cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Probability of Future Observations Exceeding One-Sided, Normal, Upper Tolerance Limits

Normal tolerance limits are frequently used in dynamic environments specifications of aerospace systems as a method to account for aleatory variability in the environments. Upper tolerance limits, when used in this way, are computed from records of the environment and used to enforce conservatism in the specification by describing upper extreme values the environment may take in the future. Components and systems are designed to withstand these extreme loads to ensure they do not fail under normal use conditions. The degree of conservatism in the upper tolerance limits is controlled by specifying the coverage and confidence level (usually written in “coverage/confidence” form). Moreover, in high-consequence systems it is common to specify tolerance limits at 95% or 99% coverage and confidence at the 50% or 90% level. Despite the ubiquity of upper tolerance limits in the aerospace community, analysts and decision-makers frequently misinterpret their meaning. The misinterpretation extends into the standards that govern much of the acceptance and qualification of commercial and government aerospace systems. As a result, the risk of a future observation of the environment exceeding the upper tolerance limit is sometimes significantly underestimated by decision makers. This note explains the meaning of upper tolerance limits and a relatedmore » measure, the upper prediction limit. So, the objective of this work is to clarify the probability of exceeding these limits in flight so that decision-makers can better understand the risk associated with exceeding design and test levels during flight and balance the cost of design and development with that of mission failure.« less
Fluorescence Lifetime Enhancement of Organic Chromophores Attached to Gold Nanoparticles

We present for the first time experimental evidence of fluorescence lifetime enhancement of organic chromophores attached to metal nanospheres via radiative decay engineering. The hybrid system (HS) was a modified “diconjugated” molecular probe, 4-acetamido-4‘-maleimidylstilbene-2,2‘-dithiol (AMDT), covalently bound to the surface of 5-nm-diameter Au nanospheres by its two sulfur atoms, at a distance d < 1 nm and with its molecular axis parallel to the surface of the nanoparticle surface. We measured a fluorescence lifetime increase of a factor of 2 at room temperature (τAMDT = (4.32 ± 0.10) ns and τHS = (8.73 ± 0.23) ns) and a factor of 3.4 at 4.2 K (τAMDT = (2.64 ± 0.07) ns and τHS = (7.96 ± 0.14) ns). We also found that the fluorescence quantum yield of this hybrid system is not reduced, proof of a weak energy transfer between the molecular probe and the nanoparticle. These results demonstrate that a molecular dipole oriented parallel to the metal surface tends to be reduced by the coupling with its image.
Dissecting the role of the serotonin system in neuropsychiatric disorders using knockout mice.

Rationale: The serotonin system has an important role in the modulation of several processes relevant to psychiatry such as anxiety, affect, aggression, and drug abuse. This review summarizes the recent progress in elucidating the function of the serotonergic system using knockout mice. This review while not exhaustive, highlights recent findings of relevance to psychopharmacology. Objectives: To familiarize the reader with the technique and the findings from serotonergic knockout mice. Methods: Information included in this review was drawn from our own experience in this field and relevant publications from other investigators. Results: We have focused on three main themes that have emerged from studies with mice bearing single-gene mutations of serotonergic genes: anxiety, aggression, and drug abuse. Mice lacking the 5-HT1A have been found to be more anxious in several behavioral paradigms. Elevated levels of aggression have been reported in mice lacking the monoamine oxidase A and the 5-HT1B receptor genes. The mice lacking the 5-HT1B receptor have also been reported to exhibit an increased vulnerability to cocaine. The molecular basis of this enhanced vulnerability has been linked to compensatory changes in the nucleus accumbens. These results and their correlation with pharmacological studies will be discussed. Conclusion: Mice lacking key components of the serotonin system have provided us with important animal models of genetic vulnerability to conditions such as anxiety disorders, aggression, and drug abuse. Ongoing research with these mice may help elucidate the mechanistic functioning of this complex system.
The Influence of Verbal Responses to Common Greetings on Compliance Behavior: The Foot‐In‐The‐Mouth Effect

This study reports the results of three field experiments which demonstrate that asking someone how they feel, having them verbally respond, and then acknowledging that response, facilitates compliance with a charitable request. The findings are discussed with respect to the influence of public commitments on behavioral consistency. Before you ask anyone for a donation, you first ask them how they're feeling. After they tell you they're feeling good, and you tell them you're glad they're feeling good, the/11 be more likely to contribute to helping someone who isn't.
ISSUES AND TECHNIQUES FOR FEDERAL GRANT-IN-AID ALLOCATIONS TO DISTRESSED CITIES*

Determining which cities are distressed and designing allocation systems for grant-in-aid programs to assist needy places are important issues in domestic policymaking. The authors present the view that techniques for measuring distress are primarily a task for analysis, while decisions on allocation issues are essentially political. The article examines grant a/location systems and makes an important distinction between the eligibility criteria for grant assistance and the formula factors used to determine how much money a community will receive. The point stressed is that, unless eligibility is based on need, the targeting effects of the formula itself may be diluted. Several approaches to establishing eligibility criteria based on need and having more targeted formulas are discussed. The authors also present several approaches to measuring community distress-socioeconomic distress, physical decay, and economic development. There is a general convergence in the findings; that is, the distressed communities tend to be the same, regardless of which standard of distress is used.
Tibial stress reaction in runners. Correlation of clinical symptoms and scintigraphy with a new magnetic resonance imaging grading system

Medial tibial pain in runners has traditionally been diagnosed as either a shin splint syndrome or as a stress fracture. Our work using magnetic resonance imaging suggests that a progression of injury can be identified, starting with periosteal edema, then progressive marrow involvement, and ultimately frank cortical stress fracture. Fourteen runners, with a total of 18 symptomatic legs, were evaluated and, within 10 days, referred for radiographs, a technetium bone scan, and a magnetic resonance imaging scan. In 14 of the 18 symptomatic legs, magnetic resonance imaging findings correlated with an established technetium bone scan grading system and more precisely defined the anatomic location and extent of injury. We identified clinical symptoms, such as pain with daily ambulation and physical examination findings, including localized tibial tenderness and pain with direct or indirect percussion, that correlated with more severe tibial stress injuries. When clinically warranted, we recommend magnetic resonance imaging over bone scan for grading of tibial stress lesions in runners. Magnetic resonance imaging is more accurate in correlating the degree of bone involvement with clinical symptoms, allowing for more accurate recommendations for rehabilitation and return to impact activity. Additional advantages of magnetic resonance imaging include lack of exposure to ionizing radiation and significantly less imaging time than three-phase bone scintigraphy.
Decapentaplegic restricts the domain of wingless during Drosophila limb patterning

SIGNALLING proteins in the BMP-decapentaplegic (dpp), WNT-wingless (wg) and Shh-hedgehog (hh) families have been implicated in limb and appendage development in both invertebrates and vertebrates1–3. In Drosophila, dpp protein (Dpp) induces distal outgrowth and patterning of legs and wings, but the molecular responses to Dpp are not well characterized4–9. Analysis of clones mutant for the Dpp receptors encoded by punt or thickveins (tkv) reveals that repression of wg expression is one critical function of Dpp signalling in leg and wing discs. Distal clones that lie on the anterior edge of the anterior–posterior compartment boundary ectopically express wg and cause pattern abnormalities, suggesting that Dpp represses Hh activation of wg in the distal primordia of the leg and wing. By repressing wg expression in the leg, Dpp signalling limits the region that responds to high levels of Wg and Dpp to the site of distal outgrowth. Such negative regulatory feedback loops between signalling molecules are likely to be critical for limb patterning in other species.
Implementation of a Standardized Tool to Evaluate Heavy Menstrual Bleeding in Adolescents

females presenting with ovarian myxomas. There are no reported cases in the pre-pubertal population. We present an ovarian myxoma in a prepubertal girl and the associated radiographic features. Case: A previously healthy 6 year old girl presented to the emergency department with one day of abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Computed tomography demonstrated a 9 cm heterogenous pelvic mass, likely of ovarian origin. There was a thin capsule with enhancing soft tissue bands, coalescing into more nodular central areas. Interspersed regions of low attenuation, Hounsfield units indicated fluid density which could reflect hemorrhage, necrosis or proteinaceous fluid. Therewas no evidence of fat or calcifications. There was no lymphadenopathy, ascites, or peritoneal soft tissue deposits. The abdomen and pelvis were otherwise free of disease. The ovaries could not be clearly distinguished bilaterally. Preoperative tumor markers were within normal limits; HCG 18 mIU/ml, AFP 3 ng/ml, Ca-125 10 U/ml, Testosterone 4 ng/dL, Estradiol 20pg/ml. Exploratory laparotomy was performed by pediatric surgery and pediatric gynecology as co-surgeons. The right ovary was uniformly enlarged, with an area of thin capsule and underlying solid mass. Disease tissue was isolated to the right ovary, with normal left ovary, abdomen and pelvis. Oophrectomy was performed. Frozen section demonstrated a “mucin producing tumor” and the appendix was subsequently removed along with the omentum. Final pathology was consistent with ovarian benign stromal neoplasmwith abundant myxoid changes and cystic degeneration which most closed represents ovarian myxoma. The appendix and omentumwere unremarkable. The patient recovered without incident and is currently doing well. Comments: Ovarian myxoma is a rare, benign sex-cord stromal tumor. It has never been reported in a prepubertal child, but should be included in the differential of a complex adnexal mass without laboratory or other radiologic features concerning formalignancy. As demonstrated by our case, ovarian masses with solid and cystic components, without classic teratomatous features, can be difficult to differentiate from mucinous cystadnocarcinoma ovarian myxoma should be considered pre-operatively.
Acid generation and acid diffusion in photoresist films

Triarylsulfonium salts have been widely used as acid photogenerators in chemically amplified photoresists. A technique was developed for measuring the amount of acid which is generated on irradiation of polymer films containing sulfonium salts and the results of these measurements were used to obtain an understanding of the importance of acid chemistry on the lithographic performance of acid-catalyzed resists. The results from both electron beam and ultraviolet irradiations suggest that polarity effects are very important factors in determining the efficiency of acid generation. The effect of sulfonium salt loading percentage on acid generating efficiency was also studied. Thermal analysis of polymer films containing sulfonium salts has shown greater plasticization effects for sulfonium salts in polar polymer films indicating that the interaction between sulfonium salts and polymers is better for polar polymers. ESR experiments have determined the nature of the radicals which are produced following irradiation and these results suggest a mechanistic understanding of the polymer structural effects. In the case of acid-sensitive polymers, it has been possible to determine the extent of acid-catalyzed chemistry which, in turn, provides a means of estimating the acid diffusion range in this polymer film.
A continuation method for identification of the natural frequencies of an object using a measured response

The identification of the natural frequencies of an object using measured data is an ill-conditioned problem. A method and algorithm to solve the problem based on regularization by a continuation method is presented. The algorithm is applied to the measured response of a model aircraft, and the superiority of this method to Prony's method in the presence of noise is demonstrated.
A Highly Efficient Method for Site-Specific Modification of Unprotected Peptides after Chemical Synthesis

We have developed a highly efficient method for the site-specific attachment of biophysical probes to unprotected peptides after chemical synthesis. This methodology takes advantage of the selective reactivity of an N-methylaminooxy amino acid that is appropriately protected for direct incorporation during solid-phase peptide synthesis. The functional N-methylaminooxy group is unmasked using normal peptide cleavage conditions and is capable of selective reaction with activated N-hydroxysuccinimide esters in the presence of cysteine, lysine and the amino terminus, as demonstrated in model peptides and test proteins. Selective labeling can be accomplished after synthesis using commercially available or chemically sensitive probes. This technology is compatible with the synthesis of Cα-thioester-containing peptides and amide-forming ligations, required steps for the synthesis of proteins by either total chemical synthesis or expressed protein ligation. The N-methylaminooxy amino acid can be introduced into d...
Collagen gel contraction induced by retinal pigment epithelial cells and choroidal fibroblasts involves the protein kinase C pathway

Contraction of intraocular fibrous membranes is an important feature in the pathogenesis of retinal detachment in proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Collagen gel contraction is a useful in vitro model of membrane contraction in PVR. We studied the role of protein kinase C (PKC) in collagen gel contraction induced by bovine choroidal fibroblasts and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Collagen gels embedded with the cells were formed in culture dishes and gel contraction was evaluated. The PKC stimulator, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), and the protein phosphatase 1 and 2A inhibitor, okadaic acid (OA), were used to evaluate the role of the PKC-mediated phosphorylation system in this gel contraction. Fifteen min incubation with PMA stimulated gel contraction, but 180 min incubation had no effect. Choroidal fibroblast-but not RPE cell-induced gel contraction was stimulated by OA. These effects were inhibited by the broad spectrum protein kinase inhibitor staurosporine and the specific PKC anta...
Sensory Irritation by Airborne Chemicals

(1973). Sensory Irritation by Airborne Chemicals. CRC Critical Reviews in Toxicology: Vol. 2, No. 3, pp. 299-363.
Phenobarbital responsiveness conferred by the 5'-flanking region of the rat CYP2B2 gene in transgenic mice.

Abstract Phenobarbital (PB) is a prototype for a class of agents that produce marked transcriptional activation of a number of genes, including certain cytochrome P-450s. We used transgenic mouse approaches and multiple gene reporters to assess the functional consequences of specific deletions and site-specific mutations within the 2.5 kb 5′-flanking region of the rat CYP2B2 gene. Protein–DNA interactions at the PBRU domain also were characterized. Using the transgenic models, we demonstrate that sequences between −2500 and −1700 bp of the CYP2B2 gene are critical for PB induction; mice with 1700 or 800 bp of 5′-flanking CYP2B2 sequence are not PB responsive. DNA affinity enrichment techniques and immunoblotting and electromobility shift assays were used to determine that nuclear factor 1 (NF-1) interacts strongly with a site centered at −2200 bp in the PB responsive unit (PBRU) of CYP2B2 . To test the functional contribution of NF-1 in PB activation, we introduced specific mutations within the PBRU NF-1 element and demonstrated that these mutations completely ablate the binding interaction. However, transgenic mice incorporating the mutant NF-1 sequence within an otherwise wild-type −2500/CYP2B2 transgene maintained full PB responsiveness. These results indicate that, despite the avidity of the respective DNA–protein interaction within the PBRU in vitro, NF-1 interaction is not an essential factor directing PB transcriptional activation in vivo.
The characterization of the delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction to H-Y antigens.

We have evaluated the ability of certain inbred strains of mice to develop a delayed-type hypersensitivity response to the male H-Y antigen. It was found that C57BL/10, B10.GD and B10.A(5R) female mice responded to syngeneic male cells. B10.A(4R) females also responded to B10.A(4R) male cells although the reactivity was somewhat slighter. B10.A(2R), B10.D2 and BALB/c female mice could not respond to immunization with syngeneic male cells. The response was male-antigen specific and transferable by thymus-derived cells. Moreover, suggestive evidence of representation of H-Y was obtained, based on the ability of responder strains immunized with syngeneic cells to react to nonresponder male cells upon challenge.
Optimizing single hole mine cuts by dynamic programming

Abstract In planning a mine with layered deposits one must decide the ultimate disposition of the material to be mined. Some material will be mined for processing as ore and some will be discarded as waste. Mining equipment can remove the layers of waste and ore separately. There are, however, minimum widths for waste and ore cuts because of the way the equipment is designed and operated. Thus, decisions on the disposition of any given depth interval depend on its ore quality as well as that of neighboring intervals. Information on ore quality by depth is gained by drilling holes into the ore body and measuring the mineral content at periodic intervals. This paper presents a dynamic programming approach that optimizes the cuts for a single drillhole from which the ore qualities are evaluated.We implement a trial version to illustrate the properties of the solution, using Lotus 123.
Recursive methods for matrix inversion in pattern recognition environments

Simple recursive methods for inverting an n × n matrix A + E in terms of A-1 and E are presented, where E represents a matrix of modifications of the matrix A. Algorithms for rank one and rank r matrix modifications are given. In addition, simple methods for determining if A + E is invertible are developed. Applications of these methods to pattern recognition problems where the inversion of a matrix (e.g. covariance matrix, scatter matrix, etc.) must be computed and frequently updated as changes in data occur are illustrated.
GAMMA EMITTERS IN A FIN WHALE.

BALEEN whales are prodigious collectors of marine zooplankton. Zooplankton in turn concentrate radionuclides. Both fission products from fall-out, and neutron-induced radionuclides (mostly zinc-65) from Hanford Laboratories, Washington, have been reported in marine zooplankton off Oregon1,2. An opportunity to measure the same radionuclides in various tissues of a plankton -feeding mammal occurred when a fin whale, Bolaenoptera physalus Linnaeus, was captured west of Depoe Bay, Oregon, on September 19, 1963.
Thermophysics of metal alkanoates. IV: Heat capacities and thermodynamic properties of potassium 2-methylpropanoate

Abstract The molar heat capacity of potassium 2-methylpropanoate, (CH3)2CHCO2K, has been measured between 8 and 350 K by adiabatic calorimetry, and found to be normal. The corresponding thermodynamic functions have been calculated. The values found at 298.15 K for C p, m (T) R , {S m o (T) − S m o (0)} R , {H m o (T) − H m o (0)} R , and {G m o (T) − H m o (0)} RT are 20.08, 23.14, 3457.3 K, and −11.546, respectively.
Compassionate use of the amplatzer ASD closure device for residual postinfarction ventricular septal rupture following surgical repair

We report successful transcatheter closure of a post-MI ventricular septal rupture acutely following unsuccessful surgical repair. Catheter closure was accomplished by the use of a 26-mm Amplatzer atrial septal occluder. Initial attempts to close the defect with the use of 28-mm and 33-mm CARDIOSEAL were unsuccessful. Closure technique, immediate and long-term follow-up outcomes are reported.
Immobilized proteins in buffer imaged at molecular resolution by atomic force microscopy

Samples of supported planar lipid-protein membranes and actin filaments on mica were imaged by atomic force microscopy (AFM). The samples were fully submerged in buffer at room temperature during imaging. Individual proteins bound to the reconstituted membrane were distinguishable; some structural details could be resolved. Also, surface-induced, self-assembling of actin filaments on mica could be observed. Monomeric subunits were imaged on individual actin filaments. The filaments could be manipulated on or removed from the surface by the tip of the AFM. The process of the decoupling of the filamentous network from the surface upon changing the ionic conditions was imaged in real time.
Current Nutrition Practices in Adult Lung Transplantation

Nutrition therapy is vital to the overall management of lung transplant recipients. The objective of this review is to outline the current applications of pre- and posttransplant nutrition management of the adult lung transplant recipient. Pretransplant nutrition therapy decisions are based on cause of end-stage lung disease, transplant indications, and pretransplant nutritional status. Maintaining adequate nutrient stores is the major goal of nutrition therapy for patients awaiting transplantation. In the posttransplant course, several gastrointestinal (GI) complications such as gastroesophageal reflux, gastroparesis, and distal intestinal obstruction syndrome complicate nutritional recovery. Long-term nutrition therapy for lung transplant recipients is aimed at management of common comorbid conditions such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, osteoporosis, and hyperlipidemia. Lung transplantation outcomes are steadily improving; however, much has yet to be explored to improve the nutrition management of these patients in both the pre- and posttransplantation course.
Cumulative career traumatic stress (CCTS): A pilot study of traumatic stress in law enforcement

The present study measured the existence of traumatic stress symptomatology as reported by certified law enforcement officers within the State of Delaware. A questionnaire was devised which documented age, sex, race, education, years of service, marital status, children, rank, position, and shift work. The questionnaire was divided into parts which assessed the exposure and the frequency of specific traumatic incidents experienced in the line of duty, and the frequency of experienced traumatic symptomatology criteria: re-experiencing, numbing, and arousal.
Investigation of separating the transmitted and scattered light beams in free space by ultrafast optical switches

In this paper, the separation of transmitted and diffused light beams in a scattering medium by a magneto-optical ultrafast switch is investigated. The magneto-optical switch previously developed by the authors is capable of 1 ns switching speed and has a 1 mm clear aperture. The diffused light beams and ballistic beams in a scattering medium are simulated in the lab by two beam paths. One beam is delayed from the other to simulate the diffused light beam and the ballistic beam, respectively. The magneto-optical switch is synchronized with the required delay to the laser pulse to keep only the ballistic beam, acting as an ultrafast light gate. The concept is demonstrated with a 532nm Q-switched pulsed laser.
The Compressive Strength of Ice Cubes of Different Sizes

Cubes of side length from 10 to 150 mm were prepared from freshwater granular ice of about 1 mm grain size and then compressed uniaxially to failure at [minus]10 C. In addition to size, the variables were strain rate (10[sup [minus]5] s[sup [minus]1] and 10[sup [minus]2] s[sup [minus]1]) and boundary conditions (ground brass plates, ground and polished brass plates, and brass brushes). The results showed that over the range investigated, size is not an important factor when considering the ductile compressive strength of ice. It also appears that size is not a factor when considering the brittle compressive failure strength under more ideal loading conditions. However, under less ideal conditions where perturbations on the loading surface may be significant, the brittle compressive strength decreases as the size of cube increases. In this case, the effect is attributed to nonsimultaneous failure.
Defining the community caretaking function

In Cady v. Dombrowski (1973), the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of a warrantless search for a weapon in a wrecked car driven by a police officer who had been taken to the hospital, even though the police lacked probable cause to believe there was a weapon in the car. In so ruling, the Supreme Court seemed to establish an exception to the warrant requirement that has been referred to as the community caretaking function. This paper examines lower court treatment of the community caretaking function and proposes a clearer statement of the contours of this exception to the warrant requirement.
Function-based design process for an intelligent ground vehicle vision system

An engineering design framework for an autonomous ground vehicle vision system is discussed. We present both the conceptual and physical design by following the design process, development and testing of an intelligent ground vehicle vision system constructed for the 2008 Intelligent Ground Vehicle Competition. During conceptual design, the requirements for the vision system are explored via functional and process analysis considering the flows into the vehicle and the transformations of those flows. The conceptual design phase concludes with a vision system design that is modular in both hardware and software and is based on a laser range finder and camera for visual perception. During physical design, prototypes are developed and tested independently, following the modular interfaces identified during conceptual design. Prototype models, once functional, are implemented into the final design. The final vision system design uses a ray-casting algorithm to process camera and laser range finder data and identify potential paths. The ray-casting algorithm is a single thread of the robot's multithreaded application. Other threads control motion, provide feedback, and process sensory data. Once integrated, both hardware and software testing are performed on the robot. We discuss the robot's performance and the lessons learned.
Theory of Influence Networks

Influence networks are Bayesian networks whose probabilities are approximated via expert provided influence constants. They represent a modeling and analysis formalism for addressing complex decision problems. In this paper, we present a comprehensive theory of influence networks that incorporates design constraints for consistency, temporal issues and a dynamic programming evolution of the influence constants. We also include numerical evaluations for several example timed influence networks.
Power Converters for Piezoelectric Energy Extraction

Passive circuits and active circuits (i.e., switched-mode power converters) for vibration-energy harvesting are reviewed, focusing on power-extraction efficiency (PEE). Optimal battery voltage and resistance are given for maximal power extraction by passive circuits. Switched-mode converters are reviewed as means to match the actual battery voltage or load resistance to the optimal ones. To emulate the optimal battery voltage or load resistor, these converters could be controlled by pulse-width modulation (PWM) or by resonance, could operate in continuous or discontinuous conduction modes (CCM or DCM), and could leverage the piezoelectric (PZT) impedances in the energy extraction process. The large filter capacitor usually found after the bridge rectifier actually degrades the PEE. Resonance between the output capacitor of the PZT and the converter inductor improves the PEE at the expense of higher voltage and current stresses.Copyright © 2006 by ASME
Dietary response of two genetically different lines of inbred rats: lipids in serum and liver.

SummaryResponses of two inbred lines of rats to a stock diet or to diets (all low-fat, low-cholesterol) containing one of two levels of defatted egg or lactalbumin as the source of protein differed depending upon the genetic characteristics of the rats. One line with serum cholesterol levels in the range usually considered normal for the parent (BHE) stock of the same age showed no significant changes in levels with diet. The other line, with abnormally high levels, had levels above “normal” regardless of diet; yet an additional rise was seen in these rats when the protein was increased from 24% to 47%. The elevated serum cholesterol of this “high” line was accompanied by approximately the same amount of cholesterol in the livers and a smaller concentration of lipid than in the “normal” line. The “high” line was particularly susceptible to nephrosis and/or abnormal lipid metabolism. Although the defective control mechanism is not yet identified, it clearly is related to the partition of cholesterol betwee...
Design and synthesis of de novo cytotoxic alkaloids by mimicking the bioactive conformation of paclitaxel

Novel paclitaxel-mimicking alkaloids were designed and synthesized based on a bioactive conformation of paclitaxel, that is, REDOR-Taxol. The alkaloid 2 bearing a 5-7-6 tricyclic scaffold mimics REDOR-Taxol best among the compounds designed and was found to be the most potent compound against several drug-sensitive and drug-resistant human cancer cell lines. MD simulation study on the paclitaxel mimics 1 and 2 as well as REDOR-Taxol bound to the 1JFF tubulin structure was quite informative to evaluate the level of mimicking. The MD simulation study clearly distinguishes the 5-6-6 and 5-7-6 tricyclic scaffolds, and also shows substantial difference in the conformational stability of the tubulin-bound structures between 2 and REDOR-Taxol. The latter may account for the large difference in potency, and provides critical information for possible improvement in the future design of paclitaxel mimics.
The Role of Primary-Producer-Mediated Organic Complexation in Regional Variation in the Supply of Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Ni and Zn to Oceanic, Non-Hydrothermal Ferromanganese Crusts and Nodules

Oceanic, non-hydrothermal ferromanganese crusts and nodules are variably enriched in Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Ni and Zn. Comparison of the content of these elements in crusts and nodules with the level of primary productivity in the South Pacific Ocean suggests that primary-producer-mediated complexation of several of these elements by organic ligands in solution may contribute to explaining a pattern of distinctive associations observed between compositional variations for these elements in these deposits and variations in the level of primary productivity.
Electrochemical properties of benzophenone imine and the use of the corresponding anion radical as a strong electrogenerated base

Abstract The electrochemical reduction of benzophenone imine (Ph2CNH) in 0.1 M Me4NBF4 + DMF occurs in two successive one-electron steps in the absence of an added proton donor. Whereas the anion radical is stable and can be reoxidized to Ph2CNH, the corresponding dianion is unstable (t 1 2 ⩽ 1 ms) and reacts by abstracting a proton from a component of the solvent + electrolyte system. In the presence of a nitrogen- or oxygen-centered Bronsted acid that has a pKa less than approximately 32, Ph2CNHXXX abstracts the proton rapidly. The redox behavior of the conjugate base of the proton donor can then be examined on a glassy carbon working electrode. In contrast, the rate of protonation of the anion radical by weak carbon acids is often much slower than that by nitrogen- and oxygencentered acids of similar acid strength. Kinetically controlled proton transfer from a weak carbon acid is illustrated with Ph2CH2.
Does sinus vaginal epithelium persist in the adult mouse vagina

It generally is held that the murine vagina develops from the urogenital sinus and the lower portion of the Mullerian ducts and that both endodermally derived sinus epithelium and mesodermally derived Mullerian epithelium contribute to the adult vagina. We tested Mullerian and urogenital sinus-derived vaginal epithelia for their ability to differentiate in response to various hormonal conditions and compared these responses to those of the in situ vagina. Tissue recombinants were prepared with 0-day Mullerian-derived vaginal epithelium and vaginal mesenchyme. Similarly, tissue recombinants containing urogenital sinus-derived vaginal epithelium were prepared with either 0-day sinus vaginal epithelium or 16-day fetal urogenital sinus epithelium and vaginal mesenchyme. Mullerian- or sinus-derived vaginal mesenchyme was used to construct the tissue recombinants; however, the source of the mesenchyme had no influence on the results. Tissue recombinants were grafted to the renal capsule of female mice, allowed to develop for 1 month, and exposed to various hormonal treatments. In diethylstilbestrol-treated hosts, all tissue recombinants regardless of the source of the epithelium were lined by a cornified epithelium. In contrast, only in tissue recombinants containing mesodermally derived Mullerian vaginal epithelium did the epithelium mucify in response to progesterone plus estrogen or become atrophic in ovariectomized hosts. These are the same epithelial modifications seen in the hosts' vagina. Tissue recombinants containing endodermally derived urogenital sinus epithelium or sinus vaginal epithelium and grafts of intact urogenital sinus maintained a stratified squamous noncornified epithelium in both ovariectomized and progesterone plus estrogen-treated hosts. Furthermore, in tissue recombinants containing Mullerian vaginal epithelium and vaginal mesenchyme, estrogen induced a slightly higher epithelial labeling index than in tissue recombinants containing urogenital sinus epithelium or sinus vaginal epithelium. The epithelial labeling index was the same regardless of the source of the vaginal mesenchyme. These results indicate that Mullerian-derived and sinus-derived vaginal epithelia are not equivalent and suggest that Mullerian vaginal epithelium displaces sinus vaginal epithelium during postnatal development. The replacement may result in part from a slight but consistently higher proliferation rate in Mullerian versus sinus vaginal epithelium. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Experimental method for studying growth rates of particles in aqueous media.

A simple procedure for following growth of suspension particles has been developed. It is suitable for studying mechanisms of growth, for evaluation of potential growth retarding agents, and possibly for accelerated stability studies in dispersed systems. It involves the determination of the particle concentration and size distribution as a function of time with the Coulter counter. The sensitivity of the method is better than 0.1 μ for particles in the micron size range. Prior removal of the particles from the suspension is unnecessary. The technique has been applied to growth rate studies in the methylprednisolone system.
Delivery analysis of multicasting in BitTorrent enabled ad hoc network (MBEAN) routing

Routing in mobile ad hoc networks is one of the network layer problems and has been researched for quite some time. Yet there is still a need for newer routing protocols as new applications emerge. BitTorrent Enabled Ad Hoc Network (BEAN) routing was proposed for applications such as a network formed by people in a conference hall, people waiting to board a flight and spectators in a ball park. BEAN is motivated by the BitTorrent protocol used by peer-to-peer networks to share large files among a group of peers. The goal of this paper is to study the performance of Multicasting in BitTorrent Enabled Ad Hoc Network (MBEAN) routing in terms of packet delivery through simulations. We compare our results with improved Multicasting in Ad Hoc On Demand Distance Vector (MAODV) routing protocol with prediction of link breakage enabled [7]. MAODV has been tested for a configuration that is long and narrow (rectangular simulation area) resembling a highway condition which does not exactly simulate the network of our interest. We show how MBEAN compares with MAODV for a simulation area that has a more regular geometry. The results show that MBEAN has a better performance than MAODV with prediction for static and mobile networks.
Parameters affecting attachment of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis toxin to latex beads

Bacillus thuringiensis var.israelensis protein toxin radiolabeled with14C-iodoacetamide was bound to latex beads. The efficiency of attachment was not affected by the temperature or length of incubation or by the presence of several different buffers, salts, or organic solvents. However, attachment decreased dramatically at pH values >8.5 or in the presence of detergents (anionic, neutral, or cationic). Protein concentrations ≥2–3 mg/m2 of bead surface led to a progressively decreasing efficiency of protein adsorption. With minor variations, these findings should also be applicable to the attachment of numerous other proteins of diagnostic significance.
Observation of deuterium-labeled diacetyldeuteroporphyrin incorporated in cyanoferrimyoglobin by deuterium nuclear magnetic resonance.

Abstract Sperm whale apomyoglobin was reconstituted with selectively deuterated D 6 -2,4-diacetyldeuterohemin in which the 2 H label was confined to the methyl groups of the acetyl moieties. A single resonance was observed in 2 H NMR of the cyanoferrimyoglobin derivative, with a chemical shift 0.80 ppm downfield of external D 12 -TMS at pH 6.7. The corresponding chemical shift of D 6 -2,4-diacetyldeuterohemin-OMe as the cyanide complex in pyridine-water was 0.96 ppm downfield of external D 12 -TMS. The prominent HOD peak was well separated at 4.4 ppm downfield. The line width of the porphyrin 2 H resonances in both the protein and free solvent environments yields evidence of considerable rotational freedom of the -CD3 groups about their axes.
Effect of mebeverine hydrochloride on jejunal motility and epithelial transport in the anesthetized ferret.

Previous in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate that mebeverine, administered to isolated smooth muscle preparations or given intravenously, (i.v.), acts as an antispasmodic agent and may be useful in treating intestinal hypermotility. Whether mebeverine affects intestinal mucosal transport is, however, unknown. The aim of the present study was to characterize the effect of mebeverine on both small intestinal motor activity and electrogenic epithelial transport in the urethane anesthetized ferret. The effects of mebeverine were compared following i.v. and intrajejunal (i.j.) administration. Following both routes of drug administration mebeverine dose dependently inhibited jejunal motility, with the i.j. route being more potent. However, when administered i.v. but not i.j., the doses of mebeverine that inhibited jejunal motility also significantly reduced heart rate and arterial blood pressure. Mebeverine (0.1-10 mg/kg) administered i.v. had no significant effect on epithelial transport as measured by a change in transmural potential difference. However, when dosed i.j., mebeverine (0.1-10 mg/kg) induced a decrease in potential difference towards lower lumen negativity, which was suggestive of a decrease in fluid secretion or enhancement of absorption. In conclusion, the results confirm in vivo the antispasmodic effect of mebeverine and suggested that mebeverine can influence epithelial transport, probably in the direction of enhanced intestinal absorption.
Neuroimaging of epilepsy: A review of MRI findings in uncommon etiologies and atypical presentations of seizures

ABSTRACT: Imaging patients with seizures presents a challenge to both clinician and radiologist, especially when symptoms or EEG features are atypical, not conforming to established epilepsy syndromes or EEG patterns. Appropriate, directed use of MRI enhances the detection of underlying epileptogenic foci and can evaluate both common and unusual etiologies. This review examines imaging evaluation of epilepsies due to uncommon presentations of common conditions, unusual conditions and atypical seizure presentations. Understanding these uncommon presentations of seizures ensures optimal clinical management and can guide appropriate intervention. Advances in newer imaging methods including diffusion tensor imaging, functional connectivity MRI, magnetic source imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging can further increase sensitivity to detect subtle structural abnormalities causing epilepsy and can also be used to plan more successful epilepsy surgery.
Pre-Columbian age for North American Corispermum L. (Chenopodiaceae) confirmed by accelerator radiocarbon dating

Pre-Columbian age for North American Corispermum L. (Chenopodiaceae) confirmed by accelerator radiocarbon dating
Spear II Performance

The single beam and colliding beam performance of the SLAC electron-positron storage ring SPEAR II is described. The sevenfold increase in harmonic number in SPEAR II in comparison to SPEAR I has made significant changes in single beam behavior. Strong synchrobetatron resonances and a new transverse instability are observed and our first studies of these phenomena are described, Measurements on current dependent bunch lengthening are presented.
Regulation of heat shock-induced alterations in the release of prostaglandins by the uterine endometrium of cows.

Abstract Maternal heat stress in cattle may disrupt pregnancy by elevating uterine prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) secretion. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of elevated temperature (42°C) in vitro upon 1) prostaglandin secretion by endometrial tissue; 2) the actions of extracellular regulators of uterine PGF [conceptus secretory proteins (bCSPs) and platelet-activating factor, (PAF)]; 3) the activity of the cyclooxygenase-endoperoxidase enzyme complex (PG synthetase); and 4) the activity of the endometrial PG synthesis inhibitor present in the endometrium from pregnant cattle. Endometrial explants at Day 17 of the estrous cycle produced more PGF than PGE2 while elevated temperature caused increased PGF secretion but did not affect PGE2 secretion. Elevated temperature did not reduce the ability of bCSPs or PAF to suppress release of PGF. The heat shock-induced increase in PGF at Day 17 was not due to the direct effects on PG synthetase, because PGF production from a cell-free cotyledonary microsomal enzyme preparation was reduced at elevated temperature. The activity of the cytosolic inhibitor of cyclooxygenase present in the endometrium of Day-17 pregnant cows could be reduced but not eliminated at 42°C. We conclude that in vitro heat stress induces PGF secretion from the bovine uterine endometrium at Day 17 after estrus. This increase is not accompanied by the loss of regulatory capacity of conceptus products or increased activity of PG synthetase.
Social Networks and the Performance of Individuals and Groups

A field study involving 190 employees in 38 work groups representing five diverse organizations provided evidence that social networks, as defined in terms of both positive and negative relations, are related to both individual and group performance. As hypothesized, individual job performance was positively related to centrality in advice networks and negatively related to centrality in hindrance networks composed of relationships tending to thwart task behaviors. Hindrance network density was significantly and negatively related to group performance.
Simulation of dual-polarization bistatic scattering from rain and hail

S-band bistatic radar parameters are simulated to evaluate their potential for discriminating rain and hail and estimating their median size. In this paper, results for vertically polarized transmission with co- and cross-polarized reception are considered for several bistatic directions. The linear depolarization ratio, the effective reflectivity factor, the bistatic to backscatter reflectivity ratio (BBR/sub v/), and the correlation coefficient between the co- and cross-polarized returns are evaluated. It is observed that each one of these parameters can differentiate rain from hail under certain conditions. However, when all of them are used in combination they can be effective over a broader range of possibilities. It is also noted that BBR/sub v/ may be a good estimator of median size.
Regime Changes in International Real Interest Rates: Are They a Monetary Phenomenon?

In this paper, we use the Bai and Perron (1998, 2001, 2003) methodology to test for multiple structural breaks in the mean real interest rate for 13 industrialized countries. We find extensive evidence of structural breaks in the mean real interest rate for all 13 countries. In an attempt to explain the breaks in international real interest rates, we also test for multiple structural breaks in the mean inflation rate for the 13 countries. Once again, we find extensive evidence of structural breaks in the mean inflation rate for all of the countries. Interestingly, the breaks in inflation rates and real interest rates often coincide, with increases (decreases) in the mean inflation rate as we move from one regime to the next typically associated with decreases (increases) in the mean real interest rate.
PreDREM: a database of predicted DNA regulatory motifs from 349 human cell and tissue samples

PreDREM is a database of DNA regulatory motifs and motifs modules predicted from DNase I hypersensitive sites in 349 human cell and tissue samples. It contains 845–1325 predicted motifs in each sample, which result in a total of 2684 non-redundant motifs. In comparison with seven large collections of known motifs, more than 84% of the 2684 predicted motifs are similar to the known motifs, and 54–76% of the known motifs are similar to the predicted motifs. PreDREM also stores 43 663–20 13 288 motif modules in each sample, which provide the cofactor motifs of each predicted motif. Compared with motifs of known interacting transcription factor (TF) pairs in eight resources, on average, 84% of motif pairs corresponding to known interacting TF pairs are included in the predicted motif modules. Through its web interface, PreDREM allows users to browse motif information by tissues, datasets, individual non-redundant motifs, etc. Users can also search motifs, motif modules, instances of motifs and motif modules in given genomic regions, tissue or cell types a motif occurs, etc. PreDREM thus provides a useful resource for the understanding of cell- and tissue-specific gene regulation in the human genome. Database URL: http://server.cs.ucf.edu/predrem/.