drücken und an der Fest‐flüssig‐Phasengrenzfläche

In den letzten zwanzig Jahren wurden Experimente und Methoden zur Erforschung von Oberflachenphanomenen entwickelt, die Informationen auf molekularer Ebene bei Reaktionsbedingungen unter hohen Drucken (d. h. ungefahr 1 bar) an Fest-flussig-Grenzflachen liefern. Dieser Kurzaufsatz beschreibt die Ergebnisse dieser Studien, die durch oberflachenempfindliche Laser-Spektroskopie, Rastertunnelmikroskopie und Rontgenspektroskopie erhalten wurden. Die Verwendung von Modelloberflachen, Einkristallen sowie monodispersen Nanopartikeln mit variabler Grose (1–10 nm) und Form erleichtert die Interpretation der experimentellen Daten. Die verwendeten Methoden ermoglichen die Untersuchung der Molekularstruktur von Zwischenprodukten, des Oxidationszustandes von Metallen und der Beweglichkeit adsorbierter Molekule. Auch werden neue Techniken diskutiert, die bedeutende Beitrage zur Untersuchung von Oberflachen unter Reaktionsbedingungen erwarten lassen.
Modeling and guided practice as components within a comprehensive testicular self-examination cancer education program.

Abstract This study sought to assess the effects of modeling and guided practice as components within a comprehensive testicular self-examination education program for college-aged men. We studied three treatment groups (N = 161) at two Arkansas universities. The variables investigated were knowledge of testicular cancer, attitudes toward testicular cancer, and frequency of self-reported testicular self-examination. A summary of the major findings revealed a significant difference in knowledge of testicular cancer and attitudes toward testicular cancer and a significant difference in frequency of testicular self-examination for all treatment groups. Modeling and guided practice yielded no significant differences in knowledge of testicular cancer or frequency of self-reported testicular self-examination but some significant attitudinal differences. Results indicated that subjects were not knowledgeable about testicular cancer and that most (91.7%) were not practicing testicular self-examination. Three mont...
Improved processing of multi-filter rotating shadowband radiometer network for distributed monitoring

In this presentation, we report on the development and data analysis of a regional Multi-Filter Rotating Shadowband Radiometer Network for real-time monitoring of the atmosphere aerosols in support of long term and satellite validation measurements. The conventional radiometer calibration approach is to perform a Langley regression which requires a stable aerosol optical depth. The use of Langley regressions assumptions results in errors ranging from 30% to 50% in optical depth and requires numerous recalibrations for instrument drift. To improve on this approach, we have implemented a novel algorithm based on the ratio between the direct and diffuse radiance developed at NASA GISS [1, 2, 3] in which only the optical depth ratios during the calibration procedure are required to be stable. In particular, we show that this approach significantly improve optical depth time series measurements when compared to AERONET CIMEL. This improvement is traced to a statistical analysis which shows that the normalized optical depth variability is approximately three times larger than the optical depth ratio variability. Time series data analysis of retrieved total AOD's (fine and coarse) and angstrom coefficients from distributed sites are also presented and compared to CIMEL AOD's products.
Optimal location of public facilities

Location of both public and private facilities has become an important consideration in today's society. Progress in solution of location problems has been impeded by difficulty of the fixed charge problem and the lack of an efficient algorithm for large problems. In this paper a method is developed for solving large-scale public location problems. An implicit enumeration scheme with an imbedded transportation algorithm forms the basis of the solution technique.
Targeted Metabolic Imaging to Improve the Management of Heart Disease

Tracer techniques are powerful methods for assessing rates of biological processes in vivo. A case in point is intermediary metabolism of energy providing substrates, a central feature of every living cell. In the heart, the tight coupling between metabolism and contractile function offers an opportunity for the simultaneous assessment of cardiac performance at different levels in vivo: coronary flow, myocardial perfusion, oxygen delivery, metabolism, and contraction. Noninvasive imaging techniques used to identify the metabolic footprints of either normal or perturbed cardiac function are discussed.
Prognostication of Electrocardiographic Changes With Status Epilepticus in African American Population

Background: Status epilepticus (SE) is a medical emergency and requires rapid diagnosis and treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality. The general approach to management and treatment of SE is largely unexplored and it remains unclear if other factors besides age and etiology represent independent outcome predictors for SE. There have been previous studies that document changing electrocardiogram (ECG) tracing through SE and following the termination of SE, indicating a dynamic, pathological response of the myocardium to this neurological process. Here we examine the ECG changes in African American patients during and after SE and consider the prognostic indication of ECG readings. Methods: The study was conducted on 113 African American patients older than 15 years who experienced SE following new onset or pre-existing epilepsy. Data were compiled through a retrospective analysis of the type of ECG changes with comparison of ECGs taken within 6 hours and after 24 hours in patients with SE. Results: ECG changes were documented in 81% of patients with SE in the first 6 hours. Of the eight patients who died, seven had persistent ECG abnormalities. Looking at our group of patients with new onset epilepsy, 25% returned to baseline function post SE, 46% were left with some disability and 19% resulted in death. This can be compared to patients who had a history of seizures in which 90% returned to baseline, 6% were left with a disability and 3% resulted in death. Conclusions: The high mortality rate associated with SE patients having ECG abnormalities indicates that close observation of cardiac function is essential in managing SE. Knowing that persistent ECG changes following SE are predictive of increased morbidity and mortality gives us the information we need to begin to change the way we manage and monitor SE patients. Cardiac monitoring using ECGs is a cost effective and non-invasive method to allow for early detection of potentially life threatening cardiovascular abnormalities in patients during and after SE. J Neurol Res. 2014;4(2-3):63-71 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jnr271w
Forgiveness as a Ritual in Couples Therapy

A violation of trust in intimate relationships is one of the most difficult presenting problems for partners to overcome. It is also difficult for clinicians to assist in the process of restoring the relationship. This article offers a technique for couples therapy that applies the construct of forgiveness through the metaphorical enactment of a ritual. Forgiveness is defined as the giving up of one’s right to hurt another in return for being hurt. Using a case study, the authors present a technique that uses the common items of a flowerpot, potting soil, and bulbs to implement an intervention that facilitates forgiveness and growth.
Efficient algorithm to find a jointly optimal time-frequency segmentation using time-varying filter banks

We examine the question of how to choose a time-varying filter bank representation for a signal which is optimal with respect to an additive cost function. The tree structure gives segmentations of the signal in frequency, while the time-varying nature of the tree gives segmentations in time. We present an efficient algorithm which finds the optimal basis, given the constraint that the time and frequency segmentations are binary. Extension to multiple dimensions is simple. We verify that the algorithm indeed produces a lower cost representation than any of the wavelet packet representations for compression of images using a simple rate-distortion cost.
The True Relation of Einstein's to Newton's Equations of Motion

THE equations of a space-time geodesic or Einstein's general equations of motion of a free particle are, in usual symbols,