cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Taking CHARGE: A self‐management program for women following breast cancer treatment

The purpose of the study was to develop and evaluate Taking CHARGE, a self-management intervention designed to facilitate successful transitions to survivorship after breast cancer treatment. The Taking CHARGE intervention involves a two-pronged approach building on self-regulation principles to (1) equip women with self-management skills to address concerns following breast cancer treatment, and (2) provide information about common survivorship topics. The program involved four intervention contacts, two small group meetings and two individualized telephone sessions, delivered by nurse/health educators. This paper focuses on the process evaluation findings from a preliminary test of the Taking CHARGE intervention conducted with 25 women, aged 34-66 years, completing breast cancer treatment, who were randomly assigned to the intervention group. The process evaluation was conducted to obtain systematic information about the relevance and usefulness of the self-regulation approach, informational aspects, and program delivery. The findings indicated that intervention group participants found the Taking CHARGE program to be timely, relevant, and to have high utility in dealing with concerns that exist following breast cancer treatment. The process evaluation findings provide early evidence of the usefulness of the Taking CHARGE intervention for successful transition to survivorship following breast cancer treatment.
The Revised Institution: The Community College Mission at the End of the Twentieth Century:

Seven urban and rural community colleges in the United States and Canada were examined using a qualitative multiple-case-study design to define changes in the colleges' institutional missions during the 1990s. Group site visits, personal interviews with administrators and faculty, and policy documents provided the data, which were analyzed using an analytical framework drawn from globalization literature. Two iterations of pattern coding and content analysis identified specific themes and patterns in documents, interviews, and observations. Observational data also provided support for emerging patterns. Although most of the interviewees perceived little change in their institutions' missions during the 1990s, the data collected indicated alterations to mission based on global economic concerns. The author summarizes the mission changes at each college and suggests that a new globally oriented vocationalism dominated the community college mission at the end of the twentieth century.
Laparoscopic variability of the internal inguinal ring: review of anatomical variation in children with and without a patent processus vaginalis.

Purpose: Diagnostic laparoscopy is routinely performed at our institution in children with a unilateral inguinal hernia to determine whether the contralateral processus vaginalis is patent. We reviewed the anatomical variability of the inguinal ring at laparoscopy in children with and without a hernia in various age groups.Materials and Methods: Since 1992, we have performed diagnostic laparoscopy in more than 1,500 children with a known inguinal hernia. Intraoperative imaging was correlated with clinical and operative findings to characterize the anatomical variability of the internal ring.Results: The internal ring had many variations. The photographs presented show evidence of the progression from the flat closed ring to the widely open sac. Clefts and veils of peritoneum sometimes made determining the exact anatomy difficult. Experience shows that the various anatomical variations are associated with different pathological conditions.Conclusions: Characterization of the anatomical variability of the i...
Regulation of protein tyrosine phosphatase 4a1, B-cell translocation gene 2, nuclear receptor subfamily 4a1 and diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 by follicle stimulating hormone in the rat ovary

Ovarian response to follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) leads to the formation of a mature follicle that is eventually ovulated. FSH and LH are essential for this process because they direct changes in somatic cells associated with folliculogenesis by regulating the expression of multiple genes. We hypothesised that genes induced by FSH in rat Sertoli cells would also show hormonal regulation during rat folliculogenesis. The objective of this study was to determine the expression patterns of diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 (Dgat1), nuclear receptor subfamily 4a1 (Nr4a1), an anti-proliferative gene (Btg2) and a protein tyrosine phosphatase (Ptp4a1) in the ovaries of pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG)-treated and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG)-treated rats. Expression of Dgat1, Nr4a1 and Ptp4a1 was induced in ovaries 4 h post PMSG treatment. When rats were treated with hCG, Dgat1, Nr4a1 and Ptp4a1 expression was induced by 12 h. Expression of Nr4a1 protein increases 12-24 h after induction of gene expression. Nr4a1 protein was observed in the granulosa, theca and luteal cells post PMSG and hCG treatment. These findings should increase our knowledge of mechanisms regulating folliculogenesis and luteinisation and demonstrate the diverse proteins that are important in ovarian function.
Temporally patterned sound pulse trains affect intensity and frequency sensitivity of inferior collicular neurons of the big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus

This study examined the effect of temporally patterned pulse trains on intensity and frequency sensitivity of inferior collicular neurons of the big brown bat, Eptesicus fuscus. Intensity sensitivity of inferior collicular neurons was expressed by the dynamic range and slope of rate-intensity functions. Inferior collicular neurons with non-monotonic rate-intensity functions have smaller dynamic ranges and larger slopes than neurons with monotonic or saturated rate-intensity functions. Intensity sensitivity of all inferior collicular neurons improved by increasing the number of non-monotonic rate-intensity functions when the pulse repetition rate of pulse trains increased from 10 to 30 pulses per second. Intensity sensitivity of 43% inferior collicular neurons further improved when the pulse repetition rate of pulse trains increased still from 30 to 90 pulses per second. Frequency sensitivity of inferior collicular neurons was expressed by the Q10, Q20, and Q30 values of threshold frequency tuning curves and bandwidths of isointensity frequency tuning curves. Threshold frequency tuning curves of all inferior collicular neurons were V-shape and mirror-images of their counterpart isointensity frequency tuning curves. The Q10, Q20, and Q30 values of threshold frequency tuning curves of all inferior collicular neurons progressively increased and bandwidths of isointensity frequency tuning curves decreased with increasing pulse repetition rate in temporally patterned pulse trains. Biological relevance of these findings to bat echolocation is discussed.
Investigation of plasma-related matrix effects in inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry caused by matrices with low second ionization potentials-identification of the secondary factor

Plasma-related matrix effects induced by a comprehensive list of matrix elements (a total of fifty-one matrices) in inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry were investigated and used to confirm that matrix effects caused by elements with a low second ionization potential are more severe than those from matrix elements having a low first ionization potential. Although the matrix effect is correlated unambiguously with the second ionization potential of a matrix, the correlation is not monotonic, which suggests that at least one other factor is operative. Through study of a large pool of matrix elements, it becomes possible to identify another critical parameter that defines the magnitude of the matrix effect; namely the presence of low-lying energy levels in the doubly charged matrix ion. Penning ionization by Ar excited states is proposed as the dominant mechanism for both analyte ionization/excitation and matrix effects; matrices with a low second ionization potential can effectively quench the population of Ar excited states through successive Penning ionization followed by ion-electron recombination and lead to more severe matrix effects.
Quantitative probing of surface charges at dielectric–electrolyte interfaces

The intrinsic charging status at the dielectric–electrolyte interface (DEI) plays a critical role for electrofluidic gating in microfluidics and nanofluidics, which offers opportunities for integration of wet ionics with dry electronics. A convenient approach to quantitatively probe the surface charges at the DEI for material pre-selection purpose has been lacking so far. We report here a low-cost, off-chip extended gate field effect transistor configuration for direct electrostatic probing the charging status at the DEI. Capacitive coupling between the surface charges and the floating extended gate is utilized for signal transducing. The relationship between the surface charge density and the experimentally accessible quantities is given by device modeling. The multiplexing ability makes measuring a local instead of a globally averaged surface charge possible.
Structure Analysis of a Rodlike Macromolecule: Poly(2,2'-(p,p'-Biphenyl)−6,6'-bis(4-Phenylquinoline))

Uniaxially oriented, crystalline fibers of poly(2,2'-(p,p'-biphenyl)- 6,6'-bis(4-phenylquinoline)) [PBPQ], were subjected to structure analysis via x-ray diffraction and molecular packing analysis. Packing analysis was required due to the sparse and diffuse nature of the fiber diffraction photographs. The combination of the two techniques allowed us to resolve the crystal structure. PBPQ packs in a syn conformation, in a modified herringbone structure. It has a unit cell of a = 16.2A, b = 5.31A, c = 21.4A. There are two independent chains in the unit cell. An overview of the refinement of the crystal structure, the packing analysis and the crystallography are presented.
Tracking the effects of intruder states in nuclei

Abstract The deformation-driving effects of intruder states are studied by analysis of various types of data on rotational bands in rare-earth deformed nuclei. The sensitivity of four measurables (bandhead energy, B (E2) value, neutron i 13 2 crossing frequency, and νi 13 2 signature splitting) to increased deformation in an intruder band is shown.
Recursion relations for solutions to the Schro¨dinger equation

We will consider the general eigenfunction for a second-order differential operator in one variable. For many well-known elementary functions, we can also find a three-term recursion relation in the eigenvalue parameter. For practical computation, this is a very desirable property. Examples include Legendre functions, Bessel functions, etc.In [Math. Z., 29 (1929), pp. 730–736], Bochner showed that the only polynomial solutions to this problem were the well-known ones. This paper will look for solutions that may not be polynomials.It will be shown that, unfortunately, for the simple recursion relation considered here, no really new examples exist.
Effects of group rearing on the control exerted by an imprinting stimulus

Prior research suggests that group rearing may attenuate a young bird’s tendency to approach and follow an imprinting stimulus. The present work examined the effect of group rearing on a different measure of attachment, suppression by the imprinting stimulus of distress calling induced by abrupt reductions in group size. In Experiment 1, ducklings were reared in groups of 12 or 3 over Days 1–6 posthatch, and each group received a total of 3.5 h of exposure to an imprinting stimulus. Subsequent tests revealed that, when the groups of ducklings were separated into smaller subgroups: (1) the fewer the ducklings in a subgroup, the more distress calls emitted; (2) a given number of birds separated from a larger group emitted more distress calls than an equal number from a smaller group; and (3) regardless of the subgroup size, fewer distress calls occurred when the imprinting stimulus was present than when it was absent. A second experiment revealed that when a group of 12 birds was first confronted with an imprinting stimulus on Day 6 posthatch, they reacted with an increase in distress calling and corner huddling (an aversive reaction). After several hours of exposure to the stimulus, however, its presence exerted a powerful suppressive effect on distress calling. It is concluded that the social bonds between the members of a brood do not preclude the formation of a social attachment to an imprinting stimulus subsequently encountered.
Something new under the sun: lutein's role in skin health.

Lutein has a well-established role in eye health. There is accumulating evidence that lutein may also play a role in skin health. Its presence in human skin along with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity provide a rationale for a role in preventing ultraviolet-induced damage to skin. Epidemiological studies support a role for diets high in lutein and decreased risk of wrinkling and cancer. Recent intervention studies have shown lutein to prevent ultraviolet-induced carcinogenesis in animals and to improve skin physiology parameters in humans, including antioxidant protection from ultraviolet light irradiation. In this review, the authors explore the rationale and plausibility of a role for lutein in skin health.
Capillary Flow in Irregular Surface Grooves

1-Heptanol flow in irregularly shaped surface grooves in Pd-coated Cu is shown to be an example of Poiseuille flow with simple Washburn kinetics of the form z{sup 2} = C({gamma}/{mu})t, where {gamma} is the liquid surface tension, {mu} is the viscosity, and C is a function of the groove dimensions and the contact angle {theta}. A shape independent expression is derived for the geometric factor, C(S,{omega},{theta}) = (S cos({theta}) {minus} {omega})/4{pi}, where {omega} is the width of the groove at the surface and S is the arc length, or total length of groove surface in a plane perpendicular to the groove axis. This expression is general for any groove shape and reduces to the form derived previously for V-shaped grooves. Along with scanning electron microscopy, three different techniques, stylus profilometry, laser profilometry, and optical interferometry, were used to characterize the groove geometry, especially to determine S and {omega}. While reasonable agreement is obtained between literature values of {gamma}/{mu} and values obtained from the experimental kinetics, the main conclusion is that measurement of the groove dimensions is the main limitation to experimental verification of the form of C and to the use of the kinetics of groove flow as an absolutemore » measure of the factor {gamma}/{mu}. However, the authors show that if C is calibrated for a specific groove with a known liquid, the kinetics of capillary flow in open surface grooves furnishes a simple, easily applied method for measurement of the surface tension-to-viscosity ratio, {gamma}/{mu}.« less
Effects of High Intensity Step-Up and Low Intensity Step-Down Lighting Programs on the Incidence of Leg Abnormalities in Turkeys

Two trials were conducted to determine if a high intensity (20 lx) step-up lighting program would decrease the incidence of leg abnormalities in turkeys. The step-up lighting regimen was compared to a low intensity (2.5 lx) step-down lighting program. Toms were used in Trial 1 and both sexes were employed in Trial 2. Body weight, feed/gain ratio, and mortality of toms of Trial 1 did not differ significantly between lighting regimens. The incidence of leg deformities and the length of the tarsometatarsal bone were significantly decreased, whereas plasma androgen and testes weights were increased for toms of Trial 1 in the high intensity step-up lighting. The same trends were apparent for toms of Trial 2 with the exceptions that feed/gain ratios were adversely affected and testes weights were significantly lower for toms of the high intensity step-up lighting program. The performance of hens in the high intensity step-up lighting program of Trial 2 was affected adversely; however, incidence of leg abnormalities and length and width of the tarsometatarsus responded in the same manner as with toms. The results of this study indicate that a high intensity step-up lighting program can significantly reduce leg weakness problems in turkeys. Possible explanations for light stimulation reducing the incidence of leg abnormalities are through increased exercise and shortening of long bones.
A Nonclassical Vibration Analysis of a Multiple Rotating Disk and Spindle Assembly

This paper studies natural frequencies and mode shapes of a spinning disk/spindle assembly consisting of multiple elastic circular plates mounted on a rigid spindle that undergoes infinitesimal rigid-body translation and rotation. Through use of Lagrangian mechanics, linearized equations of motion are derived in terms of Euler angles, rigid-body translation, and elastic vibration modes of each disk. Compared with a single rotating disk whose spindle is fixed in space, the free vibration of multiple disks with rigid-body motion is significantly different in the following ways. First of all, lateral translation of the spindle, rigid-body rotation (or rocking) of the spindle, and one-nodal diameter modes of each disk are coupled together. When all the disks (say N disks) are identical, the coupled disk/spindle vibration splits into N - 1 groups of balanced modes and a group of unbalanced modes. For each group of the balanced modes, two adjacent disks vibrate entirely out of phase, while other disks undergo no deformation. Because the out-of-phase vibration does not change the angular momentum, the natural frequencies of the balanced modes are identical to those of the one-nodal-diameter modes of each disk. For the group of the unbalanced modes, all disks undergo the same out-of-plane vibration resulting in a change of angular momentum and a steady precession of the spindle. As a result, the frequencies of the unbalanced modes are significantly lower than those of one-nodal-diameter modes of each disk. Secondly, axial translation of the spindle and the axisymmetric modes of each disk are couple together. Similarly, the coupled motion split into N - 1 groups of balanced modes and one group of unbalanced modes, where the frequencies of the balanced and unbalanced modes are identical to and smaller than those of the axisymmetric modes of each disk, respectively. Thirdly, the rigid-body motion of the spindle does not affect disk vibration modes with two or more nodal diameters. Response of those modes can be determined through the classical vibration analysis of rotating disks. Moreover, vibration response of the disk/spindle assembly from a ground-based observer is derived. Finally, a calibrated experiment is conducted to validate the theoretical predictions.
An analysis of the effects of sample size on classification performance of a histogram based cluster analysis procedure

Abstract A non-parametric unsupervised program was developed to identify clusters in multidimensional data by mode analysis using histograms. An implicit assumption in the histogram approach is that a relatively large number of samples is required to insure an accurate classification. Tests with randomly generated data show that the assumption is not true, i.e. a small number of samples does not necessarily result in a poor classification, nor does a relatively large number of samples guarantee the best classification. The histogram classifier was compared to two parametric classifiers, maximum likelihood and K -means clustering. Results from timing the classifiers show that, although the parametric classifiers are more efficient for a small number of samples, the histogram approach uses less CPU time for a large number of samples.
Non-volatile element and volume flux in coalesced slaty cleavage

Abstract Non-volatile element and volume flux during slaty cleavage formation was determined by mapping major element compositions in hand specimens of slate with variable cleavage intensity due to non-argillaceous interlayers. Intense spaced cleavage zones form where cleavage coalesces within the inner arcs of folded nonargillaceous layers or at the offsets between imbricated non-argillaceous layers. The element distributions in samples from Nova Scotia, Vermont and New Jersey were mapped using an XRFmacroprobe, an energy dispersive XRF with automated spectrum acquisition and a mm-scale collimated beam. Cleavage zones are depleted in quartz and SiO2, and enriched in phyllosilicates, Al2O3, Fe2O3, K2O, MgO and TiO2. CaO and MnO show more variable behavior consistent with simultaneous depletion in carbonates and residual enrichment in silicates. Quartz-rich, weakly cleaved areas adjacent to fold outer arcs or between imbricate offsets are enriched in quartz with respect to probable pre-cleavage compositions, with SiO2 commonly reaching 75–80 wt%. The spaced cleavage zones and their intervening microlithons grade texturally and compositionally into penetrative cleavage with distance from non-argillaceous layering. Average compositions of heterogeneously cleaved beds are quite similar to compositions of homogeneously cleaved beds in the same sample, suggesting balanced, localized element enrichment and depletion adjacent to non-argillaceous layers. The similarities between average macroprobe, slate and shale compositions suggest minimal non-volatile net volume flux during the formation of slaty cleavage. Volume losses of 50% by SiO2 flux would result in a rock with approximately equal SiO2 and Al2O3 wt%, not a slate. Most of the non-volatile element and volume flux in the slates occurred on a hand specimen scale, with quartz depletion in cleavage zones balanced by enrichment in adjoining microlithons.
A molecular dynamics study of the effect of impact velocity, particle size and angle of impact of abrasive grain in the Vibration Assisted Nano Impact-machining by Loose Abrasives

Abstract Vibration Assisted Nano Impact-machining by Loose Abrasives (VANILA) is a novel nanomachining process that combines the principles of vibration-assisted abrasive machining, and tip-based nanomachining, to perform target specific nanoabrasive machining of hard and brittle materials. An atomic force microscope (AFM) is used as a platform in this process wherein, nanoabrasives, injected in slurry between the workpiece and the vibrating AFM probe, impact the workpiece and cause nanoscale material removal. Molecular dynamic (MD) simulations are performed in this study to understand the effect of critical process parameters, viz. impact velocity, particle size, and the angle of impact of the abrasive grain on the material removal by the VANILA process. It was found that a higher impact velocity, larger abrasive size and higher angle of impact result in a larger amount of material removal from the workpiece. A material removal mechanism map capturing the effects of impact velocity and abrasive grain size on the occurrence and transitions between plasticity-dominated and fracture-dominated behaviors during VANILA process is made, which reveals different regimes of material removal mechanisms and their transitions. Confirmatory tests show that higher amount of material removal is observed in brittle mode machining with peak material removal occurring for high angle of impacts in the range of 60–90°. In ductile mode machining, relatively a lower amount of material removal is observed with the peak material removal occurring for low angle of impacts in the range of 15–30°.
American Jews and community: A spectrum of possibilities

From its inception, Judaism has had specific regulations that define membership for individuals and has set limits beyond which one is considered outside of the Jewish community. Over time, these obviously have undergone change. Moreover, as I have tried to show here, the definition of community is multifaceted, just as are the Jewish identities associated with the notion of community. The real challenge in the years ahead is to find a way to maintain a living and vital Jewish community—whatever its character and whomever the Jews are who choose to be part of it. In an article quoted in many places among those who study communities, Laurence Iannaccone has argued that for a religious group to retain its vitality and maintain its discrete existence, “a certain amount of tension with secular society is essential to success—the trick is finding and maintaining the right amount.”28
Heat shock induction of heme oxygenase mRNA in human Hep 3B hepatoma cells

Abstract Heat shock treatment of human Hep 3B hepatoma cells led to the induction of mRNA for microsomal heme oxygenase. The maximum induction of heme oxygenase mRNA (5→7-fold) was observed with treatment of cells at 43.5°C, for 60 min. The heat-mediated induction of heme oxygenase mRNA was blocked by simultaneous treatment of cells with actinomycin D or cycloheximide. In contrast to Hep 3B cells, cells of another human hepatoma line, Hep G2, showed little induction of heme oxygenase mRNA by heat treatment. These findings suggest that heat shock treatment induces heme oxygenase mRNA in certain human hepatoma cells, but not in others.
Eimeria meleagrimitis, E. adenoeides, and E. dispersa: severity of infection and changes in the intestinal mucosa of the turkey.

Abstract Glucose and methionine were malabsorbed in some intestinal regions of turkeys infected with Eimeria meleagrimitis, E. adenoeides , or E. dispersa . The decrease in absorption was not always related to the numbers of parasites in the cells or the extent of damage to the mucosa. With E. adenoeides , malabsorption was found in the jejunum even though parasites were not present. Conversely, with E. dispersa , no malabsorption was observed in the duodenum even though light microscopy showed numerous parasites. In many intestinal regions, damage to the mucosal surface visible with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was slight or absent, although malabsorption was marked. No changes were noted with SEM in the structure and orientation of the brush border in these regions. Villar height was significantly reduced in the regions of heaviest infection when intestinal damage was visible. Conversely, the crypts of Lieberkuhn were often two or three times as deep in infected poults as in uninfected poults. In general, no differences were found in the thickness of the circular and longitudinal muscle layers between the infected and uninfected poults. The dry weight of the intestinal tissue was less from infected poults than from uninoculated controls and was related to both region of the intestine and severity of the infection.
Electrophysiologic and antiarrhythmic effects of oral encainide in patients with atrioventricular nodal reentry or nodoventricular reentry

Abstract Three patients with drug-resistant atrioventricular (AV) nodal reentrant tachycardia and two patients with reciprocating tachycardia associated with nodoventricular pathways received oral encainide after a control drug-free electrophysiologic study. In one patient with AV nodal reentry, encainide prolonged anterograde AV nodal conduction, produced complete ventriculoatrial (VA) block, and prevented tachycardia induction. Encainide had no effect on AV or VA conduction in the second patient with AV nodal reentry, and tachycardia with similar cycle length was still induced. The third patient was not studied while receiving encainide, but spontaneous AV nodal reentrant tachycardia occurring multiple times daily was abolished. In both patients with nodoventricular pathways, anterograde AV nodal and VA conduction were prolonged by encainide and tachycardia was no longer inducible. Two patients with AV nodal reentry were given long-term encainide therapy and have been free of recurrent arrhythmias for 16 and 30 months. One patient with a nodoventricular pathway has been without arrhythmia recurrence after 73 months of encainide therapy; the other patient required addltion of propranolol to encainide because of recurrent tachycardia. We conclude that encainide can prolong anterograde AV nodal and VA conduction and prevent induced and spontaneous tachycardia in some patients with drug-resistant and highly symptomatic AV nodal or nodoventricular reentry.
Ultrastructural Studies of the Salivary Duct System in the Whitefly Vector Bemisia tabaci (Aleyrodidae: Hemiptera)

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) transmits plant viruses of the genus Begomovirus in a circulative manner, and once acquired, virus particles persist and are transmissible for the life of the vector. Saliva is generated by primary and accessory salivary gland cells of the paired, bilaterally symmetrical salivary gland system. It travels from secretory cells, through the internal ductules, to the external ducts, which in turn carry it to the oral region where the so-called salivary pump and the stylets occur. The ducts of either side consist of at least four components—two gland ducts, one lateral duct, and one postmedial duct. Gland ducts start, respectively, at the hilum of each gland, and extend independently of each other before fusing together by their basal laminae to become the biluminal lateral duct. The biluminal lateral duct merges into the uniluminal postmedial duct. The lateral and postmedial ducts make intimate contact with muscles in its area, including one involved in governing the retractable labial shaft. The labium consists of external and internal halves. During retraction/protraction, the latter half moves through the second intercommissural space. The postmedial ducts track anteriorly around either side of it, and fuse together at the body's midline to form the biluminal medial duct. This duct drains into the salivary pump. The retortiform organs are involved in stylet regeneration. Maxillary stylets have grooves and ridges that interlock to form the salivary and food canals. In developmental terms, the salivary canal results from failure of one ridge to fill its corresponding groove.
Identification and characterization of the cofactor-independent phosphoglycerate mutases of Dirofilaria immitis and its Wolbachia endosymbiont

Drug treatments for heartworm disease have not changed significantly in the last decade. Due to concerns about possible drug resistance and their lower efficacy against adult worms, there is a need for the development of new antifilarial drug therapies. The recent availability of genomic sequences for the related filarial parasite Brugia malayi and its Wolbachia endosymbiont enables genome-wide searching for new drug targets. Phosphoglycerate mutase (PGM) enzymes catalyze the critical isomerization of 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PG) and 2-phosphoglycerate (2-PG) in glycolytic and gluconeogenic metabolic pathways. There are two unrelated PGM enzymes, which are structurally distinct and possess different mechanisms of action. The mammalian enzyme requires 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate as a cofactor (dependent PGM or dPGM), while the other type of PGM does not (independent PGM or iPGM). In the present study, we have determined that Dirofilaria immitis and its Wolbachia endosymbiont both possess active iPGM. We describe the molecular characterization and catalytic properties of each enzyme. Our results will facilitate the discovery of selective inhibitors of these iPGMs as potentially novel drug treatments for heartworm disease.
A microsomal iron-sulfur center in rat liver*

A hitherto unreported ESR signal, with features at g = 1.93 and g = 1.88, has been observed in the microsomal fraction of rat liver. This new species is paramagnetic in the reduced form, and has a midpoint potential of approximately −270 mV. The field positions of the signals, their midpoint potential and their temperature dependence are unlike those of any known mitochondrial non-heme iron component. The failure of previous attempts to observe an iron-sulfur center in rat liver microsomes may be due to the partial overlap of the high field component of the cytochrome P-450 signal and the signals of the non-heme iron. Resolution of these components has been achieved by the combination of EPR spectroscopy and redox potentiometry.
Classification of humans and animals using an infrared profiling sensor

This paper presents initial object profile classification results using range and elevation independent features from a simulated infrared profiling sensor. The passive infrared profiling sensor was simulated using a LWIR camera. A field data collection effort to yield profiles of humans and animals is reported. Range and elevation independent features based on height and width of the objects were extracted from profiles. The profile features were then used to train and test four classification algorithms to classify objects as humans or animals. The performance of Naive Bayesian (NB), Naive Bayesian with Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA+NB), K-Nearest Neighbors (K-NN), and Support Vector Machines (SVM) are compared based on their classification accuracy. Results indicate that for our data set SVM and (LDA+NB) are capable of providing classification rates as high as 98.5%. For perimeter security applications where misclassification of humans as animals (true negatives) needs to be avoided, SVM and NB provide true negative rates of 0% while maintaining overall classification rates of over 95%.
Competitive oxidation in atmospheric aerosols : The case for relative kinetics

[1] We develop relative kinetics for heterogeneous oxidation of multi-component organic aerosols. Common accommodation, diffusion, and deposition terms cancel in this formulation, and rate constants may be determined for many compounds simultaneously within an aerosol with a realistic composition. Finally, cross-phase relative rate constants with a gas-phase reference compound and a condensed-phase target compound provide effective rate constants for use in atmospheric models.
Surface-normal vector velocity measurement using a five-axis contour scanning laser vibrometry system

A novel system for using a single-point Laser Doppler vibrometer (LDV) to measure surface normal velocity components of non-planar targets has been developed. A description of this measurement system is presented, along with a discussion of results and relative merits compared with conventional scanning LDV systems. Data from sample measurements taken on an anti-tank landmine buried in sand are presented. It is shown that measurements of the same surface wave using this system and a conventional system can differ by as much as 75%.
A joint scalar PDF study of nonpremixed hydrogen ignition

Abstract A two-step process was adopted to model turbulent ignition that takes advantage of the possibility of decoupling the mechanical flow from chemical reaction due to the small amount of heat release before ignition. In the first step, a Reynolds stress model is employed to calculate a chemically frozen, turbulent counterflow. The second step models the ignition event by solving a joint scalar PDF equation using a Monte Carlo technique. The frozen velocity field is used to initialize the PDF model and to govern its evolution. As observed in previous DNS calculations, ignition occurs at a “most reactive” mixture fraction. The present calculations indicated that turbulence intensity had little effect on ignition temperatures, which were about 30 K higher than, but parallel to, laminar ignition temperatures. Similar results were found for both the IEM and modified Curl's mixing model. Turbulent ignition temperatures were similar to laminar ones when the mixing model was modified to account for preferential diffusion. These results are different from turbulent ignition experiments since the experiments did indicate a turbulent intensity effect on ignition of up to 35 K. These discrepancies were attributed to shortcomings in the molecular mixing models in the flows of interest where the turbulent Reynolds numbers are low. A potential source of this problem was identified as the representation of the scalar mixing frequency as a constant ratio of the scalar to flow time.
Perception of blended timbres in music

We examined perception of artificial timbre blending using recordings of two actual instruments. In Experiment 1, participants heard stimuli comprising different proportions of sounds from an oboe ...
Why Is It So Difficult to Lose Weight

Obesity is notoriously difficult to treat. Effective treatment has been encumbered by traditional assumptions about the cause of the disease. Obesity is typically considered a manifestation of the patient’s dietary misconduct, a simple lack of willpower, or the inability to modify dysfunctional eating habits. Abundant evidence suggests that eating behavior is much more complex than patient choice alone. Eating and the system of regulating eating and body weight are largely controlled by complex signals from multiple organ systems that monitor food intake, gastrointestinal function, and energy storage and send multiple messages to the brain. The brain coordinates the physiological messages and creates additional signals about eating, appetite, hunger, and satiety. Multiple survival, environmental, and genetic factors become part of a biological regulatory system that controls eating and body weight. The system appears to be unstable and often becomes dysfunctional, particularly in an environment of abundan...
Destruction of microsomal cytochrome P-450 by reactive oxygen species generated during photosensitization of hematoporphyrin derivative.

Rat liver microsomal cytochrome P-450 undergoes rapid destruction in the presence of hematoporphyrin derivative (HpD) and solar radiation (∼ 400 nm). Destruction of cytochrome P-450 is associated with the formation of cytochrome P-420 and significant loss of microsomal haem. Quenchers of singlet oxygen including 2,5-dimethylfuran, histidine, s-carotene, and ascorbic acid and inhibitors of the hydroxyl radical such as benzoate, mannitol, and ethanol prevent deterioration of the microsomal haem-protein, whereas superoxide dismutase and catalase are ineffective in this regard. These results indicate that generation of singlet oxygen during hematoporphyrin photosensitization is associated with destruction of microsomal cytochrome P-450 and haem.
Full Aperture Mechanical Beam Steering

An effort is underway to develop a high acceleration beam steering system for rapid, sequential pointing to multiple targets. A generalized analysis is first presented relating mirror steering performance and residual vibration distortions. The analysis is further generalized to systems which use multiple, independently-targeted apertures to increase retargeting rates. Then the design of an agile, two-meter steering flat and drive system is discussed. Lightweight mirror structure designs are evaluated, drive system candidates are compared, and an experiment for characterizing hydraulic servovalves and actuators is described.
Advances in mathematical programming models for enterprise-wide optimization

Abstract Enterprise-wide Optimization (EWO) has become a major goal in the process industries due to the increasing pressures for remaining competitive in the global marketplace. EWO involves optimizing the supply, manufacturing and distribution activities of a company to reduce costs, inventories and environmental impact, and to maximize profits and responsiveness. Major operational items include planning, scheduling, real-time optimization and control. We provide an overview of EWO in terms of a mathematical programming framework. We first provide a brief overview of mathematical programming techniques (mixed-integer linear and nonlinear optimization methods), as well as decomposition methods, stochastic programming and modeling systems. We then address some of the major issues involved in the modeling and solution of these problems. Finally, based on the EWO program at the Center of Advanced Process Decision-making at Carnegie Mellon, we describe several applications to show the potential of this area.
Behind the Shadows: Interests, Influence, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

This article analyzes the influence of interest groups on the pre-proposal stage of the administrative rulemaking process. Kingdon's (1984, 2003) multiple streams model is used as a descriptive framework to structure an examination of interview data collected for three natural resource cases: (a) the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) critical habitat designation for Nebraska's Salt Creek Tiger Beetle; (b) the USFWS critical habitat designation for Utah/Arizona Shivwits and Holmgren Milk Vetches; and (c) the USFWS delisting of the Northern Rocky Gray Wolf population from the endangered species list. The analysis provides support to argue that interest groups are using particular tactics that reflect Kingdon-like elements to influence the pre-proposal stage.
Prediction of Transmission Distortion for Wireless Video Communication: Analysis

Transmitting video over wireless is a challenging problem since video may be seriously distorted due to packet errors caused by wireless channels. The capability of predicting transmission distortion (i.e., video distortion caused by packet errors) can assist in designing video encoding and transmission schemes that achieve maximum video quality or minimum end-to-end video distortion. This paper is aimed at deriving formulas for predicting transmission distortion. The contribution of this paper is twofold. First, we identify the governing law that describes how the transmission distortion process evolves over time and analytically derive the transmission distortion formula as a closed-form function of video frame statistics, channel error statistics, and system parameters. Second, we identify, for the first time, two important properties of transmission distortion. The first property is that the clipping noise, which is produced by nonlinear clipping, causes decay of propagated error. The second property is that the correlation between motion-vector concealment error and propagated error is negative and has dominant impact on transmission distortion, compared with other correlations. Due to these two properties and elegant error/distortion decomposition, our formula provides not only more accurate prediction but also lower complexity than the existing methods.
Renormalizable field theories with multiple fermionic excitations

Abstract A generalized quantum electrodynamics of e−μ(−τ,...) system in terms of a single spinor field ψ is presented. The theory is renormalizable and accounts for the equal electromagnetic interactions of leptons. The energy is positive definite. A superselection rule for leptonic charge is derived.
Anesthesia for cesarean delivery Part II: epidural anesthesia intrathecal and epidural opioids venous air embolism

The advantages of epidural anesthesia for cesarean delivery include a lower frequency and severity of maternal hypotension than with spinal anesthesia, since local anesthetics can be titrated slowly, and avoidance of dural puncture. It is also of value for repeat cesarean delivery since anesthesia can be maintained indefinitely and a prolonged induction-delivery interval does not result in progressive fetal deterioration, t Postoperative pain relief can be provided with epidural opioids or local anesthetics. Mean blood loss during epidural anesthesia is approximately half that associated with general anesthesia. 2 Disadvantages compared to spinal anesthesia include slower onset of surgical anesthesia, greater likelihood of failure due to improper technique or dosing, the need for larger amounts of local anesthetic and hence increased neonatal exposure, and greater incidence of shivering. 3
Identification of a PP2A-interacting protein that functions as a negative regulator of phosphatase activity in the ATM/ATR signaling pathway

Identification of a PP2A-interacting protein that functions as a negative regulator of phosphatase activity in the ATM/ATR signaling pathway
Temperature and Humidity Effects on the Mechanical Properties of Polymeric Nanocomposites

An environmental testing was conducted on polymeric nanocomposites fabricated by dispersing the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into polymeric epoxy resins in order to determine their shelf life, reliability, stability, as well as other property changes as a function of temperature and humidity. In this study, various multi wall CNTs (∼140 nm diameter and ∼7 μm length) ranging from 0.5% to 2.0% were initially dispersed in ethanol using a magnetic stirrer, and then an epoxy resin was added to the mixtures under continuous stirring. When the solvent completely evaporated after 18 hours of stirring, a hardener was added to the dispersion. The mixtures were then poured into rectangular shape molds and cured for 48 hours at the room temperature and pressure. Furthermore, a few samples of plain epoxy without nanotubes were also cast for comparison purposes. Dog-bone specimens were tested on a tensile testing machine after different hours of degradation in an environmental chamber. The experimental results showed that the yield stress, ultimate tensile strength and modulus of elasticity gradually reduced over time, indicating that nanocomposites were highly dependent on the humidity and temperature conditions. The results provide a useful guideline for a variety of applications of the nanocomposites in the future.Copyright © 2009 by ASME
Fully self-contained vision-aided navigation and landing of a micro air vehicle independent from external sensor inputs

Direct-lift micro air vehicles have important applications in reconnaissance. In order to conduct persistent surveillance in urban environments, it is essential that these systems can perform autonomous landing maneuvers on elevated surfaces that provide high vantage points without the help of any external sensor and with a fully contained on-board software solution. In this paper, we present a micro air vehicle that uses vision feedback from a single down looking camera to navigate autonomously and detect an elevated landing platform as a surrogate for a roof top. Our method requires no special preparation (labels or markers) of the landing location. Rather, leveraging the planar character of urban structure, the landing platform detection system uses a planar homography decomposition to detect landing targets and produce approach waypoints for autonomous landing. The vehicle control algorithm uses a Kalman filter based approach for pose estimation to fuse visual SLAM (PTAM) position estimates with IMU data to correct for high latency SLAM inputs and to increase the position estimate update rate in order to improve control stability. Scale recovery is achieved using inputs from a sonar altimeter. In experimental runs, we demonstrate a real-time implementation running on-board a micro aerial vehicle that is fully self-contained and independent from any external sensor information. With this method, the vehicle is able to search autonomously for a landing location and perform precision landing maneuvers on the detected targets.